Dear Parent and Student: The Board of Trustees and staff welcome you to the 2009-2010 school year. We are pleased that your family is a part of C-FB ISD. In C-FB ISD, we believe education is a partnership between school and home. For a partnership to be successful, strong communication between home and school is vital. The student handbook/code of conduct is an important instrument to communicate the district’s procedures and expectations. We believe that understanding these guidelines can help make the year a successful one for your family. The complete handbook/student code of conduct is on the district’s website at www.cfbisd.edu for 24-7 access. Anytime you have a question, please review the document or visit with your teacher, principal or another school staff member. You may also email questions to
[email protected]. The Board of Trustees, the staff, and I encourage you to be involved in your local school and the district. We hope that you have a great school year. Sincerely,
Dr. Bobby Burns Superintendent C-FB ISD
1445 North Perry Road
1
Carrollton, Texas 75006
972-968-6100
Student Rights
Code of Student Conduct 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26.
a)
Cell Phones/Electronic Devices Policy............................................... 3 Disciplinary Interventions .................................................................... 3 General Misconduct ............................................................................... 4 Disruptions .............................................................................................. 5 Electronic Acceptable Use..................................................................... 5 Offenses to Property .............................................................................. 5 Smoking.................................................................................................... 5 Firearms & Weapons .............................................................................. 6 Threats....................................................................................................... 6 Harassment .............................................................................................. 6 Hazing....................................................................................................... 7 Optional Removal to DAEP ................................................................ 8 Required Removal to DAEP................................................................. 8 DAEP Guidelines.................................................................................... 9 Optional Expulsions from DAEP ....................................................... 9 Optional Expulsions from C-FB ........................................................ 10 Required Expulsions from C-FB......................................................... 10 JJAEP Guidelines ................................................................................... 11 Discipline Appeals................................................................................. 11 Procedures for Optional Removal...................................................... 12 Procedures for Required Removal...................................................... 12 Procedures for Emergency Placement................................................ 12 Procedures for Suspension................................................................... 13 Procedures for DAEP............................................................................ 13 Procedures for Expulsions ................................................................... 14 Glossary ................................................................................................... 15
b)
c)
d)
All students are entitled to enjoy the basic rights of citizenship, which are recognized and protected by laws of this country and state for persons of their age and maturity. Students are obligated to respect the rights of classmates, teachers, and other school personnel. District schools will foster a climate of mutual respect for the rights of others. Such an environment will enhance the educational purpose for which the District exists and the educational program designed to achieve that purpose. All District personnel will recognize and respect the rights of students, just as all students will exercise their rights responsibly, with due regard for the equal rights of others in compliance with the rules and regulations established for the orderly conduct of the educational mission of the District. Students who violate the rights of others or who violate the rules and regulations of the District or of their school are subject to appropriate disciplinary interventions designed to correct their own misconduct and to promote adherence by them and by other students to the responsibilities of citizens in the school community.
Standards For Student Conduct
1.
Optional Removal is defined as discretionary placement.
Each student is expected to: a) Demonstrate courtesy and respect for others even when others do not. b) Cooperate with/assist school staff in maintaining safety, order, and discipline. c) Behave in a responsible manner, always exercising self-discipline. d) Attend all classes regularly and on time. e) Prepare for each class by bringing appropriate materials/assignments. f) Follow dress and grooming regulations as outlined. g) Respect rights and privileges of students, teachers, and District staff. h) Obey all campus and classroom rules. i) Respect property of others, including District property and facilities. j) Avoid violations of the Code of Student Conduct. A student whose behavior shows disrespect for others, including interference with learning and a safe environment, will be subject to disciplinary action.
2.
Required Removal is defined as a State or District mandatory Placement.
District Discipline Authority
3.
The discipline of students with disabilities who are eligible for services under federal law (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973) is subject to the provisions of those laws.
4.
Students with disabilities are subject to applicable state and federal Laws in addition to the Code of Student Conduct. To the extent any Conflict exists, state and/or federal law will prevail.
5.
Senate Bill 1, Chapter 37, as passed by the 74th Legislature, Establishes the following academic provisions for students placed in the District Discipline Alternative Education Program (DAEP). The program will consist of English/Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, History, and Self Discipline. DAEP students work on individualized curriculum correlated to the home school curriculum. Each student works under direct supervision of a certified classroom teacher. Additionally, group activities led by the teacher are designed to teach students new ways of thinking and behaving to enhance their self-discipline.
6.
The Board of Trustees has entered into a joint memorandum of understanding with the county juvenile board outlining all issues pertinent to the interaction between the juvenile board and the school district in the operation of the Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Program. The objective of the program is to help students achieve behavioral and academic improvement and provide an effective education program. Details of this relationship are defined in agreements available for public inspection upon request to the Superintendent of schools.
Important C-FB Notices
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THE BUILDING ADMINISTRATOR HAS THE FINAL DECISION IN ALL BUILDING-LEVEL CONSEQUENCES School rules and the authority of the District to administer discipline apply whenever the interest of the school is involved on or off school grounds in conjunction with or independent of classes and schoolsponsored activities. The District has disciplinary authority over a student: a) When the student steps onto the campus, during the regular school day and/or while the student is going to and from school on District transportation. b) During lunch periods in which a student is allowed to leave campus; c) While the student is participating in any activity during the school day on school grounds; d) While the student is in attendance at any school-related activity, regardless of time or location; e) For any school-related misconduct, regardless of time or location. f) When retaliation against a school employee or volunteer is involved, either on or off school property; g) When the student commits off-campus felonies under certain circumstances as provided by Texas Education Code; h) When criminal mischief is committed on or off school property or at a school-related event; i) On any property that the District owns, leases and/or jointly maintains or j) When the student commits certain offenses within 300 feet of school property. A school administrator will report crimes as required by law. A school administrator who suspects that a crime has been committed on campus will report the offense to local law enforcement.
Cellular Telephones, Pages, Beepers 1. 2. 3. 4.
5. 6. 7.
The District prohibits students from using paging devices, cell phones, or any other telecommunication devices during the school day. This does not include an amateur radio under the contol of an operator who holds an amateur radio station license issued by the Federal Communications Commission. The school day will be defined by the principal. Paging devices, cell phones, or any other telecommunication device should not be in use, visible, or audible. Students who violate this policy shall be subject to established disciplinary measures. District employees shall confiscate any paging devices, cell phones, or other telecommunication devices in use, visible, or audible found on school property during the school day. A person who views, hears or discovers a student using a paging device, cell phone or other telecommunication device during the school day in violation of this policy shall report the violation to the principal, who shall order a peace officer or appropriate school official to confiscate the paging device, cell phone, or other telecommunication device. Confiscated paging devices, cell phones, or telecommunication devices may be returned to the student or parent at the end of the school day after a payment of a $15.00 administrative fee. Payment must be in the form of cash or a money order. [Board Policy FNCE Legal/Local] Should there be persistent noncompliance, (persistent is defined as two or more violations) the paging device, cell phone, or other telecommunication device will be returned at the end of the semester after payment of a $15.00 administrative fee. Payment must be in the form of cash or a money order. [Board Policy FNCE Legal/Local] Campus administrators shall have the discretion to determine the appropriate use of cellular phones and pagers/beepers for students participating in extra-curricular activities while on school property or while attending school-sponsored or school-related activities on or off school property.
Electronic Devices 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Radios, tape or CD players, digital music players, or digital or tape recorders are not to be visible, audible or in use at anytime during the school day. Students who violate this policy shall be subject to established disciplinary measures. Should there be persistent noncompliance, (persistent is defined as two or more violations) students may have their radio, tape players, digital music players, or digital or tape recorders confiscated until the end of the semester. Students are not permitted to be in the possession of laser pointers or laser-beam lighters. The school will confiscate these items. For disposal refer to Board Policy FNCE Local
The school assumes no responsibility for lost or stolen telecommunication or electronic devices. Disciplinary Interventions Disciplinary interventions will draw on the professional judgment of teachers and administrators and on a range of discipline management techniques. Teachers and administrators shall consider intent or lack of intent of the misconduct at the time the student engaged in the conduct. The teacher and administrator shall consider the misconduct, or action, based on the following criteria and apply the appropriate intervention based on professional judgment. Interventions will be correlated to the seriousness of the offense, District Code of Student Conduct, and statutory requirements as well as the student’s age and grade level, the frequency of misbehavior, the student’s attitude, the effect of the misconduct on the school environment, the student’s disability, and claims of self-defense. In addition, several schools use the “Make Your Day” discipline management system which has its own levels of consequences and rewards. The school will contact parents with the rules and procedures connected with this program. Because of these factors, discipline for a particular offense (unless otherwise specified by law) may bring into consideration varying techniques and responses. A student who violates campus or classroom rules that are not Code of Student Conduct violations may be disciplined by one or more discipline management techniques. For these violations, the teacher is not required to make a Code of Student Conduct Violation report, and the principal is not required to notify parents. General misconduct will result in application of one or more discipline management techniques. When students violate the Code of Student Conduct, there will be consequences. One or more disciplinary interventions in this section will be used based on the severity of the behavior violation. State law requires that the Code of Student Conduct violation be reported to the principal or other appropriate administrator who must send notification to the parent or guardian within 24 hours of receiving the report. This notification may be given to parents by phone, by letter, or in person. The following disciplinary interventions may be used alone or in combination for Code of Student Conduct and non-Code of Student Conduct Violations: a) b) c) d)
Verbal Correction Cooling off time or “timeout;” Seating changes in the classroom; Changing of dress attire;
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e) f) g)
Counseling by teachers, counselors, or administrative personnel; Parent/Teacher conferences; Temporary or permanent confiscation of items that disrupt the education process, and fees may be required for the return of those items (i.e. telecommunications devices); h) Temporary placement in another classroom or other assigned area; i) Grade reductions for cheating, plagiarism, and late work; j) Rewards or demerits; k) Behavioral contracts; l) Assigned duties other than class tasks; m) Sending the student to the office n) Detention; o) In-school-suspension; p) Out-of-School Suspension; q) Disciplinary Alternative Education Placement; r) Loss of credit for not meeting attendance requirements; s) Withdrawal of privileges including but not limited to participation in extra-curricular activities and ineligibility to seek and/or hold honorary offices, or graduation ceremony; t) Techniques or penalties identified in individual student organizations’ extra-curricular standards of behavior; u) Withdrawing or restricting bus privileges; v) School-assessed and school-administered probation; w) Referral to outside agency and or legal authority for criminal prosecution in addition to disciplinary measures imposed by the District x) Other strategies and consequences as specified by the Code of Student Conduct or Campus Discipline Management Plan other Extra-curricular Codes of Conduct. THE BUILDING ADMINISTRATOR HAS THE FINAL DECISION IN ALL BUILDING-LEVEL CONSEQUENCES In deciding whether to order out-of-school suspension, placement at the DAEP or expulsion, the district will take into consideration: • Self-defense (see glossary) • Intent or lack of intent at the time the student engaged in the conduct, and • The student’s disciplinary history.
General Misconduct In addition to the policies outlined in this guide, students at school or school-sponsored activities are prohibited from: 1. Disobeying the clinic/medication policy on taking prescription drugs and over-the-counter drugs at school. 2. Abusing the student’s own prescription drug, giving a prescription drug to another student, or being under the influence of another person’s prescription drug or over the counter drugs on school property or at a school-related event. 3. Cheating or copying the work of another or any form of forgery. 4 Throwing objects. 5. Insubordination, which is failing to comply with lawful directives issued by school personnel, including the refusal to accept discipline management techniques assigned by a teacher or administrator, school policies, rules, and regulations. 6. Stealing/Theft. 7. Committing extortion or blackmail. 8. Committing or assisting in a robbery that does not constitute a felony according to the Texas Penal Code. 9. Engaging in misconduct on school buses as defined by District policies and regulations. 10. Fighting/Scuffling. 11. Bullying including intimidation. (see glossary) 12. Name-calling, derogatory statements, religious, ethnic or racial slurs; hate language; obscene or inappropriate gestures, writings or drawings. 13. Profanity/Vulgar language. 14. Retaliation. 15. Behaving in any way or bringing, possessing, or using any item that disrupts the school environment or educational process or is deemed inappropriate by school personnel, including but not limited to: ammunition, laser pointer, matches, lighters, pyrotechnical devices, mace, pepper spray, mercury and/or any other hazardous material. 16. Violating any safety rules, campus and classroom rules; or extracurricular standards of behavior. 17. Posting, selling, circulating or distributing non-school material without prior approval from administration. 18. Repeatedly violating the Code of Student Conduct, or all other communicated campus or classroom standards of behavior (persistent misbehavior – see glossary.) 19. Leaving school grounds or school-sponsored events without permission. 20. Gambling or any other form of wagering.
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21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31.
Engaging in inappropriate physical or sexual contact, including public display of affection Violating dress and grooming standards. Tardiness/Truancy/Persistent non-attendance. Possessing, using, giving, or selling paraphernalia related to any prohibited substance. Engaging in threatening behavior toward another student or District employee on or off school property. (Risk assessment required)* Using e-mail or Web sites at school to encourage illegal behavior or threatening school safety. Criminal mischief not punishable as a felony. Gang paraphernalia or any other indication of gang-related behavior. Falsification of records, passes, or other school-related documents. Harassment of a student, teacher or other District personnel or volunteer. Engaging in conduct that constitutes dating violence, including intentional physical, sexual, verbal, or emotional abuse to harm, threaten, intimidate, or control another person with whom the student has/ has had a dating relationship.
Disruptions [GENERAL MISCONDUCT] 1. 2.
3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Conduct by students either in or out of class which for any reason—whether because of time, place, or manner of behavior-materially disrupts class work, or involves substantial disorder, or invasion of the rights of others is prohibited. Student demonstrations and similar activities will be prohibited when there is evidence which may reasonably lead school authorities to forecast substantial disruption of, or material interference with, normal school operations or approved school activities. The evidence must support a “reasonable forecast of substantial disruption” of school operations; “undifferentiated fear” or mere apprehensions of disturbance are not sufficient to justify restrictions on students’ otherwise legitimate right to freedom of expression. Interfering with an authorized activity by seizing control of all or part of a building. Using force, violence or threats to cause disruption during an assembly, or any other authorized school activity. Interfering with the movement of people at an exit or an entrance to District property. Engaging in any misbehavior that gives school officials reasonable cause to believe that such conduct will substantially disrupt the school program or incite violence. Possessing published or electronic material that may promote or encourage violence, inappropriate or illegal behavior or threaten school safety. Intentionally disrupting, preventing, or interfering with the transportation of children to and from school or a school-sponsored activity on a vehicle owned by the District. (TEC 37.123, 37.124, 37.126)
[Behaviors listed above may be considered a violation of the Texas Education Code and may result in a citation being issued to a student by a law enforcement agency.] Students who participate in any prohibited activities are subject to disciplinary action based on the severity of the violation and its overall effect upon the welfare of other students and not on the number of disciplinary actions a student has.
Electronic Acceptable Use [GENERAL MISCONDUCT] Using the District computer network inappropriately, including but not limited to: 1. Using the network for illegal activity. 2. Using the network to access obscene or pornographic material. 3. Posting harassing messages. 4. Attempting to circumvent the security provisions of another computer on the Internet. 5. Sending messages under another user’s name or anonymously. 6. Using any unacceptable, obscene, or objectionable information, language or images.
Offenses to Property [GENERAL MISCONDUCT] 1. 2.
Students shall not litter, deface, damage, or otherwise vandalize any property, including furniture and other equipment with graffiti or other means, belonging to or used by the District or owned by others while at school or at a school-sponsored activity. According to law, parents/guardians of students who damage school property are liable for these damages. Students shall be responsible for the care and return of state-owned textbooks and will be charged for lost textbooks. All individuals are subject to provisions of Texas State Law.
Smoking [GENERAL MISCONDUCT] 1. 2. 3. 4.
State law prohibits all students from smoking at school or at any school-related activity. Students shall not possess or use tobacco products, including but not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, pipes, snuff, or chewing tobacco, on/off school property or adjacent property, or at any school-related/sanctioned activity. Students shall not possess matches, lighters, cigarette papers or related paraphernalia. Students shall not possess or use look-alike tobacco products. Texas Education Code 38.006, Health & Safety Code 161.252, Texas Penal Code 48.01
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Firearms & Weapons (Risk assessment required)* 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
A student shall not knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly go onto the school premises or attend a school-sponsored activity with a firearm, explosive weapon or knife unless pursuant to written regulations or written authorization of the District. The student shall not interfere with normal activities, occupancy, or use of any building or portion of the campus by exhibiting, using, or threatening to exhibit a firearm, explosive weapon, or knife (Penal Code 46.01, 46.03, 46.11; Education Code 37.125). Vehicles, backpacks, and purses on school premises may be inspected by school personnel if there is reasonable suspicion to believe they contain weapons. A student commits an offense if he intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly possesses or enters a school or school-related activity with a firearm, illegal knife, club, or prohibited weapon listed in the Texas Penal Code §46.05 (a) [explosive weapon, machine gun, short barrel firearm, firearm silencer, switchblade knife, armor-piercing ammunition, chemical dispensing device, or zip gun]. Additionally, students may not bring the following to school or a school-related activity:
Optional DAEP 6.
i. ii. iii. iv.
Pyrotechnic devices; Razors/blades; Any knife having a blade less than 5 ½ inches long, including pocket knives; Any other object, including school supplies, used in any way that may threaten or inflict bodily injury to another person or that is identified as inappropriate by school personnel.
The possession or use of articles not generally considered to be weapons may be prohibited when the principal or designee determines that a danger exists for any student, school employee, or school property by virtue of possession or use, including but not limited to: a) Laser pointers; b) Look-alike” weapons, including but not limited to, starter guns, air guns, BB/pellet guns, or ammunition
Threats Students are prohibited from: 1. Making bomb threats. (Risk assessment required)* 2. Making false threats, hoaxes, or accusations regarding school safety. (Risk assessment required)* 3. Pulling a fire alarm in the absence of fire. 4. Discharging a fire extinguisher. 5. Committing extortion, coercion, or blackmail (obtaining money or another object of value from an unwilling person), or forcing an individual to act through the use of force or threat of force. 6. Engaging in verbal, oral or written exchanges that threaten the safety of self, another student, a school employee, or school property. (Risk assessment required)* 7. Name-calling, ethnic or racial slurs, derogatory statements (written or verbal) or gestures that school officials have reason to believe will substantially disrupt the school program or incite violence. 8. Making a terroristic threat:: a person commits a terroristic threat if he threatens to commit any offenses involving violence to any person or property with intent to: a. Cause a reaction of any type to his threat by an agency organized to deal with emergencies; b. Place any person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury; or c. Prevent or interrupt the occupation or use of a building, room, place of assembly, place to which the public has access, place of employment or occupation, aircraft, automobile, or any form of conveyance, or public place, or cause impairment or interruption of public communications, public transportation, public water, gas or power supply, and other public service (Texas Penal Code 22.07). d. Place the public or a substantial group of the public in fear of serious bodily injury. e. Influence the conduct or activities of a branch or agency of the federal government, the state, or a political subdivision of the state (including the District). 9. Making hit lists (see glossary) *Risk assessment is required in order to help students. It is not used to determine punishment. Qualified District personnel give a series of questions to students who have shown behavior that could or has harmed others. The risk assessment is done so that the District will know what kind of help the student needs to change his/her behavior and to make school safe.
Harassment
It is the policy of this District to maintain a learning environment that is free from harassment because of an individual’s race, color, sex, national origin or, disability. The District prohibits discrimination, including harassment, against any student on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law. It shall be a violation of District policy for any student, teacher, administrator, or other school personnel of this District to harass a student through conduct of a sexual nature, or regarding race, color, sex, national origin, disability or any other basis that is prohibited by law, as defined by this policy.
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It shall also be a violation of District policy for any teacher, administrator or other school personnel of this District to tolerate sexual harassment or harassment because of a student’s race, color, sex, national origin or disability, as defined by this policy, by a student, teacher, administrator, other school personnel, or by any third parties who are participating in, observing, or otherwise engaged in activities, including sporting events and other extra-curricular activities, under the auspices of the District. For purpose of this policy, the term “school personnel” includes school board members, school employees, agents, volunteers, contractors, or persons subject to the supervision and control of the District. The District will act to promptly investigate all complaints, formal or informal, verbal or written, of harassment because of race, color, sex, national origin or disability; to promptly take appropriate action to protect individuals from further harassment; and if determining that unlawful harassment occurred, to promptly and appropriately discipline any student, teacher, administrator or other school personnel who is found to have violated this policy, and/or to take other appropriate action reasonably calculated to end the harassment. A. Sexual Harassment For purposes of this policy, sexual harassment of a student consists of unwelcome and unsolicited sexual advances, sexually intimidating conduct, requests for sexual favors, sexually motivated physical conduct, or other verbal or physical conduct or communication of a sexual nature whether the person is of the same sex or the opposite sex when: 1 A school employee or causes a student to believe that he or she must submit to unwelcome sexual conduct in order to participate in a school program or activity, or when an employee or third party agent of the school district causes a student to believe that the employee will make an educational decision based on whether or not the student submits to unwelcome sexual conduct; or 2 A school employee participates in overtly flirtatious behavior with students; 3. The unwelcome sexual conduct is so severe, persistent or pervasive that it affects a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity or creates an intimidating, threatening or abusive educational environment. Sexual harassment of a student, including harassment committed by another student, includes unwelcome sexual advances; requests for sexual favors; or sexually motivated physical, verbal, or nonverbal conduct when the conduct is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it: 1. Affects a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity, or creates an intimidating, threatening, hostile, or offensive educational environment; 2. Has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with the student’s academic performance; or 3. Otherwise adversely affects the student’s educational opportunities. Examples of conduct which may constitute sexual harassment may be found at CFBISD online Policy FFH. B. Harassment based upon Race or Color, Religion, National Origin or Ethnicity or Disability. For purposes of this policy, harassment of a student consists of verbal or physical conduct relating to an individual’s race or color, religion, national origin or ethnicity, or disability when: 1. The harassing conduct is sufficiently severe, persistent or pervasive that it affects a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity, or creates an intimidating, threatening or abusive educational environment; 2. The harassing conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with an individual’s academic performance; or 3. The harassing conduct otherwise adversely affects an individual’s learning opportunities. Examples of conduct which may constitute sexual harassment may be found at CFBISD online Policy FFH. “Harassment” also includes threatening to cause harm or bodily injury to another student; causing physical damage to the property of another student; subjecting another student to physical confinement or restraint; or maliciously taking any action that substantially harms another student’s physical or emotional health or safety.
Hazing 1.
2.
Hazing means any intentional, willful, knowing or reckless act directed against a student by one person alone or acting with others for the purpose of subjecting the other student(s) to indignity, humiliation, intimidation, physical abuse, or threats of abuse, social or other ostracism, shame or disgrace, endangering the mental, emotional, or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of being initiated into, affiliating with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members are or include other students. No student shall engage in any form of hazing, nor shall any student encourage or assist any other person in hazing. Consent by the victim does not shield persons from disciplinary action nor criminal penalties. Acts of hazing and failure to report known hazing can result in criminal penalties, as well as discipline. (Texas Education Code §37.151). The term “hazing” includes, but is not limited to: a) Any kind of brutality, such as whipping, beating, striking, branding, electronic shocking, placing of a harmful substance on the body, or similar activity. b) Any type of physical activity, such as sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, and confinement in small spaces, calisthenics, or any other activity that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental, emotional, or physical health and/or safety of the student.
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c)
Any activity involving consumption of food, liquid, alcoholic beverages, liquor, drugs, or other substances that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental, emotional, or physical health and/or safety of the student. d) Any activity that intimidates or threatens the student with ostracism, that subjects the student to extreme mental stress, shame, or humiliation, or that adversely affects the mental health or dignity of the student or discourages the student from remaining registered in a District school or that may reasonably be expected to cause a student to leave the organization or the school rather than submit to the acts described above. e) Any activity that induces, causes, or requires the student to perform a duty or task that involves a violation of the Texas Penal Code.
OPTIONAL REMOVAL TO THE DISTRICT DISCIPLINE ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAM 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Involved in any offense or policy violation listed as General Misconduct. Involved in any persistent and/or serious misbehavior. (See Glossary for definition) Selling, giving, delivering, manufacturing, or using any substance deemed inappropriate by administration. Being under the influence of any substance (legal intoxication not required), which alters normal mental or physical faculties. Inappropriate display of private body parts through such acts as mooning, flashing, or inappropriately revealing attire. Possessing or using any knife including a pocketknife. (Risk assessment required)* Possessing, distributing, or accessing pornographic or lewd materials in any media format. Possessing or selling any “look-alike” weapons including but not limited to: starter guns, air guns, BB/pellet guns, or ammunition. (Risk assessment required)* 9. Engaging in conduct that occurs off school property and not at a school-sponsored or school-related event, and that results in the Superintendent or designee having reasonable belief that the student has engaged in conduct defined as a felony offense other than those defined as a Title 5 felony; and the continued presence of the student in the regular classroom threatens the safety of other students, teachers or would be detrimental to the educational process. [Texas Education Code §37.006 D(1)(2)] 10. Assault [Texas Penal Code §22.01 (a) (2)(3)] (Risk assessment required)* a) Intentionally or knowingly threatens another with imminent bodily injury. b) Intentionally or knowingly causes physical contact with another when the person knows or should reasonably believe that the other will regard the contact as offensive or provocative. 11. Being required to register as a sex offender without any form of court supervision. Removal required if the student’s presence in the regular classroom threatens the safety of other students or teachers; will be detrimental to the educational process; or is not in the best interest of the District’s students. 12. Regardless of whether placement or expulsion is required or permitted by one of the reasons listed in the DAEP Placement sections, in accordance with TEC 37.0081, a student may be expelled and placed in either DAEP or JJAEP if these circumstances exist: a) Have deferred prosecution for conduct defined as Title 5 felony. b) Have been found by a court/jury (or referred to juvenile court) to have engaged in delinquent conduct as defined as a Title 5 felony. c) Have been charged with engaging in conduct defined as a Title 5 felony. d) Have received probation or deferred adjudication or have been arrested for, charged with, or convicted of a Title 5 felony offense. This placement is regardless of date or location of the conduct, whether the student was enrolled in the district when it occurred, or whether the student successfully completed any court disposition requirements in connection with the conduct.
REQUIRED REMOVAL TO THE DISTRICT’S DISCIPLINE ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAM (DAEP) A. Engaging in conduct that under the Texas Penal Code constitutes a false alarm or report OR terroristic threat involving a public school, without regard to whether the conduct occurs on or off school property or while attending a school-sponsored or school-related activity on or off school property. B. Commits the following on or within 300 feet of school property, as measured from any point on the school’s real property boundary line, or while attending a school-sponsored or school-related activity on or off of school property: 1. a. Engages in conduct punishable as a felony; b. Engages in conduct that contains the elements of the offense of assault [Texas Penal Code §22.01 (a) (1)] * 2. Possessing, using, selling, giving, delivering, conspiring OR attempting to possess, use, sell, give, deliver, conspire or be under the influence of (legal intoxication not required) any of the following substances on school premises during any school term or off school property at a school-sponsored activity, function, or event: (Note: felony offenses are expellable). • Any controlled substance or dangerous drug as defined by law including, but not limited to: marijuana, controlled substances, dangerous drugs, any narcotic drug, hallucinogen, stimulant, depressant, amphetamine, or barbiturate. • Alcohol or any alcoholic beverage. • Commits a serious act or offense while under the influence of alcohol. • Engages in conduct that contains the elements of an offense relating to an abusable volatile chemical. • Any other intoxicants, mood changing, mind altering, or behavior altering drugs.
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• •
Possessing or selling seeds or pieces of marijuana in less than a useable amount. The possession, delivery, use or selling of “look-alike” drugs or items attempted to be passed off as drugs and contraband. 3. Engaging in conduct that contains the elements of the offense of public lewdness or indecent exposure under the Texas Penal Code. 4. Selling, giving, delivering, possessing, manufacturing, or using any form of drug paraphernalia. 5. Failing to report potentially serious, dangerous and/or threatening activity to school or police authorities. 6. Participating or behaving as a member or pledge, joining, or soliciting another person to become a pledge or member of a public school fraternity, sorority, secret society, or gang. A second gang affidavit within 2 years shall result in mandatory placement in DAEP. C. Engaging in conduct punishable as a Title 5 Felony (offense against a person) that occurs off school property but not at a school-sponsored or school-related event, and that results in one of the following: 1. The student receives deferred prosecution/adjudication. 2. A court or jury finds the student has engaged in delinquent conduct. 3. The superintendent or designee determines there is reasonable belief that the student has engaged in the conduct. D. Being required to register as a sex offender and being under any form of court supervision (at least one semester removal required). E. Assault without injury of a school employee under Texas Penal Code §22.01 (a)(2)(3) against a school employee will result in a placement of 90 actual, successful school days at the DAEP. F. Engages in conduct on or off of school property that contains the elements of the offense of retaliation under Texas Penal Code §36.06 against any school emp0loyee.
DISCIPLINE ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAM GUIDELINES
Elementary 1. Placement for all optional referrals: a) 1st placement: Minimum of 15 successfully earned days. b) 2nd or subsequent placements within the same school year: Minimum of 30 successfully earned days. 2. Placement for all required referrals: Minimum of 30 successfully earned days. 3. If a student who has engaged in conduct warranting placement in DAEP withdraws from the District before a placement order is completed, the District will complete the proceedings and issue a placement order. 4. Students are released on Fridays only after documented success in attendance, behavior and academics. Placement may be lengthened by the DAEP Principal to provide the student extended opportunities to internalize positive behaviors. 5. Students on a 2nd placement within the same or subsequent school year on a 30 day placement will be allowed early release if they meet grade, attendance, discipline, and counseling criteria. Students may reduce their placement time by five (5) days if they attend a minimum of three District-approved counseling programs along with their parents. 6. Students who are placed in DAEP by another school district and transfer into the District will successfully serve the number of days assigned to them by their former school.
Middle & High School 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
Placement for referrals: a) First time optional referrals: Minimum of 30 successfully earned days. b) First time required referrals: Minimum of 30 successfully earned days. Second or subsequent optional and required referrals within the same school year: Minimum of 45 successfully earned days. If a student who has engaged in conduct warranting placement in DAEP withdraws from the District before a placement order is completed, the District will complete the proceedings and issue a placement order. Students are released on Fridays only after documented success in attendance, behavior and academics. Placement may be lengthened by the DAEP Principal to provide the student extended opportunities to internalize positive behaviors. Only four basic courses are offered: English, Social Studies, Math, and Science. There are no electives, honors, pre-AP or AP (Advanced Placement) courses provided. Consequently, students will not receive credit in these classes. The State does not require these courses in a Discipline Alternative Education Program. Students on a 45 day placement will be allowed early release if they meet grade, attendance, discipline, and counseling criteria. Students may reduce their placement time by five (5) days if they attend a minimum of three District-approved counseling programs along with their parents. Students who are placed in DAEP by another school district and transfer into the District will successfully serve the number of days assigned to them by their former school up to 30 days.
OPTIONAL EXPULSIONS FROM DISCIPLINE ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAM ( DAEP) A student who engages in persistent/serious misbehavior or behavior that if at a home campus could result in DAEP placement while placed in DAEP may be expelled from DAEP .
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DAEP Persistent Misbehavior (Including, but not limited to:) a) b) c) d) e) f) g) h) i) j)
Engaging in conduct that constitutes criminal mischief; Vandalism; Extortion, coercion or blackmail; Aggressive, disruptive action or group demonstration that substantially disrupts or materially interferes with school activities; Hazing; Sexual harassment of a student or District employee; Profanity, vulgar language, or obscene gestures directed toward teachers or other school employees; Falsification of records, passes, or other school-related documents; Possessing, distributing or accessing pornographic or lewd materials in any media format; Fighting
DAEP Serious Misbehavior (Including, but not limited to:) a) b) c) d) e) f)
Assault of a teacher or other individual; (Risk assessment required)* Retaliation against a school employee; (Risk assessment required)* The use, gift, sale, delivery, possession, or being under the influence (legal intoxication not required) of alcohol, marijuana, other controlled substances, dangerous drugs or abusable glue or volatile chemicals; Aggressive action that poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others; (Risk assessment required)* Public lewdness/indecent exposure; or Terroristic threat, false alarm or report;
OPTIONAL EXPULSIONS FROM CARROLLTON-FARMERS BRANCH Within 300 feet of school property as measured from any point on the school’s real property boundary line or while attending a school-sponsored or school-related activity on or off school property. 1. Selling, giving, delivering to another person, possessing, using, or being under the influence (legal intoxication not required) of any amount of marijuana or controlled substance, a dangerous drug or alcoholic beverage. 2. Deadly Conduct. 3. Engages in conduct that contains the elements of an offense relating to an abusable volatile chemical. These offenses are expellable without regard to where the conduct occurs. 1. A student who engages in expellable conduct on school property or a school-sponsored/school-related event of another school district in the State of Texas. 2. Engaging in conduct that under the Texas Penal Code constitutes a false alarm or report OR terroristic threat involving a public school. 3. A student engages in obstruction or retaliation against a school employee (Penal Code 36.06) or a volunteer as a result of the person’s employment or association with the District (Texas Education Code 37.007 (d). (Risk assessment required)* 4. Criminal Mischief if punishable as a felony.
REQUIRED EXPULSIONS FROM CARROLLTON-FARMERS BRANCH Within 300 feet of school property as measured from any point on the school’s real property boundary line or while attending a school-sponsored or school-related activity on or off school property. 1. Committing a serious act or offense while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, if the behavior is not punishable as a felony. (TEA 54) 2. Aggravated assault or assault (including retaliation) against a school employee, volunteer, or professional providing services to the District. [TEC 37.007 (b) 2 (C)] [Penal Code 22.01 (a) (1)] A person commits the offense if the person: intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily injury to another, including the person’s spouse. (Risk assessment required)* (TEA 29-30) 3. Using, exhibiting, or possessing a firearm*, illegal knife, a club, or prohibited weapon as defined by state and/or federal law. (Risk assessment required)* (TEA 11,12,13, or 14) 4. Committing arson or offenses that contain the elements of arson. (TEA 16) 5. Committing indecency with a child, aggravated kidnapping, manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, aggravated robbery, or injury to a child. (TEA 18,19,27,48,46) 6. Murder, capital murder, or criminal attempt to commit murder or capital murder. (TEA 17) 7. Continuous Sexual abuse of a young child or children under Texas Penal Code A student who participates in conduct that contains the elements of aggravated assault, sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, murder, capital murder, criminal attempt to commit murder or capital murder, aggravated robbery, or organized criminal activity against another student, shall be expelled without regard to where the conduct occurs. (TEA 29-32,17,46)
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*Unless the use, exhibition, or possession of the firearm occurs at an off-campus approved target range facility while participating in or preparing for a school-sponsored shooting sports competition or education activity. If the student commits any of the following offenses on school property or while attending a school-sponsored or school-related activity on or off school property: 1.
Selling, giving, delivering, possessing, using, or under the influence (legal intoxication not required) of marijuana, a controlled substance, dangerous drug, or alcoholic beverage; or committing a serious act or offense while under the influence (legal intoxication not required) of alcohol, if punishable as a felony. (TEA 36-37)
2.
Bringing to school a firearm as defined by federal law. (Risk assessment required)* (TEA 11) Firearm under federal law includes: a) Any weapon (including a starter gun) that will or is designed to or that may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive. b) The frame or receiver of any such weapon. c) Any firearm muffler or firearm silencer. d) Any destructive device, such as an explosive, incendiary or poison gas bomb or grenade. Use, exhibition, or possession of the following, under the Texas Penal Code: a) A firearm (Penal Code Section 46.01(3). (see glossary) (TEA 11) b) An illegal knife (Penal Code Section 46.01(6). (see glossary) (TEA 12) c) A club (Penal Code Section 46.01(1). (see glossary) (TEA 13) d) A prohibited weapon (Penal Code Section 46.05). (see glossary) (TEA 14) Behavior containing the elements of the following under the Texas Penal Code: a) Aggravated assault (Penal Code Section 22.02), sexual assault (Penal Code Section 22.011), or aggravated sexual assault (Penal Code Section 22.021). (TEA 30-31) b) Arson (Penal Code Section 28.02). (see glossary) (TEA 16) c) Murder (Penal Code Section 19.02), capital murder (Penal Code Section 19.03), or criminal attempt to commit murder or capital murder (Penal Code Section 15.01). (TEA 17) d) Manslaughter (Penal Code Section 19.04). (TEA 47) e) Criminal negligent homicide (Penal code Section 19.05). (TEA 48) f) Indecency with a child (Penal Code Section 21.11). (TEA 18) g) Aggravated kidnapping (Penal Code Section 20.04). (TEA 19) h) Aggravated robbery (Penal Code Section 29.03). (TEA 46) Retaliation against a school employee combined with one of the above-listed offenses on or off school property or at a school-related activity. (TEA 08)
3.
4.
5.
Expulsions (6 to 9 years of age) Students between 6 and 9 years of age who commit expellable offenses will be placed in the Disciplinary Alternative Education Program. Students younger than 6 years of age who bring firearms as defined under the Penal Code shall be placed in the DAEP.
Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Guidelines 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Expulsion placements shall not be less than 90 successful school days and terminate at the closest grading period only after documented success in attendance, behavior, and academics. State and federal law require a student to be expelled from the regular classroom for a period of at least one calendar year for bringing a firearm, as defined by federal law, to school. Only four basic courses are offered: English, Social Studies, Math, and Science. There are no electives, honors, pre-AP or AP (Advanced Placement) courses provided. Consequently, students will not receive credit in these classes. The State does not require these courses be provided in a Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Program. If a student who has engaged in conduct warranting placement in JJAEP withdraws from the District before a placement order is completed, the District will complete the proceedings and issue a placement order. The district will continue the expulsion of any newly enrolled student expelled from another district or an open-enrollment charter school until the period of the expulsion is completed.
Discipline Appeals Suspensions (In/Out-of-School) Building-level decisions shall not be appealed.
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Discipline Alternative Education Placement (DAEP) The student’s parent/guardian may appeal the disciplinary intervention resulting from the Level I Conference by filing an appeal on the District form to the Office of Student Services by the close of the following school day. The student must enroll at DAEP during the appeal process. The disciplinary decision of the Level 2 hearing officer shall be final and shall not be appealed. Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Placement (JJAEP) 1. The student’s parent/guardian may appeal the disciplinary intervention resulting from the Level I Hearing by filing an appeal on the District form to the Office of Student Services by the close of the following school day. The student must enroll at JJAEP during the appeal process. 2. If the outcome of the expulsion appeal hearing with the District’s hearing officer is not to the student’s parent/guardian’s satisfaction, the student’s parent/guardian may submit to the Superintendent, within 7 days after receipt of the written Level 2 Expulsion Appeal Hearing decision, a written request to place the matter on the agenda of the next scheduled Board meeting.
Procedures for Removal Optional Removal
General misconduct violations will not necessarily result in the required removal of the student from class or another placement, but may result in a routine referral, required removal, or the use of one or more discipline management techniques.
Required Removal
Required removal, if initiated by a teacher, will occur if: The student’s behavior has been documented by the teacher as repeatedly interfering with the teacher’s ability to teach class; or 2) The behavior is so unruly, disruptive, or abusive that the teacher cannot teach and the students in the classrooms cannot learn. Any removal of a student by a teacher requires that the teacher report the offense to the principal or appropriate administrator. The principal or appropriate administrator will then send a copy of the report to the student’s parent or guardian within 24 hours of receiving the teacher’s report.. A teacher or administrator must remove a student from class if the student engages in behavior for which the Texas Education Code requires the student to be placed in a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program and/or suspended. A teacher or administrator may remove a student from class for behavior for which the District has determined a student may be placed in a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program and/or suspended. Within three (3) school days of receiving a Code of Student Conduct violation report, the principal or appropriate administrator will schedule a conference with the student’s parent/guardian, the student, and the teacher in the case of a teacher removal. At the conference, the principal or appropriate administrator will inform the student of the misconduct for which he or she is charged and give the student an opportunity to give his or her version of the incident. The principal or appropriate administrator will notify the student of the consequences of the Code of Student Conduct violation. l)
When a student is removed from the regular classroom by a teacher and a conference is pending, the principal may place a student in: a) Another appropriate classroom, or b) In school suspension, c) Out of school suspension, d) A Disciplinary Alternative Education Program. (If removal involves a student with disabilities who receives special education services, the term of the student’s removal is subject to the requirements of federal law.) When a student has been formally removed from class by a teacher, the principal may not return the student to the teacher’s class without the teacher’s consent; unless the Placement Review Committee determines that the teacher’s class is the best or only alternative available. (TEC 37.002, 37.003) When a student has been formally removed from class by a teacher for conduct against the teacher containing the elements of assault, aggravated assault, sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, murder, capital murder, or criminal attempt to commit murder or capital murder, the student may not be returned to the teacher’s class without the teacher’s consent.
Emergency Placement 1) 2)
Emergency placement may be ordered to DAEP by an appropriate administrator when a student is so unruly, disruptive, or abusive that the student’s presence seriously interferes with a teacher’s ability to communicate effectively with the students in a class, with the ability of the student’s classmates to learn, or with the operation of school or a school-sponsored activity. When an emergency placement occurs, the student will be given a verbal notice of the reason for the action. Within five (5) school days after the emergency placement, the student will be given appropriate due process required for placement in a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program. If emergency placement/assignment involves a student with disabilities who receives special education services, the term of the student’s emergency removal is subject to the requirements of federal law.
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SUSPENSION Suspensions are building-level decisions and shall not be appealed. The building level administrator has the final decision in building-level interventions. 1) 2) 3) 4)
State law allows a student to be suspended (out of school) for up to three (3) school days per offense, with no limit on the number of times a student may be suspended in a semester or school year. A student who is to be suspended will be given an informal conference by the principal or appropriate administrator advising the student of the conduct with which he or she is charged and giving the student the opportunity to explain his or her version of the incident. The duration of a student’s suspension, which cannot exceed three (3) school days, will be determined by the appropriate building administrator. Any restriction on participation in school-sponsored or school-related extra-curricular and non-extra-curricular activities will be determined by the principal or appropriate administrator. (TEC 37.005)
Removal to a Disciplinary AEP 1. 2.
3. 4.
5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
10. 11.
12. 13. 14. 15.
The Board delegates the authority to remove a student to a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) to the building administrators. If a student has been convicted of or placed on deferred adjudication for sexual assault or aggravated sexual assault against another student on the same campus, and if the victim or the victim’s parents request that the Board transfer the offending student to another campus, the offending student shall be transferred to another campus in the district. If there is no other campus in the district serving the grade level of the offending student, the offending student will be transferred to a DAEP. Within three (3) school days of receiving the Code of Student Conduct violation report, the administrator will schedule a conference with the student’s parent/guardian, other appropriate administrators, and the student. Until a conference can be held, the appropriate administrator may place the student in: a. Another appropriate classroom, b. In-school suspension, c. Out-of-school suspension. At the conference, the student is entitled to written or oral notice of the reason for removal, an explanation for the basis of removal, and an opportunity to respond to the reasons for removal. At the end of or following the conference, and whether or not each requested person is in attendance after valid attempts to require attendance are made, the administrator shall order the placement as provided by the Code of Student Conduct. Following valid attempts to require attendance, the district shall hold the conference and make a placement decision regardless of whether the student or the student’s parents/guardians attend the conference. Parental appeals regarding disciplinary measures shall be addressed to the Office of Student Services and in accordance with Policy FOC (Local). Pending any appeal, the student shall enroll at the Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) as determined. Students assigned to the Disciplinary Alternative Education Program shall not be allowed on any school campus or property, other than the Disciplinary Alternative Education Program campus. These students are also prohibited from attending any schoolsponsored or school-related event or activity, whether on or off campus. Violators will be subject to criminal prosecution and disciplinary action. If a student placed in a DAEP for an off-campus (more than 300 feet) felony is later found not guilty or charges are dropped the Superintendent or designee shall schedule a review of the placement with the student’s parent or guardian. Decisions to continue DAEP placement may be appealed to the C-FB Board of Trustees. Any student placed in a DAEP will be provided a review of the student’s status, including academic status, by the DAEP administrator at intervals not to exceed 120 calendar days. In the case of a high school student, the Board’s designee, with the student’s parent or guardian, shall review the student’s progress toward meeting the high school graduation requirements and shall establish a specific graduation plan for the student. At the review, the student or the student’s parent or guardian must be given the opportunity to present arguments for the student’s return to the regular classroom or campus. For placement in a DAEP to extend beyond the end of the school year, the administration must determine that: d. The student’s presence in the regular classroom or campus presents a danger of physical harm to students or others, OR e. The student has engaged in serious or persistent misbehavior that violates the Code of Student Conduct. For seniors who are eligible to graduate and are placed in a DAEP at the time of graduation, the last day of placement in the program may be the last instructional day and the student may be allowed at the administration’s discretion to participate in the graduation ceremony and related graduation ceremonies. (Unless otherwise specified in the DAEP placement order.) If a student moves into the District after having been placed in a DAEP in another district, the administrator will continue the DAEP placement according to C-FB placement guidelines. If a student withdraws from C-FB before starting or completing the DAEP placement and returns during the school year, the student will be placed in the DAEP to complete the assigned term of placement.
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Expulsion 1. 2.
3.
4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
10. 11. 12. 13.
14. 15. 16.
The Board delegates to the administration the authority to expel students. The principal or other appropriate administrator will schedule a hearing within a reasonable time with the student’s parent, the teacher, and the student. The student’s parent will be invited in writing to attend the hearing. Until a hearing can be held, the appropriate administrator may place the student in: a. Another appropriate classroom, b. In-school suspension, c. Out-of-school suspension. A student facing expulsion will be given appropriate due process as required by the Federal Constitution. The student is entitled to: a. The right to be represented by the student’s parent/guardian or another adult who is not a district employee who can provide guidance to the student. b. An opportunity to testify and to present evidence and witnesses in the student’s defense. c. An opportunity to ask questions about the district’s evidence. No later than the second business day after a hearing, the Board’s designee will deliver to the juvenile court a copy of the order expelling the student and information required by Section 52.041 of the Family Code. Expulsion placements shall be not less than 90 successful school days and terminate at the closest grading period after the successful completion. Expelled students are prohibited from being on C-FB school grounds or attending school-sponsored or school-related activities during the period of expulsion. No district academic credit will be earned for work missed during the period of expulsion unless the student is enrolled in a Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Program (JJAEP). A student who has engaged in delinquent conduct that is an expellable offense and has been found to be an adjudicated delinquent will be ordered to attend the JJAEP from the date of the adjudication. Other students expelled from the district may be referred to the JJAEP. State and federal law require a student to be expelled from the regular classroom for a period of at least one calendar year for bringing a firearm, as defined by federal law, to school. However, the Superintendent or other appropriate administrator may modify the length of the expulsion on a case by case basis. The District may provide educational services to the expelled student in the Disciplinary AEP Parental appeals shall be addressed to the Office of Student Services, as appropriate and in accordance with policy FOD (Local). Pending any appeal, the student shall enroll at JJAEP. The building administrator shall inform each teacher of the conduct of a student who has engaged in any violation of mandatory expulsions. A teacher shall keep the information confidential. In an emergency, the principal or principal’s designee may order the emergency expulsion of a student when people or properties are in imminent harm. When an emergency expulsion occurs, the student will be given thoral notice of the reason for the action. Within areasonable amount of time after the emergency expulsion, but no later than the 10 day after the expulsion, the student will be given appropriate due process required for a student facing expulsion. If emergency expulsion involves a student with disabilities who receives special education services, the term of the student’s emergency expulsion is subject to the requirements of federal law. A student who is removed for emergency purposes will be released to the student’s parent/guardian, parent’s representative, medical providers, or law enforcement authorities. If a student withdraws from C-FB ISD before the expulsion hearing takes place, the District will conduct the hearing after written notice to the parent and student. If the student returns during that school year or the next school year, he/she will be expelled for the time specified in the expulsion order. Students who are expelled at the end of the school year may be expelled into the next school year to complete the term of expulsion. C-FB ISD will decide on a case-by-case basis the placement of a student who is subject to an expulsion order from another District and who enrolls in C-FB ISD. The District may continue the expulsion under the terms of the order or modify under policy FOD (Legal).
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GLOSSARY Alcoholic Beverage - Alcohol, or any beverage containing more than one-half of one percent of alcohol by volume, which is capable for use for beverage purposes, whether alone or when diluted. [Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code 1.04 (1)] Armor-Piercing Ammunition - Handgun ammunition that is designed primarily for the purpose of penetrating metal or body armor and to be used primarily in pistols and revolvers. Arson - Occurs when a person starts a fire, regardless of whether the fire continues after ignition, or causes an explosion with intent to destroy or damage: • Any vegetation, fence, or structure on open-space land; or • Any building, habitation, or vehicle: o Knowing that it is within the limits of an incorporated city or town; o Knowing that it is insured against damage or destruction; o Knowing that it is subject to a mortgage or other security interest; o Knowing that it is located on property belonging to another; o Knowing that it has located within it property belonging to another; or o When the person is reckless about whether the burning or explosion will endanger the life of some individual or the safety of the property of another. Assault - Texas Penal Code 22.01 An assault is defined as: 1. Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another; or 2. Intentionally or knowingly threatening another with imminent bodily injury; or 3. Intentionally or knowingly causing physical contact with another when the student knows or should reasonably believe that the other will regard the contact as offensive or provocative; or 4. Engaging in conduct that contains the elements of assault and and/or retaliation against a school employee, volunteer, or professional providing services to the District regardless of where or when the conduct occurs. Bullying – Written or oral expression or physical conduct that a school district’s board of trustees or the board’s designee determines: 1. To have the effect of physically harming a student, damaging a student’s property, or placing a student in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s person or of damage to the student’s property; or 2. To be sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive to create an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment for a student. Club - An instrument that is specially designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of inflicting serious bodily injury or death by striking a person with the instrument, and includes but is not limited to (a) blackjack; (b) nightstick; (c) mace; (d) tomahawk. [Texas Penal Code 46.01 (1)] Chemical dispensing device – A device other than a small chemical dispenser sold commercially for personal protection that is designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of causing an adverse psychological or physiological effect on a human being. Controlled Substance -A substance, including a drug, an adulterant, a dilutant, and an immediate precursor, listed in Schedules I through V or Penalty Groups 1, 1-A, or 2 through 4. The term includes the aggregate weight of any mixture, solution or other substance containing a controlled substance. [Texas Health & Safety Code 481.002 (5)] Dangerous Drug - A device or a drug that is unsafe for self medication and that is not included in Schedules I through V or Penalty Groups 1 through 4 of Chapter 481 (Texas Controlled Substances Act). [Texas Health & Safety Code 483.001 (2)] Deadly Conduct – (Texas Penal Code Section 22.05) • A person commits an offense if he recklessly engages in conduct that places another in imminent danger of serious bodily injury. • A person commits an offense if he knowingly discharges a firearm at or in the direction of: one or more individuals; or a habitation, building, or vehicle and is reckless as to whether the habitation, building, or vehicle is occupied. • Recklessness and danger are presumed if the actor knowingly pointed a firearm at or in the direction of another whether or not the actor believed the firearm to be loaded. Deferred adjudication - May be offered to a student who is 17 or older, as an alternative to seeking a conviction in court. Deferred prosecution - May be offered to a juvenile as an alternative to seeking a conviction in court for delinquent conduct or conduct indicating a need for supervision.
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Delinquent conduct - Conduct that violates either state or federal laws and is punishable by imprisonment or confinement in jail. Delinquent conduct also includes conduct that violates certain juvenile court orders, including probation orders. However, delinquent conduct does not include violations of traffic laws. Explosive weapon - Any explosive or incendiary bomb, grenade, rocket, or mine that is designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of inflicting serious bodily injury, death, or substantial property damage, or for the principal purpose of causing such a load report as to cause undue public alarm or terror, and includes a device designed, made, or adapted for delivery or shooting an explosive weapon. False Alarm or Report - Occurs when a person knowingly initiates, communicates or circulates a report of a present, past, or future bombing, fire, offense, or other emergency that he or she knows is false or baseless and that would ordinarily: • Cause action by an official or volunteer agency organized to deal with emergencies; • Place a person in fear of imminent serious bodily injury; or • Prevent or interrupt the occupation of a building, room, or place of assembly. Firearm (Federal) - Under Federal statute means (a) 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; (b) the frame or receiver of any such weapon; (c) any firearm muffler or firearm silencer; or (d) any destructive device. [18 U.S.C. 921 (a) (3)] Firearm (State) - Under Texas statute, means any device designed, made, or adapted to expel a projectile through a barrel by using the energy generated by an explosion or burning substance or any device readily convertible to that use. [Texas Penal Code 46.01 (3)] Gang – An organization that seeks to advance its interests by illegal and/or violent means. In determining the identity of gangs and associated attire, the school district will consult with local law enforcement authorities and will update this rule periodically. Gang participation - Behavior that has been associated with fraternities, sororities, secret societies, and/or gang activity. The behavior may include, but is not limited to: wearing gang colors, showing gangs signs, gang graffiti, tattoos, and gang-related drawings. Students do not have to be a member or an associate of a gang to violate this provision. Graffiti - Making marks on tangible property of the owner without the effective consent of the owner. The markings may include inscriptions, slogans, drawings, or paintings. Hit list - a list of people targeted to be harmed, using a firearm, a knife, or any other object to be used with intent to cause bodily harm. Illegal Knife - (a) A knife with a blade over five and one half inches; (b) hand instrument designed to cut or stab another by being thrown; (c) dagger, including but not limited to a dirk, stiletto, and poniard; (d) bowie knife; (e) sword; or spear. [Texas Penal Code 46.01 (6)] Indecent Exposure - A person commits an offense if he exposes his anus or any part of his genitals with intent to arouse or gratify the sexual desire of any person, and he is reckless about whether another is present who will be offended or alarmed by his act [Texas Penal Code 21.08] Knuckles - Any instrument consisting of finger rings or guards made of a hard substance that is designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of inflicting serious bodily injury or death by striking a person with a fist enclosed in the knuckles. Machine gun - Any firearm that is capable of shooting more than two shots automatically, without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger. Persistent Misbehavior - Two or more violations of the Code of Student Conduct in general or repeated occurrences of the same violation. Possession - To have on a student’s person or in the student’s personal property, including but not limited to the student’s clothing, purse, or backpack; in any private vehicle used by the student for transportation to or from school or school-related activities, including but not limited to an automobile, truck, motorcycle, or bicycle; or any other school property used by the student, including but not limited to a locker or desk. Paraphernalia (Drug) - Defined as equipment, a product, or a material of any kind that is used or intended for use in packaging, repackaging, storing, containing, or concealing an above-listed substance or in injecting, ingesting, inhaling, or otherwise introducing into the human body an above-listed substance is prohibited under this policy. Prohibited Weapon – A person commits an offense if he intentionally or knowingly possesses, manufactures, transports, repairs, or sells (a) an explosive weapon; (b) a machine gun; (c) a short-barrel firearm; (d) a firearm silencer; (e) switchblade knife; (f) knuckles; (g) armor-piercing ammunition; (h) a chemical dispensing device; or (i) a zip gun.
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Public Lewdness - A person commits an offense if he knowingly engages in acts of sexual intercourse, deviate sexual intercourse, and sexual contact in a public place or in a reckless manner as defined by Texas Penal Code 21.07. Reasonable belief - Determination can be made by the Superintendent or designee using all available information, including the information furnished under Article 15.27 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. Administrators may place a student in a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program if they have a reasonable belief that the student engaged in felony conduct under Title 5. Administrators may also place a student in a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program if they have a reasonable belief that the student committed felony conduct that is not a Title 5 offense, and the Superintendent believes the student’s continued presence in the regular classroom threatens the safety of other students or teachers, or will be detrimental to the educational process. Self Defense – The privilege of self defense is limited. A claim of self defense in the use of physical force will not exempt a student from discipline when: • The student provokes, invites or encourages the use of physical force by another person. • The student has an opportunity to avoid physical force or to inform a school official of the threatened use of force. • The student uses physical force after the other party abandons or attempts to abandon a fight or confrontation. Serious Misbehavior - Behavior which constitutes a major disruption to the learning environment or a threat to safety and security and as otherwise defined and listed in this Code. Short-barrel firearm - Rifle with a barrel length of less than 16 inches or a shotgun with a barrel length of less than 18 inches, or any weapon made from a rifle or shotgun that, as altered, has an overall length of less than 26 inches. Switchblade - Any knife with a blade that folds, closes, or retracts into the handle or sheath and that opens automatically by pressing a button or by the force of gravity or centrifugal force. Title 5 offenses - Offenses against a person under Title 5 of the Texas Penal Code and include murder; kidnapping; sexual assault; indecency with a child; injury to a child, an elderly person, or a disabled person; abandoning or endangering a child; deadly conduct; terroristic threat; aiding a person to commit suicide; and tampering with a consumer product. Use - Includes smoking, ingesting, injecting, imbibing, inhaling, drinking, tasting or otherwise taking a substance into the body in any way while on school district premises or at school-related activities. Under the influence - The use of a substance recently enough that it is detectable by the student’s physical appearance, actions, breath, speech, or in any other manner, or by student admission. A student need not be intoxicated in order to be under the influence. Zip Gun - A device or combination of devices that was not originally a firearm and is adapted to expel a projectile through a smoothbore or rifled-bore barrel by using the energy generated by an explosion or burning substance.
THINK COLLEGE Learn for a Lifetime
College could be your local community college, a university, a career or technical school. You could be a middle-school kid, a student in high school, or an adult who would like to continue your education for a lifetime.
It’s never too early or too late to “Think College” 17
TABLE OF CONTENTS MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION
PARENTAL NOTIFICATIONS Academic Programs Parental Rights Addressing Parent/Student Concerns Distribution of Materials/School Materials Parent Involvement, Responsibilities, Rights Parent Notification Compliance Special Education Records Non-Discrimination Notice Special Education Compliance Student Records Section 504 Title I & Homeless or Temporary Housing Title IX Compliance Video and Audio Recordings, News Media Coverage
19 19 19 19 20 20 20 20 20 21 21 22 22
Counseling Extracurricular Activities Grading & Promotion High School Information Honor Roll Parent/Teacher Conferences State Required Testing Student Success Initiative Textbooks, Electronic Textbooks & Technological Equip. Tutorials
22 22 22 23 23 23 23 24 24 24
Enrollment Procedures. Boundaries & Attendance Zones Residency Requirements. Immunization Requirements/Communicable Diseases Transfer of Students Withdrawal of Student From School
25 25 25 25 25 26
Assemblies Attendance Credit Cellular Telephones, Pagers, Beepers Clubs & Organizations Computer/Internet Acceptable Use Conduct Before & After School. District Staff Authority/Responsibility Driver License Attendance Verification Electronic Devices Fees Field Trips Fund Raising Gang-Free Zones
26 26 27 27 27 28 28 28 29 29 29 29 29
PARENT INFORMATION
ADMISSIONS/WITHDRAWALS
PARENT/STUDENT INFORMATION
GROOMING POLICY/DRESS CODE Parent and Student Responsibility Policy Enforcement Principal is the Final Authority Guidelines for Dress Guidelines for Grooming Dress & Grooming Chart
30 30 30 30 31 32
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Insurance Lost and Found Items Leaving School During the Day Make-Up Work Requirements Messages to Students Modes of Transportation Money at School Pledge Allegiance & Moment of Silence Posters, Publicity, Publications Schedule Change School Board Meetings/Agendas School Hours & Closings Due to Weather School District Organization Student Nutrition Programs Use of School Facilities Visitors at School Volunteers
33 33 33 33 33 33 34 34 34 34 34 34 35 35 36 36 36
STUDENT SAFETY Crime Stoppers Drills & Lockdowns Identification Badges Locker & Desks Metal Detectors Physical Restraint Portable Breath Test School Resource Officer Searches/Use of Canines Student Safety Procedures Student Taken Into Custody/Interviews/Gov Auth. Vandalism Vehicles on Campus Video Monitoring of Students
36 37 37 37 37 37 37 38 38 38 38 39 39 39
HEALTH INFORMATION Administering Medicines Asbestos Information Bacterial Meningitis Mercury MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) Pest Management Psychotropic Drugs Vision, Hearing, Acanthosis Nigricans & Spinal Screening Procedures
39 40 40 41 41 42 42 42
DIRECTORY INFORMATION Directory Information Explanation of Directory Information Form Video and Audio Recordings News Media Coverage Directory Information Form
PARENT RESPONSIBILITY FORM
43 43 43 44 45
Parental Notifications ACADEMIC PROGRAMS PARENTAL RIGHTS A parent is entitled to reasonable access to the school administrator to request a change in the class or teacher to which the parent’s child has been assigned, if the reassignment or change would not affect the assignment or the reassignment of another student, class loads or prerequisites. ADDRESSING PARENT/STUDENT CONCERNS Usually student or parent concerns can be addressed simply by a telephone call or conference with the teacher and/or the principal. If a concern is not resolved, the parents or students should request from the school principal the specific procedures that relate to the question or problem. Depending on the nature of the issue or concern, Board Policies provide a procedure that parents may utilize to pursue their concern further. DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIALS/SCHOOL MATERIALS All school publications are under the supervision of the teacher, sponsor, and principal. NON-SCHOOL MATERIALS - Written materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, petitions, films, tapes, or other visual or auditory materials may not be posted, sold, circulated, or distributed on any school campus by a student or a non-student without the approval of the principal and must be in accordance with campus regulations. Any student who posts, sells, circulates, or distributes material without prior approval will be subject to disciplinary action. [Board Policy FMA Legal/Local] All material intended for distribution to students that is not under the District’s editorial control must be submitted to the principal for review and approval. If the material is not approved within 2 school days of the time it was submitted, it must be considered disapproved. Disapproval may be appealed by submitting the disapproved material to the Superintendent. Material not approved by the Superintendent within three days is considered disapproved. This disapproval may be appealed to the Board at its next regular meeting when the student will have a reasonable period of time to present his or her viewpoint. PARENT INVOLVEMENT, RESPONSIBILITIES, RIGHTS Education succeeds best when there is a strong partnership between home and school, a partnership that thrives on communication. Parents are partners with teachers, administrators, and the Board and are encouraged to: • Encourage your child to put a high priority on education and commit to making the most of the educational opportunities the school provides. • Ensure that your child will be in attendance at school each day. Students should arrive at school and for all classes on time each day. • Review the information in the Student/Parent Handbook (including the Student Code of Conduct) with your child; and sign and return the acknowledgment form(s). • Contact child(s) teacher or school when parents have a question or concern. • Become familiar with all of your child’s school activities and with the academic programs offered in the district. Discuss with the principal any questions, such as concerns about placement, assignment, or early graduation, and the options available to your child. Monitor your child’s academic progress and contact teachers as needed. • Grant or deny any written request from the District to make a videotape or voice recording unless the videotape or voice recording is to be used for school safety; related to classroom instruction or a co-curricular or extracurricular activity, or relates to media coverage of the school as permitted by law. • Exercise your right to review teaching materials, textbooks, and other aids, and to examine tests that have been administered to your child. The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (20 USC § 1232h) requires notice or consent for certain surveys dealing with protected issues. Parents may review these materials by submitting a request in writing to the principal of your child’s school. Parents have the right to review these materials before the survey is administered to their student. • Review your child’s student records when needed. You may review (1) attendance records, (2) test scores, (3) grades, (4) disciplinary records, (5) counseling records, (6) psychological records, (7) applications for admission, (8) health and immunization information, (9) teacher and counselor evaluations, (10) reports of behavioral patterns, and (11) state assessment instruments administered to your child. • Temporarily remove your child from the classroom if an instructional activity in which your child is scheduled to participate conflicts with your religious or moral beliefs. The removal cannot be for the purpose of avoiding a test and may not extend for an entire semester. Further, your child must satisfy grade-level and graduation requirements as determined by the school and by TEA. • Become a school volunteer. For further information, contact your school principal’s office or the school volunteer coordinator.
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• •
Participate in campus parent organizations. The activities are varied, ranging from band boosters to the district and campus planning committees formulating district and campus plans to improve educational opportunities for all students. For further information, contact your individual school. Discuss with the school nurse medications and health concerns so an environment conducive to meeting the health needs of each student can be maintained at school. Each student should be provided with the opportunity to achieve and maintain a high level of wellness in order to take full advantage of educational opportunities. Parent(s) or guardians have primary responsibility for the health care of their children.
PARENT NOTIFICATION COMPLIANCE WITH P.L. 107-110 SECTION 1111(h) (6) (A) As a parent of a student in the Carrollton-Farmers Branch Independent School District, you have the right to know the professional qualifications of the classroom teachers who instruct your child, and Federal law requires the school district to provide you this information in a timely manner if you request it. Specifically, you have the right to request the following information about each of your child’s classroom teachers: • Whether the teacher meets the state qualifications and licensing criteria for the grades and subjects he or she teaches. • Whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or provisional status because of special circumstances. • The teacher’s college major, whether the teacher has any advanced degrees, and the field of discipline of the certification or degree. • Whether paraprofessionals provide services to your child and, if so, their qualifications. If you would like to receive any of this information, please contact your building principal. SPECIAL EDUCATION RECORDS It is the responsibility of the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee at each school to make and document decisions concerning the educational program of students referred for consideration for special education services. If a parent or student audio records the meeting, the school will also record the meeting. Video taping of ARD meetings will not be allowed. Parents of a student with disabilities who has been provided special education services by the District may obtain copies of special education records at Marie Huie Special Education Center. Original records will be maintained for three years after a student has been dismissed from Special Education Services. After that time, records will be copied to a CD-Rom. Parents may request original records once retention period established by law has expired. NON-DISCRIMINATION NOTICE The Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, or disability in providing education or providing access to benefits of education services, activities, programs, including vocational programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended; and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Director of Student Services or his designee has been designated to coordinate compliance with these requirements. SPECIAL EDUCATION COMPLIANCE C-FB ISD assumes responsibility for establishing and implementing policies and procedures that are set forth in Title 34 Code of Federal Regulations (34CFR), Texas Administrative Code (TAC), and Texas Education Code (TEC) to provide services for students identified with a disability. Detailed information is available by contacting the Executive Director of Special Education, at the Marie Huie Special Education Center, 2115 Frankford Rd., Carrollton, 75007 or telephone 972-968-5800 STUDENT RECORDS A student’s school records are confidential and are protected from unauthorized inspection or use. A cumulative record is maintained for each student from the time the student enters the District until the student withdraws or graduates. This record moves with the student from school to school. By law, both parents, whether married, separated, or divorced, have access to the records of a student who is under 18 or a dependent for tax purposes. A parent whose rights have been legally terminated will be denied access to the records if the school is given a copy of the court order terminating these rights. The principal is custodian of all records for currently enrolled students at the assigned school. The Superintendent is the custodian of all records for students who have withdrawn or graduated. Records may be reviewed during regular school hours upon completion of the written request form. The records custodian or designee will respond to reasonable requests for explanation and interpretation of the records. Parents of a minor or of a student who is a dependent for tax purposes, the student
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(if 18 or older), and school officials with legitimate educational interests are the only persons who have general access to a student’s records. “School officials with legitimate educational interests” include any employees, agents, or Trustees of the District or cooperatives of which the district is a member, or facilities with which the district contracts for the placement of students with disabilities, as well as their attorneys and consultants, who are: working with the student; considering disciplinary or academic actions, the student’s case, an Individual Education Program (IEP) for a student with disabilities under IDEA, or an individually designed program for a student with disabilities under Section 504; compiling statistical data; or investigating or evaluating programs. The parent’s or student’s right of access to and copies of, student records does not extend to all records. Materials that are not considered educational records, such as teachers’ personal notes on a student that are shared only with a substitute teacher, records pertaining to former students after they are no longer students in the district, and records maintained by school law enforcement officials for purposes other than school discipline do not have to be made available to the parents or student. Certain officials from various governmental agencies and other entities may have limited access to the records. See Board Policy FL (LEGAL) for details. The District forwards a student’s records on request and without prior parental consent to a school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. When the student reaches 18 years of age, only the student has the right to consent to release of records. Records are also released in accordance with court order or lawfully issued subpoena. Unless the subpoena is issued for law enforcement purposes and the subpoena orders that its contents, existence, or the information sought not be disclosed, the district will make a reasonable effort to notify the parent or eligible student in advance of compliance. Students over 18, and parents of minor students may inspect the student’s records and request a correction if the records are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy or other rights. If the District refuses the request to amend the records, the requester has the right to a hearing. If the records are not amended as a result of the hearing, the requester has 30 school days to exercise the right to place a statement commenting on the information in the student’s record. Although improperly recorded grades may be challenged, parents and the student are not allowed to contest a student’s grade in a course through this process. Parents or the student have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if they believe the District is not in compliance with the law regarding student records. Copies of student records are available at a cost of 50 cents for the first page and 15 cents per page thereafter, payable in advance. Parents may be denied copies of a student’s records (1) after the student reaches age 18 and is no longer a dependent for tax purposes; (2) when the student is attending an institution of post-secondary education; (3) if the parent fails to follow proper procedures and pay the copying charge, or (4) when the District is given a copy of a court order terminating the parental rights. If the student qualifies for free or reduced-price meals and the parents are unable to view the records during regular school hours, upon written request of the parent, one copy of the record will be provided at no charge. SECTION 504 No qualified student with a disability will be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination under any District service, program, or activity because of a disability. [42 U.S.C. 12132; 29 U.S.C. 794; 34 CFR 104.4(a)] A “student with a disability “ is one who has, or who has a record of having, or who is regarded as having a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as caring for one’s self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working. A student with a disability is “qualified” if he or she is between the ages of three and twenty-one, inclusive. 28 CFR 35.104; 34 CFR 104.3(j), (k) [Board Policy FB (Legal)] For information, contact your child’s counselor or the Student, Family & Community Services. TITLE I AND HOMELESS OR TEMPORARY HOUSING If you or your family lives in any of the following situations: in a shelter, vehicle, or campground; on the street; in an abandoned building, trailer, or other inadequate accommodations; or, doubled up with friends or relatives because you cannot find or afford housing; then your school-aged children have certain rights or protections under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. For more information, see your school counselor or contact: Student, Family & Community Services, at 972-968-6500 For the purposes of enrollment and attendance, the Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD considers a student to be permanently housed if the student has lived or is living in a particular residency for a period of six (6) months or longer and the living arrangement is fixed, regular and adequate.
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TITLE IX COMPLIANCE The district has implemented procedures and policies that relate to Title IX Compliance. Section 901(a) of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 provides: No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance. Information is available through Student, Family & Community Services, 1820 Pearl St., Building B, Carrollton, Texas 75006 or telephone 972-968-6500 VIDEO AND AUDIO RECORDINGS, NEWS MEDIA COVERAGE State law does allow the district to videotape or record students for purposes of classroom instruction, safety, media coverage, or purposes related to co-curricular or extracurricular activities without parental permission. Print or electronic news media may report on campus activities as well as student achievements. Pictures and activities may appear in print or electronic news media. Additionally, from time to time, various members of the news media may film, record, or write about school activities and students. Students and their schoolwork may be individually identified or shown in such films, recordings, or writings. C-FB ISD has no control over the form, content, use, or distribution of such materials. Parent consent is not required for such news media coverage. C-FB ISD does not assume responsibility for maintaining a record of such coverage.
Parent Information COUNSELING Certified counselors are assigned to each campus. Counselors conduct guidance activities in the classroom, coordinate the standardized testing program, and serve as a consultant to parents, students, teachers and administrators. A counselor has information regarding special programs within the district, colleges, scholarships, and alternative methods of acquiring credits. (See High School Planning Guide) The counselor may also make available information about community resources to address personal concerns. Parents are encouraged to contact their child’s counselor when questions arise.
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES A student will be permitted to participate in extracurricular activities subject to the following restrictions: • A student may not participate in extracurricular activities for at least three weeks if s/he receives an average grade below 70 at the end of any grade evaluation period, in any academic class other than an advanced placement or international baccalaureate course, or an honors or dual credit course in the subject areas of English language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, economics, or a language other than English (below 60 in those classes). A student with disabilities who fails to meet the standards in the Individual Education Plan (IEP) may not participate in extracurricular activities for at least three weeks. An ineligible student may practice or rehearse while suspended; however, the ineligible student may not participate in a competition nor where there is a fee to attend. • The student regains eligibility when the principal and teachers determine that he or she has: (1) earned a passing grade (70 or above) in all academic classes other than those that are described above; and (2) completed three weeks of suspension. • A student is allowed up to ten absences from a class during the school year for extracurricular activities or public performances. All UIL activities and activities approved by the District are subject to these restrictions. • Sponsors and coaches of extra-curricular activities will develop and enforce standards of behavior that are higher than the district-developed Student Code of Conduct and will condition membership or participation in the activity on adherence to those standards. Consequences may vary from game suspension to removal from the activity/class. Written guidelines are given to participating students at the beginning of the school year. [Board Policy FO (Local)] • A student who misses class because of participation in an activity sponsored by a non-approved organization will receive an unverified absence.
GRADING & PROMOTION A student may be promoted only on the basis of academic achievement or demonstrated proficiency of the subject matter of the course or grade level, the recommendation of the student’s teacher, the score received on any criterion referenced or state-mandated assessment and any other necessary academic information as determined by the district. To earn credit in a course, a student must receive a grade of 70 based upon course-level or grade-level standards. [High School students please refer to the Educational Planning Guide]. Elementary and secondary schools issue report cards each nine weeks with progress reports issued every three weeks.
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HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS - Requirements for high school graduation are outlined in the Educational Planning Guide. GRADING PERIOD -The District shall record no grade lower than fifty (50) on the report card or permanent record with the exception of the following: authentic or actual grades may be given the last grading period of the course. FINAL EXAM EXEMPTION - Seniors may be exempt from final exams during the Spring semester only if they meet the following criteria: • Have ninety (90) percent or better attendance in all classes, all year. Students who violate the 90% attendance rule either semester are ineligible for exemptions. This includes made-up absences and appeals. • Have not earned an NG (no grade) in any class all year. • Have had three (3) or fewer absences with at least a ninety (90) percent average in the class requesting exemption from the final exam. • Have had no more than one (1) absence with at least an eighty-five (85) percent average in the class requesting exemption from the final exam.
HONOR ROLL An academic honor roll will be printed in each secondary school at the end of each grading period. At the senior high school level, students making the high honor roll must have a grade average of at least 90 while students making the honor roll must have a grade average of at least 85.
PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES A student or parent who wants information or wants to raise a question or concern is encouraged to talk with or to email the appropriate teacher, counselor, or principal. A parent who wants to meet with a teacher may call the office to request that the teacher call the parent during a conference period or at another mutually convenient time. [High school students refer to the Educational Planning Guide for more information].
STATE-REQUIRED TESTING In addition to routine testing and other measures of achievement, students enrolled in grades 3-11 will take the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) in the subjects listed below. • English Language Arts: grades 10 and 11 • Mathematics: each year in grades 3- 11 • Reading: each year in grades 3 -9 • Science: grades 5, 8,10, and 11 • Social studies: grades 8, 10, and 11 • Writing: grades 4 and 7 Students receiving special education services who are enrolled in grades 3 - 10 may be eligible to take the TAKS Accommodated or TAKS Modified Assessment in lieu of TAKS. Testing decisions must be made by the student’s Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) committee and must be documented in the student’s Individual Education Plan (IEP). Students enrolled in grades 2-12 who have been identified as Limited English Proficient (LEP) will be required to take the TELPAS Reading test yearly until they exit the program by passing the TAKS English/Reading and other required exit criteria. Students whose parent(s) have declined Bilingual or ESL services are required to take the RPTE until they are classified as nonLEP. Students are classified as non-LEP when they meet the exit criteria by passing grade level TAKS test, an oral English test, are working on grade level, and receive an Advanced or Advanced High on the Texas Observation Protocol (TOP) Writing portion. Students who arrive in the U.S. for the first time during the second semester of the school year are not required to take the RPTE. The student’s Language Proficiency Assessment Committee (LPAC) shall make the decision about the English reading proficiency of second semester immigrants. •
5 grade and 8th grade students will be required to pass the TAKS reading and mathematics portions for promotion to the next grade level. • Prior to receiving a high school diploma, students must successfully pass TAKS Exit-Level tests in English, Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, and Mathematics. Students who receive special education services will have an ARD committee determine whether the Exit-Level exams are appropriate measures of academic progress. If the ARD exempts a student from the state-required testing, and if the student successfully completes his or her Individual Education Plan (IEP), the student shall receive a high school diploma. th
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STUDENT SUCCESS INITIATIVE C-FB has put into action The Student Success Initiative as required by Education Code, 28.0211 (Board Policy EIE-Legal). This initiative requires that students must demonstrate mastery on specific state assessment measures for specific grade levels. After three opportunities to demonstrate mastery on the assessment have been unsuccessful, the student may not be promoted to the next grade level. Each time a student fails to perform satisfactorily on the assessment instrument, the District will provide the student with accelerated instruction in the applicable subject area, including reading instruction for a student who fails to perform satisfactorily on a reading assessment instrument. The District will notify the student’s parent of guardian of the student’s failure to perform satisfactorily on the assessment instrument, the accelerated instruction program to which the student is assigned, and the possibility that the student might be retained at the same grade level for the next school year. The implementation schedule for the Student Success Initiative is as follows: • Beginning this (04-05) school year, a fifth grade student who does not perform satisfactorily on the fifth grade mathematics and reading assessment instruments may not be promoted to the sixth grade. • Beginning with the 2007-2008 school year, an eighth grade student who does not perform satisfactorily on the eighth grade mathematics and reading assessment instruments may not be promoted to the ninth grade. Under this provision, the student’s parent or guardian may appeal the student’s retention by submitting a request to the grade placement committee.
TEXTBOOKS, ELECTRONIC TEXTBOOKS AND TECHNOLOGICAL EQUIPMENT State-approved textbooks are provided free of charge for each subject or class. Books must be covered by the student, as directed by the teacher, and treated with care. Electronic textbooks and technological equipment may also be provided to students, depending on the course and course objectives. A student who is issued a damaged item should report that fact to the teacher. Any student failing to return an item in acceptable condition loses the right to free textbooks and technological equipment until the item is returned or paid for by the parent or guardian. [Board Policy CMD (Legal)] Textbooks are furnished free to the pupil by the state for use only until the course is completed. It is important that the student write his name on the inside cover of each textbook. All state textbooks must be covered at all times. Each student will be held responsible for books and technological equipment lost, stolen, or unduly damaged. Lost or damaged items must be paid for in accordance with the nature of the damage. The following is a standard list of fines to be charged to the student for damaged textbooks in the Carrollton-Farmers Branch Independent School District. The building administrator will determine the fine to be paid on damaged books. • Normal use will be discounted. • Full price of book o Pages torn or mutilated beyond repair o Back torn, bent, or broken o Missing pages • 50 cents to full price of book o Water damage o Excessive ink marks/writing in/on book. All money collected for damages to state textbooks and for the sale of either new or used textbooks shall be deposited by the textbook custodian to the State Textbook Fund. Failure to return monies, textbooks and/or technological equipment may be considered theft as defined in section 31.03 of the Texas Penal Code.
TUTORIALS A student must attend tutorial sessions as required by the campus or be subject to disciplinary action.
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Admissions/Withdrawals ENROLLMENT PROCEDURES A student who lives within the school district boundaries and is five and younger than 21 years of age on September 1 of the school year may be enrolled in the district (Education Code 25.001). A child must be enrolled by the child’s parent, legal guardian, or other person with legal control under a court order (Education Code 25.002). The person enrolling the student must present a driver’s license or suitable identification. The district will require evidence that the student lives within the district; a student who ceases to be a resident may be withdrawn from the district. If there is a change in the home address, parents are required to immediately provide the school office with a new proof of residency. If there is a change in the home telephone number, emergency contacts, or parents’ places of employment, the school office should be notified immediately. Parents should tell the office staff if there is any change in the information listed in the emergency section of the registration card. Changes in custody or other legal information should be relayed to the administration to ensure that any legal arrangements are followed. A resident student whose legal residence has moved outside of the District may be permitted to continue in the District for the remainder of the current semester only. Failure to notify the campus of a move outside the District at the time of the move will result in immediate withdrawal of the student (FD Local). Exception: High school students who complete their junior year in good standing and are classified as seniors may be permitted to continue tuition-free for their entire senior year (FDB Local). Identification and records must be provided to the school to enroll a student. It is a criminal offense under Texas Penal Code 37.10 to present false information or false records at enrollment. Knowingly falsifying information on an enrollment form shall make the parent liable to the district and may be charged the maximum tuition fee (Education Code 25.002).
BOUNDARIES AND ATTENDANCE ZONES The rapid and sometimes unpredictable growth in the district makes it necessary for attendance zones to be changed from time to time by the Board. Changes are made to maintain reasonable enrollment at the existing schools and to create attendance zones for new schools. The Board of Trustees establishes school attendance zones for the individual schools.
RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS The board of trustees of a school district or the board's designee may require evidence that a person is eligible to attend the public schools of the district at the time the board or its designee considers an application for admission of the person. The board of trustees or its designee shall establish minimum proof of residency acceptable to the district. The board of trustees or its designee may make reasonable inquiries to verify a person's eligibility for admission TEC Education Code 25.001 (8c).
IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS/COMMUNICABLE DISEASES For the protection of children throughout the community, state law and district policy require that each child enrolled in school be fully immunized against diphtheria/tetanus, polio, rubella (measles), rubella, mumps, haemophilus influenza type B (HIB), hepatitis B, hepatitis A, pneumococcal, and varicella (chicken pox) and meningococcal or present documentation required by the State of Texas for medical, religious, or reasons of conscience that the student will not be immunized. A student must meet all immunization requirements specific to an age group upon first entering the age group. More specific information about immunization requirements can be obtained from the school nurse or the district Website (www.cfbisd.edu). Parents should notify the school by phone if their child is ill, especially if the child has a communicable disease. Parents must keep the child home if he/she has a fever (100.4 degrees or over), diarrhea, red draining eyes, or an undiagnosed rash. Students must be symptom free for 24 hours without the use of Tylenol before returning to school. Parents must notify the school of changes in home or work telephone numbers and persons to contact in case the parent cannot be reached. This information should be updated during the year if changes occur. This is important for the protection of the student in the event of an emergency. The District is not responsible for medical expenses, including ambulance transport, associated with a student’s injury.
TRANSFER OF STUDENTS During the transfer period, parents may request a student transfer within the district if the school is open. Transfers are considered based on available space and class size.
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• • • • • •
Obtain K-12 Transfer Form from the Office of Student Services during the transfer period. Transfer must be submitted before the deadline of that transfer period. No transfers are granted during semesters. Transfers are approved based on behavior, attendance, and academics. Transfers may be revoked by the principal based on behavior, attendance issues, or academics. More information can be found in Board Policy FDB Local. A person wanting to remain at the original “home campus” after moving to another location within the district should apply for a “K-12 Request to Remain” at the school where the student wishes to remain. Proof of residence is required for the new residence. Requests to Remain are approved based on behavior, attendance, and academics. Requests to Remain may be revoked by the principal based on behavior, attendance issues, or academics at the end of the grading period.
WITHDRAWAL OF STUDENT FROM SCHOOL Parents must provide a written statement and proof of identification to withdraw a student. Parents are requested to notify the school in advance when moving out of the school either to another district school or to one outside the district. Students 18 or older may request withdrawal without a parent’s or guardian’s signature. A withdrawal slip must be obtained, signed by each subject teacher, the librarian, school nurse, and the counselor. Students shall return all library books, textbooks and equipment, pay fines for all overdue library books, pay for replacement of lost textbooks, and clear money owed to the cafeteria. Certain records may be withheld if students are not cleared before a student is withdrawn from school. All withdrawal documents must be returned to the appropriate office. Withdrawal of a student does not terminate any pending discipline action. Upon request from officials of other schools or school systems in which the student seeks or intends to enroll, a copy of the student’s education records from C-FB ISD will be forwarded to the requesting school official. The parents of the student may obtain, upon request; copies of the record transferred and have an opportunity for a hearing to challenge the contents of the record.
Parent & Student Information ASSEMBLIES A student's conduct in assemblies must meet the same standard as in the classroom. A student who is tardy or who engages in inappropriate conduct during an assembly will be subject to disciplinary action
ATTENDANCE/CREDIT Students must be in attendance 90% of the time a class is in session to receive credit. The number of days will vary depending on whether the class is for a semester or a full year. A student who attends at least 75% but fewer than 90% of the days the class is offered may receive credit for the class if s/he completes a plan, approved by the principal, that allows the student to fulfill the instructional requirements for the class. If a student is involved in a criminal or juvenile court proceeding, the approval of the judge presiding over the case will also be required before the student receives credit for the class. If a student attends less than 75% of the days a class is offered or has not completed a plan approved by the principal, then the student will be referred to the attendance review committee to determine whether there are extenuating circumstances for the absences and how the student can regain credit, if appropriate. [See policies at FEC] Notification (verbal or written) will be given/sent to parents when a student is falling below 90%. • Petitions (Appeals) may be filed at any time notice is given. Petitions must be filed by the 21st day after the last day of classes or semester. (FDD Local) • An absence may be recorded after 3 tardies in a class within a semester or school year. • A student is tardy if not in his/her assigned classroom when the bell rings. • Absences earned due to tardies cannot be made-up and may not be appealed at the end of the semester. • Additional consequences may occur as prescribed in the Code of Conduct if tardies persist. Attendance committees are formed to review any petitions concerning credit. Appeals are heard by the C-FB Board of Trustees. (More information regarding the scope of these committees may be obtained from the home campus.)
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Students who are of compulsory education age (6-18 or enrolled in Pre-K/K) are required to be in attendance at school. • Students absent 10 or more days or parts of days within a six month period in the same school year or on three or more days or parts of days within a four week period without parental consent are considered conduct in need of supervision Family Code 51.03(b)(2). • A student absent without permission from school, from any class, or required tutorials will be considered in nonattendance and subject to disciplinary intervention, which could result in court action. • Students are considered “in school” when a student boards a school bus or steps on campus, and must check out through the appropriate office, or will be considered in nonattendance. Attendance Officer Duties concerning nonattendance: • Warn parent in writing that attendance is mandatory and must be immediately remedied. • If warning goes unheeded, parent will have a complaint filed with county court. Parents should report an absence the day of the absence. Additionally, written documentation acceptable to the campus principal is required to verify a student absence within three (3) days of the absence.
CELLULAR TELEPHONES, PAGERS, BEEPERS The District prohibits students from using paging devices, cell phones, or any other telecommunication device during the school day. The school day will be defined by the principal. Paging devices, cell phones, or any other telecommunication device should not be in use, visible, or audible. Students who violate this policy shall be subject to established disciplinary measures. District employees shall confiscate any paging devices, cell phones, or other telecommunication devices in use, visible, or audible found on school property during the school day. A person, who views, hears or discovers a student using a paging device, cell phone, or other telecommunication device during the school day in violation of this policy shall report the violation to the principal, who shall order a peace officer or appropriate school official to confiscate the paging device, cell phone, or other telecommunication device. Confiscated paging devices, cell phones, or telecommunication devices may be returned to the student or parent at the end of the school day after a payment of a $15.00 administrative fee is received. Should there be persistent noncompliance, the paging device, cell phone, or other telecommunication device will be returned at the end of the semester after payment of a $15.00 administrative fee is received. Payment must be in the form of cash or a money order. [Board Policy FNCE Legal/Local] Campus administrators shall have the discretion to determine the appropriate use of cellular phones and pagers/beepers for students participating in extra-curricular activities while on school property or while attending school-sponsored or school-related activities on or off school property. The handbook serves as notification to parents and students that the school will dispose of any confiscated telecommunication device, including paging devices and cell phones, at the end of each semester if no claim is made and no fee is paid. The student’s parent and the telecommunications company whose name and address appear on the device will be given 30 days’ notice of the intent to dispose of the device. The school assumes no responsibility for lost or stolen electronic or telecommunication devices.
CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS Student clubs and performing groups such as (but not limited to) band, choir, drill, and athletic teams may establish codes of conduct and consequences for misbehavior that are stricter than those for students in general. If a violation is also a violation of school rules, the student will be subject to consequences specified by the Student Code of Conduct as well as any of those established by any club or organization. The District has instituted guidelines for extracurricular activities for consistent responses to grades and/or behaviors outside the parameters of extracurricular programs. The District-wide procedures shall be incorporated into the respective program’s constitution, rules or by-laws.
COMPUTER/INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE “Telecommunications” includes, but is not limited to, the District’s library catalog and its online resources (magazines and other periodicals, online encyclopedia resources and their links, virtual field trips), Internet sites bookmarked by teachers, online virtual classes, and any site the District’s Internet filter does not block. By signing the Annual Statement of Consent form in the Code of Student Conduct, the student and the parent/guardian have discussed and agreed to the following rights and responsibilities and understand that violations of this agreement may result in disciplinary action including immediate loss of privileges: •
Students will limit use of technology in school to the educational objectives established by teachers. Recreational
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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
games and instant messaging are prohibited. Students will not retrieve or send unethical, illegal, immoral, or simply inappropriate or unacceptable information of any type. Students will follow network etiquette rules, which include the use of appropriate language and polite responses. Students will not use abusive language of any type, including swearing and name-calling. Students will adhere to C-FB Web Presence Guidelines if creating any web product that is part of a class assignment that is either stored on a district server or linked from a district page. Students will not share home addresses, phone numbers, pictures or last names with another online user for any purpose. Students understand that information obtained on-line is the intellectual property of its author, unless otherwise specified. Students will adhere to copyright laws and guidelines and will not plagiarize information obtained in any form Students will not logon to the district network with another person’s account, and will not share passwords with anyone Students will not attempt to bypass the security built into the system, and recognize that doing so will result in immediate cancellation of privileges. Students will not interfere with or disrupt network users, services, or equipment. Disruptions include, but are not limited to, distribution of unsolicited advertising, propagation of computer viruses, and using a network to make unauthorized entry to any other machine accessible via a network. Misuse may result in criminal prosecution. Students will not connect personal technology to district equipment without permission. Students will print only to the appropriate classroom/lab/library printer. Students will not use technology access provided by C-FB for illegal purposes of any kind or for financial gain. Students will not use technology access to transmit threatening, obscene, or harassing materials. Students understand and agree that C-FB will not be held responsible for participation in such activities. Students understand and should be aware that e-mail and other electronic communications using district computers are not private and will be monitored by district staff. Students understand that teacher web pages and other district web sites may contain links to non-C-FB sponsored sites. C-FB is not responsible for the content on non-sponsored sites.
CONDUCT BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL Teachers and administrators have full authority over student conduct (before or after) school on District premises and at schoolsponsored events on or off District premises, including but not limited to, play rehearsal, club meetings, athletic practices or events and special study groups or tutorials. Students are subject to the same consequences established by the Student Code of Conduct or any stricter code of conduct for participants established by the sponsor.
DISTRICT STAFF AUTHORITY/RESPONSIBILITY The principal is the chief executive officer of the campus and has control over all buildings, departments, scheduling of all school functions, and personnel involved. The principal shall have the authority and responsibility for: • • •
supervision, discipline, pupil accounting, and school records; enforcement of school rules, school board policies, and regulations of the school district’s central administration; and delegation of many of these responsibilities to the appropriate campus administrator.
All District officials, including teachers, have the authority and responsibility to maintain discipline and order. Refusal by a student/parent to follow the directions of any district official will be considered insubordination and will result in corrective action. Teachers are the authority in the classroom setting. They are responsible for carrying out the instructional program and for maintaining an atmosphere of learning. Both teachers and students have rights and responsibilities in the teaching-learning process.
DRIVERS LICENSE ATTENDANCE VERIFICATION For a student between the ages of 16 and 18 to obtain a driver license, the Texas Department of Public Safety must be provided written parental consent to access the student’s records for purposes of verifying 90 percent attendance for credit for the semester.
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ELECTRONIC DEVICES Radios, tape or CD players, digital music players, digital or tape recorders are not to be visible, audible or in use at anytime during the school day. Students who violate this policy shall be subject to established disciplinary measures. On the second or subsequent offense, students may have their radios, tape players, digital music players, digital or tape recorders confiscated until the end of the school year. Students are not permitted to be in the possession of laser pointers or laser-beam lighters. The school will confiscate these items.
FEES Materials that are part of the basic educational program are provided without charge to a student. A student is expected to provide his or her own supplies of pencils, paper, erasers, and notebooks, and may be required to pay certain other fees or deposits, including: • Costs for materials for a class project that the student will keep • Membership dues in voluntary clubs or student organizations and admission fees to extracurricular activities • Security deposits • Personal physical education and athletic equipment and apparel • Voluntary purchases of pictures, publications, class rings, yearbooks, graduation announcements, etc. • Voluntary purchase of student accident insurance • Musical instrument rental and uniform maintenance, when uniforms are provided by the District • Personal apparel, used in extracurricular activities, that becomes the property of the student • Parking fees and student identification cards • Fees for lost, damaged or overdue library books or textbooks • Fees for optional courses offered for credit that require use of facilities not available on District premises Any required fee or deposit may be waived if the student and parent are unable to pay. Application for such a waiver may be made to the building administrator .
FIELD TRIPS Students will not be allowed to participate in any activity which involves leaving the school grounds unless a general waiver or a special waiver is on file at school signed by the student’s parents or guardians. This applies to any group that leaves the school for any purpose. A student’s conduct on a field trip must meet the same standard as in the classroom. A student who engages in inappropriate conduct during a field trip will be subject to disciplinary action.
FUND RAISING Booster clubs and/or PTAs may occasionally be permitted to conduct fund-raising drives. An application for permission must be made in accordance to the procedures set out in the booklet “Guidelines for Booster Clubs.” Student clubs or classes must follow building guidelines.
GANG-FREE ZONES Certain criminal offenses, including those involving organized criminal activity such as gang-related crimes, will be enhanced to the next highest category of offense if they are committed in a gang-free zone. For purposes of the district, a gang-free zone includes a school bus and a location in, on, or within 1000 feet of any district-owned or leased property or campus playground.
Grooming Policy/Dress Code The District’s dress code is established to have students exemplify spirit and pride for themselves and their school. The District believes that the business of school is student learning. School dress and grooming standards should support that purpose and promote a safe and orderly learning environment. The standards are further designed to prevent distractions, thereby permitting the maximum learning for all students. This policy is to be enforced by teachers and administrators so as to not take away from instruction. It is easily self-monitored so that students and parents can ensure the standards are met prior to the student’s arrival at school.
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PARENT AND STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY: The parent and student shall be responsible for ensuring that the student is in compliance with all aspects of this policy during the time the student is on school premises during regular school hours. Items worn in violation of this policy may be taken up by a school official and returned according to campus policy. Failure by the student to correct dress or grooming violations at first request is considered insubordination and will result in disciplinary action.
POLICY ENFORCEMENT: It is the responsibility of all professional personnel to administer dress and grooming guidelines. Judgment, with consistent, fair, and equitable enforcement of standards, while protecting the dignity of individual students, shall be practiced.
PRINCIPAL IS THE FINAL AUTHORITY: The Board delegates to the principal the authority to make final determinations as to whether clothing or grooming is or is not within this policy. The ruling of the building principal regarding compliance or non-compliance with the Dress & Grooming Policy and corresponding consequences assigned for violation of this policy is final, and may not be appealed to the Superintendent, his/her designee, or the Board. After receiving community input and Board approval, some campuses have implemented standardized dress or school uniforms for their students. Campuses with standardized dress or school uniforms will provide specific information to parents related to their clothing requirements. Individual school campuses will provide specific campus guidelines about dress and grooming for their students. Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD reserves the right to establish rules during the school year regarding new fashions in dress and grooming.
GUIDIELINES FOR DRESS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.
14.
Bandanas, sweatbands or wristbands shall not be worn anywhere on the body. Skull caps, head scarves (with religious exceptions), or other similar grooming items shall not be worn. Hats, caps, and hoods shall not cover the head while inside buildings. Students shall not wear any chains or objects deemed inappropriate by school personnel. Shorts must fit neatly and be worn at the waistline. Cut-offs, boxers, or shorts made of spandex and are not allowed. They must be no shorter than 4 inches from the top of the knee or no longer than the knee, frays must be stitched hemmed. Leggings may be worn when worn under other garments such as dresses or skirts which follow appropriate skirt length. Skirts, dresses and jumpers in elementary school shall be either at or below the fingertips when the fingers are extended straight down the side of the leg or 4 inches from the top of the knee. In middle and high school, shorts or skirts will be no shorter than 4 inches from the top of the knee. Slits in garments must also comply with this length rule. Students shall not wear any clothing that, in the principal’s judgment, is startling, unusual, disruptive, immodest and/or brings undue attention to the student. Students shall not wear any item that is lewd, offensive, vulgar, obscene, or depicts nudity. Students shall not wear clothing or any item that advocates or advertises tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, drugs, or any other illegal substance. Students shall not wear clothing or any item that advocates or suggests violence including but not limited to blood, daggers, weapons, etc., nor shall they wear clothing or other articles considered to be gang related Students shall not wear clothing or items that advocate or depict the occult or racist organizations or symbols (i.e. swastikas). A student shall not wear midriff tops, tank top style (boys or girls), tube tops, halter tops, backless tops, spaghetti straps, one strap, strapless, plunging neck lines, “key-hole” tops or “see-through” clothing (top or bottom). This clothing is unacceptable even if covered by a jacket or sweater. All straps must be 2 inches wide in order to cover undergarments. Shirts must cover the midriff and the back and not allow midriff exposure during normal activity. Shirts must not allow exposure of private body parts. All shirt hems should overlap the waistband of skirts, shorts or pants. T-shirts should be no longer than the finger tips when the fingers are extended straight down the side of the leg (i.e. no oversized t-shirts). If longer than fingertips, they must be
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tucked into the student’s pants or skirt. 15. Pajamas (top or bottom) or pajama-type clothing, or underwear that is worn uncovered (top or bottom) is not allowed. 16. Students’ undergarments should not be visible during normal activity. 17. Extremely sloppy “sagging” pants, oversized at waist or large-legged, deep-pocketed pants shall not be worn. Pants must fit neatly and be worn at the waist. Pant length should end at or above the floor. 18. House shoes, flip flops, slippers, or “heelies” or any shoes with rollers are not allowed. Students must wear soled footwear at all times. Footwear with hidden compartments or steel toes is not allowed. 19. Any ragged, frayed or intentionally torn clothing is not allowed. 20. Clothes that raise questions as to whether the clothing item is within the policy may be prohibited.
GUIDELINES FOR GROOMING: 1. Hair: • A clean, natural-looking and neatly groomed hairstyle is expected. • Startling and unusual hairstyles are not permitted. • Hair must be of a natural color. • Symbols, numbers, or letters that are deemed inappropriate by campus administration may not be shaved or cut into the hair. 2. Body piercing: • No visible body piercing of any type (other than earrings) is allowed. This includes face, nose, and tongue piercing, including spacers and place holders. • For elementary students, earrings must be studs for safety reasons. No hoops or dangles. 3. Removable teeth crowns, teeth coverings or teeth jewelry is not allowed. 4. Students shall not groom in any way that in the principal’s judgment, is startling, unusual, disruptive, immodest, and/or brings undue attention to the student. 6. Grooming that raises questions as to whether the grooming is within the policy may be prohibited. Students’ dress and grooming should project a business-like appearance. It should be modest, decent, not distract other students and/or staff and should contribute to a safe, positive learning environment. Exclusions: This policy does not prohibit principals from allowing extracurricular group uniforms to be worn on days of special celebrations which involve unusual dress such as “crazy hat day,” 50’s day, etc
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Dress & Grooming Chart CLOTHING ITEM Pants
Capris Shorts
Skirts, Skorts Jumpers, dresses Shirts
ACCEPTABLE
UNACCEPTABLE
• Must be worn at waist & fit at crotch • Properly hemmed, cuffed or stitched • Must end at or above the floor
• • • • • • • • • • •
• Must be worn at waist & fit at crotch • Properly hemmed, cuffed or stitched • Must be worn at waist & fit at crotch • Shorts must be no shorter than 2 - 4 inches from top of knee or no longer than the knee • Must be worn and fit at waist • Must be 4 inches above the knee or longer • Must be 4 inches above the knee or longer • Hems must overlap waistband of pants, skirts, skorts or shorts • Straps must be 2 inches wide to cover undergarments • Shirts longer than fingertip length should be tucked into pant or skirt.
Oversized, baggy or saggy Large legged Deep-pocketed Ripped, torn, frayed or cut-off Oversized, baggy or saggy Ripped, torn, frayed or cut-off Ripped, torn, frayed or cut-off Spandex, nylon or stretch-type materials Boxer-styled shorts Oversized, baggy or saggy Overly short
• Overly short • Oversized; no longer than finger-tip length • Tight-fitting, Low-cut or exposes midriff • See-through materials • Midriff, Tank, Halter, Key-hole or Tube tops • Tops with spaghetti straps, one strap or straps too thin to cover undergarments
Leggings
Leggings may be worn under a garment that is no shorter than 4 inches from the top of the knee
• Leggings by themselves with no over-garment. • Leggings worn under a skirt or dress that is shorter than 4 inches above the knee.
Shoes
• Soled footwear
• House shoes • Flip Flops • Slippers • Any shoes with steel toes rollers, hidden compartments, i.e.“Heelies” • Skull caps • Head scarves (religious exceptions) • Hats, caps, hoods in buildings • Bandanas • Sweatbands • Wristbands • Pajamas – tops or bottoms • Chains • Visible underwear • Any item that advocates or advertises: • Racist organizations or symbols • Tobacco products • Alcoholic beverages • Drugs • Illegal substances • Violence • Occult • Gangs • Obscenities and nudity
Head Attire Other Attire
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Miscellaneous Information INSURANCE The District makes available optional student insurance plan. The District acts only as a service agent for the insurance program. The parent who is interested in this type of insurance will be responsible for paying the insurance premiums and for submitting the claims as required by the insurance carrier. The District receives no proceeds for this service and is not responsible for claims resulting from injuries.
LOST AND FOUND ITEMS All articles, including books, found on the school grounds or in the halls of the school building should be taken to the Main Office. Lost articles are to be claimed during the lunch period or immediately after school. All articles not claimed by the end of the semester will be disposed of through proper channels or donated.
LEAVING SCHOOL DURING THE DAY Students who find it necessary to leave school during the school day (doctor or dental appointment, etc.) must provide a note or a parent must check them out through the appropriate office. A student returning to the school during the same day must return to the office to sign in. Any student leaving school without securing permission will be truant. When a student boards a school bus or steps on campus, the student is considered “in school” and must check out through the appropriate office or be considered truant. A student who misses class because of participation in an activity sponsored by a nonapproved organization will receive an unverified absence.
MAKE-UP WORK REQUIREMENTS Whenever an absence occurs, the student is responsible for contacting teachers for make-up work. Teachers will then be responsible for assisting students in making up class assignments and examinations. If a student is absent for one day, one day will be given. Two days will be given for two days absence, etc. If more time is needed, the student should check with the teacher to receive such permission. [Policy FDD (Local) and Policy EIA (Local)]. A student absent from any class for any reason is encouraged to make up specific assignments missed and/or to complete additional in-depth study assigned by the teacher to meet subject or course requirements. A student who does not make up assigned work within the time allotted by the teacher will receive a grade of zero for the assignment. [For High school students please refer to the Educational Planning Guide].
MESSAGES TO STUDENTS In the event of an emergency, a parent/guardian may phone the school office and ask that a message be given to a student.. Parents and students should understand that the telephones are in frequent use by the teachers and staff for school business. Due to time constraints some schools do not take messages for students during the last 30 minutes of the school day. Student use of the telephone is limited to emergency situations only.
MODES OF TRANSPORTATION Use of bicycles, skateboards, inline skates, scooters and other mechanized vehicles while on CFB-ISD property is strictly prohibited. If a student uses one of the above mentioned vehicles for transportation to or from school, the student is to walk the item (in the case of bicycles, scooters, skateboards and other mechanized vehicles) or remove the item (in the case of footwear) immediately upon entering the property and place the item in the appropriate campus designated area. Students are responsible for contacting the appropriate school administrator or designee to find out the individual campus procedure for storage of the items. The school will not be responsible for any of the items in the case of theft or vandalism. Non-compliance with the above may result in school discipline and/or referral for criminal prosecution, if applicable. Individual school campuses will provide specific guidelines.
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MONEY AT SCHOOL For your child’s safety students are urged not to bring extra money to school because it is too easy to lose it. Students should bring only enough money for lunch or other necessities of each day.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE & MOMENT OF SILENCE The District shall require students, once during each school day at each school in the district, to recite the pledge of allegiance to the United States Flag and the Texas Flag. On written request from a student's parent or guardian submitted to the principal, a school district shall excuse the student from reciting a pledge of allegiance. The district shall provide for the observance of one minute of silence immediately following the recitation of both the United States and Texas Pledge of Allegiance. During the one-minute period, each student may, as the student chooses, reflect, pray, meditate, or engage in any other silent activity that is not likely to interfere with or distract another student. Each teacher or other school employee in charge of students during that period shall ensure that each of those students remains silent and does not act in a manner that is likely to interfere with or distract another student.
POSTERS, PUBLICITY, PUBLICATIONS All posters, publicity, or publications must be approved by the appropriate administrator. Posters displayed without authorization will be removed. Any student who posts printed material without prior approval will be subject to disciplinary action. [Board Policy FMA (Local)]. Appropriate law enforcement officials shall be called when someone other than a student refuses to follow the procedures for submitting materials and fails to leave the premises when asked. (Board Policy GKA).
SCHEDULE CHANGES Requests to change a schedule or a course may be made only on the published days before the start of each semester. Requests for schedule changes will be considered for the following reasons: 1) error in scheduling, 2) student failure in a prerequisite, 3) change in program (athletics, band, choir, etc.), 4) level changes as recommended by teachers and counselors with parental knowledge and administrative approval. Requests not meeting the listed reasons will not be considered. It should be understood that a schedule change to help balance a classroom enrollment will be done as needed. Appeals on schedule changes will not be heard beyond the building principal.
SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS/AGENDAS The School Board conducts all regular meetings on the second and fourth Thursdays at 7 p.m. in the Board Room of the Administration Building, 1445 North Perry Road, Carrollton. Citizens are welcome to attend the meetings. Audience participation at a Board meeting is limited to the portion of the meeting designated for that purpose. At all other times during a Board meeting the audience shall not enter into discussion or debate on matters being considered by the Board, unless recognized by the presiding officer. No presentation shall exceed three minutes (Board Policy BED Local). During Audience for Guest agenda item, citizens may address items not on the agenda, although Texas Open Meetings Laws prohibit Board action on such items. Persons interested in speaking at the meetings should contact the Superintendent’s Office (972-968-6185). The agendas of the Board meetings are posted on each campus and in the Administration Building as well as on the District's website (www.c fbisd.edu).
SCHOOL HOURS AND SCHOOL CLOSINGS DUE TO WEATHER Elementary 8:10 a.m. -3:10 p.m.; Middle School 8:50 a.m.–3:50 p.m.; High School 7:30a.m. – 2:30p.m. Supervision of students shall begin 20 minutes prior to the beginning of classes and end 20 minutes after final classes in the afternoon or until the last public school bus picks up students. Students can not be on school premises unless involved in a school sponsored event or with administrative permission. Trespass notices and tickets may be issued for violations of this policy. The school district will use the Connect-ED phone notification system to notify families of school closings or delayed openings. Local television stations and radio stations will carry information on school closings or delayed openings, including the following TV stations: Channel 4, Channel 5, Channel 8, Channel 11 or the following radio stations: KRLD-1080 AM, KVIL - 103.7 FM or WBAP-820 AM. This information is also available on the District's website (www.cfbisd.edu) and on the district’s cable channel.
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SCHOOL DISTRICT ORGANIZATION The seven-member Board of Trustees functions as the District’s policy-making body. These citizens are elected to serve without pay for overlapping terms of three years. The Board’s decisions are subject only to the limitations imposed by state and federal laws, regulations of the State Board of Education and the State Commissioner of Education, and the will of the people as expressed in district elections. The Board of Education employs the Superintendent of Schools who serves as the chief executive officer and administers school policies. The Superintendent serves as a resource person to keep the Board informed on educational issues. The central administrative staff is divided into four areas -- 1) Administration and Personnel, 2) Student, Family and Community Services, 3) Curriculum and Instruction, and 4) Support Services. Each division provides support services to the individual buildings. From time to time, individuals have concerns about their schools. If the problem or concern is related to a classroom situation, it is always best to first contact the teacher. If a conference with the teacher does not lead to a satisfactory solution, the principal may be contacted. Serious problems that may be unresolved at the building level can also be referred to the appropriate central administrator. Certain communications procedures have been set up for students and/or the parents who seek relief from school board policies, school regulations, or administrative decisions because they believe that the policies, regulations, or decisions create personal hardships or unsatisfactory learning/activity conditions. School Board Policy FNG, School Board Policy FNG (Local) and School Board Policy GF outline the procedures for students and parents to follow when presenting their concerns.
STUDENT NUTRITION PROGRAM MEAL PRICES AND DEBIT ACCOUNTS: Meal prices can be found at http://studentnutrition.cfbisd.edu or posted in your school’s cafeteria. Parents are encouraged to prepay for their child’s meals by paying on-line or by sending a check or cash with the child. To make payments online, parents must go to the Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD website at www.cfbisd.edu and click on the Red Credit Card icon which opens the on-line payment system. We encourage students who are sent with cash or check prepayments to go to the school cafeteria in the morning and deposit them before school begins. To help us ensure that monies are deposited into the proper account, parents should include the student’s ID number with the prepayment. If parents do not wish to use prepayments, cash will also be accepted for a meal or a la carte items. The student’s account may be used for both meal and a la carte purchases. However, if parents wish to restrict the purchase of a la carte items, they can request that the debit account be used for only meals; this should be communicated to the cafeteria manager at the time the prepayment is made. Any balance remaining on a student’s account will be available for use the following year and will transfer with the student if s/he changes schools. If a refund is needed after the money is deposited, parent(s) should complete a refund form available from the cafeteria manager. A check will be mailed to the requestor in approximately 10 business days. A detailed report of the transactions from the student’s account can be obtained from the cafeteria manager any time parents wish. MEAL BENEFITS: Families who cannot pay the full price may apply for a reduced/free price meal. Application forms are mailed to each household at the beginning of each school year and available at the schools. Parents should complete only one application per household. Notification letters will be mailed to the address on file with the school within 10 days of receipt of the application; parents should ensure the address is accurate. All application information will be kept confidential. Students who participate in this program will be treated in the same manner as those who pay the full price. Students who received benefits last year will receive benefits for a short grace period (less than 20 days) at the beginning of the school year. However, a new application must be received each school year. If the grace period expires before an application is processed and approved, the student will be charged the full price for a meal and the parents will be responsible for those charges. STUDENT MEAL OFFERINGS: All menus offered in the cafeteria are planned by a Registered Dietitian and meet the nutritional guidelines set forth by the United States Department of Agriculture and the Texas Department of Agriculture. School breakfast offerings consist of a choice of milk, a choice of juice/fruit, and a choice of a breakfast item. Students may choose two or three items from the menu. At lunch, elementary students may select one of the entrees, two of the side dishes and milk. Elementary students must select an entrée and at least one other item, to receive meal benefit prices. For lunch, secondary students may select one of the entrees, three of the side dishes and milk. Secondary students must select an entrée and at least two other items, to receive meal benefit prices. Any student not taking enough items for a reimbursable meal will be charged the a la carte price for that item(s).
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CHARGING: In the event they lose their money or run out of money on their account, we will allow students to charge a meal. Students will be extended $5.50 of credit; charges will be taken out of any future payments. Once a student reaches the limit of $5.50, no more charging will be allowed. Students without money will be given a complimentary vegetable plate consisting of three fruit/vegetable servings and milk. It is our goal for no child to go without a meal; however, we cannot feed children indefinitely without money. FOODS PROVIDED BY PARENTS AND OTHER FOOD SALES: Parents may send food for the consumption of their student only for breakfast and lunch. The Texas Public School Nutrition Policy prohibits an elementary school campus from making available foods other than the foods provided by the Student Nutrition Department except for one (1) nutritious snack per day under the supervision of the teacher. Please contact your school for the school policy regarding food brought for snacks. This policy also prohibits the sale of competitive foods (vending & fundraising food sales) in Elementary Schools and in Middle Schools until after the end of the last lunch period. In High Schools the sale of competitive foods (vending & fundraising food sales is prohibited in the dining areas. For more information regarding the Texas Public School Nutrition Policy contact the Texas Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Division at (888)TEX-KIDS or www.squaremeals.com. SPECIAL DIETS: Student Nutrition works jointly with the school nurses to provide for students with special medical dietary needs. All requests for special dietary modifications must include a written order from the student’s doctor or a registered dietitian. Parents can contact the school nurse or the Student Nutrition Department for information on such accommodations.
USE OF SCHOOL FACILITIES Members of any club or organization that wish to use the school building for any reason MUST have the approval of the building administrator. This includes all organizations within the school and all outside organizations. After the building administrator gives approval for use of the building, the event must be scheduled with the appropriate staff member and placed on the school calendar. If the organization is not a student organization and/or additional custodial or security support is necessary, the organization should be directed to the District’s facility rental office. If the request is from any non-school related organization then the appropriate staff member will direct the group to the District’s facility rental office.
VISITORS AT SCHOOL • • • •
All visitors, including parents must register in the main office. Visits to individual classrooms are permitted only with approval of the principal and teacher, and such visits are not permitted if their duration or frequency interferes with the delivery of instruction or disrupts the normal school environment. For specific appointments with teachers, counselors, administrators, or other staff members, parents should call the main office in advance. Students are not permitted to visit another campus during the school day. Identification of any person on school property is being required. State law requires that identification must be shown when requested by school personnel or campus resource officers. The principal or designee may refuse to allow persons with no legitimate business to enter school grounds and/or may eject any undesirable person(s) from school grounds if that person refuses to leave peacefully upon request. [Board Policy GKA/CKC.]
VOLUNTEERS Should any person choose to be resource for the District by volunteering that person must have a volunteer application on file in the principal's office before volunteering; submit to a criminal record check (Board Policy GKG), and attend a campus volunteer orientation meeting.
Student Safety CRIME STOPPERS Crime Stoppers is a student run program. The students advertise the program, publicize recent crimes occurring in the school, and set rewards, based on guidelines, for information leading to the case being solved. Students do not investigate crimes, nor do they know who the victims or suspects are in the crimes. The program is designed to:
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• • • • • •
Help students and the school community to work together to solve and prevent crime, To provide a safe, anonymous, and dependable way to report crime solving information free of fear, Help the school communities reduce crime and provide safety to students in and away from school, To give students an active role in the problem solving process, To promote caring and pride in our schools, and To develop responsible citizens.
DRILLS & LOCKDOWNS Fire drills will be held frequently. Some will be scheduled while others will be unannounced. ALL persons in the building should follow the regulations and diagrams posted in each classroom. The procedures for drills will be demonstrated shortly after the beginning of school year. In addition to fire drills, disaster/tornado and crisis drills will be held. When the alarm is sounded, students shall follow the direction of teachers or marshals quickly, quietly, and in an orderly manner. In certain types of rare emergencies, school officials may enact a policy of lockdown, preventing any students or staff from moving throughout the building. When a lockdown is in effect, it will temporarily restrict immediate parental access to their children. IDENTIFICATION BADGES Picture identification badges may be issued to students as a part of the school's safety plan. At the secondary level (612) students are required to wear the identification badges. Students are required to wear their badges with the picture visible to others. Failure to wear and /or make picture visible will result in disciplinary interventions established by each campus. LOCKERS & DESKS Lockers are school property and remain under school control at all times. School officials may issue lockers at a student's request. Students, who have been issued a locker, acknowledge that school officials may open and inspect such lockers at any time, with or without cause. Students shall not place, keep, or maintain any article or material in school-owned lockers that is forbidden by district policy or that would lead school officials to reasonably believe that it would cause a substantial disruption on school property or at a school-sponsored function. The student is responsible for all contents in their assigned locker and making certain that the locker is locked and that the combination is not available to others. Each student should take care of his assigned locker. A parent will be notified if any prohibited items are found in the student’s desk or locker. METAL DETECTORS Use of metal detectors may be used on campuses to minimize the use of weapons. No student or teacher should be subject to the dangers inherent in a knife or firearm being carried onto the campus by another person. Students suspected of carrying a weapon will be subject to being searched by a hand-held metal detector. PHYSICAL RESTRAINT Any District employee may, within the scope of the employee’s duties, use and apply physical restraint to a student if the employee believes restraint is necessary in order to: • Protect a person, including the person using physical restraint, from physical injury. • Obtain possession of a weapon or other dangerous object. • Protect school property from serious damage. • Remove a student refusing a lawful command of a school employee to move from a specific location, including a classroom or other school property, in order to restore order or to improve disciplinary measure. • Restrain an irrational student. [Board Policy FO Local] PORTABLE BREATH TESTERS The District shall attempt to provide a safe alcohol-free environment to students coming to or going from school (Board Policy FNCF Legal). As an attempt to provide safe alcohol free environments the use of breath tests may be administered during the school day and at any school related or school sanction activity, either on or off school property. No further parental notification will be given prior to the administration of student breath tests. Nothing in Board Policy (FNCF Local) shall limit a school representative from (1) observing a student’s behavior to develop a reasonable suspicion of alcohol use, or (2) notifying the police
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department regarding violations of the Texas Penal Code. More information on this policy may be located at the campus or online at C-FB Policy On-line. SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS Officers from the local police departments work in cooperation with the administrators of the school district. Their responsibility is the enforcement of criminal laws and assisting the district in maintaining the safety and welfare of the students and staff, as well as preserving and promoting the educational environment. SEARCHES / USE OF CANINES In the interest of promoting student safety and attempting to ensure that schools are safe and drug free, school officials may from time to time conduct searches. Such searches are conducted without a warrant and as permitted by law. If an investigation, initiated by an administrator, requires a search of a student or school property, the administrator, for school safety, may ask that the search be conducted by a local law enforcement agent. During the course of school operations, school officials may deem it necessary to conduct a search of a student and/or student’s property while the student is attending school or a school-sponsored event, either on or off school property. School officials may search a student’s outer clothing, pockets, or property by establishing reasonable cause or securing the student’s voluntary consent. A search is reasonable if it meets both of the following criteria: • The action is justified at its inception; i.e., the school official has reasonable grounds for suspecting that the search will uncover evidence of a rule violation or criminal violation. • The scope of the search is reasonably related to the circumstances that justified the search; i.e., the measures adopted are reasonably related to the objectives of the search and are not excessively intrusive in light of the age or sex of the student and the nature of the infraction. There may be times when the district may use dogs that are trained to detect drugs, firearms or explosives. The alert of a trained dog provides reasonable cause for a search. (School Board Policy FNF) STUDENT SAFETY PROCEDURES Student safety on campus or at school-related events is a high priority of the District. With safety in mind, specific procedures have been implemented. However, the District can address only part of the challenge; the essential remaining part is the cooperation of students and parents. We ask that parents and students: o
Communicate with school officials if students have knowledge or suspicion of any activity or possible activity that may present a risk to the safety of the students or staff.
o
Avoid conduct that is likely to put him/her or other students at risk.
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Follow the Student Code of Conduct and any additional rules for behavior and safety set by the principal, teachers, or bus drivers.
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Report to the office and follow school procedures regarding visitors on campus, including signing-in and obtaining visitor pass.
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Learn emergency evacuation routes and signals used.
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Remain alert and promptly report any safety hazards, such as intruders on campus.
Parents must keep emergency care information up to date (name of doctor, emergency phone numbers, allergies to medications, etc.) and by teaching their children safety rules. Please contact the school office to update any information. Supervision of students shall begin 20 minutes prior to the beginning of classes and end 20 minutes after final classes in the afternoon, or until the last public school bus picks up students. Students can not be on school premises unless involved in a school sponsored event or with administrative permission. Trespass notices and tickets may be issued for violations of this policy. STUDENTS TAKEN INTO CUSTODY/INTERVIEWS/ GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITY State law requires the District to permit a student to be taken into legal custody: • To comply with an order of the juvenile court. • To comply with the laws of arrest.
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• • • • A law
By law enforcement officer if there is probable cause to believe the student has engaged in delinquent conduct or conduct in need of supervision. By a probation officer if there is probable cause to believe the student has violated a condition of probation imposed by the juvenile court. To comply with a properly issued directive to take a student into custody. By an authorized representative of Child Protective Services, Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services, a law enforcement officer, or a juvenile probation officer, without a court order, under the conditions set out in the Family Code relating to the student’s physical health or safety. enforcement officer may interview a student who has knowledge of delinquent conduct or conduct in need of supervision.
Before a student is delivered to a law enforcement officer or other legally authorized person, the principal will verify the officer’s identity, and to the best of his or her ability, will verify the official’s authority to take custody of the student. The principal will ordinarily attempt to notify the parent unless the officer or other authorized person raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection to notifying the parents. The principal does not have the authority to block a custody action. Consequently, notification will most likely be after the fact...
VANDALISM Littering, defacing, or damaging school property is not tolerated. Students will be required to pay for damages they cause, and will be subject to criminal charges and/or disciplinary consequences in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.
VEHICLES ON CAMPUS • • • • •
Vehicles parked or operated on school property, or properties that the district has leased or jointly maintains are under the jurisdiction of the school. The school reserves the right to search any vehicle at any time, regardless of whether the owner/driver is present or not. The school will not be responsible for any items lost or stolen from any vehicles parked on campus, nor will the school in any way assume liability for damages to vehicles using the campus parking lot. To obtain a parking permit or park on campus, an individual must provide proof of insurance, driver’s license, valid vehicle registration, and inspection. Cars illegally parked on school district property will be impounded at the owner’s expense. A student will be held responsible for any prohibited objects or substances, such as alcohol, drugs, or weapons that are found in the vehicle and will be subject to disciplinary actions by the District as well as referral for criminal prosecution.
VIDEO MONITORING OF STUDENTS Video monitoring may be employed in certain areas of a campus to monitor persons for safety purposes. The principal/designee may review the tapes to detect misconduct and other safety related issues.
Health Information ADMINISTERING MEDICINES All medications must be taken to the school’s clinic. Disciplinary action will be taken when a student violates this procedure. Unless a student has written authorization from his/her parent and physician or other licensed health care provider, and who meets all other requirements, may be permitted, at the student’s discretion, to use prescribed medication at school or schoolrelated events. The parent/guardian should notify school nurse if student has been prescribed medication during the school day. Employees of the District may administer medication to a student provided: [Board Policy FFAC (Legal)]. • The District has received a written request to administer the medication from the parent, legal guardian, or other person having legal control of the student. • When administering prescription or non-prescription medication, the medication appears to be in the original container and to be properly labeled. [Education Code 22.052] A properly labeled prescription bottle is a bottle with a pharmacy label that includes the following: a) Student’s name b)
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Medication c) Dosage d) Doctor’s name e) Date prescription filled the prescription must be current within the last 12 calendar months. All non-prescription medication must be in its original container with the original label and student’s name affixed to the container. Without a physician order, the parent must designate a time for the dosage to be taken. After five (5) days, students on non-prescription drugs will be required to submit a physician’s authorization for continuance of medication. The school will not accept any medication in unlabeled bottles, baggies, etc., as they do not meet the code under which the staff operates. Written requests for dispensing medication must include the following: a) Date b) Student’s Name c) Name of Medication d) Dosage e) Specific time the medication is to be administered f) Signature of the parent. Parents are encouraged to keep their schedule for dispensing medication to a minimum. Changes in medication dosage require a new prescription bottle or a written physician’s request and a new permission request from the parent. A sample of prescription medication given to a student by a doctor must be accompanied by a doctor’s note giving the same information as a properly labeled bottle. Definition. Employees legally permitted to administer medication to students include superintendents, principals, classroom teachers, supervisors, counselors, registered nurses, teacher aides, secretaries, or any other classified personnel employed by the District. By Volunteer Professionals. If the District provides liability insurance for a licensed physician or registered nurse who provides volunteer services to the District, the Board may allow the physician or nurse to administer to any student a non-prescription medication or medication currently prescribed for the student by the student’s personal physician. [Education Code 22.052-053] Authorized district employees may administer prescription and non-prescription medication in accordance with legal requirements. Only students who have been given permission under District procedures shall be allowed to administer their own medicine. Storage of Medicines. All medication shall be properly stored in the clinic or office area in a locked container. An exception to the storage of medication may be granted by the administration when a student’s parent(s) or guardian AND physician or other licensed health care provider furnish written authorization regarding the medical need for the student to keep the medication with them at all times. The permission to carry medication will be reviewed on a case by case basis. Disciplinary action will be taken if a student violates this procedure. Emergency Medicines. In case of an emergency where, in the judgment of personnel involved, the student’s wellbeing is endangered, and where previously authorized written per-mission has been provided by the student’s parent or legal guardian, premeasured automatic injectable medication devices may be administered according to a written request from a physician or dentist licensed to practice in the state of Texas. Prior to any emergency treatment or medication, a written release shall be required from the parent or legal guardian. Employees may volunteer, but shall not be required or coerced in any manner, for training in the use of pre-measured automatic injectable devices. Upon completion of training, such employee may administer medication with such injection devices but shall not be held personally responsible for any adverse or negative reaction or results from such emergency treatment, except for gross negligence of such employee. Civil Liability Immunity. The District, the Board of Trustees, and its employees shall be immune from civil liability, except for acts constituting gross negligence, for damages or injuries resulting from the administration of medication to a student, provided such administration conforms to the requirements of this policy. [Education Code 22.052-053] ASBESTOS INFORMATION The district’s Asbestos Management Plan, designed to be in compliance with state and federal regulations, is available in the Plant Operations Office, 1505 Randolph, Carrollton, Texas. Please feel free to contact Victor Melton, Energy /Environmental Specialist in the office of the Energy / Environmental Specialist at 972-968-6303. Each Campus has its own Asbestos Management Plan. These management plans contain floor plans of each facility that show the location of the samples taken, lab results, operation and maintenance procedures, copies of inspection reports, and a copy of the federal register. Anyone wishing to review a particular management plan can do so in the office of each campus.
BACTERIAL MENINGITIS The following information on Bacterial Meningitis is for information only and does not indicate an outbreak in our area. The Texas Legislature recently passed SB 31, which requires that a school district provide information relating to bacterial meningitis to all students and their parents each school year. Meningitis is an inflammation of the covering of the brain and spinal cord.
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Viruses, parasites, fungi, and bacteria can cause meningitis. Someone with meningitis will become very ill. The illness may develop over one or two days, but it can also rapidly progress in a matter of hours. Not everyone with meningitis will have the same symptoms. Children (over 1 year old) and adults with meningitis may have: • Severe headache • High temperature • Vomiting • Sensitivity to bright lights • Neck stiffness, joint pains • Drowsiness or confusion If diagnosed early and treated promptly, the majority of people make a complete recovery. In some cases it can be fatal or a person may be left with a permanent disability, such as deafness, blindness, amputations or brain damage (resulting in mental retardation or paralysis) even with prompt treatment. Fortunately, none of the bacteria that cause meningitis are as contagious as such diseases as the common cold or the flu, and they are not spread by casual contact or by simply breathing the air where a person with meningitis has been. The germs live naturally in the back of our noses and throats, but they do not live for long outside the body. They are spread when people exchange saliva (such as by kissing; sharing drinking containers, utensils, or cigarettes). The germ does not cause meningitis in most people. Instead, most people become carriers of the germ for days, weeks or even months. Being a carrier helps to stimulate your body’s natural defense system. The bacterium rarely overcomes the body’s immune system to cause meningitis or another serious illness. Bacterial meningitis can be prevented by not sharing food, drinks, utensils, toothbrushes, or cigarettes. Starting with the 2009-2010 school year the meningitis vaccine is required for a student to be enrolled in 7th grade. This vaccine continues to be recommended for college students, particularly freshmen living in dorms or residence halls. The vaccine is safe and effective (85-90%). It can cause mild side effects, such as redness and pain at the injection site lasting up to two days. Immunity develops within 7 to 10 days after the vaccine is given and lasts for up to 5 years. For additional information, contact your school nurse, family doctor, or other staff at your local or regional health department.
MERCURY Students should not be in the possession of any item containing mercury. Mercury is a toxic chemical, which may cause serious and long-term health effects. When in contact with the skin, mercury can be absorbed into the body. In addition, mercury vapors can be inhaled. To avoid contamination, students must not handle mercury, in any form. When mercury is discovered within a CFB ISD facility, it will require removal and disposal by a “Hazardous Material Team.” If students are responsible for mercury exposure, they will be subject to disciplinary action. In addition, students will be responsible for the cost of the removal, clean-up, disposal, and any other expenses resulting from the mercury exposure.”
MRSA (METHICILLIN-RESISTANT STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS) Recently, local health departments have received reports of contagious skin infections in athletic departments in the North Texas area. These infections are caused by bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus. They usually are easy to treat with inexpensive, welltolerated antibiotics. However, some staph bacteria have developed resistance; that is, the antibiotics can no longer kill the bacteria. Although antibiotic-resistant infections pose a health threat, the following measures are effective against many other infectious diseases. Hand washing is the single most important behavior in preventing infectious disease. Athletes should be instructed in proper hand washing techniques. 1. Use warm water 2. Wet your hands and wrists 3. Use a bar or liquid soap 4. Work soap into a lather and wash between fingers, up to wrists, and under fingernails for at least 15 seconds 5. Dry, using a clean cloth towel or paper towel 6. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers to wash hands immediately if they come in contact with any body fluid at the playing field or other places where hand-washing facilities are not available.
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Wash your hands as described above: 1. After sneezing, blowing, or touching your nose 2. Before and after close contact or using the toilet 3. Before leaving the athletic area OTHER PRECAUTIONS 1. Keep your hands away from your nose and groin 2. Do not share towels, soap, lotion or other personal care items, even on the sidelines at games 3. Do not share clothing, pads, or other equipment 4. Shower with soap and water as soon as possible after direct contact sports 5. Dry using a clean, dry towel 6. Use a moisturizing lotion to prevent dry, cracked skin 7. Prewash or rinse with plain water items that have been grossly contaminated with body fluids 8. Wash your towels, uniforms, scrimmage shirts, and any other laundry in hot water and ordinary detergent and dry on the hottest possible cycle 9. REPORT ANY DRAINING WOUNDS TO YOUR ATHLETIC TRAINER AND/OR SCHOOL NURSE
PEST MANAGEMENT Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD is subject to local, State, and Federal regulations when performing pesticide applications and controls under an Integrated Pest Management Policy. Notifications will be posted at designated locations throughout campus or office areas scheduled to receive pesticide treatments by certified personnel. Pesticides may only be applied in school buildings or school property during periods in which students are not expected to be present for instruction or activities for 12 hours following treatment. Questions may be directed to: Mr. Danny Roberts, I.P.M. Coordinator, 972.968.6305.
PSYCHOTROPIC DRUGS A psychotropic drug is a substance used in the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of a disease or as a component of a medication. It is intended to have an altering effect on perception, emotion, or behavior and is commonly described as a moodor behavior-altering substance. Teachers and other district employees may discuss a student’s academic progress or behavior with the student’s parents or another employee as appropriate; however, they are not permitted to recommend use of psychotropic drugs. A district employee who is a registered nurse, advance nurse practitioner, physician, or certified or credentialed mental health professional can recommend that a student be evaluated by an appropriate medical practitioner, if appropriate. [For further information, see policies FFAC].
VISION, HEARING, ACANTHOSIS NIGRICANS & SPINAL SCREENING PROCEDURES State law requires all fifth and eighth grade students to be screened for abnormal spinal curvatures. The school nurses will do the screening. Vision and hearing screenings are state mandated for all students new to the District, students in pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, grades 1, 3, 5, and 7, with referrals done on request. Hearing screening includes a pure-tone hearing test and may also include an impedance-hearing test to further identify a problem. Acanthosis nigricans (a skin condition that signals high insulin levels in the body) will be conducted on students in the grades1, 3, 5, and 7. Vision, hearing, acanthosis nigricans, and scoliosis screening will be conducted on students in accordance with state law unless the school nurse receives on or before the day of the screening procedure each year one of the following: An affidavit of exemption from the parent, managing conservator, or guardian that the screening conflicts with the tenets and practices of a recognized church or religious denomination of which the student is an adherent or a member; or documentation of a professional examination performed by a health practitioner licensed under state law and whose expertise addresses the diagnostic needs of the student. If parents have questions regarding screening procedures, they should contact the school nurse.
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Explanation of Directory Information and Directory Information Form DIRECTORY INFORMATION Federal and state laws safeguard student records from unauthorized inspection or use as well as provide parents and “eligible” students with certain rights. Virtually all information pertaining to individual student performance such as individual test scores, grades, discipline records, medical records, etc. is considered confidential and is not released without a parent’s consent. However, certain student “directory Information” is public unless parents make an annual request in writing. C-FB ISD has designated the following as “Directory Information”: student’s name, address, telephone listing, electronic mail address, photograph, and date and place of birth, as well as major field of study; degrees, honors and awards received; dates of attendance; grade level; most recent educational institution attended; participation in officially recognized activities and sports; and weight and height of members of athletic teams. (Board Policy FL LOCAL) Under Texas Education Code Sec. 26.013, parents have the right to decide who can have access to their student’s directory information. For example, parents can choose to restrict access to their student’s directory information by any outside third parties. Third parties may be vendors, companies or others who are interested in asking you or your student to purchase products or services. (BOARD Policy FL LEGAL) The other option parents have is to allow a limited release of directory information for school-sponsored purposes. These schoolsponsored purposes include campus and district publications (such as the yearbook), campus and district websites, and the district’s cable TV channel. C-FB ISD students are occasionally asked to participate in school and/or District publicity, publications, and/or public relations activities. A student’s name, picture, voice, verbal statements, or portraits (still or video) may appear in an individual school’s publicity, or district publications, videos or website if the parent has not denied permission through the directory information procedure. These may or may not personally identify the student. These items may also be used for instructional use through such activities as District staff training sessions. The District may use the pictures and/or videos in subsequent years.
EXPLANATION OF DIRECTORY INFORMATION FORM Your “Directory Information” Form is located on the next page. If you wish to have your student’s “directory information marked “private,” you must fill out the form and return to your student’s school within the required time. If you do not fill out the form within the required time, then your student’s directory information will not be marked “private,” and will be available to anyone who asks for it. Please note that you must fill out and return a new form each school year, even if you have done one in prior years. Instructions for filling out the “Directory Information” Form: Parents who do not want their student’s directory information released to third party requestors (including companies who may solicit products or services) should select one of the two options on the form for keeping this information private. The first option allows directory information only to be released to third parties for “limited school-sponsored purposes” (student recognition activities, yearbook or student newspaper, printed programs for extracurricular activities, news releases to local media, district/campus website, district/campus video, district/campus publication). The second option closes access to ALL third parties, which means that release even for school- sponsored purposes will not be permitted. You MUST select one of the two options and return the form in order to restrict access to your student’s directory information. Please select only ONE of the two options.
VIDEO AND AUDIO RECORDINGS, NEWS MEDIA COVERAGE State laws does allow the district to videotape or record students for purposes of classroom instruction, safety, media coverage, or purposes related to co-curricular or extracurricular activities without parental permission. Print or electronic news media may report on campus activities as well as student achievements. Pictures and activities may appear in print or electronic news media. Additionally, from time to time, various members of the news media may film, record, or write about school activities and students. Students and their schoolwork may be individually identified or shown in such films, recordings, or writings. C-FB ISD has no control over the form, content, use, or distribution of materials produced by outside news media. Parent consent is not required for such news media coverage. C-FB ISD does not assume responsibility for maintaining a record of such coverage.
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Directory Information Form for Parents/Guardians or Majority Age Students (18 years of age or older) Certain information about district students is considered directory information and will be released to anyone who follows the procedures for requesting the information unless the parent or guardian objects to the release of the directory information about the student. If you do not want C-FB ISD to disclose directory information from your child’s educational records without your prior written consent, you must notify the district in writing within the first 10 days of instruction at the beginning of each school year, or within the first 10 days of enrollment of a new student. C-FB ISD has designated the following as Directory Information: student’s name, address, telephone listing, electronic mail address, photograph, and date and place of birth, as well as major field of study; degrees, honors and awards received; dates of attendance; grade level; most recent educational institution attended; participation in officially recognized activities and sports; and weight and height of members of athletic teams. Release of Directory Information to Third Parties Parents who do not want their student’s directory information released to third party requestors (including companies who may solicit products or services) have two options for keeping this information private. One option is to allow directory information only to be released to third parties for “limited schoolsponsored purposes” (student recognition activities, yearbook or student newspaper, printed programs for extracurricular activities, news releases to local media, district/campus website, district/campus video, district/campus publication). The other option is to close access to ALL third parties, which means that release even for school sponsored purposes will not be permitted. Please check ONLY ONE of the two options below: ___ I only want my student’s directory information to be released for limited school-sponsored purposes, such as student recognition activities, yearbook or student newspaper, printed programs for extracurricular activities, news releases to local media, district/campus website, district/campus video, district/campus publication, and similar purposes. I do not want my student’s directory information released to third parties. OR ___ I do not want my student’s directory information released to ANY third party, even for limited school-sponsored purposes. I understand that this means my student will NOT be included in the yearbook, programs for extracurricular activities, the student newspaper, or any other such school publications. NOTE: THIS MEANS, YOUR STUDENT WILL NOT BE INCLUDED IN THE SCHOOL YEARBOOK. Secondary Students (Grades 7-12) Only Federal Law requires districts receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. Section 6301 et seq.) to provide a military recruiter or an institution of higher education, on request, with the name, address, and telephone number of a secondary student unless the parent has advised the district that the parent does not want the student’s information disclosed without the parent’s prior written consent. ___ I do not want the name, address, and telephone number of my secondary student released to a military recruiter or to an institution of higher education. NOTE: This means information will NOT be released to the military OR colleges. ______________________________________________ _______________________________________________ Name of student
Name of school
______________________________________________ Student ID Number ______________________________________________ Parent/guardian or student 18 years of age or older
_______________________________________________ Date
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PARENT RESPONSIBILITY Please read and review this Code of Student Conduct with your child and discuss the importance of rights, responsibilities and safety information.. Sign below, tear out this page and return the page to your child’s teacher/school as soon as possible. Thank you for your support FAILURE TO COMPLETE THIS FORM DOES NOT EXCUSE THE STUDENT OR PARENT FROM PRESUMED AWARENESS OF THE ITEMS CONTAINED HEREIN. “We have received and reviewed the C-FB Code of Student Conduct. We understand that this document contains information that we will need during the school year. We understand that the student,
_____________________________________ STUDENT NAME (PLEASE PRINT)
_____________________ ID NUMBER
will be held accountable for the behavior and consequences outlined in the Code of Student Conduct at school and at school-sponsored/school-related activities (on or off campus), including school-sponsored travel, and for any schoolrelated misconduct regardless of time or location, and for certain offenses occurring at non-school times. We understand that any student who violates the Code of Student Conduct will be subject to disciplinary intervention.”
__________________________________ School name
_________ Grade
__________________________________ Parent/Guardian signature
____________________________ Student signature
_________________________2008/09 Date
__________________________________ Print parent/guardian name
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