Appearance and Dress Code
There is a strong connection between academic performance, students' appearance and students' conduct. Inappropriate student appearance may cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present a threat to the health and safety of students, employees and visitors to the school. Students are expected to adhere to reasonable levels of cleanliness and modesty. Students are expected to wear clothing that is appropriate to their age level and that does not disrupt the school or educational environment. Students are prohibited from wearing clothing advertising or promoting items illegal for use by minors including, but not limited to, alcohol or tobacco; clothing displaying firearms or other weapons; and clothing displaying obscenity, profanity, vulgarity, racial or sexual remarks, making reference to prohibited conduct or similar displays. Under certain circumstances or during certain classes or activities a stricter dress code may be appropriate, and students must comply with the stricter requirement. The Building Principal makes the final determination of the appropriateness of the student's appearance. Students who are inappropriately dressed will be required to change their clothing or leave the school.
Inappropriate Conduct
Students are expected to conduct themselves within the bounds set by the Board and the regulations set forth in this handbook. Consideration for the rights and well-being of others, cooperation with all members of the school community and respect for oneself and others are the basic principles guiding student behavior. The primary responsibility for student discipline within the school rests with the Principal. The primary responsibility for the maintenance of discipline within the classroom lies with the individual classroom teacher. Corporal punishment shall not be used. Corporal punishment does not include reasonable force as needed to maintain safety for students, staff, or other persons, or for the purpose of self-defense or defense of property. Disciplinary action may be taken against any student in violation of the Student Code of Conduct as outlined in this section. Disciplinary action may range from conferring with a teacher to expulsion from school. Continued infractions will have a cumulative effect in terms of disciplinary action. A student is in violation of the Student Code of Conduct if the student engages in any inappropriate behavior, including but not limited to:
• Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, or selling tobacco products;
• Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, or selling alcoholic beverages.
• Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, or selling illegal drugs or controlled substances, look-alike drugs, drug paraphernalia or prescription drugs not legally obtained.
• Using, possessing, controlling, or transferring a weapon in violation of the "Possession of a Weapon in a School Building" section of this handbook.
• Using, possessing, controlling, or transferring any object that reasonably could be considered or used as a weapon.
• Disobeying directives from staff or disobeying rules governing student conduct.
• Using violence, force, coercion, intimidation or other comparable conduct toward anyone or urging other students to engage in such conduct.
• Causing or attempting to cause damage to, or stealing or attempting to steal, school property or another person's property.
• Engaging in any activity that constitutes an interference with school purposes or an educational function or any other disruptive activity.
• Unexcused absenteeism.
• Misconduct of any sort on any means of District transportation.
• Hazing, harassment or bullying.
• Forging any signature or making any false entry or attempting to authorize any document used or intended to be used in connection with the operation of a school. These grounds stated above for disciplinary action apply whenever a student's conduct is reasonably related to school or school activities, including, but not limited to the circumstances set forth below:
• On, or within sight of, school grounds before, during, or after school hours or at any other time when school is being used by a school group;
• Off school grounds at a school-sponsored activity or event or any activity or event that bears a reasonable relationship to school;
• Travel to and from school or a school activity, function, or event;
• Anywhere if conduct may reasonably be considered to be a threat or an attempted intimidation of a staff member, an interference with school purposes or an educational function, or a threat to the safety and welfare of the student population.
Gun Free Schools
The Board will expel any student who uses, possesses, controls, or transfers a firearm or any object that can reasonably be considered or looks like a firearm, for a definite period of time of at least one (1) calendar year. The Board may modify an expulsion period on a case-by-case basis.
Possession of a Weapon in a School Building
The District will refer to law enforcement any person who possesses, carries, or stores a weapon in a school building, except as provided below. For the purposes of this section only, "school building" means all buildings owned or leased by the District; "weapon" means any type of firearm, a knife with a blade 4 or more inches in length, a sword, a straight razor, a throwing star, nun-chucks, or brass or other metal knuckles. The term also includes any other article or instrument possessed with the purpose to commit a criminal offense. The Board may grant persons advance permission to possess, carry, or store a weapon in a school building. All persons who wish to possess, carry, or store a weapon in a school building must request permission of the Board at a regular meeting. The Board has sole discretion in deciding whether to allow a person to possess, carry, or store a weapon in a school building.
Disciplinary Action
The Administration believes that students need an environment that is safe and positive for learning. To further the establishment of such a climate, the staff approaches student discipline as a means to encourage positive student behavior. Disciplinary measures help students understand, adjust, and change unacceptable conduct. Disciplinary action may range from conferring with a teacher to expulsion from school. Continued infractions will have a cumulative effect in terms of disciplinary action. Certain forms of discipline trigger due process rights for students as stated below.
Suspension
Before suspension, the student shall be provided oral or written notice of the charges. If the student denies the charges, the student shall be given an explanation of the evidence and an opportunity to present his or her version. Prior notice and hearing as stated above is not required and the student can be immediately suspended when the student's presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disruption to the educational process. In such cases, the necessary notice and hearing shall follow as soon as practicable.
Any suspension shall be reported as soon as possible to the student's parents. A written notice of the suspension shall contain a statement of the reasons for the suspension and a notice to the parents of their right to review the suspension. Upon request of the parents, the Superintendent shall convene a meeting to review the suspension. At the meeting, the student's parents may appear and discuss the suspension with the Superintendent. The Superintendent shall decide whether the suspension is appropriate. The decision of the Superintendent is final and may not be appealed to the Board.
Students with rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act may be suspended in the same manner as students without those rights, although the District must follow all procedural requirements of those Acts when suspending students with disabilities.
Expulsion
Only the Board may expel a student from school. After the administration has investigated the alleged misconduct, and made the decision to recommend an expulsion of the student to the Board, the administration shall send notice to the student and the parent of the following:
·
the intent to recommend an expulsion;
·
the specific charges against the student;
·
what rule or regulation was broken;
·
the nature of the evidence supporting the charges;
·
the date, time and place where the hearing will be held;
·
a copy of the procedure that will be followed by the Board;
·
a reminder of the rights the student and parents have, including the right to counsel, the right to cross examine witnesses, and the right to present witnesses.
The hearing may be rescheduled by the parent by submitting a request showing good cause to the Superintendent at least 3 school days prior to the scheduled date of the hearing. The Superintendent shall determine if the request shows good cause.
Students with rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act may be expelled under certain circumstances, and the District must follow all procedural requirements of those Acts, including holding a manifestation determination meeting, prior to moving forward with an expulsion.
School Cooperation with Law Enforcement
It is the policy of the District that a reasonable cooperative effort is maintained between the school administration and law enforcement agencies. Law enforcement officials may be summoned in order to conduct an investigation of alleged criminal conduct on school premises, or during a school sponsored activity or to maintain the educational environment. They may also be summoned for the purpose of maintaining or restoring order when the presence of such officers is necessary to prevent injury to persons or property. Administrators have the responsibility and the authority to determine when the assistance of law enforcement officers is appropriate.
Student Interviews with Law Enforcement and Child Protective Services
All contact between the school and law enforcement or social service workers on matters involving students shall be made through the administrative office. The District encourages police and social service workers to talk to a student away from the school. Law enforcement will only be allowed to conduct an interview in the school if they can show special circumstances exist or if the interview is at the request of a school official. Law enforcement must comply with all legal requirements regarding notification of parents and consent prior to interviewing students. In the event the student's parent cannot be present, a school official shall observe the meeting. Social service workers may be permitted to interview students at school pursuant to Montana law. In the event the social worker declines to notify the parent, a school official shall observe the meeting.
If the police have a warrant or probable cause for the student's arrest, they must be permitted to arrest the student; however, whenever possible, the arrest should be conducted in the principal's office out of view of other students.
A social worker may take custody of a student upon presentation to the District of a court order granting the social worker such power, or under the provisions of § 41-3-301, MCA.
Student Lockers
Student lockers are the property of the District. Students shall use the lockers assigned to them for storing their school materials and personal items necessary for attendance at school. It shall be the responsibility of each student to keep the student's assigned locker clean and undamaged. The expenses to repair damage done to a student's locker are charged to the student.
Search of School and/or Student Property
For the safety and supervision of students in the absence of parents, to maintain discipline and order in schools, and to provide for the health, safety and welfare of students and staff, school authorities are authorized to conduct searches of students and their personal effects, as well as District property. Such authorization includes, but is not limited to, the use of canines for searches of school property, personal property and motor vehicles.
Students and Their Personal Effects
School authorities may search a student and/or the student's personal effects (e.g., purses, book bags, motor vehicles, etc.) when there is reasonable suspicion that the search will produce evidence the student has violated or is violating either the law or the District's student conduct rules. The search itself must be conducted in a manner that is reasonably related to its objectives and not excessively intrusive in light of the age and sex of the student and the nature of the infraction. When feasible, the search should be conducted outside the view of others, including students, in the presence of an adult witness and by a certificated employee or administrator of the same sex.
Immediately following a search, a written report shall be made by the school authority who conducted the search. The report shall be submitted to the Principal and forwarded to the Superintendent. The parent of the student shall be notified of the search as soon as possible.
School Property
School property, including, but not limited to, desks and lockers, is owned and controlled by the District and may be searched by school authorities at any time. School authorities are authorized to conduct area-wide, general administrative inspections of school property without notice to or consent of the student and without reasonable suspicion.
Seizure of Property
If a search produces evidence that the student has violated or is violating either the law or the District's policies or rules, such evidence may be seized and impounded by school authorities, and disciplinary action may be taken. When appropriate, such evidence may be transferred to law enforcement authorities
Vandalism
All students shall submit to the reasonable rules of the District.
Any student who commits an act of vandalism (that is willful or malicious destruction of public or private property) will be subject to disciplinary measures to include, but not limited to:
1. Suspension, as well as, removal from all school sponsored activities for the remainder of that school year.
2. Subsequent offenses will result in suspension from school and all school sponsored activities and a recommendation of expulsion to the School Board.
Use of Video Surveillance Cameras
The Board recognizes the need to provide a safe learning environment for students and staff and to protect District property and equipment. Therefore, video surveillance cameras will be used as a security measure at the Ennis School District.
Video cameras will also be used to ensure that students' behavior on school property is consistent with the established safety and conduct rules. If unacceptable behavior is recorded, timely and appropriate corrective action will occur. The building principals are responsible for the implementation of safety and security measures at each building and the proper use of video surveillance monitoring systems. The building principal shall coordinate the placement and use of video surveillance systems with the Superintendent. No staff member may use video surveillance without permission of the building principal.
Signs shall be posted at various locations to inform students, staff and the public that video surveillance cameras are in use.
Video recordings may become a part of a student's educational record. The District shall comply with all applicable state and federal laws related to record maintenance and retention.
Leaving Campus
A student will not be released from school at times other than at the end of the school day except with permission from the principal or designee and according to the building sign-out procedures. Unless the principal has granted approval because of extenuating circumstances, a student will not regularly be released before the end of the instructional day.
A student who will need to leave school during the day must bring a note from his or her parent that morning. A student who becomes ill during the school day should, with the teacher's permission, report to the office. The administrator or other office designee will decide whether or not the student should be sent home and will notify the student's parent. If students wish to leave school during school hours they must follow a three-part procedure.
Student Automobiles
1.
Student parking is permitted:
a.
In the school parking lot only.
b.
No parking on the north, south or east sides of the school or on Ballad Ln.
c.
Parking violations can result in loss of school parking privileges.
d.
Motorcycles may be parked in the designated area next to the alley.
e.
Bicycles are to be parked in the bike racks near the main entrance.
2.
Students are not permitted to be in, ride in, or drive any motor vehicle during the school day.
3.
First violation - Up to a 3 day Out of School Suspension
Second violation- Up to a 5 day Out of School Suspension
Third violation -
Up to a 10 day Out of School Suspension and recommendation for expulsion
All violations will be considered on a case by case basis and discipline will be determined by the school principal.
Care of School Property
Students are expected to take care of school property including desks, chairs, books, lockers and school equipment. Vandalism is not tolerated. Students found to have destroyed or otherwise harmed school property may be required to reimburse the school district. In certain circumstances, students may be reported to law enforcement officials.
Cell Phone Usage
Students may not use or possess cellular phones, pagers, or other electronic signaling devices on campus at any time. Students who are caught with cell phones will have phones confiscated and returned to them at the end of the school day. Subsequent offenses may result in the loss of the cell phone for the remainder of the school year. Principals may grant permission for individual students to use and/or possess cellular phones, pagers or other electronic signaling devices if, in the sole discretion of the Principal, such use is necessary for the safety and/or welfare of the student.
Radios
Portable radios including IPOD's and MP3 players are not to be brought to school. They are potential disturbances to education of Ennis School Students. Radios that are brought to school will be confiscated and returned to the student at the conclusion of the school day. If a radio is confiscated a second time the radio will be kept until the end of the school year and disciplinary action will result.
Fees, Fines and Charges
Within the concept of free public education, the District will provide an educational program for students as free of costs as possible. The Board may charge a student a reasonable fee for any course or activity not reasonably related to a recognized academic and educational goal of the District or for any course or activity taking place outside normal school functions. The Board may waive fees in cases of financial hardship. A list of fees shall be published annually by the Superintendent. The Board also may require fees for actual cost of breakage and for excessive supplies used in commercial, industrial arts, music, domestic science, science, or agriculture courses.
The District may hold a student responsible for the cost of replacing materials or property, including textbooks that are lost or damaged by the student. The Principal will notify a student and parent regarding the nature of violation or damage, how restitution may be made, and how an appeal may be instituted. The District may withhold a student's grades or diploma until restitution is made. A student or parent may appeal the imposition of a charge for damages to the Superintendent.
Distribution and Posting of Information
The District allows distribution of materials of parent and student organizations sponsored by the District or other governmental agencies. The District also may allow distribution of materials that provide information valued or needed by the District. The Superintendent must approve all materials before they may be distributed by any student or organization. To facilitate the distribution of materials with information about student activities, each school may maintain a centrally located bulletin board for the posting of materials, and/or maintain a table available to students for placing approved materials.
Harassment, Intimidation, Hazing and Bullying
The administration will strive to provide a positive and productive learning and working environment. Bullying, harassment, intimidation, or hazing, by students, staff, or third parties is strictly prohibited and shall not be tolerated.
Harassment, intimidation, or bullying means any act that substantially interferes with a student's educational benefits, opportunities, or performance, that takes place on or immediately adjacent to school grounds, at any school-sponsored activity, on school-provided transportation, or at any official school bus stop, and that has the effect of:
·
physically harming a student or damaging a student's property;
·
knowingly placing a student in reasonable fear of physical harm to the student or damage to the student's property; or
·
creating a hostile educational environment.
Harassment, intimidation and bullying can take many forms - verbal, written, visual, physical and psychological - and is often, but not always, associated with race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or physical differences.
Hazing includes, but is not limited to, any act that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or as a condition or precondition of attaining membership in or affiliation with any District-sponsored activity or grade-level attainment.
Complaints of harassment/intimidation, hazing and bullying will be handled according to the provisions on sexual harassment, below.
Sexual Harassment Prohibited
Sexual harassment of students is prohibited. A person engages in sexual harassment whenever he or she makes sexual advances, requests sexual favors, and engages in other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual or sex-based nature, imposed on the basis of sex, that:
Denies or limits the provision of educational aid, benefits, services, or treatment; or that makes such conduct a condition of a student's academic status; or
Has the purpose or effect of:
·
substantially interfering with a student's educational environment;
·
creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment;
·
depriving a student of educational aid, benefits, services, or treatment; or
·
making submission to or rejection of such conduct the basis for academic decisions affecting a student.
The terms "intimidating," "hostile," and "offensive" include conduct that has the effect of humiliation, embarrassment, or discomfort. Examples of sexual harassment include, but not limited to, touching, crude jokes or pictures, discussions of sexual experiences, teasing related to sexual characteristics, and spreading rumors related to a person's alleged sexual activities.
Students who believe they are victims of sexual harassment or have witnessed sexual harassment are encouraged to discuss the matter with the Title IX Coordinator or Principal. Students may choose to report to a person of the student's same sex. Complaints will be kept confidential to the extent possible given the need to investigate. Formal complaints will be handled pursuant to the Uniform Grievance Procedure.
Student Publications
School Sponsored Publications
School-sponsored publications and productions are part of the curriculum and are not a public forum for general student use. School authorities may edit or delete material that is inconsistent with the District's educational mission. All student media shall comply with the ethics and rules of responsible journalism. Text that is libelous, obscene, invades the privacy of others, conflicts with the basic educational mission of the school, socially inappropriate or inappropriate due to the maturity level of the students, or is materially disruptive to the educational process will not be tolerated. The author's name will accompany personal opinions and editorial statements. An opportunity for the expression of differing opinions from those published/produced will be provided within the same media.
Non-School Sponsored Publications
Distribution in school of written material that is obscene, libelous, invades the privacy of others, will cause substantial disruption of the proper and orderly operation and discipline of the school or school activities, or advocates conduct otherwise inconsistent with shared values of a civilized social order is prohibited. Distribution in school includes distribution on school property or at school-related activities. Students who distribute such material or who write or publish such material for distribution engage in gross disobedience and misconduct and will be disciplined in accordance with this handbook.
School Procedures and Academic Programs
TIME SCHEDULE
Subject to Revision.
M-Tu-W-Th
Friday
1st Bell
7:55 1st Bell 7:55
Period 1 8:00 - 8:53 Period 1 8:00 - 8:45
Period 2 8:56 - 9:49 Period 2 8:48 - 9:33
Period 3 9:52 - 10:45 Period 3 9:36 - 10:21
Period 4 10:48 - 11:41
Period 4 10:24 - 11:09
Noon
11:41 - 12:15
Period 5 11:12 - 11:57
Period 5 12:18 - 1:11 Noon 11:57 - 12:27
Period 6 1:14 - 2:07 Period 6 12:30 - 1:15
Period 7 2:10 - 3:03
Period 7 1:18 - 2:03
Pre Vacation Days
Period 1
8:00 - 8:31
Period 2 8:34 - 9:05
Period 3 9:08 - 9:39
Period 4 9:42 - 10:13
Period 5 10:16 - 10:47
Period 6 10:50 - 11:21
Period 7 11:24 - 11:55
Attendance
Regular school attendance is essential for the student to make the most of his or her education - to benefit from teacher-led activities, to build each day's learning on that of the previous day, and to grow as an individual. In addition, Montana State Law requires attendance for students between the ages of 7 and 16, and the District employees must monitor and report on the regular attendance of its students. Those students who voluntarily attend school after the age of 16 are subject to the same rules and regulations as those students between the ages of 7 and 16.
Excused Absences and the Ten Day Rule
1.
A student will be allowed 10 absences per class, per semester. Any absence beyond that number may mean a loss of credit in those subjects missed. Parents may excuse an absence by phone (682-4258), fax (682-7751) or by written notes. Students have two days to clear absences. Absences not cleared in this time span will be unexcused absences. No late documentation will be accepted. Please see Mr. Hilton or Mr. Sullivan if circumstances make obtaining a parental note impossible within the two days.
If a parent does not contact the school to report the student absence, the school will attempt to contact the parent by the end of a school day to determine whether the parent is aware of the student's absence from school
2.
An excused absence is any absence approved by the parent. The ONLY absences that WILL NOT be used in calculating the attendance record are:
a.
Those that occur due to school-sponsored activities, since these are considered an equivalent educational experience. These exemptions will apply to students participating in athletic events, cheerleading, music related events, academic field trips, and other co-curricular activities;
b. Bereavement in the immediate family (grandmother, grandfather, father, mother, sister, brother). Any extended bereavement may be reviewed by the Board;
c. For seniors: two (2) days of visitation to institutes of higher learning as verified by institutional admissions' office;
d. Suspension in and out of school and subpoenas to appear in court or court-ordered, out of district placements for special services; and
e. Illness, hospitalization or medical appointments verified by a doctor's statement.
3.
Absences which will be counted in the 10 day limit will include such areas as: family trips, work days, vacations, visiting friends or relatives, watching tournaments when not an actual participant, non-medical appointments, skiing, hunting, attending concerts, shopping, or any others not mentioned which are unacceptable to the administration.
4.
After three absences from school/class, a letter will be sent to the student's home, indicating the school policy and the number of days missed.
5.
After five absences, another letter will be sent, indicating the severity of the situation and explaining in detail the alternatives for non-compliance.
6.
After nine absences, a final letter shall be sent to the student's home requesting a conference with the parent to discuss the student's attendance record.
7.
After going over the tenth absence, the student may have credit withheld. That student, with parental accompaniment, must appear before the Principal.
8.
The Principal will review the absence report to determine if the student should be recommended for credit removal, which will occur unless extenuating circumstances surface.
9.
The Principal can, after hearing a student's/parent's appeal for retainment of credit, recommend the denial of credit or put certain stipulations on a student whose continued credit will be dependent upon an agreement reached with the student and parents concerning attendance for the rest of the semester.
10.
The Principal may also decide to make decisions regarding the student's participation in extracurricular activities.
11.
If the Principal recommends a loss of credit, the matter will be heard by the Board of Trustees. The student/parent will have the right to appear before the Board and to present mitigating evidence to support the retention of credit.
12.
Students have the number of days absent plus one additional day to makeup assigned work for days absent (# of days absent + 1 day = # of make-up days). This policy only applies to students who are absent for absences other than school activity or field trip absences. Students absent on the due date of a pre-announced assignment/test are expected to turn in the assignment or complete the test the first day back in school.
Unexcused Absences
An unexcused absence is any absence that is not approved by the parent. These absences are not acceptable and missed work may not be made up for credit. Unexcused absences shall be counted toward the ten day rule. Building administrators may determine the appropriate discipline, up to and including a recommendation for expulsion, for students who absences are unexcused.
Tardies
A student is tardy if he or she is not in the assigned classroom when the bell rings. Three tardies will equal one unexcused absence. In addition, detention will be assigned for excessive tardies as follows: 6 tardies = 30 minutes of detention; 9 tardies = 2 hours of detention. A student accumulating more than 9 tardies may be subject to further discipline, including suspension. Students tardy to first and fifth periods (Monday -Thursday) and sixth period (Friday) must check in at the office.
Attendance Incentive
A student absent 0 days over the course of the semester will receive 3 percentage points towards their overall semester grade. A student absent 1 day over the course of the semester will receive 2 percentage points towards their overall semester grade. A student absent 2 days over the course of the semester will receive 1 percentage point towards their overall semester grade.
Breakfast/Lunch Program
The District participates in the National School Lunch and Breakfast Program and offers students balanced breakfasts and lunches. Free and reduced price breakfasts and lunches are available based on financial need. The information about a student's participation is kept confidential. Contact the office to apply.
Breakfast and hot lunch is served in the lunchroom located in the elementary building. The cost for breakfast is $1.00, the cost for lunch is $2.00. Under our new computerized system you may send money for your entire family in one check.
Elementary/Middle School Promotion and Retention
The decision to promote a student to the next grade level shall be based on successful completion of the curriculum, attendance, performance based on standardized testing, or other testing. A student shall not be promoted based upon age or any other social reason not related to academic performance. The administration shall determine remedial assistance for a student who is not promoted.
Guidance and Counseling Services
The District will provide a guidance program that will strive to assist every student. The Building Principals will direct the District's guidance program. Each staff member is responsible for effectively guiding students under his/her supervision in order to provide early identification of intellectual, emotional, social and physical needs, and to make appropriate referrals for evaluation of special needs. The counselors offer services to supplement the District's efforts to meet the academic, social and emotional needs of the students, and to provide additional assistance outside of the classroom guidance.
High school juniors and seniors will have the opportunity to receive career-oriented information. Representatives from colleges and universities, occupational training institutions and career-oriented recruiters, including the military, may be given access to the school campus in order to provide students and parents with information.
All staff will encourage students to explore and develop their individual interests in career and vocational technical programs and employment opportunities without regard to gender, race, marital status, national origin or handicapping conditions, including encouraging students to consider and explore "nontraditional" occupations.
Grading System
1. The four-point grading system involves five basic grades (A through F) and "I". Plus and minus may also be used.
95-100....A.......4.00 83-85....B-......2.67 71-73......D+.........1.33
92-94......A-......3.67 80-82....C+.....2.33 68-70......D...........1.00
89-91......B+.....3.33 77-79....C.......2.00 65-67......D-..........0.67
86-88......B.......3.00 74-76....C-......1.67
65-below F........0.00
A........Excellent D
2. Grade Description
A........Excellent D.........Below Average
B.......Above Average F..........Failure -no credit
C........Average I*.........Incomplete
*Incomplete means the student has not met or finished all of the requirements for credit. An incomplete must be made up within one week after the end of the quarter or it will become an "F".
Honor Roll and Class Rank
The honor roll is determined by averaging a student's grades for each quarter. Eligibility for honor roll requires a student to have at least an overall "B" (3.00) average. Students receiving an "F" or an "I" will not be eligible for the honor roll. The following courses will not be taken into consideration when computing the high school honor roll: First Responder, Teacher Aides and Driver's Education, and beginning with the graduating class of 2011, any class taken before 9th grade.
Class rank is compiled from semester grades. Courses not eligible for GPA are designated with an asterisk on the report card. These courses include: Driver's Education, Teacher Aides, First Responder, and beginning with the graduating class of 2011, any class taken before 9th grade will not be counted towards High School Class Ranking (GPA).
Graduation Requirements and Ceremonies
The responsibility of the District, upon the students' completion of the requirements for graduation, is to issue a proper diploma to each graduate. Participation in the actual graduation ceremony is not a requirement. It is a privilege extended to students and they may be denied the right to participate.
Only students who have fully completed all requirements to graduate will be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony. [For further information, see policy 2085]
Requirements for Graduation (State and Local)
4 Yrs of English (including English I & II)
3 Yrs of Math 3 Yrs of Science
1 Yr of American Government 1 Yr of Fine Arts
1/2 Yr of First Responder 2 Yrs of Health Enhancement
1 Yr of U.S. History 1 Yr Global Studies (World Geog, World History)
½ Yr of Financial Management ½ Yr of Life Skills
1 Yr of Educational Technology (Personal Finance/Computer)
1 Yr of Vocational/Practical Arts
Credits Required for Graduation: 25. A student must be in attendance 8 semesters of school to graduate.
Graduation Ceremonies
Participation in the graduation ceremony is reserved for those members of the graduating class who have completed all state and local requirements for graduation before the date of the ceremony. Students who complete their requirements after the date of the exercise will receive their diplomas at that time.
School administration may invite graduating students to participate in high school graduation exercises according to academic class standing or class officer status. Any student who, because of academic class standing, is requested to participate may choose to decline the invitation. School administrators will not censor any presentation or require any specific content but may advise participants about appropriate language for the audience and occasion. Students selected to participate may choose to deliver an address, poem, reading, song, musical presentation, prayer, or any other pronouncement of their choosing.
Early Graduation
The Board authorizes the high school principal to recommend students for early graduation who have completed the minimum requirements for graduation after completion of the seventh (7th) semester. The final decision is made by the Board.
College Preparatory Program
The following are minimum entrance requirements for all units of the Montana University System
.
1. Four years of English
2. Three years of mathematics (including Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II) (note: if a student takes Algebra I in the 8th grade, they must still complete three years of college preparatory math in high school)
3. Three years of social studies (including World History, U.S. History and
Government).
4.
Two years of laboratory science: one year must be earth science,
biology, chemistry or physics.
5.
Two years chosen from the following:
a. Foreign Language
b Computer Science
c. Visual and performing arts
d. Vocational education
6.
Must meet one of the following three requirements:
a. ACT composite score of 22 or better or 1030 SAT or better
b. High school G.P.A. of 2.50 or better.
c. Rank in the upper half of school's graduating class.
Visitors
The District encourages visits to all District buildings by parents, citizens, and taxpayers. All visitors shall report to the Building Principal's office. If a parent wishes to confer with a teacher, an appointment must be made. Conferences will be held outside school hours or during the teacher's preparation period.
Student Health, Well-Being and Safety
Emergency Forms
If a student has a medical emergency at school or a school-related activity when the parent cannot be reached, the school will need to have written parental consent to obtain emergency medical treatment and information about allergies to medications, etc. Therefore, parents are asked each year to complete an emergency care consent form. Parents should keep emergency care information up to date (name of doctor, emergency phone numbers, allergies, etc.). Please contact the office to update any information.
Immunizations
Students enrolling in the District for the first time must present a birth certificate or other reliable proof of identity and age within 40 days, as well as proof of residence, and immunization from disease. A student who transfers from one school district to another may photocopy immunization records in the possession of the school of origin. The District shall accept the photocopy as evidence of immunization. Within 30 days after a transferring pupil ceases attendance at the school of origin, the District should have the original immunization records.
When a parent signs and files with the District, prior to the commencement of attendance each school year, a notarized affidavit on a form prescribed by the State of Montana stating that immunization is contrary to the religious tenets and practices of the parent, immunization of the student seeking to attend in the District will not be required prior to attendance. The statement must be maintained as part of the student's immunization records. The District will also accept medical exemptions as required by law.
Emergency Drills
The Building Principals will develop plans of fire, civil defense, tornado, and earthquake warning, protection, and evacuation. These plans and procedures will be distributed to each teacher at the beginning of each school year. There will be at least 8 disaster drills a year, 4 of which will be fire drills. All teachers will discuss fire drill procedures with their class at the beginning of each year.
Dispensing Medication
Students should not take medication during school hours or during school-related activities unless it is necessary for a student's health and well-being. When a student's licensed health care provider and parents believe that it is necessary for the student to take a medication during school hours, they must request that the school dispense the medication to their child and otherwise follow the District's procedures on dispensing medication. Parents should contact the Building Principal for specific information on the procedures for dispensing medication during school hours or during school-related activities.
Student Illness and Injury at School
Accident Prevention
Student safety on campus and at school-related events is a high priority of the District. Although the District has implemented safety procedures, the cooperation of students is essential to ensure school safety. A student should:
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Avoid conduct that is likely to put the student or other students at risk.
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Follow the behavioral standards in this handbook, as well as any additional rules for behavior and safety set by the principal, teachers, or bus drivers.
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Remain alert to and promptly report safety hazards, such as intruders on campus.
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Know emergency evacuation routes and signals.
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Follow immediately the instructions of teachers, bus drivers, and other District
employees who are overseeing the welfare of students.
Accident Insurance
The District cannot pay for medical expenses associated with a student's injury. The District does make available, however, an optional, low-cost accident insurance program for students, to assist parents in meeting medical expenses. A parent who desires coverage for his or her child will be responsible for paying insurance premiums and for submitting claims through the claims office.
Emergency Medical Treatment and Information
If a student has a medical emergency at school or a school-related activity when the parent cannot be reached, the school will need to have written parental consent to obtain emergency medical treatment and information about allergies to medications, etc. Therefore, parents are asked each year to complete an emergency care consent form. Parents should keep emergency care information up to date (name of doctor, emergency phone numbers, allergies, etc.). Please contact the office to update any information.
Medicine At School
A student who must take prescription medicine during the school day must bring a written request from his or her parent, and the medicine in its original, properly labeled container, to the Principal or office personnel. The Principal or designee will either give the medicine at the proper times or give the student permission to take the medication as directed.
[For further information, see policy 3070]
Student Activities
Student Organizations
The Ennis School District has several student organizations that you may be interested in becoming a member of or participating in. They include BPA, Close-Up, FCCLA, and Skills USA.
BPA-Business Professionals of America
The mission of Business Professionals of America is to contribute to the preparation of a world-class workforce through the advancement of leadership, citizenship, academic, and technological skills. The Ennis High School Chapter of BPA attends a regional competition at a predetermined site and those members who score high enough move on to a state competition. Here again those members who score high enough within the state competition may attend a National Conference.
Business Professionals of America will be a cohesive agent in the worldwide networking of education, business, and industry. Business Professionals of America will be the leading student organization in preparing a world-class workforce. Business Professionals of America will set a standard of excellence for vocational student organization.
Close Up-
Close Up's mission is to inform, inspire, and empower people to exercise the rights and accept the responsibilities in a democracy. Close Up Foundation encourages responsible participation in the democratic process through educational programs and publications in government and citizenship. The Foundation is committed to developing new and better ways for young people, teachers, and a widening circle of citizens of all ages to gain a practical understanding of how public policy affects their lives and how individual and collective efforts affect public policy. Close Up conducts programs to increase civic involvement, promote civic achievement, and encourage civic awareness. In Washington across the country, and around the world; in print and on television; and in the classroom and the community, the Foundation helps strengthen the nation's most valuable resource: its citizens. The Ennis chapter of Close-Up travels each year to Washington D.C. to help give students a greater understanding of our nation's government.
Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, Inc. (FCCLA)
FCCLA is a nonprofit national career and technical student organization for young men and women in family and consumer sciences education in public and private school through grade 12.
Everyone is part of a family, and Family Career and Community Leaders of America is the only national career and technical student organization with the family as its central focus. Since 1945, FCCLA members have been making a difference in their families, careers and communities by addressing important personal, work and societal issues through family and consumer sciences education. Today over 225,000 members in nearly 7,000 chapters are active in a network of associations in 50 states as well as in the District of Columbia, the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.
Chapter projects focus on a variety of youth concerns, including teen pregnancy, parenting, family relationships, substance abuse, peer pressure, environment, nutrition and fitness, teen violence and career exploration. Involvement in FCCLA offers members the opportunity to expand their leadership potential and develop skills for life -- planning, goal setting, problem solving, decision making and interpersonal communication -- necessary in the home and workplace.
Skills USA-
SkillsUSA, previously known as VICA is a vocational student organization that provides students the opportunity to work and compete with students in vocational fields. Areas of study include AutoCAD, carpentry, welding, basic woodworking and community service. Students explore careers and life decisions in the world of work. Student put their ideas to work to better themselves, their schools, and their communities. Students develop a sense of pride in craftsmanship and develop a strong belief in the dignity of work. Each year the Ennis High School chapter competes in a regional competition at Jefferson High School and the state competition at Montana State University-Northern. Winners at the state level have the opportunity to compete at the national Skills USA conference held in Kansas City.
Dances and Parties
Dances, parties and other recreational activities are held in connection with the school for the enjoyment and benefit of the school body. In order that they may be enjoyed, these activities should be well planned and follow a pattern that is consistent with any cooperative effort to provide wholesome recreation. To make this possible the following regulations have been set:
1.
All requests for dances and parties shall be filed on a dance request form in the Principal's office at least two weeks in advance of the date desired. The purpose of this request is not to hinder parties, but to make sure that the date and facilities will be reserved for the occasion.
2.
Behavior at all school functions should be such as to reflect credit upon yourself, your parents, your school and your community.
3.
Regular hours are from 8:00 or 9:00 p.m. until 12:00 a.m.
4.
During dances, the doors will be closed to entry one hour after the dance has started.
5.
Once you leave a dance you will not be allowed to return.
6.
No one will be allowed to enter or remain who shows signs of intoxication. In the case of such an instance, authorities and parents will be notified and the student will
be detained.
7.
Students creating serious discipline problems at a dance will be restricted from attending the next dance, plus whatever additional punishment is appropriate.
8.
Students who attend from other schools outside the district must be pre-approved by the principal at least one week prior to the dance.
No exceptions will be allowed.
Field Trips
Field trips, when used as a device for teaching and learning integral to the curriculum, are an educationally sound and important ingredient in the instructional program of the schools. Such trips can supplement and enrich classroom procedures by providing learning experiences in an environment beyond the classroom. Field trips also may result in lost learning opportunities in missed classes. Therefore, field trips shall be approved when educational objectives achieved by the trip outweigh any lost in-class learning opportunities.
Use of Facilities
Non-curriculum-related secondary school student organizations may conduct meetings on school premises without intervention on the basis of the religious, political, philosophical, or other content of the meeting. If the meeting is student-initiated and not a part of a school sponsored activity, it must be conducted according to the following guidelines:
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The meeting is voluntary and student-initiated;
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There is no sponsorship of the meeting by the school, the government, or its agents or employees;
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The meeting must occur during non-instructional time on regular school days;
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Employees or agents of the school or government are present only in a non-participatory capacity;
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The meeting does not materially and substantially interfere with the orderly conduct of educational activities within the school; and
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Non-school persons may not direct, conduct, control, or regularly attend activities.
Although the school assumes no sponsorship of these kinds of meetings, all meetings held on school premises must be scheduled and approved by the Principal.
CHEMICAL DEPENDENCY PREVENTION POLICY
AND
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES CODE
One of the primary goals of the Ennis School District is the well-being of students. Students have a right to attend school in a safe environment conducive to learning. The use of illegal drugs/alcohol and other intoxicants is not permitted and is incompatible with effective learning and development.
Chemical dependency is an illness and the use of drugs/alcohol can be an inherent trigger to the progressive disease, especially in our youth. The school should not be solely responsible for the solution of chemical dependency, but it is a significant place in dealing with the problem. Any program that has a rigorous prevention, identification and response format to chemical use problems will be of benefit to the individual(s) involved and to our entire community. The Board of Trustees supports the implementation of the Ennis Student Assistance Program, based on the Target Project. This process is policy and is mandatory for the student's tenure of attendance K-12. Violations of this policy are cumulative for each individual school year.
POLICY
1.
No student shall possess, use, sell, buy, distribute, give away, or be under the influence of any "controlled substance" drug(s), or tobacco (possession of related paraphernalia included) in any school building, or on any school grounds (parking lot included), under the supervision, jurisdiction/control of the school, or place that the student is under school supervision, any school sponsored/supervised activity off school premises.
2.
Saleable Possession-First Offense: Administration will notify the police. A conference will be held with parent or legal guardian. The student will be recommended for expulsion if the police determine the amount in possession is a saleable amount.
3.
Personal Possession-First Offense: Administration will notify the police. A conference will be held with parent or legal guardian. The student will receive a 1 Day In-School-Suspension and attend and complete an approved program (i.e. Insight Class or Tobacco Education Class The administrator will refer the student to the School Counselor/SAP Coordinator for assessment and placement. Student's readmission will be contingent upon agreeing to attendance and completion of an approved program (i.e. Insight Class or Tobacco Education Class). The student will also schedule an assessment that is to be completed before the completion of the approved program.
4.
Personal Possession-Second Offense: Administration will notify police. A conference will be held with parent or legal guardian. The student will be referred to the Assessment Team, which make a determination on the course of action to be taken.
5.
Suspicion of Use/Suspicious Behaviors: A student who indicates; by actions/mannerisms of having consumed any "controlled substance" prior to or during the school day or at any school activity, or exhibits suspicious behaviors, or mimic behaviors consistent with use of "controlled substance" can come under the Personal Possession referral process. Parents will be notified.
6.
Students do not necessarily need to violate policy to be referred into the StudentAssistance Program for assessment/assistance/placement/intervention. Our philosophy emphasizes a rigorous prevention, identification and response format. We have a program to serve all our students that might need an "understanding ear", support, education and direction. Therefore, referrals can be based on behaviors observed that are beyond the expected behavioral norm, not necessarily in violation of policy.
7.
For identified Special Education Students: The administration will notify the police. A conference will be held with parent or legal guardian. A meeting will be called with the appropriate people prior to any disciplinary sanctions to determine the consequences and intervention program to be followed for violating this policy.
8.
Students participating in extra-curricular activities are also subjected to the rules, regulations and punishments associated with the Mustangs Extra Curricular Activities Code.
MUSTANG EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES CODE
The Administration and Board of Trustees of Ennis Schools, District # 52 have established the following set of rules and guidelines governing participation in extra-curricular activities at Ennis Middle and High School.
This code was developed with the belief that organized extra-curricular activities are a vital aspect to the all-around development of young men and women. It is hoped this code will aid in the effort to emphasize the proper ideals of commitment to a cause, sportsmanship, ethical conduct, and fair play. Hopefully it will also encourage the development of leadership, use of initiative and good judgment.
Extra-curricular activities covered under this code include, but are not limited to: Football, Basketball, Cross Country, Volleyball, Track, Golf, Cheerleading, Dance Team, *Tournament Pep Band, *Close-up, *World Strides, *FCCLA, *BPA, *Skills USA-Vica, *Drama, *Speech and Drama, *Honor Society, and *Student Council. The administration and/or Board of Trustees may add other activities as needed.
Activities with an * indicate that they are not MHSA sponsored activities and will establish their own code of conduct in addition to what is listed herein.
Both athletic and non-athletic activities are covered the same under this code, with the exception of MHSA Academic Eligibility. (See # 7 Below)
This code covers students in grades 6-8 and 9-12.
CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES
1. A Student who is or will be involved in an extra-curricular activity shall not use or consume, be in possession of, buy, sell or give away any controlled substance including, but not limited to, alcohol, tobacco, narcotics, drugs, or other intoxicants. Students will not attend any events where controlled substances are being used, i.e. house parties, keggars, etc. A student, upon finding himself/herself in a situation where controlled substances are being used, must leave by the quickest, safest means possible or will be considered guilty by association. It is not a violation for a student to be in possession of a legally defined drug, specifically prescribed for the students' own use by his/her doctor.
a)
FIRST OFFENSE: Suspension from all extra-curricular activities for a period of two calendar weeks. The suspension will start as soon after the offense as is practical, and run only during the time when school is actually in session (Not during vacations). This portion of the policy is given only once in the career of the student extending from Grades 6-8 and 9-12. If the student has previously violated the Extracurricular Training Rules in previous years, they will automatically go the second offense.
b)
SECOND OFFENSE: Participants will be suspended from all games, practices, contests, competitions, or performances from the remainder of that activity. They will also be ineligible to compete in any games or contests twenty (20) calendar days of the next activity they choose to participate in. In addition to the suspension, the student must attend and complete an approved program (i.e. Insight, Tobacco Education Class).
c)
THIRD OFFENSE: Suspension from all activities for one calendar year.
d)
FOURTH OFFENSE: Suspension from all activities for the remainder of the student's high school or middle school career.
2. Students in athletic activities that become involved in a first offense between seasons shall be suspended for the first two weekend contests or scheduled participation events in the next sport in which he or she participates.
3. If at any time a student involved in extra-curricular activities at home or away shall indicate by his or her conduct, unfitness in representing his community or school, the coach/advisor and /or administration will determine the proper discipline.
4. A coach/advisor may add additional rules if they feel they are necessary for that particular sport/activity. Students and parents will be notified of these additional rules.
5. When a student is suspended for an extra-curricular activity code violation; his or her parents will be notified by the head coach/advisor.
6.
Honesty Clause
: If a student turns himself/herself in for violating the substance abuse policy, for the first offense he/she will be ineligible to compete in a Minimum of two basketball games, two volleyball games, one football game, one track meet, or one golf meet. Students participating in an extra-curricular activity not of athletic origin (i.e., Close-Up, FCCLA, School play, etc.) will be ineligible to participate for a Minimum of one week in the activity (practices are still allowed). Suspension beyond the above minimums will be at the discretion of the school board.
The "Honesty Clause" will NOT apply if a ticket has been issued. When a ticket is issued, the student automatically goes to the "first offense".
CURFEW:
During any time that a student is involved in an extracurricular activity he/she shall abide by the set curfew of 10:00 pm on weeknights (Sunday-Thursday) and 12:00 pm on the weekends (Friday-Saturday). Curfew times may be set earlier or later at the discretion of the coach/sponsor.
FIRST OFFENSE: Warning
SECOND OFFENSE: One game or contest suspension
THIRD OFFENSE: One-week suspension from games or contests
ACCUMULATION OF VIOLATIONS:
Violations will be cumulative from the students first day of participation in any extracurricular activity. Violations accumulate in grades 6-8 and 9-12. Violations incurred in grades 6-8 will not follow a student to high school.
Scholastic Eligibility for Co-Curricular Activities
It is the intent of the Ennis School Board to have students succeed academically and participate in extracurricular activities.
Montana High School Association (MHSA) Rules of eligibility will be followed. In addition, the Ennis School system sets the following policy for Grades 6-12:
Participating students must maintain their grades (cumulative grade for each class) with no more than two (2) D's or no F's to remain eligible.
Students who are on the honor roll with no D's at the end of the quarter will not have their grades checked until mid-quarter at which time regular checks for eligibility will be conducted.
Students' grades will be figured with each student suffering no penalty for the first week of ineligibility (grace period). Second and any further offenses will result in the student not being allowed to participate in events or contests for a one (1) week period following ineligibility.
Grades will be checked on Monday at 12:00 pm Week long suspensions will begin on Tuesday and end the following Tuesday at 8:00 am. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, eligibility may be determined by the high school or junior high principal on a case by case basis.
Records will be kept on all students. Each Monday teachers will submit through the district grading system a list of all students who have received D's or F's during the previous one-week grading period. Each student will begin anew each fall.
Students must be in school for the entire day of a scheduled event unless they have a note from their medical provider showing they had an appointment. They must also be in school the day after a scheduled event. Participation gives no one a license to be absent themselves from school.
A student ineligible at the end of a quarter will miss the next two weeks of participation in activities.
·
All students are allowed to attend practice and local meetings.
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When a student is ineligible three or more consecutive times, he will not practice or attend meetings, but will attend homework lab until he becomes eligible.
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In case of medical/dental appointment/emergency, coaches/sponsors must receive a medical release stating the playing status of the participant.
·
Students in Grades 6-8 who are considered ineligible will be expected to attend a study table.
Your middle school and high school career should be seven of the most important years of your life. Be proud of the fact that you are a student at Ennis Schools. Do all you can to make your parents, your community, your school and your team proud of your actions while you are representing them. Always remember that most worthwhile things do not come easy and if something is worth doing, it is worth doing right.
Students participating in extra-curricular activities are also subject to rules and regulations associated with the Chemical Dependency Prevention Policy.
If at any time a parent feels his or her child has been unjustly penalized, they may appeal the decision unless an extra-curricular policy has been broken. A hearing will be held involving the coach/advisor, parent, and student. If the issue is not resolved it may be appealed to the athletic director (athletics) or principal (school activities). If not satisfied with this decision, a parent may appeal to the principal (athletics) or Superintendent (school activities). Further appeals beyond this include appeals to the superintendent (athletics) or School Board (school activities). If the parent of an athlete wishes to appeal beyond the level of superintendent they may appeal to the Board of Trustees, but the student may not participate in the activity pending the resolution of the appeal.
Student Records
Access to Student Records
School student records are confidential, and information from them will not be released other than as provided by law. State and Federal laws grant students and parents certain rights, including the right to inspect, copy, and challenge school records.
The District will not release, disclose, or grant access to information found in any student record except under the conditions set forth in this handbook. The parents of a student under 18 years of age will be entitled to inspect and copy information in the child's school records. Such requests will be made in writing and directed to the Principal. Access to the records will be granted within 15 days of receipt of such request. Where the parents are divorced or separated, both will be permitted to inspect and copy the student's school records, unless a court order indicates otherwise. When the student reaches 18 years of age, graduates from high school, marries, or enters military service, all rights and privileges accorded to the parent become exclusively those of the student, except as provided below.
Access will not be granted to the parent or the student to confidential letters and recommendations concerning admission to a post-secondary educational institution, applications for employment, or receipt of an honor or award, if the student has waived his or her right of access after being advised of his or her right to obtain the names of all persons making such confidential letters or statements.
Other individuals or entities may access student records as follows:
·
The District may grant access to or release information from student records to employees or officials of the District or the Montana State Board of Education, provided a legitimate educational interest is shown, without parental consent or notification. Access in such cases will be limited to the satisfaction of that need.
·
The District may grant access to or release information from student records without parental consent or notification to any person, for the purpose of research, statistical reporting, or planning, provided that no student or parent can be identified from the information released, and the person to whom the information is released signs an affidavit agreeing to comply with all applicable statutes and rules pertaining to school student records.
·
The District will grant access to or release information from a student's records pursuant to a court order, provided that the parent will be given prompt written notice, upon receipt of such order, of its terms, the nature and substance of the information proposed to be released, and an opportunity to inspect and copy such records and to challenge their contents.
·
The District will grant access to or release information from any student record, as specifically required by federal or state statute. The parent will be given prompt written notice of its intended action, the nature and substance of the information proposed to be released, and an opportunity to inspect and copy such records and to challenge their contents.
·
The District will grant access to or release information from student records to any person possessing a written, dated consent, signed by the parent or eligible student, with particularity as to whom the records may be released, the information or record to be released, and reason for the release. One copy of the consent form will be kept in the records, and 1 copy will be mailed to the parent or eligible student. The parent will be given prompt written notice of its intended action, the nature and substance of the information proposed to be released, and an opportunity to inspect and copy such records and to challenge their contents.
·
The District may release student records to the superintendent or an official with similar responsibilities in a school in which the student has enrolled or intends to enroll, upon written request from such official. The parent will be given prompt written notice of its intended action, the nature and substance of the information proposed to be released, and an opportunity to inspect and copy such records and to challenge their contents.
·
The District may release student records or information in connection with an emergency, without parental consent, if the knowledge of such information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other persons. The Superintendent or Principal will make this decision, taking into consideration the nature of the emergency, the seriousness of the threat to the health and safety of the student or other persons, the need for such records to meet the emergency, and whether the persons to whom such records are released are in a position to deal with the emergency. The District will notify the parents or eligible student, as soon as possible, of the information released, date of the release, the person, agency, or organization to whom the release was made, and the purpose of the release.
·
The District may disclose, without parental consent, student records or information to the youth court and law enforcement authorities, pertaining to violations of the Montana Youth Court Act or criminal laws by the student.
·
The District will comply with an ex parte order requiring it to permit the U.S. Attorney General or designee to have access to a student's school records without notice to or consent of the student's parent.
The District charges a nominal fee for copying information in the student's records. No parent or student will be precluded from copying information because of financial hardship. A record of all releases of information from student records will be kept and maintained as part of such records. This record will be maintained for the life of the student record and will be accessible only to the parent or eligible student, records custodian, or other person.
Directory Information
The District may release certain directory information regarding students, except that parents may prohibit such a release. Directory information will be limited to:
Student's name
Address
Telephone listing
Electronic mail address
Photograph
Date of birth
Dates of attendance
Grade level
Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
Weight and height of members of athletic teams
Honors and awards received
The notification to parents and students concerning school records will inform them of their right to object to the release of directory information.
Student Technology Acceptable Use
Student Internet Access
The District provides access for students to the Internet as an educational tool. Because the Internet is uncensored and can be misused, no student shall be allowed to use the District's access to the Internet unless the student and the student's parent first sign the district's Student Net Use Agreement. The District will provide reasonable supervision of students using its access to the Internet and attempt to do what is technologically reasonable with filtering software to prevent students from obtaining access to pornographic or harmful matter. Students using the District's Internet access shall have no right of privacy in their use of that system. Staff may monitor or examine all system activities a student takes part in to ensure proper use of the system. Students who fail to abide by District Internet rules may be subject to disciplinary action, revocation of their privilege to use the system, or legal action as appropriate.
Misuse of the District's access to the Internet includes, but is not limited to, the following:
(a) use of the District's access to the Net for other than educational purposes;
(b) gaining intentional access or maintaining access to materials which are obscene, pornographic, or whose dominant appeal is sexual arousal;
(c) using the Net for any illegal activity, including computer hacking and copyright or intellectual property law violations;
(d) accessing "chat lines" unless authorized by the instructor for a class activity directly supervised by a staff member;
(e) using abusive or profane language in private messages on the system; or using the system to harass, insult, or verbally attacking others;
(f) posting anonymous messages on the system;
(g) using encryption software;
(h) vandalizing data of another user;
(i) obtaining or sending information which could be used to make destructive devices such as guns, weapons, bombs, explosives, or fireworks;
(j) gaining unauthorized access to resources or files;
(k) identifying oneself with another person's name or password or using an account or password of another user without proper authorization;
(l) using the network for financial or commercial gain without district permission; or
(m) introducing a virus to, or otherwise improperly tampering with the system.
ENNIS SCHOOL DISTRICT
ELECTRONIC TECHNOLOGIES
ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
It is the policy of the Board of Trustees that information accessed and disseminated electronically in the Ennis School district appropriately reflect the educational goals and objectives of the district and educational missions of the schools.
Educators have a professional responsibility to work together to help students develop the intellectual skills needed to discriminate among information resources, to identify information appropriate to their age and developmental levels, to acquire related safety skills and to evaluate and use telecommunication technologies to meet their educational goals.
Ennis School district recognizes that the telecommunication environment is constantly changing: therefore, it is impossible to predict with certainty what information students might locate. Just as the purchase, availability, and use of media materials does not indicate endorsement of their content by school officials, neither does making electronic information available to students imply endorsement of that content. Telecommunication technologies are to be utilized at Ennis Public Schools to realize curricular objectives through the retrieval of information and/or communication with others and Ennis personnel will provide appropriate supervision.
GUIDELINES FOR TELECOMMUNICATIONS NETWORK SYSTEM USE
No student shall have access to the telecommunications network without having a signed Computer Network Consent form on file with the District. Students who are under 1 8 must have their parents signature on the consent form before it becomes valid. Students over 18 must realize they are responsible as students and individually as adults for misuse of electronic equipment. At the time of filing the completed user release form the user shall be designated "Authorized User' privileges and shall be eligible to use the telecommunications network via either a district or personally owned computer operated in district owned facilities
Authorized use of the system shall be only for legitimate educational pursuits that are in support of educational endeavors that are consistent with the goals and objectives of the District. Additionally, any use of the system must conform to state and federal laws governing network provider policies and licenses.
Examples of misuse include, but are not limited to:
·
Non-directed classroom work that lends itself to the support or opposition of a political candidate, group, or ballot measure
·
The use of the system for charitable purposes that have not been cleared with the Technology Coordinator or designee.
·
The use of the system for non-district commercial purposes or solicitations. The unauthorized downloading, installation, use, storage, or distribution of copyrighted software, and/or materials on district computers
·
Malicious use of the system to develop programs or documents that harass or harm other, to gain access to any computer or computer system to damage the components of the computer or the system be it District owned or otherwise,
·
Any distribution of private or public materials that are inconsistent with the District harassment-free environment policies, or hate mail, discriminatory remarks, or other unwelcome statements and/or compliments or other anti-social items
·
Use of the system to access, store, or distribute obscene, pornographic, or inappropriately suggestive materials.
·
The use of the system to promote or participate in any activity that is in violation of any state or federal regulation, or that purports to discredit any person, agency, or organization of local, state, or federal government.
·
The use of the District's system to conduct personal home pages published under the school's auspices.
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The revelation of personal information, their own or other, such as home addresses and telephone numbers in areas not consistent with educational purposes.
·
Meeting people in person that they have contacted on the system without parent/guardian permission.
·
Failure to notify the Technology Coordinator, teacher, adult or District representative whenever they come across information or messages that are dangerous, inappropriate, or make them feel uncomfortable.
Nothing in these guidelines is intended to preclude the supervised use of the system while under the direction of a teacher or other approved user acting in conformity with District policy and procedure.
SECURITY GUIDELINES FOR NETWORK USE
System accounts are to be used only by the authorized owner of the account for authorized purposes. Users may not share their account number or password with another person or leave an open file or session unattended or unsupervised. Account owners are responsible for all activity under their account. There is no reasonable expectation of personal privacy in the use of account files. Such files are district property and are subject to regular review and monitoring by District personnel to ensure the responsible use of electronic files consistent with the terms of this policy.
Users shall not gain or seek information, obtain copies of or modify files or passwords, or use any other means, to gain unauthorized access to district systems and information.
Communication may not be encrypted in order to avoid review for security and policy violations.
ENNIS SCHOOL DISTRICT SHALL:
Review and monitor, as appropriate, all activity on the network for responsible use consistent with the terms of this policy and procedure, and state and federal guidelines controlling Internet activities.
Make determinations in regard to whether specific uses of the network are consistent with these acceptable use guidelines.
Remove a user's access to the network, with or without notice, at any time the District determines that the user is engaged in unauthorized activity or violation of this policy. In addition, further disciplinary or corrective actions (s) may be imposed for violations of the policy up to and including termination of employment for staff or appropriate disciplinary sanctions for students.
Cooperate fully with law enforcement investigation concerning or relating to any suspected or alleged inappropriate activities on the network or any other electronic media.
Modify, delete or otherwise change these guidelines and procedures at anytime
PENALTIES FOR MISUSE
See attached policy
Ennis Public Schools will enforce the following policy which is based on Statute 45-6-3 1 1 in School Law, Montana Code Annotated:
First Offense: Nine weeks restricted access from all computers with access only during computer related classes
One day of in-school suspension
Repayment of technical support costs
Second Offense: Permanent restriction from all computers with access only during computer related classes
One day out-of-school suspension
Repayment of technical support costs
Third Offense: Long term out-of-school suspension or a hearing before the School Board with recommendation for expulsion
Referral to legal authorities for possible criminal charges under Section 45-6-31 1 of the School Laws of Montana
Repayment of technical support costs
Severity Clause: If circumstances warrant, perpetrators may be subject to third offense consequences without having gone through steps one and two of the above stated policy upon the recommendation of the Principal or the Superintendent.
Parental and Student Notice and Internet Use Agreement
Notice of Rights Regarding Directory Information
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law, requires that the Ennis School District, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child's education records. However, the District may disclose appropriately designated "directory information" without written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary in accordance with District procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the District to include this type of information from your child's education records in certain school publications. Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent's prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory information categories - names, addresses and telephone listings - unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student's information disclosed without their prior written consent.
If you do not want the District to disclose directory information from your child's education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the District in writing by SEPTEMBER 19, 2008. The District has designated the following information as directory information:
Student's name
Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
Address
Telephone listing
Weight and height of members of athletic teams
Photograph
Honors and awards received
Date of birth
Dates of attendance
Grade level
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