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2016-2017 Student Handbook
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Welcome
TABLE OF CONTENTS 1
ADMINISTRATION, BOARD AND STAFF 2
STUDENT BODY OFFICERS 3
COACHES & ACTIVITY SPONSORS 4
CALENDAR 6
REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION 7
Graduation Requirements
Early Graduation Criteria Work Release
Valedictorian & Salutatorian Requirements Academic Probation
Class Rank Alternative School Program
Montana University System College Prep Curriculum Correspondence Courses
Admission Standards for the Montana University System Class Standing
Grading Scale Final Exams
College Preparatory Requirements
Course Selection & Planning
ATTENDANCE 13
Attendance Policy
GENERAL INFORMATION & SPECIAL SERVICES 15 Athletic Policies
Discretionary Non-Resident Student Policy
Professional Qualifications of Teachers and Title 1 Aides
Computer Lab Special Education Program
Criterion-Referenced State Testing (CRT - 10th only) Spectator Rules for Activities
Distribution and Posting of Materials Student Assemblies
Guidance and Counseling Services Student Council
Library Services Dance Guidelines
Lunch Program Saluting the Flag
National Honor Society Visitor Policy
Office Procedures
STUDENT RIGHTS, RESPONSIBILITIES & COMPLAINT PROCEDURES 25 Student Code of Conduct
Definition of Terms
General School Guidelines
Student Due Process
Review of Services/Behavior Complaint
Procedure for Special Education Students
Rules Categories
Sportsmanship & School Spirit
CONFIDENTIALITY OF RECORDS REQUEST 37
LETTER OF UNDERSTANDING 38
ADMINISTRATION & STAFF
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Chairman Mindi Wilson
Vice-Chairman Ryan Frields
Member Sandra Muster
Member Abby Harnett
Member Jeff Lundberg
District Clerk Mary Meyers
High School Representative
ADMINISTRATION
Superintendent Jason Slater
High School Principal Don Jensen
Elementary Principal Len Dorscher
Junior High Supervising Teacher Rochelle Dickson
Athletic Director Jake Mickelson
COOP Special Ed. Director Merle Farrier
District Clerk Mary Meyer
STAFF
Altacare Program Raoul Ribeiro and Kristy Beaty
Learning Center Danice Toyias
Band & Choir Adam Craw
Business Education/Technology/H.E. Tina Wheeler
Communication Arts & K-8 Library Pamela Peters
Communication Arts Jeff Wheeler
Counseling Jodi Morgan
Graphic & Fine Arts Micah Grossberg
Health Enhancement/Social Studies Jake Mickelson
Industrial Technology Mike Bruse
Math & History Chadd Laws
Math Katrina Nygaard
District Technology Coordinator Doree Thilmony
Physical Sciences Doug Padden
Life Sciences Eric Nygaard
Social Studies & HS Library Michelle McGuigan
Spanish Bethany Leeman
Special Education Aides Roseanne Lundberg & Bobbi Butler
Special Education Darcy Schwindt
H.E./Driver’s Education - Classroom Randy Symon
Driver’s Education - Driving Rob Christensen
GEAR Up Liaison Penny Beckman
OFFICE STAFF
High School Secretary Stacy Milner
Student Activity Accounts Stacy Milner
School Resource Officer Officer Robert Thornhill
COACHES AND ACTIVITY SPONSORS
Interscholastic Athletics
Athletic Director Jake Mickelson
Girls Head Basketball Coach Doree Thilmony
Head Football Coach Jared Koskela
Boys Head Basketball Coach Jake Mickelson
Girls Volleyball Head Coach Sandra Kazmierczak
Head Wrestling Coach Ian Taylor
Head Softball Coach Randy Pirker
Head Golf Coach Mike Bates
Head Track Coach Randy Symon
Head Cross Country Coach Sarah Naegeli
Activities
Envirothon Doug Padden
Montana Career Association Darcy Schwindt
National Honor Society Jodi Morgan
Robotics Eric Nygaard
Science Olympiad Sarah Naegeli
Skills USA Mike Bruse
School Play Danice Toyias
Student Council Raoul Ribeiro
Talent Show Adam Craw
CUSTODIAL STAFF
District Maintenance & Head Custodian Mike Bates
Custodian Peggy Wood
Custodian Juanita Gambrel
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|DISTRICT OFFICE 827-3323 |
|Superintendent – Jason Slater |
|District Clerk – Mary Meyer |
|Special Education Cooperative 827-3007 |
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|ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 827-3592 |
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|JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL 827-3593 |
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|HIGH SCHOOL 827-3561 |
|HIGH SCHOOL FAX 827-9463 |
STUDENT BODY OFFICERS
Student Body Officers
President McKenzie Holt
Vice President Gillian Nelson
Secretary Colby Lantz
Treasurer Haley Morgan
Representatives at Large Madison Wheeler
HOBY Representative Payton Frields
School Board Representative Lily Buchanan, Blazz Wood, Nathan Burwig
Advisor Raoul Ribeiro
Senior Class Officers - 2017
President Garrett Strine
Vice President Haley Wilson
Secretary-Treasurer Bailey Pardee
Class Reps Daniel MacDonald, Brionna McJunkin, Maggie Riddell
Advisors Jeff Wheeler, Tina Wheeler, Doree Thilmony
Junior Class Officers - 2018
President Tyler McGaughey
Vice President Kole Stone
Secretary-Treasurer Cody Williams
Class Reps Payton Frields, Karissa Lowe, CJ Johnson, Sierra Sorlie
Advisors Michelle McGuigan, Bethany Leeman, Mike Bruse
Sophomore Class Officers - 2019
President AnnaLynn Stover
Vice President Rachel Ribeiro
Secretary-Treasurer Kacey Van Zanten
Class Reps Grant Lundberg, Riley Riffle, Rilye Schilling
Advisors Pam Peters, Micah Grossberg, Darcy Schwindt
Freshman Class Officers - 2020
President Hope Slater
Vice President Anton Litrell
Secretary Kelsey Frank
Treasurer Belle Cooper
Class Reps Delaney Johnson and Nate Wilhite
Advisors Eric Nygaard, Katrina Nygaard, Jake Mickelson
[OFF DUTY – Chadd Laws, Adam Craw]
|Mission of Thompson Falls Public Schools |
|To work together as a school and community to provide every child an educational experience that will allow them to grow as a person and discover |
|their individual potential. |
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| Core Values |
|Excellence |
|Unity |
|Compassion |
|Respect |
|Integrity |
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|[pic] |
|We believe |
|…Students learn in different ways and at varying rates; we respect and support those differences. |
|…With the support of the community we can provide a respectful, safe, and caring school environment. |
|…Certain district and societal rules require immediate student consequences. |
|…With appropriate adult guidance, discipline should be considered an opportunity for student personal growth. |
|…Keeping in mind a student’s self respect and dignity, a student should be provided an opportunity to learn to solve his/her own problem. |
|…In updating our district curriculum to keep pace with the changing world. |
|…In integrating technology within every academic area at all levels. |
|…In the school improvement process to maximize student learning. |
|…It is important to have ongoing training and in-service for staff so that educational practices will be based upon research, information, and |
|proven procedures. |
|…With parent, community, and school support, students can become contributing members of society. |
|…Learning is a life-long process and is a key to success. |
|…The school must provide opportunities for students to develop critical thinking by respecting and concentrating on academic, |
|cultural, and life skills as outlined under state standards. |
|...In celebrating success |
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|Thompson Falls School District shall provide equal educational opportunity and treatment for all students without regard to race, creed, color, |
|national origin, sex, marital status, previous arrest and incarceration or non-program related physical, sensory, or mental handicaps as state in |
|board policy, state statute MCA 49-2-205, and federal statute. |
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|SCHOOL CALENDAR |
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|August 25-26 NO SCHOOL (required PIR for teachers) |
|August 29 First Day of School for Students |
|September 1-2 NO SCHOOL |
|September 5 VACATION (Labor Day) |
|September 30 Mid-Quarter |
|October 7 NO SCHOOL (TDD) |
|October 20-21 NO SCHOOL (MEA) |
|November 4 End of 1st Quarter (44 days) |
|November 10 Parent/Teacher Conference (5-8 p.m.) |
|November 11 Parent/Teacher Conference (9 a.m. - noon) |
|November 11 NO SCHOOL (PIR Day) |
|November 24-25 VACATION - Thanksgiving |
|December 9 Mid-Quarter |
|Dec. 23 – Jan. 2 VACATION – Christmas Break |
|January 3 First Day Back! |
|January 16 NO SCHOOL (PIR Day) |
|January 20 End of 2nd Quarter (45 days) |
|February 24 NO SCHOOL (TDD) |
|March 10 NO SCHOOL |
|March 24 End of Quarter (43 days) |
|TBD Parent/Teacher Conference (5-8 p.m.) |
|April 14 VACATION |
|April 17 NO SCHOOL (TDD – MAP) |
|April 28 Mid-Quarter |
|May 28 High School Baccalaureate & Graduation |
|May 29 VACATION – Memorial Day |
|May 31 End of 4th Quarter (45 days) |
|Last Day of School for Students |
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|NOTE: Monthly calendars and updates are available in the front office. |
REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION
GENERAL DIPLOMA - 21 Credits
10.55.905 (1) As a minimum, a school district’s requirements for graduation shall include a total of 20 credits (units of study). TF School District requires 8 semesters of attendance unless otherwise approved by the administration. The following credits shall be required for all students to graduate:
English – 4 credits
English 9 1 cr
English 10 1 cr
English 11 1 cr
English 12 ½ cr
English Elective ½ cr
Mathematics – 2 credits
Math (recommend Algebra 1) 1 cr
Math 1 cr
Science – 2 credits
Science (Physical Science required) 1 cr
Science (Biology 1 required) 1 cr
Social Studies - 2 credits
Social Studies (recommend World History) 1 cr
Social Studies (recommend US History) 1 cr
Health Enhancement – 1 credit
H.E. (freshman year) ½ cr
H.E. (sophomore year) ½ cr
Fine Arts – 1 credit
Art or Music 1 cr
Vocational/technical education – 1 credit
Business or Trades & Industry 1 cr
(recommend Computer 1)
Elective Credits 8 cr
COLLEGE PREP DIPLOMA - 24 Credits
Students earning a College Prep Diploma will meet the Montana University System College Preparatory Core requirements for students entering a four year campus. The Valedictorian and Salutatorian will be selected from among the College Prep graduates. To be eligible for the MUS Honor Scholarship please visit with the counselor about the MUS Rigorous Core requirements.
English – 4 credits
English 9 1 cr
English 10 1 cr
English 11 1 cr
English 12 ½ cr
English Elective ½ cr
Mathematics – 3 credits minimum
Algebra 1 1 cr
Geometry 1 cr
Algebra 2 1 cr
Science – 3 credits minimum
Physical Science 1 cr
Biology 1 1 cr
Other lab science (Chemistry, Physics, 1 cr
Anat & Phys, and Gen & Applied)
Social Studies - 3 credits
World History 1 cr
U.S. History 1 cr
Government ½ cr
Social Studies Elective ½ cr
Health Enhancement – 2 credits
H.E. (1 & 2) 1 cr
H.E. (3 & 4) 1 cr
Fine Arts – 1 credit
Art or Music 1 cr
Vocational/technical education – 1 credit
Computer 1 ½ cr
Business or Trades & Industry ½ cr
Elective Credits 7 cr
(Recommend 2 years of Foreign Language, a
course beyond Algebra 2, and an additional
One half year of Psychology or Humanities)
VALEDICTORIAN & SALUTATORIAN
REQUIREMENTS
Students wanting to qualify for the honor of Valedictorian or Salutatorian must meet the Montana University System College Prep Requirements (Rigorous Core Requirements) and TFHS college prep graduation requirements; must be enrolled in an accredited high school for a minimum of six semesters, on campus attendance for at least three semesters, participated in at least one extra-curricular activity, and rank one and two in his/her graduating class at the end of eight semesters. There will be no Salutatorian in the event there are multiple Co-Valedictorians.
*This policy will apply to incoming freshmen and new students beginning with the 2016-2017 school year.
Graduation Requirements
A graduation diploma represents not only successful completion of high school studies and life-long work habits to include appropriate behavior and attendance. Poor attendance and inappropriate behavior can be reasons for expulsion and/or the denial of a diploma. The Board of Public Education through the Montana Accreditation Standards stresses these two qualities within their mandated content and performance standards. Thompson Falls Public Schools will support the national, state, and local citizens in respect to high standards for student attendance and behavior. See Board Policy 2410.
CLASS RANK
Class rank is compiled each semester from semester grades. GPA determines rank in class, and is one of the criteria used to determine the Valedictorian and Salutatorian. No additional weight is given to accelerated or college-prep classes. Class rank information is available through the school counselor. To be included in the semester class rank, a student must be enrolled in at least four classes and planning on graduating from TFHS. Foreign exchange students are not included in class rank. Special circumstances can be appealed to the administration.
Early Graduation Criteria
To qualify for early graduation at the end of semester 1 of the senior year you will:
• Show proof of acceptance into a school of technology, college or university, legitimate apprenticeship program or military branch.
• Show cause if the reason to graduate early is other than entering a post-secondary program.
• Receive permission from the Thompson Falls High School Principal.
• Earn a minimum 2.0 cumulative G.P.A.
• Students earning permission to graduate early will be on track to earn a Thompson Falls High School diploma.
Students graduating early will not qualify as Valedictorian or Salutatorian candidate.
GRADING SCALE
For objective grading, the scale below will serve as the school standard. Nevertheless, some classroom projects and courses rely on the performance standards or criteria established by the teacher to determine a letter grade to include attendance and behavior. This information will be presented to students at the beginning of the course and referred to in the teachers' course outline.
The Letter Grade and Grade Point Average (G.P.A.) designations are:
LETTER
G.P.A. GRADE PERCENT
4.00 A 93-100
4.00 A- 90- 92
3.70 B+ 87- 89
3.33 B 83- 86
3.00 B- 80- 82
2.70 C+ 77- 79
2.33 C 73- 76
2.00 C- 70- 72
1.70 D+ 67- 69
1.33 D 63- 66
1.00 D- 60- 62
0.00 F = 0- 59
0.00 WF Withdrawal failing; no credit earned, included in grade point calculations
Not Counted E Below passing level but doing the best possible as determined by the teacher. An "E" grade does not count against sports participation; not counted in GPA. Credit toward graduation is earned for "E" Grade.
Not Counted I Incomplete grade. Any work due must be turned in within ten school days, or the "I" will be changed to an "F".
Not Counted NG No grade due to attendance.
Not Counted P Pass, not counted in G.P.A.
Honor Roll 3.33+ Quarterly G.P.A. Announced every nine-week grading period.
National Honor Society 3.40 cumulative G.P.A. or better (3.50 in 2017-18). Complete application and requests for enrollment go through a screening process (refer to page 19 for more information.
Academic Letter 3.50 G.P.A. or better during a school year (3.70 in 2017-18).
Commencement
If a student has met all the requirements for graduation at the end of the student’s senior year and is registered at that time for sufficient credits to complete the requirements for graduation, the student may begin plans for participation in commencement exercises.
Formal commencement exercises are conducted annually at the end of the regular school year. The ceremony is a dignified formal occasion held to honor the graduates. Should the goals of the meeting all graduation requirements not be achieved during the second semester of that year, the student may not participate in the ceremony.
Participation in commencement exercises is a privilege not a right. Students may be denied participating based on misconduct. See Board Policy 2333.
COURSE SELECTION & PLANNING
The 2016-17 Curriculum Guide (see the counselor for a copy) will provide students and parent a starting point in planning a class schedule which meets the student's abilities, interests, and post-high school plans. In an effort to help students decide which courses they may wish to select, the following suggestions are offered:
1. Study the curriculum guide carefully!
2. Give special attention to Guidelines for Schedule Planning.
3. Work closely with the counselor. The counselor will assist students in the following areas:
a. Post-high school career planning.
b. Career information gathering.
c. Course selections.
4. Students should seek advice and information from teachers and parents in planning their courses.
COURSE ENROLLMENT
Enrollment for courses will be made during the spring in preparation for the next academic school year. Students and parents will be permitted to have input into course selections. The guidance counselor and principal, with input from teachers will determine where students are to be placed based upon academic need or graduation requirements, individual and group dynamics, and student interest. Any change thereafter must follow specific guidelines to provide for due process and continuity in procedure and policy.
Transfer students will be assigned specific courses at the time of enrollment. Prospective students who arrive later than ten (10) school days after the beginning of the semester will not be permitted to enroll in the regular school. The student may apply to the Alternative Learning Center.
All full time 9-11th grade students in Thompson Falls High School must be enrolled in a minimum of six (6) ½-credit bearing classes, and may additionally choose a Teacher Aide. Juniors may seek Work Release.
Seniors must be enrolled in a minimum of five (5) ½-credit bearing classes. Seniors may fill their remaining schedule with a Tutoring, Teacher Aide, Work Release, or an Unscheduled Period.
Only one unscheduled Period is permitted per semester. The Unscheduled Period must have both administrative and parent/guardian approval (meeting required). During an Unscheduled Period the senior is required to leave campus. The building administrator has the authority to grant exceptions to the number of credit-bearing classes required based on extraordinary circumstances (part-time student, etc.).
WORK RELEASE
Students in grades 11-12 may be released from compulsory full-time (7-period schedule) attendance:
1. If the student can gain employment or will be serving an internship. The student must remain employed or will be required to return to school. Each semester a formal letter is required from the employer.
2. In the event the building level administration does not support a work release request the student and parent/guardian may appeal to the Superintendent.
COURSE CHANGES
Generally, late schedule changes are discouraged because they often have a negative impact on the student, teacher, and classes they are leaving and entering. A late schedule change occurs after five (5) school days.
The guidance counselor and the teacher(s) will discuss the relative benefits and negative effects the change will make with the student. If the staff involved mutually concurs, for or against the request, the matter is ended. If approved, the recommendation will be carried out. If a controversy exists, the principal will review the request and the controversy. Additional information may be asked prior to giving final approval or denial. Parents are to be notified of any changes not made at their request. Reasons for course schedule changes:
1. Mechanical errors.
2. Overload classes.
3. Teacher endorsement due to incompatibility between teacher and student. (parent approval)
4. Lack of skills for success in class.
5. Falls under IDEA/Section 504, Title I.
6. If a student completes a semester of a yearlong class, he or she will receive a .5 credit, but must make up the section of the course missed if it is a required subject.
7. Students may make a late request for a schedule change and drop a class without staff approval but will receive a "WF" (Withdraw Fail) for the semester. Parent permission required.
Course Change Policy
8. All student requests for schedule changes must be made within the first five days of the start of each semester.
9. Students may not drop classes after the fifth day of classes of the semester otherwise the student will receive a WF – withdrawal fail grade on the transcript. This includes courses taken through the MT Digital Academy.
10. All changes are dependent upon class size limits and graduation requirements.
11. Students may be removed from class at the discretion of the building level administrator if it is evident the student cannot successfully pass the class and the teacher can demonstrate and document that the student is interfering with the educational process or is not participating or not performing required work in class (Category A violation). The student will receive a "WF" for the semester.
ACADEMIC PROBATION
A student, who is at least 16 years old, must receive credit (includes "E" grade) in at least four (4) classes of a students course load each semester, unless prior arrangements have been made (i.e. part-time students). Failure to do so will be cause for the student to be placed on academic probation the next semester. The rationale for requiring progress is drawn from MCA 20-5-201, which states in "(1.b) A pupil shall pursue the required course of instruction." TFHS has further defined "pursue" as making progress, and passing any four (4) classes as the measure of that progress.
A Parent Conference is requested when the student is placed on Academic Probation. A plan/contract will be developed with the involvement of the teacher(s), counselor, principal, and parent. As part of the contract, consideration will be given to the possible causes for the lack of academic success. Possible referrals may be made to Title I, Special Education, or to other programs or agencies.
Should a student not comply with the terms of the plan/contract the following semester, he/she will not be allowed to enroll the following semester. A date for a hearing before the Board of Trustees will be provided the student if they or their parent wish to appeal the decision to drop the student. This policy does not apply to students who have been granted part-time status.
LEARNING CENTER
Thompson Falls High School provides the Learning Center for students who:
1. Need to enroll in a Montana Digital Academy (MTDA) course to recover credit in order to graduate on time and as a result will not meet the state’s requirement for AYP and Graduation Matters program.
2. Wish to enroll in a MTDA course that is NOT offered by the high school.
3. Wish to enroll in a Running Start Course.
MONTANA DIGITAL ACADEMY & CORRESPONDENCE COURSES
Thompson Falls High School accepts credits earned through Montana Digital Academy (MTDA), institutions accredited by the Montana Office of Public Instruction or a respective state’s Office of Public Instruction, the Northwest Accrediting Association or a similar accrediting agency throughout the United States. The student must obtain approval from the counseling office PRIOR to taking the course(s).
Proof must be provided that all coursework has been completed or the prospective graduate will not be permitted to participate in the Commencement Ceremony. It is recommended all coursework be completed by the end of April to give time for the accrediting agency to grade assignments and tests.
If a school or program of study is not accredited the credits will be evaluated in compliance with district policies Board Policy 2413
RUNNING START
Running Start is a dual credit program between Thompson Falls High School and Flathead Valley Community College or Montana colleges where sophomores, juniors, and seniors earn credit simultaneously for high school graduation and toward a college degree. The Running Start program enables an eligible high school student to seek an expanded educational challenge. The student enrolls simultaneously in high school and college classes for the purpose of earning credit to be awarded both by TFHS and the colleges. Classes taken at TFHS as part of the Running Start program are limited to college level courses numbered 100 or above.
A student must take and pass the COMPASS test to be eligible to take college classes. Students and parents will be responsible for all tuition and fees. Once students enroll under this program and begin attending college classes, they will be considered regular college students. The college faculty will expect the same level of classroom participation, study habits, and homework as they expect from all other students in the class.
Students must establish dual enrollment at the beginning of the course. This means the grade earned will be posted on both the high school transcript and college transcript.
Running Start classes will be counted toward extra-curricular eligibility rules, and will be compiled as part of the GPA. Credits earned at FVCC will be accepted in the TFHS credit system as follows:
FVCC Credit TFHS Credit
1.0 .25
2.0 .25
3.0 .50
4.0 .75
5.0 1.0
The COMPASS test is offered at TFHS. Please see Mrs. Morgan for an appointment. It is also offered at FVCC, and appointments can be made by calling (406) 756-3880. Students should contact Mrs. Morgan for procedures to enroll in the Running Start program.
CLASS STANDING
The number of credits earned towards graduation determines student class standing. Class standing clarifies what grade level the student is in, regardless of age or years in attendance. Additionally, class standing identifies which graduating class a student is a member of, for the purpose of work release, class meetings, elections, class rings, etc.
General College Prep
Diploma Diploma
Grade 09 0.0 - 5.0 0.0 - 5.5
Grade 10 5.5 - 10.0 6.0 - 11.5
Grade 11 10.5 - 15.0 12.0 - 17.5
Grade 12 15.5+ credits 18.0+ credits
FINAL EXAMS
"Finals Week" begins the last week of each semester. Students will take exams when scheduled. Make up tests will only be given with medical documentation of need, assuming the exam has been prepared. Students may not reschedule final examinations, work, or final projects without teacher and administrative approval. The intent of this policy is to discourage early departure of students. Otherwise, if one student is allowed to check out without "good cause" then others must be permitted as well.
Students who check out early must remember that teachers may require work through the last day of the semester and should be sure to collect, complete, and turn in this work IN ADVANCE of leaving and comply with deadlines. Students who check out early without administrative approval will not be allowed to take final exams or make up late work.
SCHOLARSHIPS
Students and or parents seeking information on scholarships, financial aid and similar financial aid to assist in furthering their education should consult with Mrs. Morgan.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
MCA 20-5-103 "Any parent, guardian, or other person who is responsible for a child...shall cause the child to attend the school in which he or she is enrolled for the school term and each school day therein prescribed by the trustees of the district until the latter of the following dates:
(1.a) the child's 16th birthday.
(1.b) the date of completion of the work of the 8th grade.
(2) 20-5-102.b. The child is absent because of illness, bereavement, or any other reasons prescribed by the policies of the trustees.
(2.c) The child has been suspended or expelled."
All pupils in the State of Montana are covered by the compulsory attendance law until they reach the age of 16 years. Thompson Falls Dist. #2 will continue tuition-free attendance of resident students. A student is not eligible to attend TFHS if they turn 19 years of age on or before September 10 of the year in which the student wants to enroll. A request may be made through an arrangement reached with the superintendent & Board of Trustees, which may include the tuition rate established by law. For handicapped students, the satisfying of graduation shall be:
1. Four years of attendance in grades 9-12 in a non-grade regular classroom; and
2. Completion of the student’s IEP requirements each year.
A student must enroll within ten (10) days of the beginning of the semester or he/she must wait until the next semester, unless they apply to and are accepted into the Learning Center. In addition, students who miss ten (10) consecutive days of school will be dropped for the remainder of the semester, unless suspended or the leave is medically required, or part of an IEP.
The entire process of education requires a regular continuity of instruction, classroom participation, learning experiences, and study in order to reach the goal of maximum educational benefits for each individual child. The regular contact of the students with one another in the classroom and their participation in instructional activities under the tutelage of a teacher are vital to this purpose. This is an established principle of education, which underlies and gives purpose to the requirement of compulsory schooling in this and every other state in the nation. The good things that schools have to offer can only be presented to students who are in attendance. With continued emphasis regarding Excellence in Education, all parties involved in attendance can better strive for quality in the classroom. Attendance reflects a student’s dependability and is a significant factor on the student’s permanent record. Future employers are as much concerned about punctuality and dependability as they are about academic record. School success, scholarship, and job opportunity are greatly affected by a good attendance record.
A telephone call or note from either parent or guardian is necessary when a student is absent or late for any reason. Take the note to the front office and immediately give it to the secretary. When a student arrives late or after an absence, the student is required to report directly to the office before going to class. All absences and tardies will be recorded on the report card.
Activities or Pre-planned Absences
It is the student’s responsibility to notify the office and the teachers prior to being absent. Teachers may require the work to be completed and turned in prior to departure. Otherwise, the work is due when the student returns unless prior arrangements have been made with the teacher.
Excused Absences
Montana law states that a student is excused when absent due to:
1. Illness
2. Bereavement
3. Other reasons prescribed by the policies of the Board, including medical or legal appointments, or family emergencies. Verification should be available prior to requesting an admit slip. Schoolwork missed during an excused absence can be made up at full credit. The work is due when the student returns unless prior arrangements have been made with the teacher.
Unexcused Absences or Truancy
Unexcused absences and truancy are not acceptable in the District. An unexcused absence is an absence for some reason other than specified in the Activities/Preplanned Absence or Excused Absence sections, a suspension, or an absence for which the student did not receive prior approval from the building administrator. Each building administrator shall have authority to determine the appropriate penalty for any student whose absence is considered unexcused. The work missed cannot be made up.
Chronic or Excessive Absences
Students who miss more than 10 days of any class per semester will be handled on an individual basis by the principal. This may include forming a team to include at least the principal, parents, student, classroom teacher(s), and counselor to determine a course of action to address the absences at school. Circumstances taken into consideration to determine a course of action for class include:
• Absences due to school activity
• Absences due to illness or emergency in family
• Impact of absences on classroom performance
• Specific class(es) missed at school and/or time of day for absences.
Suspension Policy
Students suspended will be offered the opportunity to complete the work missed during an out-of-school suspension (Alternative Placement). The absence will be considered excused and the work turned in will be counted for credit. If the out-of-suspension is NOT assigned by the school (by student/parent) but selected in lieu of another consequence then the work missed cannot be made up.
Student who misses more than 10 days of any class per semester will be handled on an individual basis by the building level principal, parents, student, classroom teacher (s), and counselor to determine a course of action to address the absences at school.
Circumstances taken into consideration to determine a course of action for missing class include:
• Absences due to school activities
• Absences due to illness or emergency in family
• Pre-excused absences
• Impact of absences on classroom performance
• Specific class(es) missed at school and
• /or time of day for absences.
The following symbols are used to describe absences on the attendance record:
EA = Excused Absent (parent approved)
UA = Unexcused absent - No notification or after the two (2) day deadline.
DR = Doctor-Verified medical absence
TR = Truant
FR = Funeral
CT = Court
HB = Long term medical leave hospitalization and convalescence at home.
WR = Work Release - Approved by the Board
TE = Tardy Excused – Late to class with an approved note from the office.
TU = Tardy Unexcused- One (1) day to change
SR = School Related Absences – School sponsored, both extracurricular and cocurricular
IA = Isolated Classroom Environment-not counted against attendance record
SA = Suspension
OC = Office Conference – Individual and group counseling activities within the school setting, special needs team meetings or disciplinary proceedings that require student and administrator conferences.
XA = 10-day Policy – Students/parents have nine days to use at their discretion but at ten days the State attendance law will be imposed.
XP = Educational Leave – Students will be granted up to three (3) days for college visitations, vocational school visitations, military physicals, etc. Other exempted absences relate to student disabilities or extended illness as determined by the student’s Section 504 Committee.
Tardies
Students, who arrive late to school in the morning or are late following lunch, should check in with the Office before reporting to class. Classroom tardies should be handled by the teacher. Excessive tardies may be referred to the building administrator’s office.
Sign-Out Procedures
If the student becomes ill or has to leave school during the day, he/she must report to the office. If it is necessary for the student to leave, arrangements must be made at the office. A student may NOT leave school grounds under any circumstances until the student has checked out at the office. Failure to check out before leaving will result in TRUANCY. In addition, if a student is not returning from lunch, then a call to the office is required, with a note to follow the next morning.
SCHOOL ATHLETIC EVENTS - In order to obtain an
Excused absence to attend home school athletic events, students must bring a note and check out IN ADVANCE. This policy is intended to reduce congestion at the office and tie up school telephone lines or miss classes in session. Students should make phone calls on their own time.
GENERAL INFORMATION & SPECIAL SERVICES
ALTACARE
Altacare is a school-based mental health service that provides counseling for students who struggle with a variety of life difficulties. Altacare contracts with the school to provide support to these students. Altacare provides individual, group, and family therapy to help aid in the student’s success in school as well as in the community. They work on a variety of issues such as: coping with grief or loss, anger management, impulse control, dealing with trauma, goal setting, adjustments to life stressors such as divorce or moving, self-esteem and confidence building, bullying, social skills, making and maintaining friendships, peer pressure, conflict resolutions and more. Please contact Altacare or the school for more information regarding this program.
ATHLETIC POLICIES
The Athletic Director will provide student-athletes and parents a copy of the Athletic Handbook at the Pre-Season Parent Meetings, or upon request. The policies include: Chain of Command, Extra-curricular Eligibility Academic Policy, Participation Fees, Travel, Drug/Alcohol Policy, etc.
COMPUTER LAB
The computers at TFHS are provided for the students to use as a tool in their academic work. Some students are provided with their own user ID and directory for storing their work. Student work may be saved to the appropriate shared folder on the network. A password protected folder is advised.
All equipment and software must be used responsibly. Students who cause deliberate damage, or change settings on the computers will have their computer privileges revoked. No software may be installed on the school’s computers including downloading files from the Internet. Internet access is available from all computers and can be an integral part of a student’s academic study. Unfortunately, it can also be a waste of time. Therefore, students wishing to utilize the Internet must be working on academic tasks. Students accessing inappropriate sites may have their privileges revoked and may be subject to disciplinary action. (See Category E, page 37).
DISTRIBUTION AND POSTING OF MATERIALS
Organizations and individuals must have the approval of the administration before materials may be posted or presented to students in any manner. This includes, but is not limited to, announcements, posters, handouts, and flyers. Material must provide information valued or needed by the school. Permission will be denied to post any material that would disrupt the educational process, violate the rights of others, invade the privacy of others, infringe on a copyright, or be obscene, vulgar, and indecent.
GUIDANCE & COUNSELING SERVICES
The Guidance Department at the high school constantly updates and adds new services for students. The counselors maintains student academic files, conducts individual and group counseling sessions, assists students with college and career guidance, as well as numerous other services.
Student information is considered confidential and may only be released to the student or to parent, or to individuals and organizations that have been granted written approval by a legal guardian to obtain them. Students interested in college and career guidance should contact the counselor, Mrs. Morgan, as early as possible to examine opportunities in the student's areas of interest.
Most post-secondary institutions and scholarship programs require the student to qualify through entrance exams. The most frequently used tests for the admissions process are the Admissions College Testing Program (ACT) and the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). Information on testing dates and registration packets can be picked up from the counselor.
FEES
There are no general registration fees for students attending TFHS. Some athletic programs, shop and other classes may require a nominal fee.
F.E.R.P.A.
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a Federal law designed to protect the privacy of a student's education records. The law applies to all schools that receive funds under an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education. FERPA gives parents certain rights with respect to their children's education records. These rights transfer to the student, or former student, who has reached the age of 18 or is attending any school beyond the high school level. Students and former students to whom the rights have transferred are called eligible students.
Parents or eligible students have the right to inspect and review all of the student's education records maintained by the school. Schools are not required to provide copies of materials in education records unless for reasons (such as great distance) it is impossible for parents or eligible students to inspect the records. Schools may charge a fee for copies.
Parents and eligible students have the right to request that a school correct records believed to be inaccurate or misleading. If the school decides not to amend the record, the parent or eligible student then has the right to a formal hearing. After the hearing, if the school still decides not to amend the record, the parent or eligible student has the right to place a statement with the record commenting on the contested information in the record.
Generally, schools must have written permission from the parent or eligible student before releasing any information from a student's record. However, the law allows schools to disclose records, without consent, to the following parties:
(1) School employees who have a need to know; (2) Other schools to which a student is transferring; (3) Certain government officials in order to carry out lawful functions; (4) Appropriate parties in connection with financial aid to a student; (5) Organizations conducting certain studies for the school; Accrediting organizations; (6) Individuals who have obtained court orders or subpoenas; (7) Persons who need to know in cases of health and safety emergencies; (8) and State and local authorities, within a juvenile justice system, pursuant to specific State law.
Schools may also disclose, without consent, "directory" type information such as a student's name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, honors and awards, and dates of attendance. However, schools must tell parents and eligible students about directory information and allow parents and eligible students a reasonable amount of time to request that the school not disclose directory information about them. Schools must notify parents and eligible students annually of their rights under FERPA. The actual means of notification (special letter, inclusion in a PTA bulletin, student handbook, or newspaper article) is left to the discretion of each school.
For additional information or technical assistance, you may call (202) 260-3887 or TDD (202) 260-8956 or contact:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue. S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20202-4605
PART-TIME STUDENTS
Part-time students must declare part-time status upon entering. Part-time students must enroll within ten (10) days of the beginning of the semester or he/she must wait until the next semester, unless they apply to and are accepted into the Learning Center.
A student is responsible for collecting class work, getting assignments, and preparing for quizzes/tests missed with an excused absence. The office will upon
Request collect assignments for students who are absent because the staff does not have the time. The work is due when the student returns unless prior arrangements were made with the teacher as previously stated. Work missed due to unexcused absences cannot be made up.
Thompson Falls High School Library Policies
LIBRARY
The library is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on regular days and closes at 2:30 p.m. on “Early Out” days
Library Cards
You may register for and use your library card or account at the school you are currently enrolled in. We provide accounts and cards, upon request. Each borrower (or guardian) is responsible for all materials checked out on the account. If you forget or lose your library card, we can always access it by your name and provide your account number to you.
• Pin Number - You may provide a personal identification number (PIN) when registering for a card or account. You will use your PIN to renew items online or check your account. If you forgot your PIN, you may request it, in person, at the circulation desk. You can change your PIN online anytime at .
Lending Services
• Check Out Time - Most materials are lent for four weeks. A printed date due is included with items you borrow.
• Renewals - You may renew most items twice. You may not renew an item if others are waiting to borrow it. Items may be renewed at the front desk or at the library's online computer catalog, either from school or any other internet connected computer.
• Return Area for Books - Each library has a special return area for books. We recommend you use these to protect your items before check in when no library staff is present to hand your items to. Please return your materials to the library where you checked them out.
Requests for Materials
• Placing a Hold on Materials - If an item is checked out, you may place a hold on it at the front desk. You will be notified when the item becomes available. If there is more than one hold on an item, the first person to place the hold receives it, then on down the list.
• Transferring Materials Between Libraries - If you need an item located at another Thompson Falls School library, you may make a request at the front desk and it will be delivered to your school library. You will be notified when the item arrives.
• Interlibrary Loans - If you cannot locate an item in our libraries, you may ask library staff to place an interlibrary loan (ILL) request. This service borrows books from other libraries. You will be notified when the item arrives. You are responsible for any charges or bills incurred from the borrowing library.
Borrowing Problems
• Overdue Reminders - If an item borrowed becomes overdue, you will receive a reminder after the due date. If one month has passed and you have still not returned the item, you will be billed for the replacement cost.
• Missing Items - If you believe that you have returned an item that still appears as checked out, you may request a two-month grace period to locate it. During that time, you and the library staff will look for the missing item. If it is not found after two months, you will be billed for the item's replacement cost.
• Lost or Damaged items - For lost items, you will be billed for the item's replacement. Charges for damaged library materials are determined on a case-by-case basis, with fees ranging from $1 to the item's full replacement cost. Water is the most common type of damage so please protect your books well!
Library Computer Services
• Who Can Use - Computers are available to all students and staff of your particular school level, with the exception being requests for no computer access for a student made by a guardian. Requests must be made to the building office. Temporary computer access for visitors may be requested at the circulation desk.
• User Responsibilities - All rules set forth in the student handbook or school board policy must be adhered to. In addition, you must help guarantee open access for others by using the Internet responsibly. You should not access sites that are inappropriate for viewing in a public setting. The library expressly prohibits any use of library computers for illegal activities, or to access obscene materials. Further, it is your responsibility to respect copyright laws. Please see your librarian for clarification of these policies.
Web Site Services
• Web Site Address - The library system's web site is located at . You can access the web site from any internet connected computer at school or home. Look for the drop down that says Montana Shared Catalog and choose your school library from the list. From this site, you can learn more about the school library's services search the online catalog, print a list of items that interest you, renew items, read eBooks for free and find helpful databases.
• EBooks or Electronic Books - You will find many eBooks, identified as electronic resources, on the catalog web site. These are full text books you can page through online for immediate access. Important: You must first create a free account (no advertising of any kind to you) from your school's computer to be able to use this service outside of school. See your librarian for assistance.
• Reference Databases - To assist students and staff with research, the school library subscribes to two online databases. The first is World Book Online, which is an extensive online and printable encyclopedia evaluated for safe student browsing and updated daily. The second is EBSCOHost, which has magazines & newspaper articles and many reference books. You may use these online pages from home or at .
• Homework, Career and Test Prep if you need help with homework, go to for tutoring hours. This site also includes career help and test preparations for a wide level of ages!
LOCKER FEE
There is no fee to use a school locker or a lock but if the lock is not returned to the office at the end of the school year, the student(s) will be assessed a $4.00 replacement charge. Personal locks may not be used and will be cut off and returned to the student.
TELECOMMUNICATION DEVICES
At no time will any student operate a cell phone or other electronic device with video capabilities in a locker room, bathroom, or other location where such operation may violate the privacy right of another person. In addition, cell phones, iPODS, and other listening devices may not be worn, possessed, or used in the classrooms during instructional time, without permission. Telecommunication devices will be confiscated and kept at the office and returned to the parent/guardian. Consequences may include detentions, and ultimately suspension for repeated violations (defiance of authority). District Policy 3310.10.
LUNCH PROGRAM
During the noon period (11:45 am-12:25 pm) students are granted permission by the high school an "open campus" to leave the grounds to go home or downtown for lunch. The administration reserves the right to revoke this privilege given to a student.
TFHS students will be offered a deli-lunch at the high school campus. Meals are to be paid in advance. Five charge limit (students will be notified at three). Place your order at the office each morning before 10:00 a.m. Check at the office for application forms for free and reduced price school meals. Return completed forms to the office. If you have any questions about the program please call 827-3592.
Cost of meals: to be determined at the beginning of the school year
1. Full price meal
2. Reduced price meal
3. Free meal
Thompson Falls Public Schools has no district-wide policy that addresses lunch charge limits. Each building will establish its own policy. The food service program will send out information about the number of charges to the parent and the high school office. Students who charge a lunch but do not pick it up will be charged for it. Our system sends automated phone, e-mail, and text for any balance of more than $5 or more every 2 weeks. After 5 unpaid charges (-$8.00) the student will be told they cannot eat until their balance is paid. This only applies to full pay students, not free and reduced.
The building level administrator will address unpaid charges and has the power to extend lunch services based upon information received after talking with the parent.
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
The purpose of this organization is to create enthusiasm for scholarship, stimulate a desire to render service, leadership, and develop character in students. Students can become eligible in the NHS in the fall of their sophomore year. Membership in N.H.S. is based on a minimum cumulative G.P.A. of 3.400. These students are then eligible for consideration on the basis of service, leadership, and character.
Prospective applicants fulfilling the GPA requirement must then be approved by a committee of three faculty members. The committee considers student involvement in the areas of community activity, extra-curricular activities, and leadership qualities in approving applicants.
Application Process
During the fall of the sophomore year those students meeting the scholastic requirements receive a letter inviting them to apply for induction into the National Honor Society. Interested students complete an application outlining their leadership and service activities. The completed applications are then reviewed by a committee: The NHS Advisor, a teacher, and the principal. Final membership selection rests with the committee. Students not selected for induction have the opportunity to go through an appeals process.
Recognition at Graduation
Members who have remained in good standing, completed their service requirement, and have earned at least a 3.5 GPA requirement may wear the blue National Honor Society collar and the Top Ten Percent also wear a gold Honor Cord, at the graduation ceremony.
OFFICE PROCEDURES
Enrollment Procedure
Residents:
• Parent/Guardian must accompany student to enroll them.
• Present a copy of checkout sheet from previous school if transferring during the school year.
• Complete the Enrollment Form.
• Sign a Release of Confidential Information form to request records from the sending school.
• Present a copy of the students Immunization Record. The student must show proof of having two (2) doses of MMR, four (4) doses of DPT and one (1) dose must be given after the 4th birthday, and three (3) doses of Polio with at least one (1) dose given after the 4th birthday.
• Copy of birth certificate and social security number if possible.
• Students whose home address and or telephone change during the year should notify the office immediately.
Non-resident Students:
• Comply with the above requirements for resident students.
• Complete Non-Resident Application Form.
• Pay $10.00 Out-Of-District Tuition Fee.
• See District Policy 3144 – Nonresident Attendance Policy for the specific conditions regarding non-resident students.
• Provide copy of temporary guardianship.
Administering Medicines to Students
Medication, if needed, should be given at home when possible. Parents should identify pupils requiring medication at school with written approval by a medical doctor who specifies the type, dosage, and purpose of the medication to the school secretaries. Students observed by school personnel self-administering unauthorized medication are reported to the principal. Contact secretary for application form to take medications at school.
Immunizations
Montana State Law mandates that each student meet established immunization requirements and may not attend school unless requirements are met. Parents will be notified if a pupil is in need of one or more inoculations. Two doses of MMR (measles-mumps-rubella); minimum of three oral polio doses with at least one dose after the 4th birthday, and a minimum of four DPT (diptheria-pertussis-tetanus) shots with at least one after the 4th birthday, are required for all students entering grades 7-12. If your have received your second dose MMR, please advise the school nurse of the date so state immunization records can be made current. If the second dose is not current, the school district will be required to prevent you from attending school until the vaccine is given. Religious exemptions and conditional attendance may be used in accordance with the Immunization Law and administrative rules. The religious exemption must be renewed annually and notarized. The physician must sign medical exemptions.
Persons who have any of the above exemptions may be excluded from school by health authorities during disease outbreak. This exclusion will be in-force until the excluding authority is satisfied that the student no longer risks transmitting the disease.
Forms are available at the local health department or school district.
Lost & Found, or Stolen Items
If you have lost something please report it to the office. Some items are stored at the office while others, such as clothing, are stored in the janitor’s closet or in the laundry room. At the end of the year the unclaimed items are washed and donated to the Clothing Bank.
Students should either keep their valuables at home or on their person as the school district IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR STOLEN ITEMS that occur while the pupil is at school or at school related activities.
The school is not at liberty to perform random search and seizure without "reasonable cause" in the event personal property is stolen.
Registering Vehicles, Reserved Parking
All student and staff vehicles are required to be registered with the office. A parking sticker will be issued to each vehicle. Front row parking is reserved for high school staff. The other side is reserved for seniors. School personnel have the right to search vehicles on school property given reasonable suspicion that a vehicle possesses illegal contraband. Drug dogs will be used in searches of vehicles on campus.
Student Activity Cards
Student Activity Cards may be purchased at the office. The cards admit students to all home games (excluding tournaments). There are least thirty home events, so students will save nearly twenty dollars by buying a season activity card. Family passes are also available for. If a card is lost, a replacement can be obtained for a $1. Students who are on are Honor Roll for the previous school earn a free pass.
Family $ 100
Couple $ 75
Adult $ 60
Student $ 35
Use of Office Telephone and Copier
Students should transact all business at the school office window counter. Students are not allowed in the office except when their presence is requested by the teachers or office personnel.
If a student needs something copied for a class he or she must have a written request from the teacher of that class. Personal copies will cost $.10 a copy (this includes notes).
Use of the hallway telephone is permitted for local calls only. Long distance calls should be made on the pay phone in the commons area. Students will not be taken out of class for calls, except in an emergency situation. A message will be posted on the student’s locker, who may return the call between classes, during lunch, or after school hours.
Passes
Students must have a pass anytime to leave a class.
Recording Absences and Contacting
Parent/Guardians
Each period of the day the high school office will take attendance and post student absences into the Schoolmaster record keeping system. Even though parent/guardians are expected to contact the school regarding absences high school office personnel will make an attempt to contact the home. If a student is truant or does not return after lunch the office will try to make contact with the parent/guardian and notify the School Resource Officer/Police.
Professional Qualifications of Teachers and Title 1 Aides
Parents may contact the district office regarding professional qualifications of teachers. At this time, the district has highly qualified teachers in every classroom as required by the federal government and the Montana Board of Public Education. The district only uses Title 1 aides that comply with federal requirements.
If you have any questions or concerns then please contact Jason Slater, Superintendent of Schools, at 406-827-3323.
Title 1 Parent Input
Thompson Falls Public Schools want input from parents of the Title 1 students. Any parent of Title 1 students is invited top attend the District Title 1 Parent Advisory Committee. If you are interested then please contact Len Dorshner, K-8 Principal, at the elementary Office at 406-827-3592. A written parent survey of the K-12 Title 1 parents will be handed out at the teacher-parent conference at the end of the first quarter. Scheduled meetings of the advisory committee will be scheduled as determined by the K-8 principal.
Signing Out of/Into School
Students must check out/check in with the office secretary prior to signing out of school or entering class. Failing to check out properly may constitute truancy (see Attendance Policy).
Withdrawal from School
A student who is going to withdraw from school must first obtain a withdrawl form from the office and have all his/her teachers sign the form, including the librarian and counselor. Parental/guardian approval must be received before the procedure is completed.
DISCRETIONARY NON-RESIDENT STUDENT POLICY
TFHS is open to all students whose residence is within District #2. The residence of the parents or legal guardian determines a minor child’s district of residence. Applications may be made at the building level office. Guardians must provide the office with a notarized copy of Temporary Guardianship or Legal Guardianship.
A $10.00 enrollment fee per year is required. Enrollment is a privilege, not a right granted by law. Out -of-district district students will follow the procedure outlined in District Policy 3141.
Non-residents are required by school policy to comply with being in good standing with academics, conduct, or attendance while attending TFHS. The criteria listed above will be judged during each quarter. The principal’s decision can be appealed to the Board of Trustees.
SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
No otherwise qualified individual with handicaps in the United States....shall, solely by reason of his/her handicap, be excluded from participation in, be denied benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance under program.... (29 U.S.C. Section 794).
Special services are in place to assist students with specific learning or physical problems receive an education structured to their abilities. Assistance with class work and tests, or receiving course work in a more individualized setting, are the primary ways students are served in this program. Success in school, working at one's ability level, and acquiring lifetime learning skills to be a productive member of society are the program goals.
Contacting Mrs. Darcy Schwindt at the high school may direct referrals or questions. Dr. Merle Ferrier serves as the director for Special Education Cooperative and has an office located in the old Dorm building next to the district office. Call 827-3007 for more information. Through these individuals parents and teachers can learn more about the process and the laws that relates service.
SPECTATOR RULES FOR ACTIVITIES
These rules are established to promote the enjoyment and protect the safety of the parents, participants, officials, and others who attend events at Thompson Falls Public Schools. These rules apply while at the event and while on school grounds during the event.
1. Display respect for everyone at the event.
2. No drugs or alcohol at the event to include on school grounds. Students and adults may not smoke on school grounds.
3. Follow all rules that are posted at each event.
4. Follow all rules that are contained within board policy and school handbooks that apply towards behavior at activities.
5. At football games, children under high school age must be in the area below the paved road, adjacent to the south end of the high school gym.
6. No one except the ambulance crew; administrators and staff on duty; football players; coaches, press, chain crew, etc. should be inside the track area during football games. (Stay off the football field grass)
7. Only the area west of the football field, away from normal spectator traffic and parking may be used to play. Students do so at their own risk and the school is not responsible for any injuries.
8. Students who ride their bicycles to ball games should park them in the bicycle racks. They should not be ridden on sidewalks, track, or in areas used by the spectators and participants.
9. Common sense, respect and courtesy should be used at all sporting events. Remember that walking around the court or playing field not only distracts the opposing team but also distracts our team. Please keep these types of distractions to a minimum.
10. During games at the high school gym and/or field, individuals may play in the lawn area west of the gym in a manner that is respectful to other spectators and visitors who are entering the gym or field
STUDENT ASSEMBLIES
Student assemblies are contingent upon the ability of students to conduct themselves properly at all times. During a school assembly students shall:
• Be courteous and attentive during the entire program.
• Remain until dismissed by school authority.
• Refrain from whistling, talking or exhibiting other acts of discourtesy.
• Students in attendance at school on the day of an assembly must be present at the assembly unless given permission to do otherwise.
• Students may lose the privilege of attending assemblies due to issues with behavior.
STUDENT COUNCIL
PURPOSE: The purpose of this association, working through its Student Council and Student Executive Board, shall be:
1.To make certain rules and regulations in harmony with the faculty and the administration. These rules will be enforced by the Student Council.
1. To assist the school administration in working out certain regulations that will be part of the administrative policy of the school.
2. To assist the faculty in initiating and developing enterprises or projects for the good of the school.
3. To promote student activities.
4. To promote harmonious relations among the students, faculty, and administration.
5. To develop attitudes of good school and community citizenship.
STUDENT COUNCIL DANCE and/or PROM GUIDELINES
1. Doors to all dances will be close one and one-half hour after the beginning of the dance (i.e. dance begins at 9:30 p.m. - doors close at 11:00 p.m.) After the doors close, no further students will be admitted.
2. Once a ticket for the dance is purchased there are no refunds.
3. All the school rules apply at the dance.
4. Adequate chaperones (at least two faculty members) must be in attendance at dances to ensure student safety and compliance with the rules. Chaperones must remain until all students depart at the end. A list of chaperones must be present to the principal and student council adviser within one week before the dance.
5. If the dance is held in the Junior High Gym, students will not be permitted on the stage, behind the stage or upstairs. Students will be restricted to the gym, restrooms and the hallways. Once a student chooses to leave a dance, he/she may not return. This is to prevent use of alcohol, drugs, tobacco, etc. The only exceptions: if a student wishes to get something from their vehicle, they may go with a chaperone escort. Also, if a parent needs to take a student from the dance they may return with parent escort.
6. High School dances are for the students of Thompson Falls High School and their guests. No Junior High school students may attend. The only exception would be if an end-of-the-year dance was held and the 8th grade students who were recently promoted to 9th grade were allowed to attend.
7. Any student who wishes to bring a guest must receive permission from the student council adviser or school principal one week prior to the dance and/or prom. The guest must be under the age of 21. Only one guest per person permitted. Guests who have dropped out of school will not be permitted.
8. The purchaser of the ticket is held responsible for any indiscretion of his/her guest. If a student or guest is removed from the dance; they are prohibited at any future dances for the remainder of the school year. Any discipline of the student is at the discretion of the principal.
9. All guests admitted to a dance will be subject to all school rules (i.e. drugs & alcohol, tobacco, inappropriate behavior or dress). Anyone found in violation will be dealt with according to school policies.
10. Students and their guests are expected to behave appropriately at dances, including language and dance movements. “Dirty dancing” or disrobing is not acceptable.
If someone is dancing inappropriately, they will be given one warning. If they are warned again at any point they and their guest will be asked to leave the dance.
▪ If the chaperones find a couple dancing inappropriately at a dance or prom, they will be given one warning. If they are warned again at any point they and their guest will be asked to leave the dance.
▪ TFHS students are responsible for their guest’s behavior. Should a guest be removed from the dance, the student who brought them will be dismissed as well. Dances usually begin at 9:00 p.m. and end at 12:00 midnight, except the prom will run until 1:00 a.m.
Amended by Student Council and the Administration: April 2012
New Clubs / Groups
Student council and school administer will meet to approve any application for new high school clubs / groups.
Fundraising
The building level principal must approve all moneymaking projects. See District Policies 3530 and 3535.
Decorations/Posters
All decorations and/or posters must be approved by the organization sponsor and/or the building level administrator, and removed the following the event.
SALUTING THE FLAG
MCA 20-4-301.f & I. ...will provide moral and civic instruction by endeavoring to impress pupils with the principles of morality, truth, justice, and patriotism;
State law requires that the recitation of the "Pledge of Allegiance" will take place as a matter of practice. A student may abstain if a student adheres to a philosophy which prohibits this practice.
Drills
From time to time students, teachers and other district personnel will participate in drills of emergency procedures. When the alarm is sounded, students must follow the directions of teachers and others in- charge quickly, quietly, and in an orderly manner. Teachers should exit the building with students, proceed to meeting area, and take roll. Teachers must check for injuries and report missing students to the person in charge.
VISITORS TO SCHOOL
The Board welcomes and encourages visits to school for educational purposes, by parents, adult residents of the community and others (Board Policy 4310). For the safety of those within the school, all visitors must report to the office to sign in. Visitors to individual classrooms during instructional time are permitted only with approval of the principal and teacher and so long as their duration or frequency does not interfere with the delivery of instruction or disrupt the normal school environment.
Students must obtain permission from the office to bring a guest to school.
Field Trips
Certain classes and clubs participate in school-sponsored field trips in order to enhance their curriculum and to enrich the lives of our students. Field trips are a privilege. If a student wishes to participate in a field trip he/she must present written parental permission, dress and behave as directed by the instructor and or chaperons in charge and travel with the group at all times unless given specific permission from the instructor in charge and the school office.
Students on the field trip are subject to the same school policy for behavior and discipline as are students in attendance for the regular school. In deciding to attend a field trip, the student accepts full responsibility for his/her actions while on the trip. In addition, the student assumes all responsibility for making up missed work and seeking extra help as needed. A student may be denied attendance to a field trip if his/her behaviors warrant it; if their absence from school would further place them behind in class work or study.
Student conduct on school buses
The bus driver has charge of all students from the time they enter the school bus until they leave it at the approved destination. He/she is responsible to report to the school principal the names of students who violate any of the bus conduct rules. The principal upon such notification may assign the appropriate school disciplinary sanctions. Willful violation of the rules by any student shall be sufficient cause for the student to be deprived of the privilege of being transported to and from school and other related activities by the school bus. Bus transportation is furnished for students at the expense of the school district, and it is expected that those who benefit from it will appreciate the privilege.
STUDENT RIGHTS, RESPONSIBILITIES, AND COMPLAINT PROCEDURE
STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
The listed definitions, categories, and penalties are expected to help prevent uncertainty and misunderstanding. The infractions listed are not intended to be all-inclusive. Some infractions may not be included here and modifications may be made, if necessary, at the discretion of the administration. Referral to the law enforcement will occur where a crime is suspected of having been committed. All rules, regulations, and policies will be in accordance with the School Laws of Montana. Montana Code Annotated (M.C.A.)
Corporal punishment, to knowingly and purposely inflict physical pain on a student as a disciplinary measure, will not be used by any person employed by the district. Staff members have the right to use physical restraint in order to quell a disturbance, provide self-protection, protect a student from physical injury, obtain possession of a weapon or other dangerous object on the person of the student or within control of the student, maintain the orderly conduct of a pupil, or protect property from serious harm.
DEFINITIONS
1. ACADEMIC PROBATION. Students are required to make academic progress towards graduation (see page 11).
2. AGE (to include 18+ years old)
All students, including those who are 18-years of age or older, will follow all school policies, rules and regulations of TFHS. Only self-enrolled students may check themselves out of school or write an absence note.
3. APPEAL
Formal request made by the student or parent for the rehearing of a case, the disciplinary action taken, or loss of academic credit.
4. BULLYING (Including HARRASSMENT, INTIMIDATION, and HAZING)
Prohibited and not tolerated. District Policy 3226 provides a comprehensive definition of bullying, etc. as well as reporting, responsibilities, and consequences.
5. CONTRABAND
Items prohibited for students to possess, such as stolen items, drugs and/or drug paraphernalia, alcohol, tobacco, or nicotine/nicotine vapor cigarettes and or related products, etc.
6. DEFIANCE OF AUTHORITY
Refusal to comply with requests and directions of any school personnel. Chronic violations of school rules are another form of defiance.
7. DETENTION
A disciplinary consequence, assigned either by a teacher or administrator. The student may be required to report at lunch time or after school. The length of the detention may vary. Failure to report constitutes defiance and may result in suspension.
8. DUE PROCESS
The procedure followed in carrying out student discipline, and which guarantees that pupil rights are protected.
9. EXPULSION
The temporary or permanent withdrawal of the privilege of attending school, unless at some other time the Board of Trustees reinstates the privilege MCA 20-5-202. Refer to page 28 for Due Process rights. The Montana Constitution does not statutorily guarantee that an education is a fundamental right. See District Policy 3300.
10. FORGERY
Writing or using the signature or initials of another person without permission.
11. F.E.R.P.A.
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a Federal law designed to protect the privacy of a student's education records. See page 18.
12. FORMAL HEARING
A due process step conducted by the Board of Trustees or its designee. A formal hearing must be conducted in all cases involving Expulsion. See page 30-31 of this document for the deportment of a formal hearing.
13. GRAFFITI
Students may not draw pictures or write references about drugs, alcohol, or gang-related graffiti on either school property or have it visible on student owned clothes, backpacks, notebooks, homework, etc. Graffiti will be documented. Gang related graffiti will be referred to local law enforcement.
14. GUN FREE SCHOOL ZONE
Any student who brings a firearm (which is designed, or may be readily converted, to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive) onto school property will be suspended pending a hearing before the board of trustees. See Category B; Discipline Policy #19.
15. HAND HELD METAL DETECTOR
If the administration has reason to suspect that a student is in possession of a weapon or drug paraphernalia, a hand held metal detector may be used as part of the search procedure. The purpose is to reduce the degree of invasion of privacy.
16. MONTANA CODE ANNOTATED (M.C.A.)
Represents the term used to describe a Montana law, followed by a number (ex. M.C.A. 20-5-106).
17. OUT OF DISTRICT STUDENT
The residence of the parents or legal guardian determines a minor child’s district of residence. See District Policy 3122 for more information.
18. PARENT
A parent, guardian, or other person who is legally responsible for a student.
19. PARENT CONFERENCE
A mandatory meeting between a pupil, parent, and school official(s) regarding rules infractions or concerns. Required prior to a student returning to classes following External Suspension.
20. PLAGIARISM/CHEATING. No student will use anyone else’s work without proper attribution. Plagiarism is the improper use of, or failure to give credit to another persons writing, visual or musical representation or ideas. Cheating is defined as obtaining or attempting to obtain or aiding another to obtain credit for work, or any improvement in evaluation of performance, by any dishonest or deceptive means. Cheating includes but is not limited to; lying, copying from another’s test, or taking copies of exams. Category A-Classroom Violation.
21. SCHOOL AUTHORITY
Shall mean any District teacher or certified personnel, administrator, or other adult District employee unless specifically stated otherwise.
22. SCHOOL SERVICE
An alternative disciplinary consequence available to the building level administrator. The student will be assigned to perform duties on-site or within the district such as cleaning the grounds, buildings, school buses, or other assignments. 6-hours of School Service will equal 1-day of Suspension.
23. SEARCH & SEIZURE.
The right of the school to search and to seize contraband. See p.27, #6-7.
24. SELF-ENROLLED STUDENT
A student who lives apart from the parent, is financially self-sufficient, and is responsible for his/her own care. Students who are eighteen or older and live at home are not classified as self-enrolled because the parents still act as guardians and provide support.
25. SERIOUS INFRACTIONS
These infractions result in disciplinary measures developed to best fit the case. Short Term Suspension (1-10 days) and Expulsion; contact with Law Enforcement, etc., are possible penalties (see minor and major infractions) and District Policy 3300.
26. SUMMARY SUSPENSION
The immediate removal of a pupil from school pending the completion of the investigation on a Short Term Suspension basis if the pupil's presence in school poses a continuing threat or disruption of the academic process. Prior to suspension, the administrator shall meet with the student, explain the nature of the investigation, evidence in support of suspension, and ask for the student's version of the incident. The absence (OSS) will not be counted against the student’s attendance record.
27. SUSPENSION
a. Short Term. With cause, the principal may suspend a pupil from school for a period of time less than or equal to ten (10) school days MCA 20-4-403.2. See District Policy 3300.
b. The days of suspension will be excused and the work will be counted for credit, if assigned by the school.
c. A student who is suspended from school is NOT permitted to be on campus or attend school related home activities (athletics, dances, graduation ceremony, etc.) without prior permission from the principal.
28. TARDINESS
Arrival late to class. Arriving more than 15 minutes late will count as an absence for that day (10 min. on “Early Out” days). Unexcused tardiness means the student reports to class without an excused note from a parent, teacher, counselor, or the office. Tardiness that is excused by the parent must have also the approval of the principal, unless the parent is personally bringing the student to school.
29. TRESPASSING
The unauthorized presence of a pupil on school property.
30. TRUANCY
A student classified as being "absent" for any part of the day without prior knowledge of the parent, and prior approval of the school authorities. Truancy is classified as an unexcused absence.
31. VANDALISM
Damage or destruction of property.
32. VIDEO SURVEILLANCE
Video surveillance will occur on school property to ensure the health, welfare, and safety of all staff, students, and visitors, and to safeguard the buildings, grounds, and equipment. Video cameras will be used in locations as deemed appropriate by the administration.
33. VISITORS
Parents, adult residents, and others are welcome to visit for educational purposes. All visitors must report to the office. Visitors without an approved purpose from the office will be asked to leave the grounds and reported, if necessary, to local law enforcement. Recent former students, students who been suspended/expelled from school, and young adults, when their visit is for the intent of socializing with current students are not welcome during school hours. District Policy 4301
34. PLAGIARISM/CHEATING
No student will use anyone else’s work without proper attribution. Plagiarism is the improper use of, or failure to give credit to another person’s writing, visual or musical representation or ideas. Cheating is defined as obtaining or attempting to obtain or aiding another to obtain credit for work, or any improvement in evaluation of performance, by any dishonest or deceptive means. Cheating includes but is not limited to; lying, copying from another’s test, or taking copies of exams.
35. WARNING
To notify or caution a student regarding a particular disciplinary problem and the consequences of future infractions orally or in writing.
GENERAL SCHOOL GUIDELINES
1. Students are subject to the control and authority of teachers, other school employees and contracted personnel, principal, and the superintendent while they are in school, or on school premises, or on his/her way to and from school. MCA 20-4-302. & BP 3310
• On, or within sight of, school grounds before during, or after school hours or at any other time when the school is being used by a school group;
• Off school grounds at a school-sponsored activity, function, or event which bears a reasonable relationship to school;
• Traveling to and from school or a school activity, function, or event; or
• Anywhere and anytime a student impacts the educational process at school by either harming staff or students (selling drugs, physically or mentally abusing staff/students, etc.)
2. Students must, upon request, meet with an administrator. Failure to respond will result in disciplinary action. School officials have the right to talk to a student without a parent present.
3. When a pupil defaces or damages school property, and the proof of such damage has been shown, the parent/guardian shall be liable for the cost of repair or replacement. Report cards, transcripts, and diploma will be held pending payment of bills and fines. In addition, the Board may deny a high school pupil the honor of participation in the graduation exercise or exclude a high school pupil from participating in school activities. Such action shall not be taken until the trustees have investigated the incident and found the student involved in the incident or infraction MCA 20-5-201.2-3.
4. Any unsupervised pupil in school buildings after school hours will be considered trespassing. Students must remain in supervised areas at all times. Students may not use the weight room or in the gym without an approved supervisor. Students may not go into the wooded areas or outside buildings without permission or supervision.
5. PARKING - Students are permitted to drive to and park at school, and must register their vehicle(s) at the office. While on campus, students are subject to all Montana motor vehicle laws, and the privilege of parking on campus can be revoked by the school principal.
Students must park properly in the parking lot to ensure safety and the maximum space for vehicles. Students who park improperly, without visible permit, in fire lanes, no parking zones, visitor’s parking, faculty parking, will be disciplined (including ticketed or towed at student expense) and may lead to the loss of privileges, such as parking on campus.
If bus transportation is provided between the junior high and the high school students are expected to ride them. A high school student may request permission to drive to classes by the administration (with written parent permission). A student driver MAY NOT transport any other students in his/her personal vehicle between buildings during school time without written permission of the other students' parent and have prior approval from the principal. In such an event, the privilege may be revoked as well as the likelihood of other disciplinary action being taken against the pupils.
6. Lockers are provided to students for their convenience to keep necessary school materials. The school accepts no responsibility for the safely of any items left in a locker, and further advises against leaving any valuable items in lockers since they are not constructed in a manner to provide total security. The school strongly suggests students use locks that the school provides for them. No personal locks will be allowed. The school reserves the right to enter any locker at any time. The school maintains the authority to issue, reassign, or deny locker privileges when necessary. Students who abuse their locker privileges, by not keeping lockers reasonably clean, by slamming locker doors, by damaging lockers or failing to treat school property appropriately will be subject to the school’s disciplinary policy, repair costs and lose their locker privileges. Lockers must be clean and free of items or pictures that refer to illegal drugs, alcohol or tobacco, or of a profane nature. The fronts of the lockers are not to be decorated in any way unless authorized by the office. If school authorities (have "reasonable suspicion") that a locker is used to conceal illegal or controlled substances or contraband, a search may be made by a school official and a witness. Illegal contraband will be turned over to the appropriate law enforcement agency, and the student and parent notified. District Policy 3231.
7. The administration will conduct routine, random,
Un-announced searches of lockers and sweeps of the high school parking lot. The school may utilize the services of a canine detection service or law enforcement to conduct the generalized searches of lockers or of vehicles parked on-campus. If contraband is suspected or found, the student and parent will be notified and the matter may be turned over to law enforcement authorities to further investigate. District Policy 3231 and Category C. The student can refuse a search of personal belongings or a vehicle but will be suspended for “Defiance of Authority”.
8. VIDEO SURVEILLANCE. Cameras are used to ensure the health, welfare, and safety of all staff, students and visitors on District property, and to safeguard District facilities and equipment. Video recordings may become part of the student’s educational record. District Policy 3600.
9. Skate boards cannot be used on campus because of liability issues, with the exception of the tennis court area.
10. "Open Campus" at lunch is a privilege granted by the administration to students. The privilege of leaving campus may be temporarily or permanently revoked for violating school rules such as chronic tardiness, reckless driving, truancy, substance abuse, smoking, etc. by the school principal.
11. Follow all posted bus rules. The transportation department has a discipline policy and consequences in place but may be referred to the building level administrator.
12. Individual teachers may have additional classroom rules, relating to drinks, food, cell phones, etc. Teachers will give each student a copy of the rules and review them as needed.
13. STUDENT EXPRESSION. Students enjoy the right of expression as provided by state and federal law. The student may not, by speech or conduct, materially disrupt class work or educational programs; cause substantial disorder or invasion of the rights of others; or substantially interfere with the requirements of appropriate discipline.
14. Students who wish to distribute or post materials on campus must seek the approval of the administration.
STUDENT DUE PROCESS
1. This discipline and attendance policy is intended to cover all school related activities, on and off-campus, as well as bus transportation to and from such activities. In addition, uniform discipline rules exist for all students involved in any extracurricular activity. The extracurricular rules may be stricter than the general school rules. Each coach must have team rules, which are shared with students and parents. All extracurricular activities will be in compliance with minimum school discipline standards. See Extracurricular Handbook for due process procedures for athletic/co-curricular activities.
2. The parent will receive copies of discipline referrals for students assigned In School Suspension and Out of School Suspension.
3. The Superintendent will be notified of suspensions. The Board of Trustees will be notified of recommendations for a Long Term Suspension or Expulsion.
4. The parent will be notified and a Parent Conference required for all cases involving the use of drugs and/or alcohol. The appropriate law enforcement agency will be notified in all cases when contraband is found or if the student is suspected to be “under the influence”.
PROCEDURES FOR SHORT TERM
SUSPENSIONS (up to ten (10) school days)
1. The building level administrator will grant due process to the student with an informal hearing where the student will receive notice, written or oral, of what he/she is accused of doing and the evidence of the alleged infraction. At this informal hearing, the student will be given the opportunity to explain his/her version of the incident. The student may present witnesses.
2. Based upon the evidence presented, the building level administrator will determine if a Short Term Suspension should be imposed and will inform the student of the decision. Disciplinary action should be consistent with handbook guidelines.
3. An appeal of the suspension may be made by the student or the parent to the superintendent, who has the final decision. No appeal may be made to the Board of Trustees for a Short Term Suspension.
4. A Parent Conference must be held prior to a suspended student's return to classes.
5. Students who choose an External Suspension instead of a lesser consequence (i.e. community service, etc.) will not be given the chance to make-up missed work (see Attendance Policy). See District Policy 3300.
PROCEDURES FOR SHORT TERM
SUSPENSIONS (up to twenty (20) school days) see MCA 20-5-202
1. The building level administrator will grant due process to the student with an informal hearing where the student will receive notice, written or oral, of what he/she is accused of doing and the evidence of the alleged infraction. At this informal hearing, the student will be given the opportunity to explain his/her version of the incident. The student may present witnesses.
2. Upon a finding by the school administrator that the immediate return to school by a pupil (after a 1-day suspension) would be detrimental to the health, welfare, or safety of others or would be disruptive of the educational process, a pupil may be suspended for an additional period not to exceed another 10 school days and if the decision to impose the additional suspension does not violate the Individuals With Disabilities Educational Act.
PROCEDURES FOR BOARD EXPULSION
1. The building level administrator will grant due process to the student with an informal hearing where the student will receive notice, written or oral, of what he/she is accused of doing and the evidence of the alleged infraction. At this informal hearing, the student will be given the opportunity to explain his/her version of the incident. The student may present witnesses.
2. If, in the opinion of the building level administrator, the student should be recommended for a suspension exceeding ten (10) days, the parent will be notified and the student sent home with written notification of the date, time, and place of the formal hearing. The student may return to school after ten (10) days and remain in the Isolated Classroom Environment awaiting the final decision of the Board of Trustees, unless the charges are dropped prior to the hearing or the consequences are amended.
3. A Formal Hearing will be held before the Board of Trustees. This hearing must meet the following minimum requirements:
a. The student is entitled to both a statement of the charges and the identification of the rule or regulation violated.
b. The student may choose to utilize legal counsel at his/her own expense, without prejudice.
c. The student may present witnesses.
d. The student or his/her counsel may ask questions of witnesses presented by the school district administration or its counsel.
e. The administration also has the right to cross-examine witnesses and to be advised by legal counsel.
f. The burden of proof of the offense lies with the school district.
g. The hearing may be recorded either on tape or an official record kept in some other appropriate manner. In addition, the student and his/her counsel must be allowed to tape the hearing. See District Policy 3300
REVIEW OF SERVICES & BEHAVIOR COMPLAINT
This process, Board Policy 4310.P, to include completing the "Review of Services/Behavior" form must be initiated within thirty (30) calendar days after knowledge of the incident(s) by the complainant.
1. There should be an informal meeting between the complainant and the individual responsible for the action or program, if possible.
2. The complainant fills out the "Review of Services" complaint form and returns it to the appropriate administrator (principal or superintendent). The form can be picked up at the office.
3. a. The administrator receives the written complaint form.
b. The administrator shall give a copy of the form to the complainant.
c. The administrator shall investigate the complaint and take whatever action is needed. (Possible use of Title IX/504 Coordinators and Special Education Director, if appropriate)
d. The administrator shall send a copy of the action used to resolve the complaint and a short report to the superintendent, complaining party, and appropriate employee/ student/parent/individual. The administrator shall sign the report.
e. Either party may appeal the administrator's action to the Superintendent but such appeal must be made to the Superintendent within seven (7) calendar days of the administrator's report.
(Twenty one (21) calendar days for steps 3.a–d.
4. The Superintendent, at his/her discretion, may forward the appeal to an appropriate administrator, an independent fact-finder who will report the facts of the case directly to the Superintendent (who will use these facts in arriving at a decision), or may elect to review the problem him/herself. A written decision from the Superintendent to the complaining party will be performed within ten (10) calendar days from when the appeal was received in his/her office.
5. The complaining party may file a written appeal with the Board of Trustees within seven (7) calendar days of the report of the Superintendent or designee.
6. The Board of Trustees has up to thirty-one (31) calendar days from when the appeal was received by them to hear and to render a written decision on the appeal of the complaint.
PROCEDURE FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION STUDENTS
A student placed in adaptive education has procedural safeguards required by I.D.E.A. If the disciplinary action being considered includes removal from class, the principal must contact the person responsible for special education programs at the school and conduct a review of the student's special education placement to ensure state and federal laws are followed.
THOMPSON FALLS DRESS CODE
It is recognized that parents and school personnel have a common interest in the education, physical and moral development of students. However, the appearance of any young person is primarily the responsibility of the individual and his/her parents. Student dress and appearance has a definite influence on class discipline and achievement. Students should exercise good judgment in their choices of clothes for everyday school wear. During school hours, students are to be appropriately attired and groomed for the classroom. School also believes it has the responsibility to teach that proper dress is a reflection of the student’s pride in themselves and the school. Part of the school’s mission is to prepare students for life after high school.
Clothing must be adequate to ensure a decent appearance, must be modest, and must be in accordance with community standards. The building level administrator will make the final determination. In order to help provide a safe and orderly school environment free from violence, drug abuse, and harassment (ethnic, racial, religious, associated with gang activity or sexual) the following guidelines will be followed:
1. The student and clothing must be clean.
2. Students will not be permitted to wear any clothing or jewelry displaying drugs, alcohol or tobacco; expressing obscenities; sexual references; slurs; or associated with gang activity or unlawful violence.
3. Students may not wear hats, bandanas, or sunglasses (unless medically required) in the school building during regular school hours, in the morning and until after the end-of-the-day dismissal bell.
4. Students may wear leggings/stretch pants underneath a dress or a long shirt.
5. Pajama bottoms and/or bedroom slippers may not be worn.
6. Pants must be worn at the waist; no sagging.
7. Clothing must cover one’s stomach, back, chest, and underwear when arms are fully extended.
8. Transparent clothing, if worn, must have an additional garment underneath.
9. The classroom teacher may have additional clothing requirements (such as safety considerations).
CONSEQUENCES:
A student who violates the dress code will be asked to correct the problem by covering up the clothing, wear clothing inside out, or go home to change into appropriate clothing. If the student appears to be non-cooperative or defiant in following a dress code rule or repeatedly violates the rules, then the student will likely face disciplinary action.
Exceptions to this policy would only occur with approval from the building level administrator. Participation or attendance at an activity may require a different dress code such as physical education class, for sports practice and competition, cheerleading, school dances, performing in a play, dress up days, etc.
SCHOOL SPONSORED ACTIVITIES. There should be an effort to demonstrate extremely proper dress by students and staff when they represent the school district at athletic contests, music festivals, conferences, and meetings. Students must should follow the dress code while working as a Teacher’s Assistant. TA’s represent TFHS and are expected to be positive role models.
Approved by the Faculty & Student Council: June 2016.
CATEGORY A
CLASSROOM DISCIPLINE
TEACHER
"A teacher has the authority to hold a pupil to a strict accountability for disorderly conduct in school, on the way to and from school, or during intermission or recess." MCA 20-4-302.1 Teachers are charged with the responsibility of maintaining student discipline in the classrooms and are given discretionary powers for the enforcement of discipline. Teachers will personally deal with all violations of classroom rules by students.
1. Treat others with the same respect you are treated with by the adults in this school.
2. Your actions, dress, possessions, etc. may not cause a problem for anyone else.
3. If your actions, dress, possessions, etc. cause a problem, you will be asked to solve that problem.
4. If you cannot solve the problem, or choose not to, staff members will do something. What he/she decides to do will depend upon the situation and the person or persons involved. Staff members will use their best judgment based upon the information they have at the time.
5. If the student and/or parents feel that the consequences are unfair, they should request a “due process” hearing.
A due process hearing does not need to be formal in nature. It is simply a time for concerned individuals to meet together and share information related to the situation in question. In the event that this discussion provides additional information that sheds different light on the situation, or shows the consequences to be unfair, the consequences may be changed or eliminated to better fit the unique situation.
“Discipline” constitutes all other forms of corrective action or punishment, including brief exclusions from a class for not more than the remainder of the class period and exclusion from any type of activity. The term ‘recovery” means that an individual is out of control and needs to take time to be calm and ready to comply with the role of being a student. Recovery may include time at home and the student may return when he/she is under control. A “recovery” is not a suspension. See District Policy 3300.
CATEGORY B
SCHOOL-WIDE DISCIPLINE
All students shall submit to the reasonable rules of the school. Refusal to comply with written rules and regulations established for the governing of the school shall constitute sufficient cause for a discipline consequence that may include suspension by the administration or expulsion by the Board of Trustees. A staff member or administrator has the right to hold a student accountable for the student’s behavior. The administrator may consider extenuating circumstances prior to dispensing disciplinary action. Extenuating circumstances include, but are not limited to: seriousness of the offense, program/placement, attitude and age of student, pattern of conduct, degree of cooperation, attendance record, grades, and/or other educationally relevant circumstances. School administrators shall maintain discretionary powers to interpret the Student Handbook and issue corrective measures in each individual case and have final authority on discipline in the building. Not all misconduct are specifically mentioned (i.e. snowballs, laser pointers, matches, etc.).
Each student and each situation will be handled as unique, with one exception. The Board of Trustees has established a set of district wide rules dealing with student safety, such as violence, drugs/alcohol/tobacco, bullying, etc. These rules carry prescribed penalties that apply to all students consistently. See District Policy 3310.
DISCIPLINARY MEASURES
For violations of school policy or procedure, disciplinary measures include, but are not limited to:
(1) Advisement/warning
(2) Detention
(3) Clean-up duty or community service
(4) Loss of student privileges
(5) Restitution for damages to property
(6) Conference
(7) Temporary removal from class
(8) Notification of juvenile authorities and/or police
(9) Suspension. Refer to Attendance Policy for academic consequences.
(10) Loss of credit.
(11) Alternate education plan
(12) Expulsion
OFFENSES
1. Profanity M.C.A. 20-4-301 Offensive language. Using language that is vulgar, offensive and/or racially or ethnically degrading.
2. Dress Code. In order to help provide a safe and orderly school environment, and to prevent any disruption to the educational process, the high school will enforce a dress code. Students have limited freedom of expression. See page 32 for specific language, exceptions to, and consequences for violating the rules.
3. Telecommunication Devices. Students are not permitted to have cell phones in the bathrooms or locker rooms at any time in building, nor in the classrooms during instructional time. In addition, other electronic equipment (cell phones, IPods, pagers, etc.) may not be worn, possessed, or used in the classrooms during instructional time. Violators will have the device taken from them. Repeat offenders will be considered defiant and will be treated accordingly.
4. Graffiti. In addition gang related graffiti will be referred to local law enforcement.
5. Littering on school grounds or in the buildings.
6. Attendance: Truancy, Unauthorized absence, or Chronic Tardiness from class or school.
7. Inappropriate display of affection. Physical contact that is not generally acceptable in a school setting, dictated by common sense and decency (“Holding Hands Policy”), i.e. – hugging/kissing is not permitted.
8. Vandalism. Damaging or defacing private or school property.
9. Tripping the fire alarm system.
10. Stealing of personal or school property. Includes theft while on school-sponsored activities. Students caught stealing will be referred to law enforcement.
11. Trespassing. Being in an unauthorized area without permission.
13. Reckless driving, speeding, illegal parking, or failure to register motor vehicle. Students may lose parking privileges.
14. TOBACCO. The possession and/or use of any form of tobacco, or nicotine/nicotine vapor cigarettes and related products M.C.A. 20-5-411. Students who are 18-years old or more are subject to all rules while enrolled. Underage minors will be referred to law enforcement to be fined. Mandatory minimum 3-10 days of External Suspension. See Board Policy 5225.
15. Forging of any signature, or the making of any false entry, or the authorization of any document used or intended to be used in connection with the operation of the school, or making a fraudulent phone call.
16. Providing false information to school official or hindering an investigation.
17. bullying (including Harassment/Intimidation/Hazing). See Board Policy 3226 for comprehensive definitions. Also, see Category D for more information about harassment.
18. Assault or Fighting in school, on school property, or at a school function (minimum 3-10 days External Suspension). In addition, students seen at a fight will be considered encouraging the fight and disciplined.
19. Weapons. Using, possessing, or transferring any object that could be reasonably be considered or used as a weapon, a look-a-like weapon, including knives (including pocket knives), and firearms (loaded or unloaded) on school grounds. In accordance with the Gun Free School Act, any student who brings a firearm onto school property shall be expelled for a period of not less than one calendar year unless modified by the Board of Trustees.
20. Engaging in any activity forbidden by law while on campus or at a school-sponsored activity.
21. Inappropriate Internet activity. See Category E.
22. Open Defiance of Authority. Refusal to comply with a staff member’s directions (M.C.A. 20-5-201.c). Continuous violation of school regulations also constitutes open defiance of authority.
23. Threatening school personnel, profanity directed towards staff, on- or off-campus.
24. Assault of staff. Will result in a hearing before the Board of Trustees and a recommendation of Long Term Suspension or Expulsion. Police notified if deemed appropriate.
25. Plagiarism/Cheating. No student will use anyone else’s work without proper attribution. Plagiarism is the improper use of, or failure to give credit to another persons writing, visual or musical representation or ideas. Cheating is defined as obtaining or attempting to obtain or aiding another to obtain credit for work, or any improvement in evaluation of performance, by any dishonest or deceptive means. Cheating includes but is not limited to; lying, copying from another’s test, or taking copies of exams. Handled as a Category A-Classroom Violation.
CATEGORY C
SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY
BUILDING LEVEL
OFFENSE
1. The use of, to be under the influence of, or the possession of alcohol, illegal drugs, herbal supplements or controlled substances, look-a-like drugs, and possession of drug paraphernalia products (pipes, roach clips, syringes, needles, rolling papers, etc.). To include, but not limited to, the following: misuse of prescription drugs, herbal supplements or over-the-counter drugs, glue, paint, correction fluid, paint thinner and related substances. Legitimate use of prescription drugs is permitted, but the office must be notified and medications stored at the office. Local law enforcement will be called in all cases where physical evidence of contraband is recovered during an investigation. A refusal to consent to a legal search as allowed by school law will result in an assumption of guilt and the appropriate consequences will still apply. See District Policy 3310.
School authorities may use a Passive Alcohol Sensor device when they have reasonable suspicion that a student has violated the alcohol policy based upon such factors as alcohol on breath, impairment of speech and motor control, admission by the student, or reports of the student’s consumption of alcohol by reliable sources. Confirmed alcohol use will result in school disciplinary measures. In addition, parent/guardians may request a free drug test and the results will be kept confidential, unless the student is participating in an in-season sport in which case the student/athlete will be subject to the athletic policy rules.
PENALTY
First Offense 10-days of External Suspension and Parent Conference required, OR a 5-day External Suspension and completion of at least three (3) sessions with a counselor specializing in drugs & alcohol rehabilitation and/or with a drug & alcohol agency for an evaluation and must follow recommendations, at student expense (one-month limit on completion) WITH five (5) days of External Suspension set aside pending successful completion of the approved option.
Subsequent Offense(s) 10-days of Out-of-School Suspension AND Recommendation for Long Term Suspension or Expulsion OR submit to a Substance Abuse Evaluation by a certified substance abuse counselor or doctor, at student expense, and comply with whatever recommendations and the 10-day suspension.
OFFENSE
2. The sale or distribution or possession with intent to sell or distribute any of the above stated substances in Offense #1. MCA 45-9-109. DRUG FREE SCHOOL ZONE. Criminal sale of dangerous drugs on or near school property in, on, or within 1000 feet of real property comprising a public or private elementary or secondary school.
PENALTY
First Offense 10-days of Out-of-School Suspension pending disciplinary hearing before the board of trustees.
CANINE PROCEDURES
The purpose is to ensure that drugs are not being brought, used, or distributed on campus. TFHS will follow these procedures for searching school grounds with a trained canine to enhance the schools search for illegal drugs and weapons.
1. Conduct the search without prior warning to the students or parents.
2. When the search occurs:
• The school will designate an area to be searched. If a locker is suspect, then a bank of lockers will be designated for the search. All school property is subject to search including the school parking lot.
• The search will take place when students are in class or off grounds. The search will not happen when students are able to watch.
• If the canine identifies an area where drugs may be located, the area will be secured. (i.e. a lock placed on the locker or assign personnel to watch the area).
• Areas designated as school property will be searched by the school administrator or designee.
• If the area or property is not designated school property (i.e. cars), the administration may request police/sheriff’s department involvement, who will decide whether or not to obtain a search warrant while the area or property is secured in the event permission is not given to conduct a search.
CATEGORY D
TITLE IX & SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY
TITLE IX COORDINATORS
Any concerns regarding equality in educational opportunities and treatment with regard to race, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, sensory or mental handicaps shall be directed to the Title IX/Section 504 Coordinator(s) for Thompson Falls School District No. 2.
It is the policy of the district (Board Policy 3225) that all employees and students have a right to work, study and learn in an environment free from all forms of discrimination, including sexual harassment. On-going training will be provided to students and district staff.
Sexual harassment is generally defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for favors, and any other verbal or physical and/or visual conduct of a sexual nature when:
1. Submission is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual's employment or welfare;
2. Submission or rejection is used as a basis for decisions affecting the employee or student;
3. Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an employee or student's work performance or creates an intimidating, hostile or otherwise offensive environment.
Examples of conduct that may contribute to sexual harassment and would therefore be prohibited include:
1. Unwelcome leering, staring, sexual flirtations or propositions.
2. Unwelcome sexual slurs, epithets, threats, verbal abuse, derogatory comments, or sexual degrading descriptions.
3. Unwelcome graphic verbal comments about an individual's body, or overly personal conversation.
4. Unwelcome sexual jokes, stories, drawings, pictures, or gestures.
5. Unwelcome spreading of sexual rumors.
6. Unwelcome teasing or sexual remarks about a student enrolled in a predominantly single-sex class.
7. Unwelcome touching of an individual's body or clothes in a sexual way.
8. Purposefully limiting of a sexual nature of a student's access to educational tools.
9. Conditioning academic and or student activity privileges on submission to unwanted sexual conduct from students or staff.
10. Cornering or blocking of a sexual nature of normal movements.
11. Displaying sexually suggestive objects in the educational environment.
Sexual harassment is against the law and School District No. 2 is committed to the prevention of all forms of sexual harassment in the schools.
The school district will not accept a reason for sexual harassment as that someone did not "intend" to abuse/harass another. The impact of unwelcome behavior on the subject will determine if the behavior constitutes sexual harassment.
In addition, the district prohibits retaliation against a person because he or she has made a report of alleged sexual harassment or against any person who has testified, assisted, or participated in any manner in an investigation of a report.
False or fabricated charges will be treated as a serious violation and will be investigated and disciplined.
Sexual harassment is determined on a case-by-case basis and depending upon the circumstances may be referred to local authorities or agencies. Complainants and witnesses have the right to confidentiality if they desire, unless the recommended action involves a loss of educational right for a student or employment for a staff member.
Complaints of sexual harassment or discrimination should proceed following guidelines found in Board Policy 4310.P. Keep written records of the dates and facts and the names of witnesses. In the event the charges are substantiated then disciplinary action will be taken, according to policy. (See page 35, Category B, #17 & pg. 37, Category D)
CATEGORY E
INTERNET- LIBRARY & CLASSROOM POLICY
Thompson Falls High School has actively pursued making advanced technology and increased access to learning opportunities available to students and staff by providing computer technology and Internet access. The advantages to students and teachers of access to e-mail and the resources of the worldwide community are important and necessary. The school recognizes this and is providing this access with the following guidelines:
APPROPRIATE USE
1. Students are allowed to use the computers and Internet to complete school projects as assigned by teachers.
2. High quality self-discovery during school hours with permission. This work would be of a personal nature but clearly worthwhile.
3. Use of personal e-mail activities, surfing of appropriate web sites are with teacher permission only.
OFFENSE
1. Students shall not access or transmit material that is profane or obscene (pornographic, etc.), that advocates or condones the commission of unlawful acts (illegal) or that advocates or condones violence or discrimination towards other people (hate literature). Under direct supervision and with parental approval, circumstances may allow investigation of hate literature for research purposes. Blackfoot Telecommunications is providing TFHS Internet filtering to eliminate most of these problems.
2. Transmission of obscene, abusive, or sexually explicit language.
3. Purchasing products or services using the school connection, without prior faculty permission.
4. Violation of any local, state, or federal statute.
5. Accessing other individuals’ materials, information, or files without permission.
6. Violation of copyright or otherwise use the intellectual property of another individual. Keep track of your sources. Notification of the teacher.
7. No chat rooms except under direct teacher supervision.
8. Uses that involve a waste of time or resources (paper, toner, etc.).
9. No playing games, downloading music or video games, without prior faculty permission (Minor).
10. Students may not use Internet to access web-networking communities such as MySpace, Facebook, Xanga, etc.
DISCIPLINARY MEASURES
For violations of the Internet, library or classroom policy disciplinary measures include, but are not limited to:
(1) Students will simply be asked to leave the computer lab for minor offenses and a record will be made of the
time and problem.
(2) Detention.
(3) Loss of computer lab privileges for at least nine (9) weeks or to the end of the semester.
(4) Recommend Suspension.
SPORTSMANSHIP AND SCHOOL SPIRIT
Ethics, integrity and respect are values important in our daily lives. On the playing field, they are translated into the word sportsmanship. Sportsmanship is one of the most educational lessons and lifetime values taught by interscholastic athletics.
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|STAND UP AND CHEER |
|STAND UP AND CHEER FOR THOMPSON HIGH SCHOOL |
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|PLEDGE YOUR LOYALTY |
|FOR IT'S YOUR ALMA MATER TRUE |
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|OUR TEAMS ARE FIGHTING AND WE WILL HELP |
|TO SEE THEM THROUGH |
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|WE'VE GOT THE TEAM RAH – RAH |
|WE'VE GOT THE STEAM RAH – RAH |
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|SO THOMPSON HIGH SCHOOL HERE'S TO YOU |
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|T-H-O-M-P-S-O-N |
|(Repeat above) |
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|B-L-U-E-H-A-W-K-S |
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|BLUEHAWKS - - - - - - FIGHT! |
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THOMPSON FALLS HIGH SCHOOL
CONFIDENTIALITY OF RECORDS
Notification to Parents Regarding Confidentiality of Student Educational Records
Thompson Falls High School will comply with state and federal guidelines regarding the collection, storage, retrieval, use and transfer of student educational records collected and maintained pertinent to the education of all students to ensure the confidentiality of the information and to guarantee parents and students right to privacy.
Student records maintained by the school may include, but are not necessarily limited to, identifying data, report cards, transcripts, test scores, attendance data, and reports of psychological testing, health data, teacher and counselor observations, and verified reports of serious or recurrent behavior patterns.
These records are collected and maintained in the administrative offices under the supervision of the building level administrator. They are available for review by you, and by teachers and staff working with the student. Information is not related to others unless (1) written consent of the parent permits disclosure, (2) it is directory information, (3) it can be released under limited circumstances by law.
You have the right to inspect and review any and all records related to your child, including the listing of persons who have reviewed or have received copies of the information. Parents wishing to review their children’s records should contact the school office and arrange an appointment with the building level administrator. School personnel are available to explain the contents of the records to you. Copies of student education records are available when it is not practical for you to inspect and review the records at school. A reasonable fee is charged for copies.
If you believe the information in the record file is inaccurate or misleading, you have the right to request a correction be made and to add comments of you own to the record. When an agreement between the parent and the principal cannot be reached, you have the right to a hearing. A hearing officer, one who does not have direct interest in the outcome, is assigned by the school to arbitrate the matter within the guidelines set forth in district policy. Federal law permits a parent to file a complaint with the US Department of Education in Washington, DC, if you feel the school is violating public school records statutes.
Thompson Falls High School follows state and federal law concerning directory information. This is not considered confidential information and may be publicly released without permission of the parents. Directory information includes data such as student’s name; date and place of birth; address; telephone number; grade; school of attendance; most recent school attended; diplomas, awards and honors received; participation in officially recognized activities (sports and school events), weight, height, and team number.
IF YOU DO NOT WISH ANY OR ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION RELEASED ABOUT YOUR CHILD, YOU MAY REQUEST NONDISCLOSURE BY SIGNING THE FORM AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS PAGE AND RETURNING IT TO THE BUILDING LEVEL ADMINISTRATOR. If this notification is not received, we assume your permission is given to use your child’s directory information as described above.
Request Regarding Directory Information
To: Principal of Thompson Falls High School
I do not wish to have the following information concerning my child, ________________________________, (name of student)
Designated as directory information. I understand the above listed information will not be released without my prior
Written consent.
Signed: __________________________________ Date: ______________________________
(Parent or guardian)
THOMPSON FALLS HIGH SCHOOL
LETTER OF UNDERSTANDING
I, _______________________________, have received a copy of the Thompson
(Printed Name of Student)
Falls High School Handbook for 2016-17. I understand that the handbook contains information that my child and I may need during the school year. I further understand that all students will be held accountable for their behavior and will be subject to disciplinary consequences outlined in this handbook.
GRADE ____________
Signature of Student _______________________________ DATE ______________
Signature of Parent/Guardian ________________________ DATE _______________
NOTE: It is the responsibility of the student to share the handbook with his or her parent/guardian.
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