PHILOSOPHY:
PLANKINTON
Junior/Senior High
2018-2019
Student/Parent Handbook
Mr. Steve Randall
Superintendent
Junior/Senior High Principal
Plankinton School District is committed to providing a positive and productive environment that encourages life-long learning.
Approved by Board of Education: July 2018
Jr/Sr High Handbook
TABLE OF CONTENT
|Table of Content |2 |Discipline – Cyber Bullying |15 |
|Mission |3 |Grading Scale |16 |
|Vision |3 |Honor Roll |16 |
|Beliefs |3 |Report Cards |16 |
|District Goals |3 |Add/Drop |17 |
|School Report Card |3 |Individual Student Records |17 |
|General Policy |4 |Progress Reports |17 |
|School Hours |4 |Semester Test Exemptions |17 |
|Late Start/Early Dismissal/Cancellation |4 |Late Homework Policy |17 |
|Parent Right to Know |4 |Deficiencies |17 |
|Compliance Assurance |4 |Duel Credit |18 |
|Asbestos |4 |Graduation Requirements |18 |
|Attendance |5 |NCAA Freshman-Eligibility Standards |21 |
|7-12 Absenteeism Policy |5 |National Honor Society |21 |
|Unexcused Absences |6 |Lunch |22 |
|Absences |6 |Bus Guidelines |22 |
|Tardies |6 |Zero Tolerance |23 |
|Truancy |7 |Activities Transportation Policy |24 |
|Make-Up Slips |7 |Student Spectator Conduct |24 |
|Permission to Leave |7 |Activity Tickets |24 |
|Picking Up/Dropping Off |7 |Student Release from School Transportation |24 |
|Parking |8 |Student Activities |25 |
|Motorized Vehicles |8 |Activities Conduct Code |25 |
|Parent Visitation |8 |Hours for Athletes |25 |
|Church Night |8 |MVP Student Drug and Alcohol Policy |25 |
|Release Time |8 |Co-Curricular/Extra Curricular Activities |26 |
|Band Instrument Rental |8 |Academic, Attendance and Conduct |26 |
|Gum, Seeds, and Candy |9 |MVP Academic Eligibility Policy |26 |
|Staff Workroom |9 |Athletic Activities During the School Year |27 |
|School Dress |9 |Criteria for Academic Lettering |27 |
|Sickness During the School Day |9 |Outstanding Senior Athletic Criteria |27 |
|Student Health |9 |Criteria for Earning a Activity Award |27 |
|Medical Emergencies |10 |Family Education Rights and Privacy (FERPA) |29 |
|Medication |10 |FERPA – Directory Information |29 |
|Lockers and Desks |11 |Equity Policy Statement – GEPA |30 |
|Care of School Property |11 |Technology Usage |31 |
|Library Policy |11 |Acceptable Network and Internet Policy |31 |
|Cell Phones/Beepers/Pagers |11 |Distance Learning |34 |
|Study Hall Rules |12 |Tablet Policies, Procedures and Information |34 |
|Student Misconduct/Severe Disruption |12 |Video Surveillance Regulations |38 |
|Detention |13 |Public Complaints about School Personnel |39 |
|Suspension |13 |Complaint Policy for Federal Programs |41 |
|Harassment |14 |Homeless Policy |42 |
|Dangerous Weapons in School |14 |Student/Parent/Teacher Contract | 43 |
|Student Discipline – Bully Prevention |14 |Index |44 |
| | | | |
MISSION STATEMENT:
Plankinton School District is committed to providing a positive and productive environment that encourages life-long learning.
VISION:
The Plankinton School District will be recognized as a learning community in which:
➢ Every student will succeed in a challenging, supportive and future-oriented learning environment;
➢ All staff will be caring, competent, and driven by a passion for educating children;
➢ Parents will have high expectations for their children with respect to school;
➢ Patrons value and support public education and
➢ The education community, parents, staff and patrons, work openly together for the benefit of our students.
BELIEFS:
We believe that:
➢ Each student is a valued individual with unique talents, abilities and learning styles;
➢ All students are capable of learning and want to be successful;
➢ Students want to elevate their human conditions;
➢ Teaching is a time-honored profession in which children are the focus;
➢ Learning is a life-long process;
➢ Curriculum and instructional practices should incorporate a variety of learning activities and methods in order to accommodate the unique learning styles of students;
➢ A positive classroom environment with high expectations is important to student success and
➢ Education is the joint responsibility of parents, the community, and the school.
DISTRICT GOALS:
The Plankinton School District has set major goals, based on information gathered through Data Retreats. These goals are:
➢ All students entering fourth grade will achieve and maintain proficiency or better in Reading.
➢ All students entering ninth grade will achieve and maintain at a minimum proficiency in mathematics.
➢ All limited English proficient students will become proficient in English and reach high academic standards, at a minimum attaining proficiency or better in reading/language arts and mathematics.
➢ All students will be educated in learning environments that are safe, drug free, and conducive to learning.
➢ All students will graduate ready for postsecondary and /or the workforce.
SCHOOL REPORT CARD:
The State of South Dakota requires school districts to provide its patrons with information on the performance of their public schools. These “report cards” include information pertaining to student growth, achievement, performance against proficiency goals or Annual Measurable Objectives, and College and Career Readiness. The overall system is based on a 100-point School Performance Index. The state, district and individual school report cards can be found on-line at the State of Education website and on file in the offices.
GENERAL POLICY:
It shall be the policy of the School Board that the rules and regulations contained within this handbook shall be the directives under which the school system shall be administrated. Each student will be advised of the rules and will therefore be expected to adhere to them.
It is not possible to include everything that could happen during a school year in this handbook. Therefore, the administration reserves the right to use discretion as needed on a case-by-case basis.
SCHOOL HOURS:
8:20 am – 3:37 pm
Parent and student cooperation is requested in observing the following daily school schedule:
7:30 am Building opens
7:30 – 8:00 ALL students report to the gym
8:00 – 8:20 Students report to their classrooms
8:20 Classes begin; students not in their classroom at this time are tardy
8:20 – 3:37 Students are in classes
3:37 Junior/Senior High students are released
Students are not to be in the building after 3:45 pm unless under the supervision of a staff member.
LATE START/EARLY DISMISSAL/SCHOOL CANCELLATION/NO BUSES:
1. In order to meet weather related situations, as safely and efficiently as possible, the following guidelines will be followed:
2. Late starts, early dismissals, or cancellation of school will be announced over:
1. School Messenger
2. Radio Stations: WNAX (570 AM), KMIT (105.7 FM), KOOL 98, and KORN/Q107
3. Television Stations: KDLT, KSFY, and KELO
3. If weather is such that buses cannot run, students will be sent to the home you listed on your child’s enrollment form.
The school will make every effort to keep the contact numbers provided by parents within School Reach current. In order to do so, please contact the school with any changes to the numbers provided for use within School Messenger as soon as possible.
PARENTS RIGHT TO KNOW:
Parents have the right to know the qualification of his/her child’s teacher(s). Please contact the school’s principal for this information, if you so desire.
COMPLIANCE ASSURANCE- TITLE I, PART A, SECTION 1119
The Plankinton School District hereby assures that all staff in this school have met the requirements outlined in section 1119 of Title I Part A. All Title I paraprofessionals have a least a GED or high school diploma. All Title I paraprofessionals have an associate degree, 48 college credits, or have passed the state test (ParaPro). All Title I teachers are highly qualified. All teachers teaching core subject areas are highly qualified.
ASBESTOS:
The Plankinton School is asbestos free. Documentation is on file in the Central Office
ATTENDANCE:
REGULAR ATTENDANCE IN SCHOOL IS IMPORTANT! It is vital for school success. Education is a state function under the control of the state legislature. It is compulsory (SDCL 13-27-1) that all children between the ages of 6 -18 regularly attend school, unless excused because of a physical or mental condition. It is the duty of the school’s officials to know the whereabouts of students during school hours, and students may be excused for specific purposes only through the principal’s office. Days of absences and tardies will be accumulated and recorded on report cards each nine weeks and on permanent school records at the end of each school year.
The Plankinton School District believes the classroom contact and dialogue between the teacher and student is important and irreplaceable. The District also realizes that it is necessary for students to be absent during school hours as well. The Plankinton School District firmly believes that accountability of the students and parents will encourage a strong sense of responsibility that will be beneficial to all and be applicable towards post secondary schools as well as the work place.
7-12 ABSENTEEISM POLICY
1. Students will NOT miss more than ten (10) class periods in any one class per semester. This is approximately 13% of a semester’s absence. This applies to academic areas only.
2. School action:
1. Three (3) absences from a class period – written notification to parents
2. Six (6) absences from a class period –conference with student, parent and administration
3. Nine (9) absences from a class period –conference between parents, student, and administration will be held to verify records and evaluate the situation.
4. Ten (10) absences from a class period – written notification to parents and a conference will be held with parents, student, and administration.
5. Any additional absences from a class period will result in the student being dropped from the class, failing and losing credit for the semester. Parents will be notified that the students will need to retake the class for credit.
3. Any extended illness will be counted as one (1) absence. This requires a written note from the attending physician explaining the reasons for the illness and the specific dates of the absence.
1. Any longer extended illness requires a make-up slip with a pre-determined time of completion by the classroom teachers and administration.
2. Teachers will meet to review the extended illness absences and confer for make-up work.
4. The administration will judge major catastrophes, illnesses, and emergencies on an individual basis.
5. School activities will not count against the absence limits. Extracurricular activities provide a valuable experience and students shall not be penalized for participating.
6. Post Secondary Visitation:
1. Juniors and Seniors will be allowed two (2) days each school year for visitation of post secondary institutions. The student will receive an exempt absence; however, these two days will not be counted into the 10 days described above as long as prior notice is given and a student returns the signed visitation form to the Central Office upon his/her return to school.
2. If prior notice of the visitation is not given and/or a criterion for prior notice is not met, the absence will count in the 10 total days per semester.
3. The administration reserves the right to deny days due to absences, grades, tardies, or other factors.
7. If a student is absent from school due to illness or an unexcused absence, he/she shall not attend school-sponsored activities scheduled on the day of absence.
UNEXCUSED ABSENCES:
1. Unexcused Absences are absences that are not accountable by parents or administration. (Oversleeping will be counted as an unexcused absence or tardy.)
2. Student will be considered truant, if a written note or phone call from the parent/guardian stating the reason for the absence is not received by the school within two school days of the absence. (If notification is received within two school days, the status of unexcused will be changed)
1. The actions addressed under Truancy will be enforced.
3. Absences will count in the student’s total periods missed.
ABSENCES:
1. Absences that are verified by the parent/guardian shall be considered an excused absence. Reasons for excused absences are:
1. Personal illness
2. Professional health appointments that cannot be made outside of the regular school day
3. Emergency family situations
4. A planned absence for a personal or educational purpose, upon parent request and administrative approval. When applicable, the parent/guardian should give the school 48 hours notice so that work may be completed and handed in prior to the planned absence. Teachers may allow work to be made up following the absence as well.
2. Notification of absence:
1. Parents/guardians are asked to notify the school, between 7:30 – 8:30am, if your child will be absent or late arriving to school. If the school is not notified by 8:30, an attempt to contact a parent/guardian or specified emergency contact person will be made.
2. When a student returns to school following an absence, a note, email or phone call from the parent, is required stating the reason for the absence.
3. Recording of absences:
1. The school day is divided into eight (8) periods. Each period will be counted as 1/8th of a day. (Example: a student missed the first three (3) periods of the day. He/she will be counted as missing 3/8th of a day.)
2. Students will be counted as absent if they are more than ten (10) minutes late for a 50-minute period.
3. Perfect attendance recognition is accorded to students who are not absent or tardy on a yearly basis.
TARDIES:
1. All students are expected to be on time for classes. They are required to be in their classroom, prior to the bell. Students entering the classroom after the bell will be counted as tardy, unless they come to class with a signed yellow slip indicating the tardy is excused. (Any student arriving more than ten (10) minutes late to class will be considered absent for that class period.)
2. If a student is tardy to class because of a conference with another teacher, the teacher shall provide a written excuse/pass (yellow slip) stating the reason. The student must present the yellow slip to the teacher of his/her next class to avoid being counted as tardy.
3. Students reporting late to school must stop in the Central office to receive a slip to allow them admittance to class.
4. School action:
1. Four (4) tardies per semester – parent notification and student conference with administration. Detention will be served.
2. Six (6)/seven (7) tardies per semester – parent notification and conference with parents, student, and administration. The student will serve detention as well.
3. Four (4) tardies accumulated per semester for a given class period will count as one (1) absence from that class period.
TRUANCY:
1. Any student will be reported as truant if the school has not received notice of absence, such as a note or phone call from the parent.
2. School action: (Per semester)
1. First Offense: Student will receive 1 day of In-School-Suspension (ISS) for each period missed due to truancy.
2. Second Offense: Student will receive 2 days of ISS. Parents will be notified and a meeting between parents, student, and administration will be held.
3. Third Offense: The problem appears to be habitual and the situation will be forwarded to the Board of Education for action.
MAKE-UP SLIPS:
1. Excused absences:
1. After an absence, the student must report to the Central Office to obtain a make-up slip.
2. Make-up slips are to be signed by individual teachers from the classes in which the absence occurs.
3. Students will be given time to complete make-up work. Students will have comparable time to their absence days plus one to complete work missed. Students who fail to complete their make-up work on time will be graded accordingly and may be given detention until all assignments are completed to the teacher’s satisfaction. (Example: a student misses 2 days, he/she will be allowed 3 days to complete and hand in work missed.) It is the responsibility of the student to arrange with teachers for assignments and class discussions missed during an absence.
4. Students shall receive credit for work completed.
2. Unexcused absences:
1. The student must report to the Central Office to obtain a make-up slip.
2. Make-up slips are to be signed by individual teachers from the classes in which the absence occurs.
3. Students will be given adequate time to complete make-up work. Students will have comparable time to their absence days plus one to complete work missed. (Example: a student misses 1 day, he/she will be allowed 2 days to complete and hand in work missed.) It is the responsibility of the student to arrange with teachers for assignments and class discussions missed during an absence.
4. Work missed shall be made-up and handed in. (ISS policy will be enforced for grades.)
3. Pre-approved absences (Prior Notice)
1. A student who has a pre-approved absence must receive a make-up slip prior to the absence, which allows them to meet the class objectives and expectations.
2. Assignments due on the day missed must be turned in prior to absence. (Example: a student is going to be gone on Friday; the assignment that is due to be turned in on Friday needs to be handed in prior to the absence. Work assigned on the day missed is due upon the students return.)
3. When applicable, the parent/guardian should give the school 48 hours notice so that work may be completed and handed in prior to the planned absence.
PERMISSION TO LEAVE SCHOOL GROUNDS:
1. A student shall not leave school during the day without obtaining permission from the administration/office. Failure to obtain permission to leave shall result in an unexcused absence.
PICKING UP OR DROPPING OFF STUDENTS/BUS ZONE:
1. The front (south facing) parking lot has been established as a one-way. Please enter the lot from the east and exit though the west entrance.
2. To help ensure the safety of our students we ask that elementary students be dropped off or picked up in the front parking lot or library door. Please do not drop students off by the back triple doors. When parking in front, please “park” WEST of the bus zone. Students are not allowed to cross between buses.
3. In the morning, from 7:30 – 8:30, the areas where the curbs are painted blue and/or yellow are to be used as an unloading zone only. Please do not pull directly into this area as if to park. If you need to come into the school, please pull into the curb west of the bus zone.
4. After school, from 3:00- 4:00 please do not pull into the blue/yellow curb area. This area is reserved for buses. If you have to park across the parking lot, please meet your child on the sidewalk so that children are not crossing the parking lot unattended.
5. Parking or stopping to pick up children alongside the buses is not allowed.
6. An adult must accompany elementary students if they need to cross the parking lot during before (7:30 – 8:30 am) and after (3:00 – 4:00 pm) school times.
7. Between the times of 7:30 – 8:30 am and 3:00 - 4:00 pm, parking is prohibited in the bus-loading zone, as marked by signs and yellow curbs.
8. Right hand turns are also prohibited from both the front and student parking lots when children are present. This is to help ensure the safety of walkers.
9. “U-turns” are not permitted in the parking lot between 7:30 – 8:30 and 3:00 – 4:00.
PARKING:
1. Students are to park in the student parking lot, west of the school. Areas along the sidewalk that are painted white, yellow, or blue are not to be used by students. These areas are reserved for PT/OT, library and handicapped use.
MOTORIZED VEHICLES:
1. Students driving vehicles to and from school will be required to conform to state, city, and school ordinances. Law officials will handle flagrant violations of traffic laws.
2. Good judgment should be exercised when dropping off and picking up passengers in the school zone.
3. Driving of or riding in cars by students is strictly prohibited during school hours, exceptions at administrative discretion.
4. Please remember when leaving the student parking lot after school, you are required to turn left instead of right. This is to help insure the safety of those who are walking.
PARENT VISITATION:
1. Parents are encouraged to visit classrooms. We ask you to please notify the school or contact your child’s teacher to let us know you are planning on visiting.
2. All visitors are required to check into the Central office before going to a classroom.
3. You are very welcome to stay and eat lunch with your child. You will be able to pay for your lunch in the lunchroom, (Cost: $3.10)
CHURCH NIGHT:
School officials and staff will refrain from scheduling any school activities after 6:00 pm on Wednesday nights.
RELEASE TIME:
1. Religious release time will be granted to those students who bring a signed note from their parents/guardians. The note and/or letter will be honored the entire school year unless otherwise changed by the requested parent/guardian or religious leader.
BAND: INSTRUMENT RENTAL:
Rental of musical instruments will be paid prior to us. For further information, contact the music department.
GUM, SEEDS, AND CANDY:
1. Gum, candy, and sunflower seeds are not allowed during the school day.
2. Students will be permitted to bring ONLY water to class. Water bottles must be clear and able to be closed.
3. There will be NO beverages other than water or food allowed in the classroom without prior approval from the classroom teacher.
STAFF WORKROOM:
1. The staff workroom is off limits to all students.
SCHOOL DRESS:
1. Personal appearance should not disrupt the educational progress, cause undue attention to the individual, violate federal, state, or local health and obscenity laws, or affect the welfare and safety of the student or their classmates.
2. Specific dress rules include, but are not limited to:
1. No clothing or apparel advertising drugs, alcohol, tobacco, delivering a mixed message with or without profanity, or being sexually suggestive, be it directly or indirectly, will be permitted to be worn to school during the regular school day, at school activities, or when representing the school at activities.
2. No clothing or apparel displaying racial or ethnic slurs, or advertising, promoting, depicting or identifying gangs will be permitted to be worn to school during the regular school day, at school activities, or when representing the school at activities.
3. No abbreviated tops (halters, tubes, etc.).
4. No fishnet like clothing.
5. Tops need to meet the waistband of a student’s pants, shorts, and or skirts. The midriff area and/or stomach area is to be covered at all times, whether sitting or standing. Necklines need to be appropriate for school
6. Undergarments shall NOT be visible.
1. Pants need to be worn in such as manner that boxers/underwear are covered, be it
sitting, standing, or walking.
2. Straps on tops need to be wide enough to cover the straps of undergarments. No thin or spaghetti straps will be allowed.
7. No short shorts and/or skirts shorter than mid-thigh
8. As a form of proper etiquette caps, hats or other headgear are not to be worn in the building during the school day.
9. As a general rule, coats will not be allowed to be worn during the school day. As the temperature in the school can vary, bring a sweater or sweatshirt to use if needed.
SICKNESS DURING THE SCHOOL DAY:
1. If a student becomes ill while in school, he/she shall report to the principal’s office. An attempt will be made to contact a parent or their designee before allowing a student to leave school. (If the principal is not in the office, please report to the Central Office.)
2. Students are required to contact the school upon arriving home.
3. If a student is absent due to illness, he/she shall not attend school-sponsored activities scheduled on the day of absence.
STUDENT HEALTH:
1. Numerous illnesses will necessitate children staying home.
1. Strep throat – is a contagious bacterial infection and a student with Strep shall stay home at least 24 hours after antibiotics have been started.
2. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) – is also contagious and will require the student to stay at home until the redness and discharge has cleared.
3. Coryze (Common Cold) – is a viral illness that is contagious, but unless a student has a fever and severe cough, they may attend school at parent discretion.
4. Head Lice – are an unpleasant fact. These annoying bugs have no preference to whom they infect. The best way to prevent lice is to have your child use their own comb and not share hats, scarves, or coats. The school will conduct head checks at various times throughout the year. Confidentiality of the diagnosis of a child with head lice will be strictly maintained. In accordance with such confidentiality, only parents of children identified with head lice will be notified.
5. Fifth Disease – students with fifth disease may attend school as long as they are not fevered.
2. Students will be expected to participate in all daily activities unless a note is received from a medical professional.
MEDICAL EMERGENCIES:
1. The Plankinton School District procedure for medical emergencies includes using the information provided on student enrollment forms. If a doctor or hospital is not specified, in case the ambulance would need to be called, the Plankinton Ambulance would use their expert judgment to assess the level of severity and decide upon the subsequent route to take.
2. If a medical emergency occurs, every attempt will be made to notify the parent/guardian.
MEDICATION:
1. The school discourages the administration of prescription or non-prescription medication to students. Parents are encouraged to set up student medications during non-school hours. If it is impossible to avoid giving medication during the school day, the school encourages parents/guardians or a close relative come to school to administer the medication.
2. When a parent/guardian makes a request for administration of medication, a full release from the responsibilities pertaining to the administration and consequences of such medication must be presented to the principal or teacher by the student’s parent/guardian. (JHCD-E) This form may be obtained from the central office. This policy covers all prescription and nonprescription medications/drugs.
3. Medication will be given at school when the administration has determined that it is a necessary and appropriate service for the District to provide. The following rules shall apply:
1. Diagnosis and treatment of illness are not the responsibility of the District and shall not be practiced by school personnel.
2. School personnel shall not provide aspirin or any other medication to students
3. Over the counter drugs shall not be supervised or kept in the office unless directed by a physician
4. In order to authorize personnel to administer prescribed medications, the parent must notify the school and complete the necessary paper work.
1. A completed “Request and Authorization for Medication” form (JHCD-E) shall be submitted to the school official. This form can be found in the appendix of this handbook or obtained from the Central Office.
2. Medications shall be brought to school by the parent in a bottle, labeled by the pharmacy, including student’s name, medication name, physician, and dosage of the drug to be taken.
3. The medication shall be supervised and recorded immediately on the “Log of Medication Supervised” form (JHCK-R) after the supervision by certified school personnel as delegated by the principal.
4. In specific situations, students in grades 7 – 12 may be responsible for their own medication and self-administration. Parents shall send only the medication needed for the day with the student.
5. The need for other physician prescribed services shall be reported to the administration.
6. Recording forms for physician prescribed services will be retained in the administrative office in a Health Services working file for a year and then destroyed.
LOCKERS AND DESKS:
1. Student lockers and desks are the property of the Plankinton School District and are subject to inspection as determined necessary or appropriate. Student’s personal belongings may be subject to inspection as determined necessary or appropriate.
2. Keeping lockers and desks neat/clean is the responsibility of the student.
3. Items hung within the locker needs to be easily removable and tasteful.
4. Teacher desks are off-limits to students.
5. Students involved in athletics and/or PE will be assigned a locker within the locker room. Students are strongly encouraged to bring a combination lock from home to use on their locker.
1. Combinations need to be given to the Athletic Director to keep on file.
CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY:
1. Students shall not mar school furniture, walls, lockers, ceilings, books, or other equipment.
2. Tampering with fire alarms, fire extinguishers or any electrical systems is prohibited.
3. Anyone destroying school property through vandalism, arson, larceny, or creating a hazard to the safety of other students, will be referred to proper law enforcement authorities and face suspension and/or expulsion. (Deliberate marking of floors or walls with your shoes will be considered vandalism.)
LIBRARY POLICY:
1. The school library is open to students during regular school hours. The materials in the library are there for students to use. The following policies are in place for checking out materials:
1. Students will not be fined for overdue books. They are encouraged to renew books as often as necessary unless there is a waiting list for the book.
2. Students, who lose or misplace materials checked out to them, have until the end of each semester to find them. At this time, students will be billed for the cost of replacing the lost item.
3. Movies can be checked out overnight, over the weekend, or over vacation. They are due the next school day. Students, who fail to return movies within two days of their due date, will be prohibited from checking out a movie for a period of one month.
4. Encyclopedias and other reference materials are not to be checked out of the library. Students are required to use these materials in the library. Copying will be limited to three pages of information.
2. The computers in the library are for school use during the school day for academic use. They are not to be used for games, email, or chat rooms. Internet information obtained from the computer is to be copied and pasted into a word document with appropriate notation of the source before being printed. (District policy for student use of computers will be enforced.)
CELL PHONES/BEEPERS/PAGERS:
1. The Plankinton School District prohibits the use of all telecommunication devices, which includes but is not limited to portable two-way telecommunication devices such as cell phones with or without cameras, walkie-talkies, beepers, and pagers during the instructional school day. (Devices will be referred to as cell phone here after.) Use of a cell phone refers to, not only the making and/or receiving of calls, but also using the cell phone for any other purpose.
2. Students shall be allowed to possess such devices however; they must remain turned off during the instructional school day. The instructional day includes but is not limited to lunch breaks, class changes, study halls, Homework Help, detention, and any other structured or non-structured instructional activity that occurs during the normal school day.
3. Having a cell phone in locker rooms is forbidden, as that could be construed as sexual harassment or bullying, both of which can result responses that could include suspension or expulsion, section 4 notwithstanding.
4. Failure to comply with the “cell phone” policy will result in the following school actions:
4.1. First Violation:
4.1.1. The student’s cell phone will be confiscated by the staff member who has witnessed the violation and turned over to the principal. A disciplinary referral will be written, the principal will meet with the student, parents will be notified, and the student will serve one day of detention. The cell phone will be returned, to the student at the end of the day. The cell phone will be returned to the office each school day morning until detention has been served.
4.2. Second Violation:
4.2.1. The student’s cell phone will be confiscated by the staff member who has witnessed the infraction and taken to the principal. A disciplinary referral will be written, a meeting held, and parents will be notified. Two days detention will be served by the student. The cell phone will be returned to the student at the end of the school day, but it must be returned to the office each morning until the two days of detention have been served.
4.3. Third Violation and beyond:
4.3.1 Any further cell phone policy violations will be viewed as insubordination with discipline ranging from in-school suspension to suspension from school.
5. The District shall not assume responsibility in any circumstances whatsoever for the loss, destruction, or theft of any device that is brought to school at any time or to any extra curricular or after school activity.
STUDY HALL RULES:
1. Students are expected to work on schoolwork during their study hall time.
2. Students may not leave the study hall unless they present a pink slip to the study hall monitor.
3. A student must have a pass from a teacher before study hall begins in order to leave study hall to visit that teacher for help.
4. The study hall teacher may give a student a pass to visit the principal or guidance counselor after receiving permission by telephone.
5. Students may sign out to the office or the restroom (one student at time) for a maximum of five (5) minutes.
6. Students may, with permission from the study hall monitor, study together quietly as to not disturb others.
7. Students must receive permission from the study hall monitor before speaking to another student.
8. Proper etiquette and topic of conversation will be the determining factors on time limit of conversation.
9. Students who are on the deficiency list for having an “F” in one or more classes will not be allowed study hall privileges during the time they are on the list.
STUDENT MISCONDUCT/SEVERE DISRUPTION:
1. Student misbehavior or misconduct will not be tolerated. Students are expected to conduct themselves as ladies and gentlemen. They are expected to display good conduct during the school day and at all school events.
2. If any school employee witnesses a serious student misconduct that the principal considers serious enough for suspension, the student may be suspended immediately for up to ten (10) days by the principal or by the superintendent for not more than ninety (90) days. (JGD/JGE)
3. Infractions resulting in possible suspension include, but are not limited to:
1. Fighting in school, at school sponsored activities or functions on school property, including parking lots.
2. Deliberate destruction, defacing, or stealing of school or private property. Restitution for damages may also be required.
3. Use of obscene, threatening, or flagrantly disrespectful language towards other students, school employees or other adults.
4. The use and/or possession of tobacco products, any controlled substance, and/or alcohol before school, in school, during a school sponsored activity or function on the school grounds.
5. Possessing or transporting any firearm, knife, explosive or other dangerous object. (See policy concerning dangerous weapons on page 14 as well)
6. Using or copying the academic work of another and presenting it as their own without proper attribution (cheating).
7. Repeatedly and intentionally defying authority of supervisors, teachers, or administrators, and/or causing the interruption of the classroom/school program.
8. Harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.
9. Using a substance or device to communicate a terroristic threat
3.10 Using a hoax substance or device to cause fear of a terroristic act
3.11 Falsely reporting a threat
4. Students sent from class due to misbehavior, shall report to the principal’s office. If the principal is not in, students are to report to the Central Office.
5. A student, who has been suspended from school, shall be suspended from attending or participating in other school-sponsored activities until the suspension is lifted.
6. Any pupil guilty of gross violation of school discipline shall be liable to school suspension; incorrigibility bad conduct shall render the pupil liable for expulsion by the Board of Education.
7. Law enforcement will be contacted at administrative discretion. (JFC)
DETENTION:
1. The administration reserves the right to assign detention before and/or after school any day of the week.
2. Students will be assigned detention for the following reasons:
a. Tardiness
b. Dismissal from class or study hall
c. Truancy
d. Punishment set forth by a teacher or administrator
3. Students will have one day to arrange his/her schedule to serve assigned detention.
4. Missing an assigned detention will cause the detention penalty to increase as follows:
a. First offense/semester – double detention
b. Second offense/semester - notification and conference with parent and student, detention time served
c. Third offense/semester – notification of parents and one day in-school suspension
5. Students receiving a fourth (4th) detention, during a semester, will be assigned a one-day in-school suspension and will appear before the Board of Education for a hearing.
SUSPENSION:
1. The principal is authorized to suspend students for not more than ten (10) days and/or by the superintendent for not more than ninety (90) days. Suspensions may be either in-school (ISS) or out-of-school (OSS), (JGD/JGE)
2. Infractions resulting in possible suspension either ISS or OSS include but are not limited to the reasons above.
3. Students who are suspended either in-school or out-of-school must realize the severity of their actions. The following guidelines are made in regards to grading completed materials upon reentry into the classroom (Final judgement is left to administration discretion.)
1. In-School Suspension:
1. ISS students receive 80% credit for work completed.
2. A third ISS will result in a hearing with the school board
2. Out-of-School Suspension;
1. OSS student receives 70% credit for work completed.
2. A third OSS will result in a hearing with the school board.
4. Any missed work not completed and not returned will be graded as “0” for ISS or OSS. An exception to this would be if, during the suspension, a test or quiz were given over material covered prior to the suspension; the suspended student will be allowed to make these up. Two days for every one missed will be allowed for tests/quizzes to be completed.
HARASSMENT:
1. Harassment in school is unwanted attention from students, teachers, other adults, or anyone else the victim may deal with in school or at school-related activities. Because this is such a serious matter, harassment in any form will not be tolerated. It can cause serious physical, emotional, or psychological damage to students or staff, affecting grades, attendance, performance, and pride in one’s self and work.
2. The following behaviors are not allowed:
1. Threatening or intimidating behavior
2. Intolerance
3. Physically threatening behaviors
4. Teasing, name calling, or unwanted sexual comment, gestures or suggestions of sexual conduct/acts
3. If a student is a victim of any form of harassment, he/she should talk to an adult in the school as soon as possible. The student being harassed should begin with a person in authority who is closest to the problem. For example, if a student is being harassed in the classroom, he/she should approach the classroom teacher in charge to explain the incident and ask for help. The problem should not be solved alone. The student is the one who decides what is unwanted attention or harassment, and the purpose of any discipline is to prevent further incidents from happening, as well as defending the rights of all to a safe and free public education.
4. Retaliation for someone reporting harassment is not allowed and may result in suspension and/or expulsion from school.
DANGEROUS WEAPONS IN THE SCHOOL:
1. Schools should be an example of what is taught regarding the observance and respect for the law. Schools must also be highly conscious of the health and welfare of students, staff, and the public.
2. Board policy forbids the bringing of dangerous and/or illegal weapons to school or school sponsored activities. Dangerous weapons taken from pupils shall be reported to the pupil’s parents. Confiscation of weapons will be reported to the police, as mandated by State and Federal regulations. Appropriate disciplinary and/or legal action shall be pursued by the administration.
3. A dangerous and/or deadly weapon is defined as any firearm, knife or device, instrument, material or substance, whether animate or inanimate, which is calculated or designed to inflict death or serious bodily harm.
4. No weapons are permitted on school premises, school vehicles or any vehicle used for school purposes, in any school building or other building or premises used for school functions. An exception would be weapons under the control of law enforcement personnel, starting guns while in use at athletic events, firearms or air guns at fire ranges, gun shows, and supervised training sessions for the use of weapons. Any weapon must be approved by administration before they may be brought on school premises.
5. A student who intentionally brings a weapon onto school premises shall be expelled. The expulsion may not extend for more than twelve months. The superintendent has the authority to suggest modifications of such expulsion on a case-by-case basis to the Board of Education, who will render the final decision.
STUDENT DISCIPLINE – BULLY PREVENTION (Board Policy JGI)
Persistent bullying can severely inhibit an individual’s ability to learn effectively or a member of the staff’s ability to do their job. The negative effects of bullying can have an impact on a person for their entire life. We are committed to providing a caring, friendly, and safe environment for all of our students and staff so they can learn in a relaxed and secure atmosphere. Bullying of any kind is unacceptable. If bullying does occur, all individuals should be able to tell and know that incidents will be dealt with promptly and effectively.
Bullying is repeated and intentional harmful behavior initiated by individual/individuals and directed towards another individual. Bullying exists when an individual with more social and/or physical power deliberately dominates and harasses another who has less power. Bullying is unjustified and typically repeated. Bullying differs from conflict. Two or more individuals can have a disagreement or a conflict. Bullying involves a power imbalance element where a bully targets an individual who has difficulty defending him or herself.
The forms of bullying may include, but not limit to:
• Physical-involves harmful actions against another person’s body
• Verbal – involves speaking to a person or about a person in an unkind or hurtful way
• Emotional – involves behaviors that upset, exclude or embarrass a person
• Sexual – involves singling out a person because of gender or demonstrates unwarranted or unwelcome sexual advances
• Racial – involves rejection or isolation of a person because of ethnicity
The school board expects individuals to conduct themselves in a manner in keeping with their levels of development, maturity and demonstrated capabilities with proper regard for the rights and welfare of other students and staff.
The school board believes that standards for an individual’s behavior must e set cooperatively through interaction among the students, parents and guardians, staff and community members of the school district, producing an atmosphere that encourages students to grow in self-discipline. The development of this atmosphere requires respect for self and others, as well as for district and community property on the part of the students, staff, and community members.
The school board requires its school administration to develop and implement procedures that ensure both the appropriate consequences and remedial responses to a student or staff member who commits one or more acts of harassment or bullying. The consequences will be handled under the current guidelines of misconduct/severe disruption policy.
The school board requires the principal and/or the principal’s designee at each school to be responsible for responsible for receiving complaints alleging violation of this policy. All school employees, students, parents, visitors or any other member of the community are required to report alleged violations to the school principal. The school principal and/or principal’s designee are to be responsible for determining whether an alleged act constitutes a violation of this policy. In so doing, the principal and/or principal’s designee shall conduct a prompt, thorough, and complete investigation of each alleged incident.
The superintendent and/or designee shall develop an annual process for discussing the school district policy on bully prevention with students and staff. The school district will incorporate information regarding this policy in each school handbook.
DISCIPLINE – CYBER BULLYING (Board Policy JGJ)
Cyber bullying is all forms of harassment over the Internet or other forms of electronic communications, including cell phones. Students and staff will refrain from using communication devices or District property to harass or stalk another. The District’s computer network and the Internet, whether accessed at school or away from school, during or after school hours, may not be used for the purpose of cyber bullying. All forms of cyber bullying are unacceptable and viewed as a violation of this policy and the District’s acceptable computer use policy and procedures.
Users are responsible for the appropriateness of the materials they transmit. Hate mail, harassment, discriminatory remarks, or other anti social behaviors are expressly prohibited. Cyber bullying includes, but is not limited to the following misuses of technology: harassing, teasing, intimidating, threatening, or terrorizing anther person by sending or posting inappropriate and hurtful email messages, instate messages, text messages, digital pictures or images, or web site posting, including blogs. It is also recognized that the author (poster or sender) of the inappropriate materials is often discussed (logged on) as someone else.
Students and community members, who believe they have been victims of such misuses of technology, as described in this policy, should not erase the offending materials from the systems. A copy of the material should be brought to the attention of a principal or teacher.
In situations in which cyber bullying originated from a non-school computer, but brought to the attention of school officials, any disciplinary action shall be based upon whether the conduct is determined to be severely disruptive of the educational process so that it markedly interrupts or severely impedes the day-to-day operation of a school. In addition, such conduct must also violate a school policy. Such conduct includes, but is not limited to threats or making treats off school grounds, to harm a member of the school staff or a student.
Malicious use of District’s computer system to develop programs or to institute practices that harass other users to gain unauthorized access to any entity on the system and/or change the components of an entity on the network in prohibited.
Disciplinary action may include, but is not limited to the loss of computer privileges, detention, suspension, or expulsion for verified perpetrators or cyber bullying. In addition, when any kind of threat is communicated or when a hate crime is committed, it shall be reported to local law officials.
GRADING SCALE:
1. The Plankinton School District has adopted the following grading scale:
A+ (99%-100%) B+ (92%-93%) C+ (84%-86%) D+ (75%-76%)
A (96%-98%) B (89%-91%) C (80%-83%) D (72%-74%) A- (94%-95%) B- (87%-88%) C- (77%-79%) D- (70%-71%)
F (69% and below)
2. A student who receives an Incomplete at the end of a grading period will have two (2) weeks to make up the Incomplete. Failure to do so will result in a final grade of F.
HONOR ROLL:
1. The Honor Roll will be figured and published each nine weeks.
2. The following system will be used to calculate the Honor Roll:
|Grade Point Scale | |Grading Scales |
|A+ |4.33 | |4.33 |A+ |
|A |4.0 | |4.0 – 4.32 |A |
|A- |3.67 | |3.67 – 3.99 |A- |
|B+ |3.33 | |3.33 – 3.66 |B+ |
|B |3.00 | |3.00 - 3.32 |B |
|B- |2.67 | |2.67 – 2.99 |B- |
|C+ |2.33 | |2.33 – 2.66 |C+ |
|C |2.00 | |2.00 – 2.32 |C |
|C- |1.67 | |1.67 – 1.99 |C- |
|D+ |1.33 | |1.33 – 1.66 |D+ |
|D |1.00 | |1.00 – 1.32 |D |
|D- |0.67 | |0.67 – 0.99 |D- |
|F |0.00 | |0.00 – 0.66 |F |
Superior Honor Roll is determined by an average of 3.67 and above.
Excellent Honor Roll will be based on an average between 2.67 and 3.66 points
REPORT CARDS:
1. Report cards will be provided at the end of each quarter.
2. Final report cards will not be issued until all student commitments to the school have been satisfied.
ADD/DROP POLICY:
1. All students must maintain a least 5 ½ or 6 regular academic subjects during each semester.
2. Students will have 2 days to add or drop a class at the beginning of each semester.
3. Parent, teacher, counselor, and administrative approval are needed for all changes in student schedules. Add/drop forms may be obtained from the guidance counselor.
4. If at the end of the semester a student wishes to drop a year- long course, they may do so by completing an add/drop form.
5. Once these conditions have been met, the student may drop the class receiving a grade and credit for a semester of work within that class.
INDIVIDUAL STUDENT RECORDS:
1. Plankinton School District does respect the rights and privacy of all students and records. We are acutely aware that permanent records contain factual and pertinent information regarding each individual student. We, therefore, pledge to protect the rights of students with regard to such information.
2. Parents have the right to review their child’s record(s) at any time.
3. Students who have reached the age of eighteen (18) may also review their permanent records without parental approval.
PROGRESS REPORTS:
1. Progress reports will be sent out to parents/guardians weekly for students who are doing unsatisfactory work or failing.
2. Students on the deficiency list will be encouraged to seek help from individual teachers.
3. Parents and/or guardians have the opportunity to view their child’s grades and progress via the Parent Portal available through DDN Campus. Parent/guardians can sign up to have access at any time during the school year by contacting the district’s technology assistant.
SEMESTER TEST EXEMPTION:
Students in grades 9-12 may be exempted from taking semester tests if they have a 94% or higher average for the class during each quarter of the semester. All exemptions are at the discretion of the administration.
LATE HOMEWORK POLICY:
1. Homework not turned in on the date specified by the teacher will be considered late.
2. School Action:
1. Assignments/homework turned in up to 1 school day late will receive a 10% reduction for the assignment.
2. Assignments/homework turned in 2 – 3 school days late will receive a 20% reduction for the assignment.
3. Assignments/homework that is 4 or more school days late will receive a zero.
3. For large projects and major assessments, the time may be extended to the end of the quarter with permission from the classroom teacher and high school principal.
4. Students that have extenuating circumstances (example of but not limited to: illness, injury or family matters) will be considered on an individual basis by the classroom teacher and high school principal.
DEFICIENCIES:
1. Students listed as failing forfeit ALL study hall privileges
1. Use of library materials are restricted unless required to complete an academic assignment
2. Students who are reported failing one or more subjects will lose their participation privileges for one week.
3. Ineligible students will not be transported to school activities by school transportation if the activity takes place during the school day. If the activity takes place after school hours, transportation will be at the discretion of the activities sponsor.
4. Work release criteria states that a student will maintain a C- on report cards and progress reports. Any student on the deficiency list who has a work release will lose that privilege.
5. Students on the deficiency list are strongly advised to seek help from individual teachers until their grades improved.
DUEL CREDIT:
Admission Requirements (Applicants must Meet One of the Four Requirements Below):
1. High School Junior eligibility to enroll in a high school in South Dakota who meets one of the following requirements:
1. earn an ACT composite score of 24 reflective of the 70% percentile; or\
2. rank in upper one-third of their graduating class; or
3. earn a cumulative GPA of at least 3.50 on a 4.0 scale;
2. High school senior eligible to enroll in a high school in South Dakota who meets one of the following requirements:
1. earn an ACT composite score of 21 reflective of the 50% percentile; or
2. rank in the upper one-half of their graduating class; or
3. earn a cumulative GPA of at least 3.25 on a 4.0 scale;
3. High school junior or senior eligible to enroll in a high school in South Dakota who meets ALL of the following:
1. Undergraduate admissions requirements:
1. ACT score of 18 (or 21 for USD and SDSM&T): and
2. Successful completion of coursework requirements:
1. Four Years of English
2. Three Years of Advanced Mathematics
3. Three Years of Laboratory Sciences
4. Three Years of Social Studies
5. One Year of Fine Arts
4. Take one of the assessments below and meet the required score(s):
1. 10th Grade ACT Aspire Summative Assessment – (Score 434 or higher)
2. Accuplacer (Sentence Skills – Score 86 or higher AND Elementary Algebra – Score 76 or higher
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS:
1. Student will be required to have 23.5 units of credit for graduation.
2. All units of credit will meet the requirements for graduation as set forth by the State Board of Education. The State Board of Regents requires students entering state colleges to have a minimum of 3 units of higher math and 3 units of laboratory science.
3. Students will be required to take a minimum of 5 ½ to 6 regular academic subjects each semester.
4. Grade status:
a. Sophomore status: minimum of 5 ½ credits earned
b. Junior status: minimum of 11.0 credits earned
c. Senior status: minimum of 16.5 credits earned
5. Board policy does not allow a student to participate in graduation ceremonies unless they have sufficient and proper academic credit to receive a diploma and have paid in full debts incurred with the school. (11-9-87)
6. Graduation Decorum:
a. The Board of Education realizing that Commencement exercises are both a joyous and formal occasion has established standards for proper behavior and dress during all commencement ceremonies. If student dress or behavior is unacceptable, the student will be asked not to participate in the formal ceremonies at the discretion of the administration.
Plankinton High School Graduation Requirements
|Each student will be required to have a Personal Learning Plan in place |
|4 units of English |
|English I ( Grammar/Writing, World Lit) |
|English II (Speech, grammar/Writing) |
|English III (Grammar/Writing, American Lit) |
|English IV (Grammar/Writing, British Lit) |
|3 units of Social Studies |
|Geography |
|American History |
|American Government (1/2 credit) |
|World History (1/2 credit) |
|3 units of math |
|Algebra I |
|Geometry |
|Algebra II |
|(A waiver may be signed to allow a student to be excused from Algebra II in lieu of another math class) |
|3 units of lab science |
|Physical Science |
|Biology |
|Chemistry or Physic |
|(A waiver may be signed to allow a student to be excused from Chemistry or Physics in lieu of another lab science) |
|1 unit of Fine Arts |
|½ unit of Health |
|½ unit Physical Education |
|1 unit of Computer Applications |
|½ unit Economics or Personal Finance |
|1 unit of any combination of the following: |
|Approved career and Technical Education |
|Capstone Experience or Service Learning |
|World Language |
|½ unit of Careers |
| units of electives |
A waiver must be completed and signed by the student, parent or guardian, school counselor and administrator and filed in the student’s permanent file. Waivers are available in the guidance office.
Failure of Required Classes:
In order to assist the district in its attempt to work with students to keep them on track for graduation the following will occur:
➢ If upon failing a required course for graduation and the schedule allows, the student will be placed within the course.
➢ If upon failing a required course for graduation and the schedule does not allow, the student to retake the class, credit recovery will be offered.
Distance Education:
To provide students with educational opportunities aligned with their career path, PHS may supplement course offerings through distance education providers approved by the State Department of Education, such as SD Virtual High School. The district will bear the cost of distance education courses approved by the administration as they align with the student’s career path, can be accommodated logistically and can be afforded fiscally.
Credit Recovery:
Students who are in jeopardy of not graduating due to failed coursework will be presented options of online credit recovery. It is not the intent for credit recovery courses to replace existing courses offerings at PHS. The guidance counselor will present this option to the student and parents. If an agreement between the school, student and parent is make, the student will be enrolled with the understanding that if they pass the course in the agreed upon period, the school will pay the tuition for the class. If the student fails to pass the course in the agreed upon period or fail the class upon completion, the tuition payment will be the responsibility of the parents and/or student. A check from the parent and/or student for the amount of the tuition will be submitted to the school prior to the start of the credit recovery course.
South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship Requirements:
➢ 4 units of English (courses with major emphasis upon grammar, composition, or literary analysis may be included to meet this requirement).
➢ 3 units of Social Studies (such as history, economics, sociology, geography, U.S. government, and similar courses).
➢ 4 units of Algebra or Higher Mathematics (algebra, geometry, trigonometry, or other advanced mathematics, as well as accelerated or honors mathematics [algebra] at the 8th grade, shall be accepted). NOT INCLUDED are arithmetic, business, consumer, or general mathematics or other similar courses.
➢ 4 units of Science, including 3 units of approved laboratory science (courses in biology, chemistry, or physics in which at least one regular laboratory period is scheduled each week). Qualifying physical science or earth science courses (with lab) shall be decided on a case-by-case basis.
➢ 1 unit of Fine Arts (in art, theatre, or music, as well as approved extracurricular activity).
➢ 2 units of either of the following or a combination of the two
➢ Approved career and technical education courses
➢ Modern or Classical Language (Includes American Sign Language)
➢ 1/2 units of personal finance or economics
➢ 1/2 unit of physical education
➢ 1/2 unit of health or health integration
Additional Requirements for Opportunity Scholarship:
➢ Be graduated from high school with a cumulative average grade of “B” or greater, for all work attempted;
➢ Be a resident of South Dakota at the time of graduation from high school;
➢ Take the ACT or SAT before graduation from high school
➢ Receive a composite score on the ACT of at least 24 or a combined verbal and mathematics score on the SAT of a least 1070
➢ Attend a participating institution; and
➢ Enter into the scholarship program within five years of the date of graduation from high school. A student who entered active military duty immediately after the date of graduation from high school may qualify for the scholarship if the student’s release from military service occurs within five years from the student’s graduation and the student enters the scholarship program within one year of the student’s release from active military duty
➢ Any course in which a student received a final grade below a “C” may not be counted for purposes of this subdivision. If a student who receives disqualifying grades in courses required under this subdivision retakes those courses while in high school, the student may still qualify for eligibility if the student has the required number of courses with grades of “C” or above in each subcategory
Source: 30 SDR 211, effective July 7, 2004
General Authority: SDCL 13-55-36
NCAA FRESHMAN-ELIGIBILTY STANDARDS (Extra-Curricular Athletics)
Core Courses:
• NCAA Division I requires 16 core courses as of August 1, 2008. This rule applies to any student first entering any Division I college or university on or after August 1, 2008.
o 4 years of English
o 3 years of Math (Algebra I or higher)
o 2 years of Natural/Physical Science (1 year of lab if offered by high school)
o 1 year of additional English, Mathematics or science
o 2 years of social science
o 4 years of additional courses (from any area above, foreign language or nondoctrinal religion/philosophy)
• NCAA Division II requires 14 core courses.
o 3 years of English
o 2 years of Math (Algebra I or higher)
o 2 years of Natural/Physical Science (1 year of lab if offered by high school)
o 2 years of additional English, Mathematics or science
o 2 years of social science
o 3 years of additional courses (from any area above, foreign language or nondoctrinal religion/philosophy)
• Please note: Beginning August 1, 2013, students planning to attend an NCAA Division II institution will be required to compete 16 core courses.
If you plan to participate in extra-curricular athletics at a Division I or Division II post secondary school certain criteria as to grade point averages, SAT score, and classes taken need to be adhered to in order to be eligible to play/participate. Please see the guidance counselor for exact criteria and to plan your course of action.
RAY FERGUSON CHAPTER OF THE NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY:
1. Candidates must have a cumulative scholastic service of 3.33 or higher
2. For further consideration for selection to the Ray Ferguson Chapter of NHS, you must complete the Student Application and three (3) semesters of high school work.
3. A five member Faculty Council, chosen from the High School, will review student applications.
4. Student who have successfully completed three semesters of study, have a cumulative GPA of 3.33 or higher, and received a majority vote of the Faculty Council will be selected for induction into the Ray Ferguson Chapter of the National Honor Society.
5. Candidates will be notified by mail whether they were or were not chosen as members of the Ray Ferguson Chapter of the National Honor Society by the local chapter advisor.
6. Administrative input will be a vital component in the final selection of candidates.
7. NHS members must maintain a 3.33 cumulative GPA or higher.
1. If a NHS member’s cumulative GPA falls below the 3.33, he/she will have one semester of probation to get their GPA back up. If he/she does not, they will be notified of their removal from the organization.
2. If he/she get their cumulative GPA back up to the 3.33 or higher, they will be able to reapply for NHS.
8. Any conduct not becoming of a NHS member or the by-laws may result in removal from NHS.
1. The advisor will meet with the member and their parent(s) to discuss the situation.
2. If a student wants to maintain their NHS status, they will need to write a letter of explanation for review committee of staff members. The decision of this committee is final.
CLOSED LUNCH PERIOD:
1. Students will not leave the school facility during lunch periods, unless accompanied by a parent.
2. Students are required to stay in the lunch/commons area during their lunch period, unless supervised by a staff member.
3. Each student may eat school lunch, bring a sack lunch, or not eat lunch. Pop is not allowed.
4. Special Diets: If your child has any allergies to food items or needs a special diet, please contact the head cook to discuss his/her needs.
5. Lunch Prices:
K –5 $2.30 9-12 $2.55 Adult $3.10
6 – 8 $2.40 Breakfast $1.45
6. Students are allowed to have 1 carton of milk with their meal. If a student wants more than 1, any additional cartons can be purchased for $0.25 per carton. Students will be allowed seconds of the items provided on the salad bar. Additional milk, bread, peanut butter may be purchased through the Ala-Carte system.
7. The District has purchased Accu-Scan, Campus, a food service accounting system. This system works much like a debit card.
1. An account is set up for each family and the cost per meal deducted.
2. Parents will be notified once their account reaches a balance of $30.00 or less.
3. Once an account reaches a zero balance, the district will provide a student with a “brown bag lunch” for up to three days. After the three days, the student will be required to bring his or her own lunch until a deposit has been made into the family account or other arrangements have been made with the administration.
1. The district will contact parents/guardians, via notes sent home with their child, email or phone on a daily basis to try to collect payment once an account has reach a balance of $30.00 or less.
2. All delinquent accounts at the beginning of May of the current school year will be subject to collections for payment.
3. If a child has money to purchase a reduced meal or paid meal at the time of meal service, the child must be provided a meal. The district may not use the child’s money to pay previously unpaid charges if the child intended to us the money to purchase the day’s meal.
4. Additional milk or milk purchased when a student brings lunch from home can be paid at the time of purchase through the student’s lunch account. ($0.25 per carton)
5. Any balance left in a family account at the end of the year will be forwarded to the following school year. They only deviation to this will be if your family is leaving the district in which case a refund will be issued.
6. No charging will be allowed by anyone. Parents and guest will be asked to pay for their meal at the time of service.
8. AlaCarte:
1. Student will be able to pay for additional lunch items (milk, bread, and peanut butter) through their lunch accounts.
2. NO CHARGING will be allowed for extra or AlaCarte items on any negative account or accounts with a zero balance. AlaCarte will be blocked until such a time as there is no longer a negative or zero balance.
3. Parents may block their student from purchasing AlaCarte items if they so wish. If you do not want your child to purchase additional items, please contact the school.
9. Please apply for free/reduced lunches. It is financially advantageous to the school district’s hot lunch program that in turn saves you money as a taxpayer! See the Administrative Assistant (Mary Lawson) for an application.
BUS GUIDELINES:
1. Riding the school bus is a privilege, not a right, provided by the school district. Misconduct on the bus will not be tolerated and may result in forfeiting the privilege of riding.
2. Students are expected to discipline themselves and comply with the instructions of the bus driver and with school policies and rules for safety. The driver will be in full charge of the bus and its passengers. Student behavior, which distracts the driver and imperils the safety of the passengers, will NOT be allowed.
3. Loading and Unloading:
1. Be on time at your designated bus stop. This will help keep the bus on schedule.
2. Stay off the road at all times while waiting for the bus. BE ALERT!
3. Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before attempting to board or get off the bus.
4. Do not run toward the bus while it is approaching or leaving a designated loading zone.
4. While on the bus:
1. Students shall ride on their assigned bus unless directed otherwise by the administrator, driver or a written note or phone call from their parent.
2. Students will enter the bus in an orderly fashion and go directly to their assigned seat
3. Students must stay in their seats and in a forward sitting position when the bus is in motion.
4. The same courteous conduct as is expected in the classroom must be observed while on the bus. Ordinary conversation is permitted. Shouting, screaming, running, fighting, horseplay, vulgar talk, and/or pushing are not permitted.
5. Students shall leave their seats only after the bus has come to a complete stop at their respective bus stop.
6. Students shall assist the driver in keeping the bus clean and orderly.
7. Students will not open or close windows without permission from the bus driver.
8. Students must not put hands, arms, heads, or other body parts out the bus window.
9. All articles such as athletic equipment, book bags, musical instruments, etc must be kept out of the aisles.
10. The rider causing the damage will pay for any damage to the bus. The student will also be subject to disciplinary action, which may include losing his/her bus riding privileges.
11. Animals will not be transported on the school bus.
12. Students shall remain in their seats on the bus in case of a road emergency, unless otherwise directed by the bus driver.
13. Pop and treats are up to the discretion of the individual bus driver. Seeds WILL NOT be permitted at any time.
14. Seats on the bus will be filled with younger students to the front, oldest in the back. The bus driver has the authority to assign seats as needed.
15. A driver may set additional rules, if conditions warrant.
5. Students who do not follow the bus rules are usually subject to the following disciplinary actions: (Discretion is left to the administrator.)
1. First Offense: Behavior and/or problem discussed with driver, student, and principal. Copy of
report sent to parents.
2. Second Offense: Behavior discussed with student, driver, parents, and principal.
3. Third Offense: May result in immediate suspension from riding the bus. Parents will be given
written notification of infractions and actions taken.
6. The goal of the Plankinton School District is to deliver the maximum number of children in the least amount of time and in the safest manner possible. The bus driver will work with the administration in deciding routes and the rotation of routes during the school year.
If your child rides the bus and WILL NOT be riding, for any reason, you must contact the bus driver to let him/her know your child will not be riding.
ZERO TOLERANCE: (STANDARDS OF CONDUCT)
The Plankinton School District has a zero tolerance for all drug and alcohol use at any school event, during the school day, or at any event that the Plankinton School may be participating in. All cases will be dealt with individually, according to school policy and may involve the principal, superintendent, counselor, teacher and parents. The school counselor will have available a listing of drug and alcohol counseling and rehabilitations centers to contact if needed.
ACTIVITIES TRANSPORTION POLICY:
1. All activity personnel shall travel to away school sponsored activities in transportation provided by the school district.
2. A parent/guardian may personally provide transportation to and/or from a school-sponsored event. They must notify the sponsor/coach in person after the activity. Sponsors have the right to deny parental requests.
STUDENT SPECTATOR CONDUCT:
1. The guidelines for student conduct at school-sponsored events are as follow:
1. When games and other activities are in progress, all students and preschoolers are to BE SEATED in the bleachers or other seating that may be provided.
2. Students and preschoolers will not be allowed to leave the gym when games or activities are in progress unless accompanied by a parent or other adult/responsible person.
3. The stage is OFF LIMITS to all students.
4. Students and preschoolers will not be allowed to leave the building (go outside) unless accompanied by an adult or unless they are leaving the activity and do not plan on returning.
5. Parents and children are highly discouraged from bringing large toys to games. If your child needs toys to entertain themselves, please be certain they remain seated with you and are not interfering with other spectator’s enjoyment of the event.
6. Students and spectators are asked to stay in the designated areas only during ballgames and other school activities.
ACTIVITY TICKETS:
The Plankinton School District offers several passes for school events at substantial savings over regular gate prices. (Adult - $5.00, Student - $3.00)
Yearly Passes:
Individual Student Pass: $30.00
Individual Adult Pass: $60.00
Family Pass: $85.00
Grandparents Pass (under age 62): $45.00
Single Grandparent Pass (under age 62): $30.00
Senior Citizens (age 62 or older): No Charge
All passes must be purchased from the office prior to game time. All passes are good for all home events, excluding tournaments. Passes will be honored at both Plankinton and Mt. Vernon.
STUDENT RELEASE FROM SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION REQUEST:
1. To better serve the public, the school will allow a person other than the parent to transport a student if the conditions below have been met:
1. A Student Release Request form is filled out (Available in the central office)
2. 24-hour notice has been given, unless an administrator or sponsor waives this requirement.
3. Notice will be written and delivered in person to school officials or confirmed by phone.
4. The person providing the transportation MUST be at least 21 years of age.
5. If possible, the other person is a relative.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES:
1. Participation in co-curricular athletics and activities can have a very positive and rewarding effect in the development of students. It is important for participants to be aware of the rules and regulations required if participating in Plankinton School District’s activities. All co-curricular athletic/activities are subject to these rules and regulations.
ACTIVITIES CONDUCT CODE:
1. Students represent the school when they participate in activities sponsored by the Plankinton School. Proper conduct is to be displayed in and out of school so the student does not discredit the school, self, parents, and/or other participants. A student, whose conduct discredits the school or activity, may be suspended from school activities for the remainder of the year.
HOURS FOR ATHLETES:
|Weekdays (including Sundays) |11:00 P.M. |
|Weekends (Friday and Saturday) |1:00 A.M. |
|Night before a contest |10:00 P.M. |
1. Correction for infractions of the hour’s policy will be left to the discretion of the coaching staff. Under certain circumstances, these hours may be adjusted by the activity coaching staff.
MT. VERNON/PLANKINTON CO-OP STUDENT DRUG AND ALCOHOL POLICY:
The Plankinton/Mt. Vernon Co-Op discourages the use of alcohol, controlled substances, and tobacco products by all students at all times and has adopted the following policy for all students involved in athletic programs.
Student students involved in Extra Curricular Activities at Plankinton/Mt. Vernon Schools will abstain from the use of alcohol, controlled substances, or tobacco products during the school year as recognized by the SDHSAA calendar (1st day of football/volleyball practice through completion of state track meet.)
Student violators of the training rules may be declared ineligible to perform in school-sponsored activities by the administration.
The violation of drug and alcohol rules during the season carries a minimal penalty of:
a. FIRST VIOLATION:
i. Football, Wrestling, Track, Cross Country, Golf and Cheerleaders in these sports: 2 events or 2 weeks whichever is greater.
ii. Boys’ and Girls’ Basketball, Volleyball and Cheerleaders in these sports: 4 events or 2 weeks whichever is greater.
b. SECOND VIOLATION:
i. ALL SPORTS: Dismissal from ALL ACTIVITES for the remainder of the school year, plus loss of award.
RULES DETERMINING LOSS OF PERFORMANCE:
a. District, Region, and State events are counted as part of the regular season.
b. Each day of a scheduled tournament is considered one event.
CO-CURRICULAR/EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES:
1. Include:
1. Football, Girl’s Volleyball, Girl’s Basketball, Boy’s Basketball, Wrestling, Girl’s Track, Boy’s Track, Boy’s Golf, Girl’s Golf, Cheerleading, Oral Interpretation, All School Play, One Act Play, Pep Band, Jazz Band, Swing Choir, Annual Staff, Student Council, and FCCLA.
ACADEMIC, ATTENDANCE, AND CONDUCT REQUIREMENTS:
1. A student shall be in school the day of the performance, scheduled contest, program or trip if he/she expects to participate. Any exception must be cleared through the administration.
2. Any student on an Out-of-School Suspension will not be eligible to practice, participate or attend extra-curricular activities until reinstated by the administration. A student serving an In-School Suspension will be eligible to practice and attend home events, but will not be able to participate.
3. No misconduct or misrepresentation of MVP by a student, athlete or cheerleader will be tolerated. Any infractions of this rule will be directed to a committee of coaches, athletic director, cheerleader advisor and principal.
MVP ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY POLICY – JUNIOR/SENIOR HIGH:
Valuable lessons can be learned, and leisure time profitably fulfilled through participation in the extra-curricular activities program. All policies and by-laws of the South Dakota High School Activities Association will be implemented and enforced in addition to this Co-Curricular policy. Participation in these activities is a privilege not a right, which carries these responsibilities with it.
1. Students must pass all of their classes to be eligible for MVP CO-OP Activities.
1. Any student with a failing grade (F) in any one or more classes will be placed on academic probation for one (1) week for all classes.
2. The student must be passing all classes and have no missing assignments due to irresponsibility in any class by the end of the probation week to continue to be eligible for all activities. If not, the student is ineligible to play or participate for one (1) week and must have a passing grade (D- or higher) for all classes and no missing assignments before he or she can resume play or participation in said activity or activities.
3. Students who have missing assignments due to an extended excused absence or illness will not have these missing scores figured into their eligibility status.
2. The student will continue to practice during the probation and ineligibility week at the discretion of the coaches, teachers and administration.
3. Grades will be checked at 12:00 pm on Monday.
1. The probation and eligibility week begins at 12:00 pm on Monday and ends, or begins again, the following week on Monday, 12:00 pm.
2. In the event there is no school on Monday, grades will be checked on the first day of school for that calendar week.
4. A failing grade (F) will carry into the next nine week (quarter) except at the beginning of each semester.
1. The first three (3) weeks of each semester will be a grace period to allow students and teachers to establish a solid baseline of reference.
5. All students will be eligible at the beginning of the year or semester unless ineligible according to the South Dakota High School Activities Association guidelines (See above)
6. An administrator (Activities Director) will let parents/students know of probation or ineligibility.
7. This policy is in affect for all sports, fine arts activities, etc.
8. Students who are found to be ineligible may not:
1. Participate in school sponsored athletic contests or be dismissed from a portion of the regular school day to travel with his or her team.
2. Participation is any school sponsored co-curricular or fine arts activity or contests that would require that student to miss a portion of a regular school day.
ATHLETIC ACTIVITIES DURING THE SCHOOL WEEK:
1. It is imperative that students be present for classroom participation to have the greatest opportunity to obtain pertinent information to meet State Content Standards. As such, the Plankinton School District will limit the amount of time a student is gone from class for an athletic activity to no more than one time per week during the spring season of golf and track. If extenuating circumstances arise, the coach, athletic director and Superintendent will meet to discuss and rule on the circumstance.
1. No student/athlete shall be gone for more than 1 school day per week for athletic activities during the spring season of golf and track.
2. If due to injury or illness a coach needs to replace a student/athlete the day of or the previous day before a completion, the replacement athlete will not be penalized academically and will be excused from class, upon approval of the principal.
CRITERIA FOR ACADEMIC LETTERING:
1. Standards set and administered by the Boosters. The school will provide one chenille letter for the first time a student letters. The Boosters will provide pins for all repeat letter winners.
1. Students must be in grades 7-12.
2. A 3.0 GPA on a 4.0-point scale (B average) must be earned for 3 or the 4 nine-week grading periods. If the student attains the average, a star will be awarded for their letter.
OUTSTANDING SENIOR ATHLETE CRITERIA: (Adopted May 1993)
1. The senior candidate must letter in more than one sport during his/her senior year to receive full consideration for the award.
2. The candidate should show attributes of outstanding athlete by receiving either conference or state recognition of success during his/her varsity career.
3. The senior candidate should display the characteristics of a true athlete and be a positive role model for younger athletes.
4. A candidate’s entire varsity athletic career may be a determining factor of the selection committee.
CRITERIA FOR EARNING AN ACTIVITY AWARDS:
1. An athlete must be a member of the team in “good standing” from the time, they join the team until the season ends. “Good standing” entails training rules, team rules, and regular attendance at practice and games.
1. Football
1. Must compete in a minimum of 8 quarters of varsity football.
2. The coach may make exceptions to the quarter requirement if participation is limited because of injury or sickness or other uncontrollable circumstances. Participants joining the squad after the season started would probably not qualify for the quarter exception.
3. Must return all school property and equipment or financially replace it
2. Basketball
1. Must compete in a minimum of 16 quarters of varsity basketball.
2. The coach may make exceptions to the quarter requirement if participation is limited because of injury or sickness or other uncontrollable circumstances.
3. Must return all school property and equipment or financially replace it.
3. Wrestling
1. Must score 16 team points – half (8) of which must be actually scored in matches. One (1) point is earned by competing in an event.
2. Exceptions to the above criteria may be made by the coach if participation is limited because of injury or sickness or other uncontrollable circumstances, which prevent the athlete from meeting the necessary point requirements.
3. Must return all school property and equipment or financially replace it
4. Track
1. Must place in a varsity track meet. In placing, they must beat another competitor participating in the same event. Freshman events, which count toward varsity team points, may be used to meet placing requirements.
2. The coach may make exceptions to the placing requirements if participation is limited because of injury, sickness or other uncontrollable circumstances.
3. Must return all school property or equipment or financially replace it.
5. Golf
1. Must participate in over 50% of golf matches at the varsity level or individual score used as part of team score to place in a golf match in which the team beats at least one other team.
2. Individual score earns a medal at any golf meet with at least four teams participating in the meet.
3. Exceptions to the placing requirement may be made by the coach if participation is limited because of injury, sickness or other uncontrollable circumstances.
4. Must return all school property or equipment or financially replace it.
6. Volleyball
1. Must compete in a minimum of 14 varsity games.
2. Exceptions to the above criteria may be made by the coach is participation is limited because of injury, sickness or other uncontrollable circumstances.
3. Must return all school property or equipment or financially replace it.
7. Cheerleading
1. Must be a cheerleader on a varsity squad.
2. The coach may make exceptions to the lettering requirement if participation is limited because of injury, sickness or other uncontrollable circumstances.
3. Must return all school property and equipment or financially replace it
8. FCCLA -- Standards are set up and administered by the FCCLA Executive Council. First time letter winners will be awarded a “P”. After earning the original letter, an FCCLA award winner will receive certificates and bars.
1. Must be a member in “good standing” with dues paid
2. Students will earn points for their efforts on projects though out the year. A total of 90 points must be earned during the year.
3. The advisor and executive council will keep the list for earning points. Participation in the organization in strongly encouraged.
4. The Point System schedule may be picked up from the advisor.
9. Band
1. Must score 10 points to letter in Band.
|Concert Band |Perfect attendance at performances |2 pts. |
|Marching Band |Perfect attendance at performances |2 pts. |
|Pep Band |Perfect attendance at performances for selected section |1 pt. each |
|Jazz Band | |1 pt. |
|Contest Solo | |2 pts each |
|Contest Ensemble |(duets, trios, quartets, etc) |1 pt. each |
|All State Band |Try-outs |2 pts. |
|All State Band |Qualify |3 pts. |
|All State Orchestra |Try-outs |2 pts. |
|All State Orchestra |Qualify |3 pts. |
|Private Lessons |Teach |2 pts. |
|Private Lesson |Take |1 pt. |
|Augie Band Fest | |½ pt. |
|Banner |Play Banner for a sporting event |¼ pt. |
|A’s |Straight A’s in Band |1 pt./qtr. |
Exceptions to the above criteria may be made by the instructor if participation is limited to horn repair, sickness, injury or other uncontrollable circumstances that prevent the student from meeting the necessary point requirements.
10. Student Council
1. To qualify for a letter, a student must earn 300 points by May 1st of each school year. To attend the State Meeting 250 points must be earned prior to March 1.
2. A student may earn points by:
Attending summer meetings 15 pts each
Attending regular meetings 10 pts each
Attending the fall regional meeting 15 pts
Attending regional or state board meetings (if officer) 20 pts each
Attending a national meeting 25 pts each
Attending the state convention 35 pts
Being on a committee 15 pts each
Being a class officer 10 pts
Being an executive board officer 20 pts
Being elected student body president 25 pts
Being elected student body vice president 20 pts
Being elected student body secretary or treasurer 5 pts
Running for local student body president/vice president 10 pts
Running for a regional office 15 pts
Running for a National office 20 pts
Being elected to a regional office 20 pts
Running for a state office 25 pts
Being elected to a state office 30 pts
Being elected a national board member 40 pts
FAMILY EDUCATION RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA):
1. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) require that the school annually notify all parents of their rights under the law. Under FERPA, law parents have the right to:
1. Know the location of all records kept on a student, including computerized data.
2. Inspect and review all educational records, to receive explanations and interpretations of the records, and obtain copies upon request. Parents may be charged a nominal copying fee.
3. Request to amend educational records believed to be inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of a student’s privacy.
4. Request an impartial hearing if the District refuses to amend an educational record.
2. Students who have reached the age of eighteen may review their permanent records without parental approval.
FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA) for DIRECTORY INFORMATION:
1. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law, requires that the Plankinton School District, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education record. However, the Plankinton School District may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary in accordance with District procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the Plankinton School District to include this type of information from your child’s education records in certain school publications.
2. Examples include:
1. A playbill, showing your student’s role in a drama production
2. The annual yearbook
3. Honor roll or other recognition lists
4. Graduation programs and
5. Sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling – showing weight and height of team members
3. Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two Federal laws require Local Education Agencies (Lea’s) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters upon request, with three directory information categories – names, addresses, and telephone listings – unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent.
4. If you do not want the Plankinton School District to disclose directory information from your child’s education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the District in writing by the end of the first full week of school. The Plankinton School District has designated the following information as directory information: (Notes: an LEA may, but does not have to, include all the information listed below.
5. These are examples of the type of information that may be used.)
1. Student’s name and/or address
2. Telephone listing
3. Electronic mail address
4. Photograph
5. Date and place of birth
6. Major field of study
7. Dates of attendance
8. Grade level
9. Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
10. Weight and height of members of athletic teams
11. Degrees, honors, and awards received
12. The most recent educational agency or institution attended
6. These laws are: Section 9528 pf the ESEA (20 U.S.C. 7908), as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (P.L. 107-110), the Education bill, and 10 U.S.C. 503, as amended by section 544, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 202 (P.L. 107-107), the legislation that provides funding for the Nation’s Armed Forces.
EDUCATIONAL EQUITY POLICY STATEMENT: GENERAL EDUCATION PROVISIONS (GEPA) Section 427 Assurances:
1. It is the policy of the Plankinton School District 01-1 not to discriminate on the basis of gender, race, national origin, creed, age, marital status, or disabliity in its education programs, activities, or employment policies as required by the Individuals Disabilities Educationall Act of 1997 (IDEA), Title VI and VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, Title IX of the 1972 Educational Amendments and Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
2. The Plankinton School District has developed and implemented required policies and procedures under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and other applicable state and federal rules and acts so as to meet the requirements of this Act and to assure equitable access to, and participation in the proposed grant activities conducted with federal funds. Potential barriers that can impede equitable access to and participation in these programs include gender, race, national origin, color, disability or age.
3. Individuals who are members of special populations will be provided with equal access to enrollment and placement in educational programs available to individuals who are not members of special populations, including specific courses, comprehensive career guidance and counseling services, and shall not be discriminated against on the basis of their status as members of special populations.
4. Descriptions of the steps the Plankinton School District will employ to overcome these barriers are as follows:
1. Ensuring accessibility of facilities and programs for all students by eliminating natural barriers for the enhancement of mobility and accessibility.
2. Ensuring special education evaluations and placement options for students are based on individual needs.
3. Teaching students in the least restrictive environments.
4. Providing academic adjustments and modifications in curriculum and instruction.
5. Providing related services such as occupational and physical therapy services, transportation, etc., enhance participation in programs.
6. Monitoring student suspension and expulsion practice for students with disabilities.
7. Equipment adaptation to ensure special population students can use equipment appropriately.
5. Inquiries regarding compliance with the above may be directed to the special education coordinator, Title IX coordinator (Guidance Counselor), and administrator or referred to the Regional Director, Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights, 1244 Spear Blvd., Suite 310. Denver, CO 80202-3582
(Adapted by the Board of Education: June 15, 2002)
TECHNOLOGY USAGE AGREEMENT:
Overview
Every Plankinton High Student will have the opportunity to have web space through the state of South Dakota. This web space is given to students so they may have the opportunity to practice creating web sites for school purposes.
Student Responsibilities
Students who decide to create web sites must adhere to the following rules:
• Everything that is placed on the website must be school appropriate. No inappropriate pictures or language
• Students must try to avoid putting personal information on their website. Try to avoid placing last names, addresses, family information, and any other information that might give an individual the chance to stalk or attack one of Plankinton students.
• Students must be respectful of other students on their web sites. No information should be placed on his or her website that might embarrass or hurt another student.
Teacher and Administration Rights
It is the right of any teacher or administrator at Plankinton School to pull a student website off the Internet if they feel that there is inappropriate information on the web site. This is for the protection of the student and school. State officials do monitor these web sites and rules must be followed by the school to ensure proper student conduct.
ACCEPTABLE NETWORK AND INTERNET USE POLICY:
Introduction
The Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), 47 U.S.C. §254(h)(5) require public schools to implement certain measures and actions to ensure that students are restricted from accessing inappropriate materials online using school-owned computers. This District’s Acceptable Network and Internet Use Policy (hereinafter “AUP”) is intended to set forth the specific obligations and responsibilities of all users, including students and staff, who access the District’s Network, and to ensure such use complies with the CIPA requirements.
“Network” is defined as any and all District owned computers, servers, hardware or software, the District’s local area network, wireless access points, the Internet, Internet 2, the District intranet, email, chat rooms, other forms of direct electronic communications or other communications equipment provided by the District regardless of the physical location of the user. This AUP applies even when District provided equipment (laptops, tablets, etc.) is used on or off premises of District property.
Acceptable Use
The Network may be used only as a tool to support and advance the functions of the District as well as its curriculum and educational programs. Access to the District’s Network is a privilege and not a right. Users of the Network are responsible for their behavior and communications over the Network and access to Network services will be provided only to those staff and students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner and in accordance with the District’s Internet Safety Policy and this AUP.
Students may use the Network only in support of educational activities consistent with the educational objectives of the District. Faculty and staff may use the Network primarily in support of education and research consistent with the educational objectives of the District. Faculty and staff may access the Network for limited personal use but not for any commercial or business use; however, such personal use may not violate any applicable rules and regulations or applicable administrative procedures or interfere with job performance. Use of the Network must be in compliance with applicable laws, including all copyright laws and all materials on the Network should be presumed to be copyrighted.
All members of the staff who wish to use the Network must sign this AUP whenever requested by the District, to confirm that the staff person has read and understands this policy and agrees to abide by it. Each student must sign this AUP annually to confirm that the student has read and understands this policy and agrees to abide by it. Students who are under 18 must have their parents or guardians sign this AUP and submit it to the District.
Network Etiquette
Users are expected to abide by generally accepted rules of network etiquette (netiquette). These include but are not limited to:
A. Be polite. Do not send or encourage others to send messages that are abusive or otherwise fall in the definition of Prohibited Use in Section IV.
B. Use appropriate language. Remember you are a representative of your school on a non-private network. You may be alone on a computer but what you write can be viewed around the world. Do not swear, use vulgarities or any other inappropriate language.
C. All communications and information accessible via the Network should be considered private property that you cannot appropriate for your own use without appropriate attribution and consent.
Prohibited Use
The District reserves the absolute right to define prohibited use of the Network, adopt rules and regulations applicable to Network use, determine whether an activity constitutes a prohibited use of the Network, and determine the consequence of such inappropriate use. Prohibited use includes but is not limited to the following:
A. Violating any state or federal law or municipal ordinance, such as: Accessing or transmitting pornography of any kind, obscene depictions, harmful materials, materials that encourage others to violate the law, confidential information or copyrighted materials;
B. Criminal activities that can be punished under law;
C. Selling or purchasing illegal items or substances;
D. The unauthorized collection of email addresses (“harvesting”) of e-mail addresses from the Global Address List and other District directories;
E. Obtaining and/or using anonymous email sites; spamming; spreading viruses;
F. Circumvention of the District’s Technology Protection Measure/filter to access blocked sites;
G. Disclosure of minors’ personal information without proper authorization;
H. Students’ disclosure of personal information such as the student’s name, address, phone number, password or social security number, to other users when engaging in online activities including but not limited to chat rooms, email, social networking web sites
I. Causing harm to others or damage to their property, such as:
1. Using profane, abusive, or impolite language; threatening, harassing, bullying or making damaging or false statements about others or accessing, transmitting, or downloading offensive, harassing, or disparaging materials;
2. Deleting, copying, modifying, or forging other users' names, emails, files, or data; disguising one's identity, impersonating other users, or sending anonymous email;
3. Damaging computer equipment, files, data or the network in any way, including intentionally accessing, transmitting or downloading computer viruses or other harmful files or programs, or disrupting any computer system performance;
4. Using any District computer to pursue “hacking,” internal or external to the District, or attempting to access information protected by privacy laws; or
5. Accessing, transmitting or downloading large files, including "chain letters" or any type of "pyramid schemes".
J. Engaging in uses that jeopardize access or lead to unauthorized access into others’ accounts or other computer networks, such as:
1. Using another’s account password(s) or identifier(s);
2. Interfering with other users' ability to access their account(s); or
3. Disclosing your own or anyone’s password to others or allowing them to use your or another’s account(s).
K. Using the network or Internet for Commercial purposes:
1. Using the Internet for personal financial gain;
2. Using the Internet for personal advertising, promotion, or financial gain; or
3. Conducting for-profit business activities and/or engaging in nongovernment
related fundraising or public relations activities such as solicitation for
religious purposes, lobbying for personal political purposes.
Off-Premise Use of Network
Students enrolled within the Plankinton School District should only access District-assigned email accounts and/or other Network components including but not limited to school-assigned computers such as laptops, tablets or e-readers off of District premises if a parent or legal guardian supervises their usage at all times. The student’s parent or guardian is responsible for monitoring the minor’s off-premise use of the Network and ensuring such use complies with this AUP.
Disclaimer
The District makes no guarantees about the quality of the services provided and is not responsible for any claims, losses, damages, costs, or other obligations arising from use of the Network or accounts. Any additional charges a user accrues due to the use of the District’s network are to be borne by the user. The District also denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of the information obtained through user access. Any statement, accessible on the computer network or the Internet, is understood to be the author's individual point of view and not that of the District, its affiliates, or employees.
Enforcement
Prohibited use of the Network may, for students, result in disciplinary action up to and including suspension or expulsion from school or, for employees, suspension or termination of employment. Where circumstances warrant, prohibited use of the Network may be referred to law enforcement authorities.
When a school administrator has a reasonable belief that a student has violated a school rule, policy or the law, and there are facts and inferences that would cause a reasonable person to suspect that a search of the student’s personal technology device(s) will reveal evidence of a violation of said school rule, policy or the law, the administrator shall have the authority to search such device, provided that the scope of the search relates to the suspected violation giving rise to the reasonable suspicion.
DISTANCE LEARNING:
1. Because distance education demands a maturity level and dedication beyond what is necessary under normal circumstances, good behavior, a cooperative attitude and a serious dedication to learning are expected of all students wishing to participate in e-learning courses. This contract is intended to make the expectations we have for students clear to all: the students, their parents, and the local school district administrators.
2. As a student, participating in a DDN/Internet-based course offered I agree to:
1. Be respectful of my fellow students, the E-mentor and the Master Teacher.
2. Refrain from disruptive behavior that would interfere with teaching and learning in the classroom or online, such as using inappropriate language or gestures; creating distracting noises
3. Participating in cheating or plagiarism
4. Leaving or entering the classroom without the E-mentor’s approval.
5. Treat computers, other equipment, and educational materials with care and use them only for the work for which they are intended.
6. Follow all classroom procedures as explained by the Master Teacher and E-mentor. These include, but are not limited to: sitting within camera view at all times
7. abiding by your school’s Internet policies
8. Keeping your login and password for the WebCT course site private.
3. The consequences that will result from failure to abide by these policies are:
1. FIRST OFFENSE:
The student will be given a verbal warning and informed that his/her behavior is inappropriate.
2. SECOND OFFENSE:
The student will be informed that his/her behavior is inappropriate, and a letter explaining the incident will be sent to the parents/guardians through the student’s principal. The parents will be informed that a repeat offense will result in loss of the privilege of participating in the course.
3. THIRD OFFENSE:
The student will be removed from the course permanently and will receive no credit for the
class.
4. SEVERE MISCONDUCT may result in immediate dismissal from the class and disciplinary action according to the school district’s policies. Because of the remote delivery of this instruction, by necessity, the administrators and the on-site E-mentor have the ultimate responsibility for monitoring the students’ behavior and assuring their compliance with the district’s regulations and the above-stated behavior standards.
TABLET POLICIES, PROCEDURES, AND INFORMATION:
The focus of the One-to-One Tablet Program at Plankinton Junior/Senior High is to prepare students for their future, a world of digital technology and information. Excellence in education requires that technology be seamlessly integrated throughout the educational program. Individual use of the tablet is a way to empower students to learn to their full potential and to prepare them for the real world of college and the workplace. Tablets encourage students to solve problems and think critically by stimulating analytical thinking.
The policies, procedures and information within this section of the handbook apply to all tablets and other forms of technology used on or off premise of the Plankinton School District. All users of technology will be informed of expectations, responsibilities and consequences related to technology prior to gaining access to the equipment. Tablets refers to Chromebooks, PC;s etc.
Teachers may set additional requirements for technology use in the classroom.
RECEIVING YOUR TABLET
1. Tablets will be distributed each fall on a date designated by the administration. Parents will attend a Parents’ Night prior to school each year. At this meeting, school personnel will present information on Internet safety and the use of the tablet.
2. Parents and students must sign and return the Use of Technology Student Agreement and Parent Approval Form.
3. Students will return their tablets at the end of each school year for maintenance, cleaning and software installations.
4. Students will retain their original tablet each year while enrolled at Plankinton High School.
TAKING CARE OF YOUR TABLET:
Students are responsible for the general care of the tablet they have been issued by the school. Tablets that are broken or fail to work properly must be taken to the principal.
General Precautions:
• No food or drink is allowed next to your tablet while it is in use.
• Cords, cables, and removable storage devices must be inserted carefully into the tablet.
• Students should never carry their tablets while the screen is open, unless directed to do so by a teacher.
• Tablets should be shut down before moving them to conserve battery life and prevent overheating.
• Tablets must remain free of any writing, drawing, stickers, or labels that are not the property of Plankinton School District.
• Tablets must never be left in a car or any unsupervised area.
• Students are responsible for keeping their tablet’s battery charged for school each day.
Carrying Tablets:
• The protective cases proved with the tablets have sufficient padding to protect the tablet from normal treatment and provide a suitable means for caring the tablet. The guidelines below are to be followed:
• Tablets should always be within the protective case when carried.
• Carrying cases may hold lightweight objects, such as notebooks, but these must be kept to a minimum to avoid placing too much pressure and weight on the tablet screen.
• Students are NOT to place books within the carrying cases.
• The tablet must be turned off before placing it in the carrying case to avoid overheating.
Screen Care:
• The tablet screens can be damaged if subjected to rough treatment. The screens are particularly sensitive to damage from excess pressure on the screen.
• Do not lean on the top of the tablet when it is closed.
• Do not pace anything on the tablet that could put pressure on the screen.
• Do not place anything in the carrying case that will press against the tablet.
• Do not poke or write on the school with anything other than the tool provided.
• Do not place anything on the keyboard before closing the lid (e.g., pens, pencils or disks)
• Clean the screen with a soft, dry cloth or anti-static cloth.
USING YOUR TABLET AT SCHOOL:
Tablets are intended for the use at school each day. In addition to teacher expectations for tablet use, school messages, announcements, calendars and schedules will be accessed using the tablet. Students must be responsible to bring their tablet to all classes.
Tablet Undergoing Repair:
• Loaner tablets may be issued to students during the time their tablet is undergoing repair.
Charging The Tablet’s Battery:
• Tablets must be brought to school each day in a fully charged condition. Students need to charge their tablets each evening. Repeat violation of this policy will result in disciplinary action.
• In cases where the use of the tablet has caused batteries to become discharged, students may be able to connect their tablets to a power outlet in class if it does not interfere with traffic flow within the classroom.
Screensavers:
• Screensavers may be used as long as they are deemed appropriate. Inappropriate media may not be used as a screen saver. Presence of guns, weapons, pornographic materials, inappropriate language, alcohol, drugs, gang related symbols or pictures will result in disciplinary actions.
• Passwords on screensavers are not to be used.
• Hard drive passwords are forbidden, if used, students may be responsible for the cost of replacement hardware.
Sound:
• Sound must be muted at all times unless permission is obtained from the teacher for instructional purpose.
Printing:
• Students may use any printer listed on their print menu, but they need to be aware of the printer they are using and retrieve any printed materials.
• Permission to print must be obtained from the classroom teacher.
MANAGING YOUR FILES AND SAVING YOUR WORK:
Saving to My Documents:
• Students will log into the school’s network in order to back up their work. Students will have their own user account and folder on the network with ample space to back up any school-related work.
• Tablets will be set up with a My Documents folder in which student should save their work.
• Only files stored in My Documents will be automatically backed up and saved. Student work saved to a different location on the tablet will not be saved to the high school server.
Saving Data to Removable Storage Devices:
• Students should also backup all their work at least once per week using a removable file storage. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that work is not lost due to mechanical failure or accidental deletion. Tablet malfunctions are not an acceptable excuse for not submitting work.
SOFTWARE ON TABLETS:
Originally Installed Software:
• The software originally installed by the Plankinton School District must remain on the laptop in usable condition and be easily accessible at all times.
• Additional software may be added by the District for a specific course as needed.
Virus Protection:
• The tablet has anti-virus protection software. This software will scan the hard drive and floppy drive for known viruses on boot up. The virus software will be upgraded from the network. The school’s storage server is also installed with virus protection software and hardware.
Additional Software:
• Students will not be able to run additional software on their tablets. The software necessary for educational purposes has been identified by the administration and staff and has been loaded on all student tablets.
Inspection:
• Students may be selected at random to provide their laptops for inspection.
Procedure for re-loading software:
• If technical difficulties occur or illegal software is discovered, the technology coordinator will copy all files in the My Documents folder. The hard drive will then be re-formatted. Authorized software will be installed and the data files reinstated in the My Documents folder. The school does not accept responsibility for the loss of any software deleted due to a re-format or re-image.
PROTECTING AND STORING YOUR TABLET:
Tablet Identification:
• Student tablets will be labeled in the manner specified by the school.
• Tablets will be identified through their recorded serial number and by individual user account name and password.
Storing Your Tablet:
• When students are not monitoring tablets they should be stored in their lockers. Nothing should be placed on the top of the tablet when placed in the locker.
• Students must take their tablets home every day after school, regardless of whether or not they are needed.
• Tablets are not to be stored in the student’s vehicle at school or at home.
Tablets Left in Unsupervised Areas:
• Under no circumstances should tablets be left in unsupervised areas. Unsupervised areas include hallways, bathrooms, and outside; any computer left in these areas is in danger of being stolen.
• Unsupervised tablets will be confiscated by staff and taken to the Principal’s Office.
REPAIRING OR REPLACING YOUR TABLET:
Warranty:
• The student’s computer is under warranty. This warrants the tablets from defects in materials and workmanship. This limited warranty covers normal use, mechanical breakdown or faulty construction and will provide replacement parts necessary to repair the tablet or tablet replacement. The warranty does not warrant against damage caused by misuse, abuse, or computer viruses. Please report all tablet problems to the technology coordinator.
Accident Damage Protection:
• The tablets are covered against accidental damage. This includes liquid spills, accidental drops, power surges, and natural disasters. The coverage does not provide for damage caused by fire, theft, loss, misuse, intentional or frequent damage or cosmetic damage. The technology coordinators will assess the tablet damage and the machine will be repaired or replaced at no cost if the damage is determined to be accidental, infrequent, and within the coverage guidelines. Please report any tablet problems to the high school principal.
VIDEO SURVEILLANCE REGULATIONS
The School Board authorizes the use of video surveillance equipment on School District property to enhance the safety of students and others on school premises and to deter inappropriate behavior.
In dealing with surveillance of students and employees, the board recognizes both its obligation to provide appropriate levels of supervision in the interests of safety and the fact that students and employees have privacy rights that are reduced, but no eliminated while under the supervision of the school. Thus video surveillance, like other forms of supervision, must be carried out in a way that respects privacy rights.
A video recording is subject to the provisions of the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
USE:
Video surveillance cameras may be used to monitor and/or record in locations authorized by the school principal or the officials of the school district. Public notification signs must be prominently displayed, indication the use of video surveillance.
Video surveillance is not to be ordinarily used in locations where appropriate confidential or private activities/functions are routinely carried out (e.g., bathrooms, private conference/meeting rooms). The Superintendent of Schools or designee must authorize any exceptions to this on the grounds that no other supervision option is feasible and that the pressing need outweighs the privacy interest of the student or other person likely to be observed. Surveillance of such locations may not be authorized on an ongoing basis.
SECURITY:
Only a designated employee or agent of the School District will install surveillance cameras. Only designated school officials shall have access to the camera equipment and operations system. For the purpose of this policy, school officials are school administrators or school employees designated by school administrators and school resource officers. Only these school officials shall handle the camera or copies of video segments. Video copies shall be stored in a secure area. Video copies may never be sold, publicly viewed or distributed in any fashion except as approved for by this policy and/or relevant legislation.
VIEWING OF VIDEO RECORDINGS:
Video monitors used to view video recordings should not be located in a position that enables public viewing. Video recordings may only be viewed by school administrators, school officials, or school staff members with a direct involvement with the recorded contents of the specific video recording or employees or agents responsible for the technical operation of the system (for technical purpose only).
USE OF VIDEO RECORDINGS FOR DISCIPLINARY ACTION:
Video recordings may be used as a basis for student or employee disciplinary action. Video surveillance recordings involving students are considered to be educational records under FERPA. Therefore, consent must be given in order to disclose information contained on video recordings obtained through video surveillance, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. Viewing may be refused or limited where viewing would be an unreasonable invasion of a third party’s personal privacy, give rise to a concern for the safety of a third party or where protected from disclosure by law. All viewing requests must be submitted in writing.
RETENTION OF VIDEO RECORDINGS:
A copy of a video recording shall be made when an incident results in a long-term suspension, a student injury, or there is a prospect of a legal claim against the District. The copy of the video recording shall be sent to the Superintendent or designee to be kept in a secure location. If a recording is used in the making of a decision about a student or employee, the recording must be kept for a minimum of one year, unless earlier erasure is authorized by or on behalf of the individual or the relevant appeals periods have expired.
Video recordings shall be maintained for a least two weeks and then erased unless they are being retained as indicated in the preceding paragraph or at the request of the school principal.
REVIEW:
Each school principal is responsible for the proper implementations and control of the video surveillance system. The Superintendent of School or designee shall conduct an annual review to ensure that this policy and procedures are being followed.
PUBLIC COMPLAINTS ABOUT SCHOOL PERSONNEL:
The District welcomes constructive criticism of the school program, policy or with respect to a school employee when the criticism is motivated by a sincere desire to improve the quality of education within the District.
The purpose of this policy is to outline a procedure for addressing parent/public complaints about an employee’s conduct, performance, or administration or curricular, co-curricular, or extra-curricular program. A complaint is an alleged violation, misinterpretation or inequitable application of any existing policies, rules, or regulations of the School District by School District personnel (Administrator, teacher, paraprofessional, etc).**NOTE : Sexual harassment complaints are addressed through the Policy Prohibiting Sexual Harassment and not the Parent/Public Complaint Policy. Additionally, complaints against certified employees may be filed with the Professional Practices Commission, South Dakota Department of Education and Cultural Affairs, Pierre, South Dakota, based on an allegation the employee violated the certified school employee (teacher or administrator) Code of Professional Ethics.
INFORMAL COMPLAINT PROCEDURE
It is belief of the Board that often times complaints arise as the result of a misunderstanding, which may be resolved through the mutual efforts of the person having the complaint and the employee involved. For that reason, every effort should be made by parties involved to resolve the complaint at the lowest procedural level.
When a complaint against a school or employee is brought directly to the administration, Board or an individual Board member, the person shall be directed to the procedure as set fourth below. The following procedure is designed to ensure the proper balance in protecting the rights of the person(s) bringing forth the complaint and rights or the persons against whom the complaint is made. It is only when the complaint cannot be mutually resolved at the complainant/employee level that the formal complaint procedure might be initiated.
COMPLAINT PROCEDURE
Level One:
A person having a complaint with respect to a school employee shall meet and discuss the complaint with the employee involved. If either party wishes the presence of an impartial third party, one will be appointed by the superintendent. An example of an impartial third party would be the schools business manager or the guidance counselor. Such a request shall to be submitted to the superintendent in writing prior to the meeting.
Level Two:
A. If the meeting between the person having the complaint and the employee does not resolve the complaint, the person having the complaint shall submit the complaint in writing to the principal (Appendix A –Complaint Form). The person making the complaint shall, with specificity, identify:
1. The employee involved
2. What the problem is
3. Who was offended by the employee’s conduct
4. When the problem started
5. What transpired at the meeting held pursuant to Level One or if no meeting was held an explanation as to why it was not held
6. What the person filing the complaint requests as a resolution to the complaint, and
7. Any other pertinent facts, such as witnesses, location of the incident giving rise to the complaint, etc.
B. The principal will provide a copy of the complaint to the employee involved. The employee shall, within 5 school days, provide the principal with a written response to the complaint. The person filing the complaint shall receive a copy of the employee response.
C. The principal will schedule a meeting between the complainant, employee, and principal, with the meeting to be held within 10 school days of the complaint receiving a copy of the employee’s response.
D. Within 10 school days after the meeting between the complainant, employee, and principal, the principal shall make a determination as to the merits of the complaint and administrative resolution. The person filing the complaint and the employee shall receive written notification of the principal’s determination/resolution.
E. If the complainant or employee is dissatisfied with the principal’s determination/resolution, he or she may, within 10 days of receiving the principal’s written decision, appeal the decision to the Superintendent of Schools. The appeal shall be in writing. (Appendix B – Appeal to Superintendent.)
Level Three:
A. The Superintendent shall review documentation relative to the appeal and at his or her discretion, may:
1. Meet with the complainant and employee, or
2. Meet with the complainant, employee and principal, or
3. Discuss the matter with the principal, and
4. Uphold, reverse, or modify the principal’s decision based on the record (i.e.: the written complaint, employee response, and principal’s written determination) or refer the matter directly to the Board.
B. Within 15 school days from the date the appeal was filed with the Superintendent, the Superintendent shall in writing, with copies provided to the complainant, employee and principal, either uphold, reverse or modify the principal’s decision, or give notice the matter has been referred to the Board.
C. Should the complainant or employee be dissatisfied with the Superintendent’s decision, he or she may appeal the decision to the Board of Education. The appeal shall be in writing (Appendix C – Appeal to Board of Education) and must be filed with the Business Manager within 10 school days of the Superintendent’s decision being received.
Level Four:
A. Upon receipt of an appeal to the Board, the Board, at its next regularly scheduled meeting shall:
1. Schedule a hearing before the entire Board or
2. Appoint as an Appeal Board a sufficient number of Board members necessary to conduct official business who shall be responsible for scheduling and conducting the hearing.
B. The following procedure shall be applicable at a Board hearing:
1. The hearing shall be in executive session.
2. Both parties have the right to be represented at the hearing.
3. The issue on appeal is whether the Superintendent’s decision should be upheld, reversed, or modified.
4. Both parties shall be given the opportunity to make an opening statement, with the part appealing the Superintendent’s decision being given first opportunity.
5. The party appealing the Superintendent’s decision shall present his or her case, followed by the other party. Both parties shall have the opportunity to ask questions of the other’s witnesses.
6. The Board may ask questions of any witness, or may ask the principal and/or Superintendent questions, in order to attempt to get a better understanding prior to making any decision on the complaint.
7. Both parties shall be given the opportunity to make a closing statement, with the party appealing the Superintendent’s decision being given the first opportunity.
8. After the evidentiary portion of the hearing, everyone will be directed to leave the room except for the Board (and the Board’s legal counsel if applicable) and the Board will review the evidence presented.
9. The Board will reconvene in open session and a motion to uphold, reverse, or modify the Superintendent’s decision shall be made and voted upon. (The Board may in its discretion continue the proceedings and make a decision at a later date). The finding and decision consistent with the Board motion shall be in writing and the complainant, employee, Principal and Superintendent will receive copies after the same are approved by the Board at the next subsequent Board meeting.
C. Any party dissatisfied with the Board’s decision may appeal the decision by filing an appeal to
circuit court pursuant to SDCL 13-46-1.
NOTE:
Should the complaint be against a Principal, the procedure as set forth in Level 1 and Level 2 shall be followed. The Superintendent shall be the administrator at Level 2 addressing the complaint, and an appeal of the Superintendent’s decision may be filed with the Board pursuant to Level 3C.
Should the complaint be against the Superintendent, the procedure as set forth in Level 1 and Level 2 shall be followed. The Board will designate one or more other administrators to be the administrator addressing the complaint, at Level 2, and an appeal of the administrative decision may be filed with the Board as pursuant to Level 3C. (The administrator(s) assigned may be from a neighboring school District, a retired administrator, etc.).
COMPLAINT POLICY FOR FEDERAL PROGRAMS
A parent, student, employee, or district stakeholder who has a complaint regarding the use of federal NCLB funds and is unable to solve the issue, may address the complaint in writing to the District’s Federal Programs Director.
Disputes addressing the enrollment, transportation (including inter-district disputes), and other barriers to the education of children and youth experiencing homelessness are addressed under this procedure. Parents, guardians, and unaccompanied youth may initiate the dispute resolution process directly at the school they choose, as well as at the district or district’s homeless liaison’s office. The parent, guardian, or unaccompanied youth shall be provided with a written explanation of the school’s decision including the rights of the parent, guardian, or youth to appeal the decision. Students should be provided with all services for which they are eligible while disputes are resolved.
• The District’s Federal Programs Director will investigate, within one week, the circumstances of the complaint and render a decision, within two weeks, after receipt of the complaint.
• The District’s Federal Programs Director will notify the complainant of the decision in writing.
• The complainant will be allowed one week to react to the decision before it becomes final.
• The complainant will either accept or disagree with the decision and will provide such acknowledgment in writing, addressed to the District’s Federal Programs Director.
• If the issue is not resolved with the District’s Federal Programs Director, the complaint will be forwarded to the Superintendent, who will investigate, within one week, the circumstances of the complaint and render a decision, within two weeks, after the receipt of the complaint.
• The Superintendent will notify the complainant and the District’s Federal Programs Director, of the decision in writing. The complainant will be allowed one week to react to the decision and will provide such acknowledgement in writing, addressed to the District’s Superintendent.
• If the issue is not resolved with the superintendent, the complaint will be forwarded to the district’s Board of Education for further review. The parent, guardian, or unaccompanied youth shall be provided with a written explanation of the district’s decision including the rights of the parent, guardian, or youth to appeal the decision.
Unresolved complaints may be forwarded by the stakeholder to the South Dakota Department of Education for review. (Consult SD Department of Education Complaint Procedure)
Enrollment, Transportation, School of Origin, and the Elimination of Barriers for Children or Youth Experiencing Homelessness including Unaccompanied Youth
The Plankinton School District Policy is to:
• Ensure the immediate enrollment of children or youth experiencing homelessness until all enrollment records may be secured, i.e. academic records, medical records, proof of residency, or other documentation.
• Keep a child or youth experiencing homelessness in the school of origin, except when doing so is contrary to the wishes of the child’s or youth’s parent or guardian
• Ensure the elimination of stigmatization or segregated services and the elimination of other identified barriers for homeless children and youth
• Provide children or youth experiencing homelessness with services comparable to services offered to other students in the school including the following”
o Transportation services
o Educational services for which the child or youth meets the eligibility criteria, such as services provided under Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 or similar State or local programs, educational programs for children with disabilities, and educational programs for students with limited English proficiency.
o Programs in vocational and technical education
o Programs for gifted and talented students
o School nutrition programs
STUDENT/PARENT/TEACHER CONTRACT
WORKING TOGETHER TO BUILD EXCELLENCE
AS A STUDENT, I WILL:
➢ Always try to do my best in my work and in my behavior
➢ Work cooperatively with my classmates
➢ Show respect for myself, my school, and other people
➢ Obey the school and bus rules
➢ Take pride in my school
➢ Come to school with my homework completed
➢ Believe in myself and my ability to learn
AS A PARENT/GUARDIAN, I WILL:
➢ See that my child attends school regularly and on time
➢ Provide a home environment and routine that encourages my child to learn
➢ Insist that all homework assignments are completed
➢ Communicate regularly with my child’s teacher
➢ Support the school in developing positive behaviors
➢ Talk with my child about his/her school activities every day
➢ Encourage my child to read at home
➢ Monitor the amount and type of television my child watches
➢ Monitor the amount and type of video games my child plays
➢ Volunteer time at my child’s school
➢ Show respect and support for my child, the teacher, and the school
AS A TEACHER, I WILL:
➢ Believe that each student can learn
➢ Show respect for each student and his/her family
➢ Come to class prepared to teach
➢ Provide an environment that promotes learning
➢ Help each child grow to his/her fullest potential
➢ Provide meaningful and appropriate homework activities
➢ Enforce school and classroom rules fairly and consistently
➢ Maintain open lines of communication with each student and his/her family
➢ Seek ways to involve parents in the school program and to provide support to parents in their child’s learning
➢ Demonstrate professional behavior and a positive attitude
AS THE DISTRICT, WE WILL:
➢ Provide curriculum that offers students with a variety of classes in which to meet the District’s expectations of 23 ¼ units of credit for graduation, as well as the criteria set forth by the State of South Dakota for the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship.
➢ Provide curriculum that meets and/or exceeds South Dakota State standards
➢ Hold parent/teacher conferences once per semester
➢ Provide parents with information pertaining to their child’s progress through end of the quarter/semester report cards and progress reports which will be sent home during mid – quarter for students in grades Pre K- 4 and every three-weeks for students in grades 5-12
➢ Provide parents with the opportunity to access student grades through Parent Portal
➢ Maintain an “open-door” policy, encouraging parents to visit the classroom
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much”
― Helen Keller
INDEX
|7-12 Absenteeism Policy |5 |Lockers and Desks |11 |
|Absences |6 |Lunch |22 |
|Academic, Attendance and Conduct |26 |Make-Up Slips |7 |
|Acceptable Network and Internet Policy |31 |Medical Emergencies |10 |
|Activities Conduct Code |25 |Medication |10 |
|Activities Transportation Policy |24 |Mission |3 |
|Activity Tickets |24 |Motorized Vehicles |8 |
|Add/Drop |17 |MVP Academic Eligibility Policy |26 |
|Asbestos |4 |MVP Student Drug and Alcohol Policy |25 |
|Athletic Activities During the School Year |27 |National Honor Society |21 |
|Attendance |5 |NCAA Freshman-Eligibility Standards |21 |
|Band Instrument Rental |8 |Outstanding Senior Athletic Criteria |27 |
|Beliefs |3 |Parent Right to Know |4 |
|Bus Guidelines |22 |Parent Visitation |8 |
|Care of School Property |11 |Parking |8 |
|Cell Phones/Beepers/Pagers |11 |Permission to Leave |7 |
|Church Night |8 |Picking Up/Dropping Off |7 |
|Co-Curricular/Extra Curricular Activities |26 |Progress Reports |17 |
|Complaint Policy for Federal Programs |41 |Public Complaints about School Personnel |39 |
|Compliance Assurance |4 |Release Time |8 |
|Criteria for Academic Lettering |27 |Report Cards |16 |
|Criteria for Earning a Activity Award |27 |School Dress |9 |
|Dangerous Weapons in School |14 |School Hours |4 |
|Deficiencies |17 |School Report Card |3 |
|Detention |13 |Semester Test Exemptions |17 |
|Discipline – Cyber Bullying |15 |Sickness During the School Day |9 |
|Distance Learning |34 |Staff Workroom |9 |
|District Goals |3 |Student Activities |25 |
|Duel Credit |18 |Student Discipline – Bully Prevention |14 |
|Equity Policy Statement – GEPA |30 |Student Health |9 |
|Family Education Rights and Privacy (FERPA) |29 |Student Misconduct/Severe Disruption |12 |
|FERPA – Directory Information |29 |Student Release from School Transportation |24 |
|General Policy |4 |Student Spectator Conduct |24 |
|Grading Scale |16 |Student/Parent/Teacher Contract | 43 |
|Graduation Requirements |18 |Study Hall Rules |12 |
|Gum, Seeds, and Candy |9 |Suspension |13 |
|Harassment |14 |Table of Content |2 |
|Homeless Policy |42 |Tablet Policies, Procedures and Information |34 |
|Honor Roll |16 |Tardies |6 |
|Hours for Athletes |25 |Technology Usage |31 |
|Index |44 |Truancy |7 |
|Individual Student Records |17 |Unexcused Absences |6 |
|Late Homework Policy |17 |Video Surveillance Regulations |38 |
|Late Start/Early Dismissal/Cancellation |4 |Vision |3 |
|Library Policy |11 |Zero Tolerance |23 |
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