TABLE OF CONTENTS
Southern Wells Elementary
Student Handbook
Table of Contents
|WELCOME |Page 2 |
|Mission Statement | |
|SCHEDULES |Page 3 |
|FACULTY & STAFF |Page 4 |
|GENERAL SCHOOL PROCEDURES |Pages 4-7 |
|What S.W. expects from Students, Where to Go For, Students to the Office, Telephone Use, Substitute Teachers, Academic Honor | |
|Roll, Parent-Teacher Conferences, Decorations and Posters, Personal Property & Valuables, Care of School Property, Official | |
|Enrollment of Students, Visitors, Field Trips, Accidents and Insurance, Before/After-School Hours, Collection of Debts, | |
|Kindergarten, Cell Phone Content & Display, Lunch Procedure | |
|SERVICES FOR STUDENTS |Pages 7-9 |
|Grading System, Help from Teachers, Guidance Services, School Records and Transcript, Health Services, Procedures if Ill or | |
|Injured, Student Privacy, Lost and Found, Parent Newsletters, Textbooks, Instruments, and School Property | |
|ATTENDANCE REGULATIONS/PROCEDURES |Pages 10-11 |
|Tardies, Early Dismissal, Unexcused absences, Homework during absence | |
|Good Attendance, Attendance Policy | |
|DISCIPLINE POLICY/REGULATIONS |Pages 11-20 |
|Discipline and Desirable Behavior, Due Process, Authority of Adults, Student Rights and Responsibilities, Disciplinary Referrals | |
|to an Administrator, Disciplinary Actions Guidelines, Disciplinary Actions That May Be Used, Student Behavior Code (Dress Code, | |
|Lockers, etc.), Riding A School Bus, Policy for Legal Authorities Questioning Students, Use and Inspection of Lockers, | |
|Technology Guidelines, Playground Rules | |
|EXTRACURRICULAR PROGRAM |Pages 20-21 |
|General Information/Guidelines, Fund Raising, Requirements to Participate in Extracurricular Activities, Classroom Conduct of | |
|Extracurricular Participants, School Sponsored Trips, Athletic Opportunities, Participation in Athletics, Red-Shirting, | |
|KINDERGARTEN DISCIPLINE PLAN (Appendix A) |Page 21-22 |
|FIRST GRADE DISCIPLINE PLAN (Appendix B) |Page 22 |
|RAIDER CARD PLAN (Grades 2-6) (Appendix C) |Page 23 |
|RAIDER CODE |Pages 23-26 |
|Discipline Committee, Raider Code, How to qualify for Raider Card, Yearly Incentives, Lunchroom Guidelines, Classroom rules, Zero| |
|Tolerance, Hallway rules, Classroom Consequences, Administrative Consequences | |
SOUTHERN WELLS COMMUNITY SCHOOLS DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE, DENY BENEFITS TO, NOR EXCLUDE ANYONE FROM PARTICIPATION ON THE BASIS OF SEX, RACE, NATIONAL ORIGIN, RELIGION, HANDICAP, OR LIMITED ENGLISH PROFICIENCY
[pic] SWES Mission Statement[pic]
The staff of Southern Wells Elementary School believes that every child can learn and has worth and dignity. We believe that school must be a safe and enjoyable place where children are challenged to be responsible and learn to their fullest potential. We will successfully fulfill our vision through teacher example, involvement, and partnership with parents and community.
SCHOOL COLORS: Red, White, and Royal Blue
SCHOOL MASCOT: Raiders
SCHOOL MOTTO: Respect and Responsibility
STUDENT MOTTO: Don’t Hide Your Raider Pride
[pic]
Schedules
School Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 2:55 p.m.
Office Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Elementary School Day for Grades K-6
7:50-8:00 Students Arrive
8:00 Class Bell
2:52 K-3 Dismissal (and car riders)
2:55 4-6 Dismissal
REGULAR SCHEDULE
Lunch Schedule: Special Class:
10:50 to 11:20 1st Grade 6: 8:05-8:50 Art, PE, Music
11:00 to 11:30 2nd Grade 5: 8:50-9:35 Art, PE, Music
11:10 to 11:40 K Grade 4 9:40-10:25 Art, PE, Music
11:20 to 11:50 5th Grade 3: 10:25-11:05 Art, PE, Music
11:30 to 12:00 3rd Grade 2: 12:45-1:25 Art, PE, Music
11:40 to 12:10 6th Grade 1: 1:25-2:05 Art, PE, Music
11:50 to 12:20 4th Kdg. : 2:10-2:50 Art, PE, Music
1-HOUR DELAY SCHEDULE
Lunch Schedule: Special Class:
11:00 to 11:30 1st Grade 6: 9:05-9:45 Art, PE, Music
11:10 to 11:40 2nd Grade 5: 9:45-10:25 Art, PE, Music
11:20 to 11:50 K Grade 4 10:25-11:05 Art, PE, Music
11:30 to 12:00 5th Grade 3: 11:05-11:40 Art, PE, Music
11:40 to 12:10 3rd Grade 2: 12:55-1:30 Art, PE, Music
11:50 to 12:20 6th Grade 1: 1:35-2:10 Art, PE, Music
12:00 to 12:30 4th Kdg. : 2:15-2:50 Art, PE, Music
2-HOUR DELAY SCHEDULE
Lunch Schedule: Special Class:
11:25 to 11:55 1st Grade 6: 10:05-10:30 Art, PE, Music
11:35 to 12:05 2nd Grade 5: 10:35-11:00 Art, PE, Music
11:45 to 12:15 K Grade 4 11:00-11:25 Art, PE, Music
11:55 to 12:25 5th Grade 3: 11:25-11:50 Art, PE, Music
12:05 to 12:35 3rd Grade 2: 1:25-1:50 Art, PE, Music
12:15 to 12:45 6th Grade 1: 1:55-2:20 Art, PE, Music
12:25 to 12:55 4th Kdg. : 2:25-2:50 Art, PE, Music
2012-13 Southern Wells Elementary School
Faculty & Staff
Kindergarten: Grade 1: Grade 2:
Rebecca Frazee Dana Boxell Peggy Haigh
Jill Mounsey Amy Palmer Kim Huffman
Jane Meshberger Abby Stallsmith Laura McKinney
Grade 3: Grade 4: Grade 5:
Brittany Atkins Dawn Allison Bob Pace
Denise Neff Deb Reinhard Shelley Preston
Lisa Smith
Grade 6: Principal Guidance:
Bill Cline John Purcell Ashley Stinson
Deb Coleman
Ross Palmer
Resource Room: Nurse
Kristi Jenney Alyssa Roush
Martha Ray
Susan Oswalt - Aide
Lisa Rhoton - Aide
Special Classes:
Susie Burgan Art
Mike Carter Physical Education
Mike Haigh Band
Jean Hughes Music
Peggy Haigh Reading Recovery
Abby Manley Speech
Support Staff:
Tina Blevins Administrative Assistant/Publications
Lynne Huffman Administrative Assistant/Treasurer
Chris Hartman Technology Coordinator
Marcia Douglass Library Assistant
*Subject to change due to class sizes.
GENERAL SCHOOL PROCEDURES
A. What Southern Wells Community Schools Expects from its Students:
1. Students who accept personal responsibility for their education - Good attendance, punctuality,
study, participation in class and cooperation with staff.
2. Students who attempt to achieve growth in honesty, tolerance, open-mindedness, sportsmanship, friendliness, and loyalty.
3. Students who exhibit socially acceptable behavior and language - courtesy, respect for others, proper language and dress.
4. Students who are good citizens - students who exhibit respect for authority, school rules, city, state and national laws. Students who exhibit respect for fellow students, staff and faculty members regardless of race, religion, sex, color, and national origin.
5. Students whose pride in the program and facility are evident by their involvement in school life - by the care they take of school property in helping to keep it neat and attractive.
B. Where To Go For
Book Rental/Fee Payments................................. Elementary Office
Doctors/Dentists Appointments......................... Elementary Office
Pre-Arranged Absences...................................... Elementary Office
Free or Reduced Lunches.................................... Elementary Office
Leaving School................................................... Elementary Office
Lost or Stolen Property..................................... Elementary Office
Withdrawal from School................................. Elementary Office
Physical Form for Athletics............................. Elementary Office
Tickets to Athletic Events............................... High School Treasurer's Office
C. Students to the Office
Students should not expect permission to go to the guidance office or school office during class time, unless in the judgment of the teacher it is of an emergency nature. Students should come to these offices before school, between periods, during lunch time, during a study period, or after school.
D. Telephone Use
The school telephones are to be used for school use only. It is important that arrangements are made in advance to avoid calling if at all possible. Therefore, to use the school telephone, your business must be school related and you must obtain permission from one of the office personnel. If the call is not school related, the student may be charged fifty cents per call. If the school has cancelled events and the student needs to call home, the school will absorb the cost of the call. Students will only be called to the telephone only in cases of an emergency.
E. Substitute Teachers
Substitute teachers have the same authority as the regular classroom teacher. Students are expected to follow the directions of the substitute teacher and show the same respect to the substitute as they would show their regular teacher.
F. Academic Honor Roll (Grades 2-6)
An Academic Honor Roll will be published each 9-week grading period. Students must have all A's in all courses to be on the "High Honor Roll," and must have all A's and B's in all courses to be on the "Regular Honor Roll."
G. Parent-Teacher Conferences
Good parent/teacher communication is important for learning to take place. Parent teacher communication will take place on October 24, 2013. Parents and teachers will then communicate again in the spring to discuss the academic progress of all students.
H. Posters & Decorations
All signs and posters from the community are to be approved by the principal. All posters and decorations are to be removed by those responsible once the date of the event has passed.
I. Personal Property & Valuables
1. Large amounts of money, radios, electronics, expensive watches, cameras, phones, etc. brought to school are at risk
of being stolen. The school cannot be responsible for these.
2. Money or valuables should not be left in unlocked lockers in the hallway or the athletic dressing rooms.
3. Students are responsible for any items brought to school that won't fit in a locked locker. The office does not have adequate space to provide this kind of service for students.
4. Cell phones may be brought to school for after-school activity use only. All phones must be off upon entering the bus in the morning and remain off until leaving the bus in the afternoon. Students found with cell phones on will be subject to discipline.
5. Any personal property that causes a disruption in school or on the school bus is not permitted..
Radios, CD or MP3 players, electronics and other toys should not be brought to school. If any of these are taken from
you, your parents may pick them up at school.
J. Care of School Property
1. Appearance reflects our pride and spirit in the school. Students share the responsibility of helping to maintain and improve the school building and grounds.
2. Treat school property as you would treat your own property. Throw trash and litter in waste containers provided around the school. Please do not mark on furniture, walls, and floors, nor litter or mar the appearances of
walks, lawns, shrubbery, flowers or school furnishings.
3. Please report any building or equipment damage to your teacher or the school office.
4. Restitution for Damages. In case of accidental damage a fair fee will be determined by an administrator, a
custodian, and the student involved. Students intentionally marking or damaging walls, partitions, desks, lockers,
textbooks, or other school property will be required to clean the article, repair the damage, and/or pay for the damage
done.
K. Official Enrollment of Students
1. Students enrolling for the first time are to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
2. Students are not to be enrolled without a complete record of immunization (IC 20-8.1-7).
3. A conference will need to be held with the principal or guidance counselor to check address, completion of enrollment forms, and distribution of handbook and other materials.
4. Southern Wells Community Schools has both the right and responsibility to assess the academic status of students transferring from a nonaccredited school. This includes students transferring from a home school. The assessment is done to determine the most appropriate placement of a student within the school corporation's educational program. This will aid in assuring the proper continuation of an enrolling student's educational growth.
5. Non-resident students must apply to the Southern Wells Elementary School. Parents must provide adequate documentation to the principal of the academic, behavioral and attendance records to be considered for enrollment. All
students will be given due consideration and will be handled on an individual basis.
L. Visitors
Parents are encouraged to visit their children’s classrooms sometime during the school year. Please call the office or talk with the teacher to find out when would be a good time to visit the classroom prior to the anticipated visit. Parents are asked to stop by the office and sign in and pick up a Visitor’s Pass.
M. Field Trips
Field trips are used to extend and enhance the learning experience for students. Trips are always school sponsored and supervised. Permission forms signed by parents are required for students to participate in these trips. Parents wishing to take their children home following a field trip must sign them out and make necessary arrangements with the supervising teacher.
N. Accidents and Insurance
Any accident happening on school premises is to be reported to the school nurse. A report will be kept on file in the nurse's office. If a student is injured in school or at a school function, the parent or guardian is responsible for any resulting medical cost.
O. Before/After School Hours and Dropping off and Picking up Students for School
Students should not be in the building before 7:30 a.m. or after 3:00 p.m. unless they are under the supervision of a teacher or coach, or have received special permission from the staff member or an administrator responsible for that particular area. Students waiting for an approved school activity, with administrative permission, will be required to wait in a designated area.
If parents choose to drop off and/or pick up their child, then the east entrance/exit (#20) must be used for morning drop off and the south exit (#23) will be used for the afternoon pick up of students. For the safety of your child, no dropping off and/or picking up your child at any other entrance/exit. Also, if you are picking up your child, then a note must be written by the parent letting the school know. Without a note, the student will ride the bus.
Students being brought to school in the morning are not to be dropped off prior to 7:30 AM. Students are to go directly to the library and remain there until the 7:50 AM bell rings.
P. Collection of Debts
Parents will be notified of any debts to the school their son/daughter has incurred. This would include: Lost or damaged textbooks, lunch money, library materials, instructional materials, athletic equipment, or club materials; fund raising merchandise or money not turned in; damages to school property or buildings; or any other debt deemed legitimate by the administration.
If necessary to collect these debts, the Small Claims Court or other legal recourse may be used to collect debts owed to the school.
Q. Full-Day Kindergarten
The Southern Wells Elementary School has full-day kindergarten for all of its kindergarten students.
R. Important Notice to Students and Parents Regarding Cell Phone Content and Displa
Students may not possess cell phones on school property unless the student and parent have signed and returned the Elementary School student/parent handbook acknowledgement page. Students who bring cell phones on campus without signing this form are subject to disciplinary action described in the handbook. Students must store their cell phone in their lockers or in coat closets (book bag) during the school day with the phone off. Upon signing the use agreement, students and parents acknowledge the following points:
1. I acknowledge that having a cell phone on school property is a privilege and not a right. I further understand that students must store cell phones in their lockers or coat closets (book bag) during the school day. The phone must be off.
2. I agree that any cell phone that I possess will not be used to view, transmit or store photographs, voice or text messages or other communications that constitute a violation of school rules. This includes, but is not necessarily limited to, lewd, vulgar, indecent or profane images, audio or text.
3. I acknowledge that taking or displaying pictures utilizing my cell phone without the consent of the student or staff member or in a situation not related to a school purpose or educational function is forbidden and could lead to disciplinary action up to and including suspension/expulsion from school.
4. I agree that any cell phone I bring on school property will not be used for the purposes of harassment or the facilitation or furtherance of any violation of rules established in the student handbook or state or federal law.
5. I understand and give school officials consent to search my cell phone at any time when reasonable suspicion exists that the cell phone has been used in contradiction to school policy on school property or at a school sponsored event.
6. I understand that my cell phone may be seized by school officials in the event my cell phone is used to violate a criminal law or school rules and reasonable suspicion exists of such.
S. Lunch Procedures
The Southern Wells Community School District will be using a lunch program within the Harmony Student Management System. Parents may send in money that will be credited to each student’s lunch account. There is no limit as to the amount of money that parents may put in the lunch account. It is preferred that money is sent in the first day of the week.
Students may purchase a “Type A” school lunch. The price is to be determined. Students will be allowed to get IOU’s up to and not to exceed $9.00. Students who have reached their limit on IOU’s will be served a “Type D” school lunch consisting of a peanut butter sandwich and a milk. The student will be charged $.80 for a “Type D” lunch until the lunch money account is brought into the positive.
SERVICES FOR STUDENTS
A. Grading System
1. The grade a student earns indicates the progress being made in class and reflects academic achievement in
knowledge and skills, participation in class, effort toward completing assignments, punctuality, regular attendance and
the ability to reason. In addition, each teacher can mark the card indicating the reasons the particular grade was earned.
2. A Unified Grading Scale will be used by the school for grades 3 through 12. The use of numerical grades on the
report card is encouraged so that the student and parents will have a better idea of how the student is progressing.
However, the unified grading scale will allow letter grades (with a + or -) to be used and the student and parent still
know the progress.
3. Checklists and excellent-good-satisfactory-unsatisfactory are used in grades K-2.
4. Only end-of-the-year grades are placed on the student's permanent record. Letter grades will be used on the permanent records according to the following scale:
A+ 100-99 B+ 89-88 C+ 79-78 D+ 69-68 F 59-0
A 97-93 B 87-83 C 77-73 D 67-63
A- 92-90 B- 82-80 C- 72-70 D- 62-60
5. Explanation of the Letter Grades:
A = Outstanding Achievement F = Insufficient Achievement to Justify Credit
B = Above Average Achievement I = Incomplete
C = Average Achievement Cr = No grade, but credit earned
D = Minimum Achievement to Receive Credit
B. Help from Teachers
You will find that faculty members are willing to give additional help when you are having trouble with your class work. They are here to assist you as much as possible. When you don't understand something in class, ask for clarification immediately. Take advantage of the opportunity.
C. Guidance Services
1. Guidance services are available to all students. Any time you need assistance, please make it known. Every effort will be made to provide help.
2. You may arrange to see a counselor when you have a study room, during your lunch period, before school, after school, or any other arranged time.
3. Counselors welcome the opportunity to talk with you and your parents. They are here to help you in any way possible. Please call to make an appointment.
D. Individual School Records and Transcript
Individual permanent records indicating scholastic achievement, attendance records, testing results and health data are maintained as confidential information by the school. A student's parent (until student reaches age 18), or a student 18 or older may examine these records upon request. For more information about any of these, contact the office. The Federal Family Educational and Privacy Rights Act (FERPA) provides specific rights to parents and students.
E. Health Services
1. Health services are located next to the elementary school dining room.
2. Health counseling, first aid, and emergency treatment is available for all students by the school nurse. The aim is to prevent illness and injury
3. In an emergency medical situation the school nurse will take appropriate action to secure proper medical care. Each parent must sign and return the Emergency Medical Care Consent form.
4. All students are to have specified immunizations before they can attend school. The school nurse will keep students and parents notified of those needed.
5. Vision Tests. Each year, all kindergartners, 1st graders, 3rd graders, 5th graders, 8th graders, and new students will
be given vision tests. Hearing Tests will be given each year to all 1st graders, 4th graders, 7th graders, 10th graders, and
all new students. Any other student referred by a teacher will be given a vision and/or hearing test.
6. The Nurse is to be given a copy of the doctor's written prescription or written authorization of the parent before any
medication or treatment will be administered. Also, medication is to be in its original prescription bottle, labeled with
the date of prescription, student's name, and exact dosage to be administered. We prefer that a parent/guardian deliver the
medicine to the school and it MUST be picked up by parent/guardian.
7. As a school we are only allowed to administer internal medicines, such as Tylenol with signed parent permission
that is given by the parent during the registration of the student.
8. Head Lice and/or Nits:
In order to help minimize the spreading of lice, we will implement the following procedures.
First Occurrence: Upon the discovery of lice, the parent(s) or guardian(s) will be notified and will be expected to remove their child from school for treatment. At the nurse’s discretion, the student may be permitted to return to the school environment following treatment if they appear to be void of live lice. At this time, the child’s home environment and vehicles should also be treated according to the procedures that follow.
Second Occurrence: If live lice are found a second time during an infestation period once again the parent(s) or guardian(s) will be notified and the student will once again be removed from school. This will include a person to person contact to discuss why the initial treatment was unsuccessful, and suggest additional approaches to ridding the student of the problem.
Third Occurrence: Upon the third observation of live lice within an infestation period, the case will be referred to the “lice committee” who will provide more direct services to assist the family in treating this nuisance. Failure to comply with this referral may result in a report being filed with the Wells County Office of Family and Children.
All probable school areas and sources which have had close contact with the infected individual or his/her belongings will be checked. Potential sources will be checked initially and every fourteen days thereafter until no live cases are identified. Areas of potential infections will receive additional disinfectant above routine sanitary procedures.
Annually the school nurse shall provide information on head lice and/or nits to all employees. This information shall include means of identification, transmission, prevention, and treatment. In addition, the school nurse shall conduct student screenings deemed appropriate to minimize the potentiality of infection. The school nurse with the approval of the superintendent shall develop materials and guidelines to implement the policy.
9 Pesticide Use Policy:
Southern Wells Community Schools is committed to providing students a safe environment. It seeks to prevent children
from being exposed to pests and pesticides. While pesticides protect children from pests that may be found in the school
and its surrounding grounds, under some circumstances they may pose a hazard to children. Therefore, pest control practices may involve a variety of chemical and non-chemical methods that are designed to control pests effectively while minimizing potential pesticide exposure to children.
Pesticides will be applied by certified pesticide applicators and when students and staff members are not present, such as during non-instructional time or school vacations. The corporation will provide notice at least two school days prior to the date and time the pesticide application is to occur. The notice will include the date and time of the pesticide application, the general area where the pesticide is to be applied and the telephone number to contact the school for more information.
F. Procedures to Follow If You Become Ill or Are Injured
1. Request permission from your teacher and report to the school nurse. If the nurse is not in the clinic, notify an
adult in the office area.
2. Sign the Log Sheet indicating the time, date, and reason for visit.
3. If it is determined that you are too ill to return to class, your parents or their designee will be contacted to come to
school to pick you up. If injured, you will be given first aid. If it seems advisable to send you to a doctor or the hospital, your parents will be contacted immediately.
4. Report any injuries incurred during extra-curricular activities (including athletics) to the coach or sponsor immediately.
5. Students are never to leave school in case of illness or injury without the permission of the school nurse, a counselor, or a school administrator.
G. Student Privacy
1. In order to protect the privacy of students, lists of student names and addresses will not be given to an outside person, organization, or group without the student's or parent's permission.
2. However, in the following situations, an 18 year old student or a parent of a student under 18 years of age will need to request in writing that pictures or addresses not be released:
a. School pictures and identifying names will be printed in the school newsletter and yearbook, and given
to the local news media on those occasions that warrant it. Group photographs may also appear in webpages without
names listed.
b. Information for athletic, music, drama, and other programs for school events, including students’ names,
class status, height, weight, photograph, activities, telephone number, date of birth, and/or awards received will be used when a school program is printed.
3. This policy does not cover pictures taken by the news media of school events.
H. Lost and Found.
Articles of clothing and other personal items found in and around school should be turned in to the office. You may reclaim lost property by identifying it. Please write your name on all property.
I. Parent Newsletters
Every month, a newsletter will be sent to students. If a newsletter is not received, please notify the school office. The newsletter is an important link to our communication chain. Please read the newsletter and discuss the items that apply to your son/daughter.
J. Textbooks, Instruments, and School Property
In the event of loss or abuse of textbooks, whether accidental or purposeful, payment must be made for book(s) in accordance with the scale fixed by the school district. Band instruments, library books, and other school equipment and/or property should be considered as a loan for the period you use such equipment or material. In the event of loss or abuse of instruments, equipment or property, restitution will be determined by the costs for replacement or repair.
When personally owned or rented instruments or equipment are brought to school, the school cannot assume responsibility for loss or damage. That responsibility remains with the student and parents.
ATTENDANCE POLICY/PROCEDURES
Every student is expected to attend school regularly. The faculty and staff of the Southern Wells Elementary School believe that prompt and regular attendance is a prime factor in achieving a high level of academic success.
Attendance in school is compulsory as provided by Indiana Code 20-8.1-3-17. Failure of the child to attend school without an excuse is truancy.
1. When a student is absent, the parent is expected to call the school by 9:00 a.m. If the parent does not call, the school will call the parent at home or at work. When the student returns to school after an absence, he/she reports directly to class.
2. A student who arrives at school after 8:00 a.m. until 10 a.m. will be considered tardy on the state attendance report. If a student arrives after 10 a.m., he will be considered to be absent for one-half day. A student who arrives after 2:00 p.m. will be considered as absent all day.
3. Any personal type days for students, in order to be excused, must be pre-arranged with an administrator a minimum of 3 days in advance. A student may have a maximum of 5 of these days in a year. After 5 personal type days in a year, they will not be excused.
4. Early Dismissal. This is to be arranged by 2:00 PM with the school office. To be dismissed early from school, the parent must call the school or come to the office to pick up the student or the student must show his/her appointment card from the doctor, dentist or attorney, etc. This does not include such appointments as hair, tanning booth, or other similar activities.
5. Any and all absences will be determined as excused or unexcused. Only absences for the following reasons will be excused.
a. Personal illness, illness in the family, or death in the family.
b. Unavoidable medical, dental, and professional appointments that could not be scheduled outside the regular
school day.
c. Prearranged absences for important family or personal situations with prior permission. Students may
receive up to five (5) excused absences each year when accompanying their parent(s), guardian(s), or grandparents on a family trip. To have these days approved, the parents/guardians must contact the principal/designee in person or by telephone at least three (3) school days prior to the absence. Extenuating circumstances, other than personal illness or death in the family will require a prearranged absence for it to be excused. The parent and student assume full responsibility for any lack of progress that could be associated with the time of absence.
d. Required religious observance.
e. All other absences that are protected by Indiana State Statute, IC 20-8-8.1-3-22.
f. Absences for other unforeseen reasons, which are approved in advance by the administration.
6. Unexcused absences include:
a. Any absence or early dismissal from school for reasons other those listed in #6 above.
b. Leaving school grounds without permission. Students who leave school grounds without parental approval (unless 18 and emancipated), and administrative/designee approval, and do not sign out in the school office are subject to disciplinary action.
c. Truancy. Absence without the knowledge or permission of the parent/guardian and school.
d. Absences other than 5C above that were not pre-arranged 3 days prior to the absence. The procedures for pre
arranged absences must be followed.
e. Students who miss school all day or the afternoon because of illness and are working at their job or attending
social or school activities that evening or night.
7. School work missed for excused absences must be made up in order to receive credit.
8. Extenuating circumstances: Any exceptions to the Attendance Policy, due to extenuating circumstances will be
determined by a conference with student/parent and the principal or his/her designee. The student or parent may request
this conference. This committee will determine if any of the absences may be waived, if any may be made up for credit,
or if the student loses credit(s).
9. Homework During An Absence:
a. Making up work is the student's responsibility. Homework needs to be requested as it may not be automatically gathered. Homework not made up will result in a zero (0) grade for the homework. Generally, the allotted time to make up the work will be one day for each day absent.
b. Generally, students will not be held responsible for making up an assignment or test on the day following the
absence if the work was announced during the time of absence. However, if the assignment or test was announced
(verbally or on a written assignment sheet) prior to an absence, the student will be responsible for the assignment or test
on the day returning to school after a planned absence (college day, doctor appointment, field trip, etc.)
10. Parents will be notified of attendance problems.
11. Absences and Extra-Curricular Activities. In order to attend or be a participant in a school activity (includes
practices) the student must attend school for at least all afternoon classes of that particular day, or because of extenuating circumstances (i.e., valid appointments, funerals) must receive prior approval from an administrator. Any student who is absent from school because of an out-of-school suspension is ineligible to be in attendance or participate in any school activity during the time of suspension.
Participation in an evening extra-curricular activity is not an allowable reason for being absent for any portion of the next school day.
12. IC 20-8.1-3-20, Indiana Compulsory School Attendance Law, section 20, requires a parent to produce a
certificate of a student's incapacity on demand to school within 6 days if requested.
13. A suspended student will be responsible for making up schoolwork lost due to suspension. It is recommended that a
student complete missed assignments during the suspension and turn them in to the teacher upon his/her return to school. Assignments may be obtained at the beginning of the suspension and make up of missed tests may be scheduled when the student returns to school.
14. Attendance Plan
A. 4 accumulative absences for the year: letter home to parents
B. 7 accumulative absences for the year: letter home and parent meeting with Principal/Designee
C. 10 accumulative absences for the year: letter home and parent meeting with Principal/Designee. Attendance Contract between student/parents/school. All absences over 10 must be followed up with a note from
a physician.
D. Excessive absences may be referred to the Wells County Probation Department or the Wells County Child Protective Services.
15. Tardiness. Punctuality is an important habit to develop for work.
a. If you are tardy to school, report to the office and sign a sheet stating the time of arrival and the specific reason for being late. Students who are identified as having tardy problems are subject to discipline including, but not limited to, after-school detention, lunch detention or loss of recess.
b. As a guideline the following plan will be used:
5 accumulative tardies for the year: 1 lunch detention and loss of recess
7 accumulative tardies for the year: 2 lunch detentions and loss of recess
10 accumulative tardies for the year: 1 after-school detention from 3:00-4:00 PM, Parent Meeting with Principal or his/her designee
16. Physical Education Excuses
In order to be excused from participating in physical education class you will need to bring a signed
statement from a doctor stating why you should be excused, or your parents are to call the school nurse by 8:00 a.m. stating why you should be excused. The nurse will decide if your physical condition is such that you are to be excused for that day. Other reasons (e.g., religious objection to a particular activity, required dress, etc.) need administrative approval to be excused.
DISCIPLINE AND BEHAVIOR
A. Discipline and Desirable Behavior
1. All students have the right to learn and each teacher has the right to teach. We cannot allow any student to
jeopardize this basic right. Therefore, THE DISRUPTION OF THE NORMAL SCHOOL PROCESS WILL NOT BE
TOLERATED.
2. Education should teach discipline. It underlies the entire educational structure. It is the training that develops character, self-control, orderliness, and efficiency.
3. Discipline is the key to good conduct and proper consideration of others. Work to develop the habit of self-discipline
B. Due Process
1. Using Indiana Code 20-8.15-1-1. as the basis in developing the guidelines to be followed when a student is
disciplined by using suspension or expulsion from school, the Board of Education adopted a Due Process Policy for Southern
Wells Community Schools.
2. Parents and students may obtain a copy of this Due Process Policy in each school office or in the Superintendent's Office.
C. Authority of Adults
All of the employees of Southern Wells Community Schools have certain responsibilities at the school. In order to
carry out these responsibilities, they have certain authority to correct students when the need arises. If any student is corrected by an adult employee - whether the employee is administrative, faculty, secretarial, cafeteria, custodial, bus driver, or substitute - the student is expected to accept such correction. Students must recognize the authority of all school personnel and their right to enforce school policy and regulations.
D. Student Rights and Responsibilities
All students in Southern Wells Schools have certain rights as guaranteed them by the Constitution of the United
States. It is the intention of the school to abide strictly within these rights and to recognize that all students have the full rights of all citizens. However, along with these rights, go certain responsibilities that must be accepted by all students if our schools are to function as they were intended. Students have the responsibility to conduct themselves so that their actions do not interfere with the rights of others.
E. Disciplinary Referrals to an Administrator
See Appendix A – Kindergarten Discipline Plan
See Appendix B – First Grade Discipline Plan
See Appendix C – Raider Card Plan (Grades 2-6)
F. DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS GUIDELINES:
1. All violations and consequences/penalties apply to all school functions and activities.
2. These rules are designed to notify students as to the types and range of behaviors that are unacceptable.
Nevertheless every conceivable variation of prohibited conduct cannot be included. Consequently, students may expect to be
disciplined for inappropriate conduct, particularly in light of societal expectations and the scope of these rules, for which a
specific rule was not written that directly affects the orderly mission of the school.
3. The school administration will use a set of guidelines that list various infractions and the penalties that most will be
used to determine the penalty for a particular offense committed by the student. At the same time, the particular
circumstances or known facts may cause the principal/designee to determine that the suggested penalty should be made more
severe or less severe.
4. Any time a student must miss school because of an out-of-school suspension or expulsion, he or she is also
suspended from all extra-curricular activities and practices, and is not allowed on school grounds for any reason during those days.
5. Under Indiana Law, a suspension may be for up to ten (10) days, unless extended by an appointed hearing officer.
6. Any infraction of rules while on suspension may result in the student being recommended to the board of
education for expulsion.
7. Grounds for disciplinary action apply whenever the student's conduct is reasonably related to school or school
activities, including, but not limited to: (a) On school grounds before, during or after school hours or at any time when the
school is being used by a school group;
(b) Off school grounds at a school activity, function, or event; (c) Traveling to or from school, or a school
activity, function or event; or (d) Anywhere, if the conduct may be reasonably considered to be a threat or attempted intimidation of a staff member, or an interference with school purposes or an education function.
8. In addition, a student may be suspended or expelled for engaging in unlawful activity on or off school grounds if
the unlawful activity may be reasonably be considered to be an interference with school purposes or an educational function, or the student's removal is necessary to restore order or protect persons on school property. This includes any unlawful activity meeting the above criteria which takes place during weekends, holidays, or other school breaks, and the summer period when a student may be attending classes or other school functions.
9. Any offense not covered in this student handbook or on the disciplinary action menu will be dealt with at the discretion of the administrator handling the discipline problem.
G. Disciplinary Referrals to An Administrator
1. The teaching staff will determine consequences for misbehavior in their classroom or area. A staff member may
make a disciplinary referral when the student refuses to follow directions, continues to disrupt the class, or won't be
cooperative, so that it is impossible to deal with the situation effectively, or when the responsibility for resolving the situation
is not primarily that of the staff member.
2. The student will report to the office with a discipline referral.
3. Any student referred to the office because of discipline problems can expect a conference with the
principal/designee - possible suspension from the class, and contact made with parents.
H. Disciplinary Actions That May Be Used: With these rights and responsibilities in mind and using Indiana Code 20-8.1-5.1-1 as the guidelines, the following disciplinary actions may be imposed for violations for the following sections J and K.
-Reprimand
-Changing seating assignment -Confiscation of disruptive or banned items
-Standing during class -Completing tardiness reports
-Behavior contract -Payment of damages and/or restitution
-Denial of privileges
-Parent Conference -Out-of-School Suspension
-Lunch Detention -In-School Suspension
-After School Detention/Study Table -Expulsion from class or school
-Suspension from extracurricular activities -Meaningful extra study assignments
-Notify Legal Authorities where warranted -Referral to special personnel in school
-Loss of recess in elementary school -Probation
-Time-Out -Work detail to repair damages.
-Loss of field trip privileges
I. Student Behavior Code: The types of behavior below will result in one or more of
the disciplinary actions listed previously in section F.
1. Inappropriate Classroom Behavior. Each teacher or grade level will have requirements and students are
expected to learn these and abide by them.
a. Take your seat promptly and orderly when you enter the classroom. If you are late to class, enter the room
quietly so that you will not disturb others.
b. Give your attention to the teacher until instruction is completed. Talking during class unless you have
permission is rude and unfair. Do not interrupt others or make fun of them.
c. Bring proper equipment to class: Books, homework, paper, pencils, and notebooks. All preparations for
class are to be done before class starts.
d. Respect others and wait your turn patiently for your share of the instructor's time.
e. When the bell rings wait until the teacher dismisses you.
f. Students should expect homework, do independent work, participate in class activities and discussions, take
care of equipment, and not be disruptive.
2. Inappropriate Study Room Behavior: Study time is to prepare for class work. Using study time wisely will
cut down the time needed for study at home. A quiet, business-like atmosphere that is conducive to study is to
be maintained.
a. Come to the study area with the necessary work materials or reading material, take your seat, and start to
work. Do not come empty handed.
b. Remain in your assigned seat unless you have permission from the teacher to leave.
c. Attendance in assigned study rooms is mandatory. You must have a pass to leave. To see another teacher
you are to have previously obtained a pass from that teacher.
d. Food, personal radios, tape players, playing cards, etc. are prohibited in study rooms.
e. Follow other rules set up by the study room teacher.
3. Being Disrespectful and Ignoring or Not Following Specific Instructions of a staff member.
4. Being Insubordinate, which is the insistent and blatant refusal to follow a reasonable directive of a staff
member. Students are expected to comply with all reasonable requests by any school personnel. A request will be held reasonable unless it immoral, illegal, or personally degrading, and the burden of proving the directive unreasonable will be the responsibility of the student.
5. Disruptive Behavior. When behavior of the student in the classroom or school building, or on school grounds
is disruptive or interferes with what is supposed to be happening in curricular/extracurricular activities. This includes talking and disorderly conduct.
6. Persistent Refusal to Accomplish School Tasks. This is continuous and willful refusal to not get schoolwork
done even though able to do so.
7. Habitual Offender. This student chronically disrupts or repeatedly violates other school rules that are reasonably
necessary for student learning and to carry out school purposes. (Depending upon the seriousness of the offenses, the
administration will determine at which point a student will be placed on "Habitual Offender Status."
8. Using Violence, force, noise, coercion, threat, intimidation, fear, passive resistance, or other comparable
conduct constituting an interference with school purposes, or urging other students to engage in such conduct. A student shall not make threatening, harassing or intimidating remarks toward any student, which threatens the safety or well being of that student or had the likelihood of provoking a fight. A student may not cause or attempt to cause physical injury or behave in such a way that could reasonably cause bodily injury to any person. The following examples are not all inclusive:
a. Fighting. This includes, but is not limited to posturing for a fight or provoking a fight.
b. Blocking the entrance or exits of any school building or corridor or room therein with intent to deprive others of
lawful access to or from, or use of the building, corridor or room. This includes occupying any school building, school
grounds or part thereof.
c. Damaging any school building or property.
d. Prevention or attempting to prevent by physical act the convening or continued functioning of any school or
education function, or of any meeting or assembly on school property or at a school related activity, including the making of
a false report of a bomb, fire, or uncommon disease-producing organism, as well as triggering a false fire alarm and
delivering or sending an actual or look-alike uncommon disease-producing substance to any school property, vehicle or
activity.
e. Continuously and intentionally making noise or acting in any manner so as to interfere seriously with the
ability of any teacher or any of the other school personnel to conduct the educational function under this supervision.
f. Through any means of communication, including gestures, symbols, or signals, placing any student, teacher,
employee, or other person in fear of harm to one’s self, a family member, or personal property. This includes by way of
example such conduct as threatening “to get” the person, creating a “hit list” of persons who are to be put in fear of harm, and
warning the person that a family member could get hurt or one’s car could be damaged.
9. Bullying IC 20-33-8-0.2
Sec. 0.2. As used in this chapter, “bullying” means overt, repeated acts or gestures, including:
a. verbal or written communications transmitted;
b. physical acts committed; or
c. any other behaviors committed; by a student or group of students against another student with the intent to
harass, ridicule, humiliate, intimidate, or harm the other student.
IC 20-33-8-13.5 Discipline rules prohibiting bullying required
Sec. 13.5
(a) Discipline rules adopted by the governing body of a school corporation under section 12 of this chapter must:
1) prohibit bullying; and
2) include provisions concerning education, parental involvement, reporting, investigation, and intervention.
(b) The discipline rules described in subsection (a) must apply when a student is:
(1) on school grounds immediately before or during school hours, immediately
after school hours, or at any other time when the school is being used by a school group;
(2) off school grounds at a school activity, function, or event;
(3) traveling to or from school or a school activity, function, or event; or
(4) using property or equipment provided by the school.
(c) This section may not be construed to give rise to a cause of action against a person or school corporation
based on an allegation of noncompliance with this section. Noncompliance with this section may not be used as evidence against a school corporation in a cause of action.
10. Hitting others, horseplay, scuffling, loud talking, yelling, throwing objects, loud whistling, or other obnoxious
behavior which interferes with school purposes.
11. Use/Possession of Tobacco in any form while in the school building, on school premises, or while in the
custody and control of the school, or in the course of a school related activity on and off school grounds, including athletic events, field trips, music programs, etc., or at or within view of any school bus stops (designated student pick-up and drop-off locations) within 30 minutes of designated pick up or drop-off time. A student using or possessing cigarette, cigar, pipe, or smokeless tobacco will be in violation of this rule.
12. Known Possession, Use, Transmission, or being under the influence of Alcoholic Beverages
and/or Drugs at any school activity, function, or event on or off school premises. Disciplinary action will be
taken when students are involved in possessing, selling, using, transmitting, buying, or soliciting any drug- related paraphernalia which includes, but is not limited to pipes, clips, water pipes, rolling papers, herb pills, or any other items directly related to drug use. Law enforcement authorities will be notified when warranted. Note: Look alike drugs or selling materials as a drug is included in this rule. Use of drugs authorized by a medical prescription from a physician is not a violation of this rule.
13. Using any form of Profanity or Vulgarity, written or verbal. This includes the use of obscene signs, gestures, pictures, publications, and vulgar remarks. Verbal abuse and use of profanity toward school personnel will not be tolerated.
14. Acts which Intimidate, Threaten, Degrade, or disgrace a fellow student, staff member, visitor, or administrator by written, verbal, or gestural means. This includes threatening or intimidating any student for the purpose of obtaining money or anything of value from that student.
15. Assault on school employee, student or other person while in the custody and control of the school or in the
course of a school related activity.
16. Stealing, causing stealing to occur, being in possession, or selling stolen property while on school property, or
off school property while in the custody and control of the school, or in the course of a school related activity, including extra-curricular events.
17. Vandalism. Causing or attempting to cause destruction or defacement of school property (Includes other
schools' property) or private property on school grounds, or off school grounds while in the custody and control
of the school, or in the course of a school related activity
18. Knowingly possessing, handling or transmitting items hazardous to the safety of others.
This is any object that can be reasonably considered or converted to and/or used as a weapon such as, but
not limited to: knives, guns, pellet guns, fireworks, lighters, tear gas, mace, clubs, sticks, bats (other than for athletics), pepper gas, Chinese stars, razors, projectiles, hard balls, slingshots, other instruments of a bludgeoning type, toy guns, and the like. Note: A student who must use a knife as part of an organized activity held by an organization that has been approved by the school principal is exempt from application so long as the knife is used a part or in accordance with the approved activity.
Any student who has possession of a firearm at school must be expelled from school for one calendar year. Any student who has a deadly weapon may be expelled for up to one calendar year, but could receive a lesser penalty. The length of either expulsion may be reduced by the superintendent if the circumstances warrant such reduction. In the case of a firearm or deadly weapon, the county prosecuting attorney's office will be notified.
19. Creating false emergencies by pulling a fire alarm, or calling a bomb threat, etc.
20. Inappropriate display of affection and bodily contact on school grounds is not allowed.
21. Violation of Attendance Policy and Procedures, and Truancy from school. (See pages 12-15)
22. Leaving school grounds during school hours without proper permission. To properly leave:
a. Receive permission from an administrator or designee and a parent, and then sign out.
b. Bring a permission slip from the school nurse to the office, and then sign out.
23. Not Being in the Assigned Area, including classroom, study room, library, assembly, etc. Each student is
scheduled for a definite place during each period of the day and is expected to be in that place during the assigned time. Only a pass excuses a student from that area.
24. Not Completing or Serving An Assigned Penalty by an administrator. This includes being absent from Study
Table, Early Morning School, and/or Saturday School.
25. Cheating. Each student is responsible to do his/her own work.
26. Unacceptable Care and Use of Lockers. All lockers made available for student use on the school premises are
the property of the school and are provided as a convenience to you for storage of books, supplies, jackets, etc.
a. Only articles needed for use at school should be kept in the office.
b. Treat lockers with care by keeping them clean, orderly, and free from trash, stickers,
markings, food, etc. Announced periodic locker checks may be held.
c. If the locker is not working properly, contact a custodian or the office.
d. Lockers in the dressing rooms are to be used in accordance with the P.E. teacher's directions.
e. Money or valuables should not be left in unlocked lockers in either the hallways or the
athletic dressing rooms.
27. Violating Cafeteria Rules. Food is to remain in the cafeteria area. Students are to remain orderly in the
lunchroom at all times. Food is not to be thrown.
28. Unacceptable Dress and Appearance. It is our goal that our school be a safe haven for students and that the
culture of the school is positive. Students are expected to dress and groom in a manner that reflects pride in personal
appearance. Throughout life many responsibilities dictate appropriate attire and appearance. In keeping with this concept,
the school expects students’ appearance to meet standards of decency, safety and cleanliness. While the selection of
clothing worn at school is basically the responsibility of parents and students, the school administration reserves the
right to make the final judgment concerning the appropriateness of the student’s attire and appearance. Any clothing
or item considered by the administration to be disruptive to the educational environment will not be permitted. The
following, not intended to be all-inclusive, illustrate appropriate attire and accessories.
a. Clothing is to be neat, clean and properly repaired. Shirts or tops with holes cut or torn in them or holes in pant/jeans higher than where the fingertips hang at the side are inappropriate.
b. Headgear of any kind or nature are not to be worn in the school building, except by special permission by the principal/designee.
c. Clothing and accessories (belt buckles, jewelry, medallions, etc.) that has pictures, writing, etc. which promotes, is suggestive of, advertises, has derogatory, offensive or insulting language or has double meanings to drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or sex is not permitted.
d. Clothing that has pictures, writing, etc. which represent violence, death, destruction, gore, blood, or the macabre is not permitted. Examples: Marilyn Manson, some pro wrestling clothing items, etc. Clothing with skull and cross bones will not be permitted.
e. The body must be adequately covered. Mesh shirts or tops are to have a shirt under them. Bare midriffs are not allowed. Tank tops, tube tops, and shirts with spaghetti straps are unacceptable. Clothing which results in inappropriate exposure such as, but not limited to, that with low necklines, strapless, or of sheer design are unacceptable. No undergarment should be showing or worn as an outer garment. This eliminates any undersized clothing or improperly revealing clothing.
f. Shorts, skorts, skirts, and dresses must be at least mid-thigh or to the student’s fingertips when their arms are at their sides and not so tight fitting that it prevents them from sitting in a modest fashion. Slits in skirts and dresses must also not extend higher than this measure. Spandex or Lycra shorts must be worn with cover shorts, or with tops that meet the length criteria. Generally, shorts are to be worn when the outside temperature reaches 60 degrees or warmer. As a suggested timeline, shorts are to be worn from April 1st to September 30th only. Administration will notify you if these dates change.
g. Spikes on clothing or on jewelry, chains, including chains on wallets or any exceptionally long chains are not appropriate.
h. Jackets and coats are to be worn ONLY when entering and leaving the building, and are not to be taken to the classroom. Students may want to keep a sweater or sweatshirt in their locker for cooler temperatures.
i. Clothing/accessories determined to be gang/secret organization related is prohibited.
j. Footwear must be worn at all times in the school building. However, footwear with cleats that damage floors is prohibited in the building. Also, soft-soled shoes that leave marks and street shoes may not be on the gym floor.
k. Hair coloring that would not be considered a natural color (red, blue, etc.) is not permitted.
l. Sponsors and/or the administration may set what they consider to be suitable dress for students participating in outside activities such as athletics, field trips, music contexts, and ceremonies such as commencement.
m. All school days will be considered as normal attire days unless special administrative approval has been obtained for a special dress up day.
29. Inappropriate Behavior at Assembly Programs.
Be respectful and courteous during the program. Applause is appropriate to show your gratitude for the
program. When the person in charge or the speaker goes to the microphone get quiet and give that person your attention. Maintain this quietness throughout the program. A supervised study room is available for those who choose not to attend a program. Students who cannot abide by the above simple requests may be barred from further assembly programs, be assigned to the supervised study room, and be subject to disciplinary action.
30. Inappropriate Behavior at Extracurricular Activities.
a. If you attend a game or contest, watch the activity.
b. There will be no pass outs from the building for students.
c. Remain in your seat during the contest. Leave only at half times and between games.
d. Immediately following an activity, you are expected to leave the school grounds.
31. Engaging in any activity forbidden by Indiana Law which interferes with school purposes and student learning. This includes, but is not limited to, any type of subversive or gang activity.
32. Secret Society/Gang Activity. The student will not lead school officials to reasonably believe that such behavior, dress, apparel, activities, acts, grooming, or other attributes are gang related and would disrupt or interfere with the school environment or activity and/or education objectives. Neither would they present a physical safety hazard to self, students, staff, and other employees. The student's dress or activity, etc. will not imply gang membership or affiliation by written communication, marks, drawing, painting, design, emblem upon any school personal property or on one's person. This includes wearing bandanas.
33. Use of cell phones by students on school property is prohibited. Such items will be taken from you and returned to
a parent or to you on the last day of school.
34. Harassment.
It shall be a violation of this policy for any employee or student of Southern Wells Community Schools to
harass another employee or student through unwelcome conduct or communications relative to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, handicapping condition, or marital status. The use of the term “employee” also includes non-employees and volunteers who work subject to the control of student authorities.
a. Harassment consists of unwelcome comments, and/or inappropriate verbal or physical conduct when made by any employee to a student, when made by any employee to another employee, or when made by a student to another student, including but not limited to, situations where:
1. Such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual’s academic or professional performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive employment or educational environment.
2. An employee or a student engages in harassment against another employee or student respectively, as denial of employment or educational opportunity occurs as a result of harassment.
3. Such conduct is engaged in by volunteers and/or non-employees over which the school corporation has some degree of control of their behavior while on school property or involved in school-sponsored activities.
b. Harassment includes, but is not limited to, the following:
1. Verbal harassment or abuse.
2. Repeated remarks to a person with discriminatory or demeaning implications.
3. Engagement in discriminatory harassment, which is accompanied by implied or explicit threats concerning one’s grades, job, promotion, and/or salary.
4. Verbal or physical conduct which has been expressly noted by the offended employee or student as being unwelcome.
c. Sexual harassment consists of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or
physical conduct of a sexual nature when made by an employee or volunteer to a student, when made by a student to any employee or volunteer, or when made by any student to another student. Conduct of a sexual nature is defined as including verbal or physical sexual advances and/or comments regarding physical or personality characteristics of a sexual nature. This is a violation of school policy. It may include but is not limited to verbal harassment or abuse, repeated remarks with sexual or demeaning implications, circulated graphic or printed materials with sexual or demeaning implications, unwelcome touching, pressure to participate in sexual activity, or suggesting or demanding sexual involvement accompanied by implied or implicit threats.
d. Any person who alleges harassment by any employee or student in the school corporation may use the report
procedure as explained in board policy or may register his/her complaint directly to his/her building principal or the superintendent. Filing a complaint or otherwise reporting harassment will not reflect future employment, grades, participation, or work assignments.
35. Engaging in any unlawful activity while traveling to and from school or school activity.
Examples: Passing a school bus on a yellow line; Students harassing other students on the way to/from school: Etc.
36. Violating Bus Safety Standards
37. Violating the Rules of Conduct for School Buses. Students are subject to the specific rules of their bus driver
and the rules of the school. You are to extend the same cooperation and respect to bus drivers as to your teachers and principal.
J. Riding A School Bus
The bus driver has a tremendous responsibility to transport you to and from school safely each day. This job
demands full attention. Therefore, you are expected to cooperate fully with the driver. If you become a discipline problem or
jeopardize the safety of others you may be assigned a permanent seat by the driver, sent to the principal for disciplinary
action, or have the bus riding privilege withdrawn by the administration. Each bus driver may have his/her own specific rules,
but to enhance the safe operation of a school bus, the following regulations are established in compliance with Indiana
Code 20-9.1.
1. Each student should be waiting at his/her boarding station when the school bus arrives. Unless a driver is earlier
than the regular pick-up time, he/she is not required to wait for the student. It is the responsibility of the student to be at the bus stop at the regular pick-up time.
2. Each student shall be located immediately upon entering the bus in a place assigned by the driver. The driver has the right to establish a seating plan, and to change it at his/her discretion.
3. No student shall stand or move from place to place while the bus is in motion.
4. Loud, boisterous, or profane language, and other improper conduct shall not be tolerated. Improper conduct may
be defined as teasing, scuffling, tripping, holding, hitting, or using hands, feet, or body in any other objectionable manner. Similar rules outlining improper behavior in the classroom or school where the student attends will also apply. Do not divert the driver's attention by creating excessive noise or activity.
5. No windows or doors will be opened or closed except by permission of the bus driver. When permission is
given, windows may be lowered only to the line clearly marked at the side of each window. No part of the body should be extended through the window opening.
6. No student shall enter or leave the bus until it has come to a full stop and the door has been opened by the driver.
7. Students are responsible to help keep the bus clean. Objects should not be deposited in the bus. Eating or drinking
is not allowed unless special permission is granted by the driver.
8. The use of alcohol, tobacco products, or any illegal substance will result in suspension for the rest of the school
year and will be reported to individual school authorities for further action.
9. Any act of excessive violence, mutilation of seats, or written obscenities on the bus will be grounds to deny
bus-riding privileges to the offender and uncooperative witnesses. Restitution is required.
10. The emergency door on the bus is to be used ONLY when instructed to do so.
11. Permission to ride any bus other than the assigned bus will be denied unless the student presents the driver a
written request approved by the parent/guardian.
12. You are subject to both the rules of the bus and the rules of the school you attend. You are to extend the same
respect and cooperation to bus drivers as to your teachers and principal. You are expected to obey the requests of the driver. They have the same authority as your teacher.
Please remember, to ride a bus is a privilege extended to students, not a right. This privilege can be guaranteed by thoughtful and cooperative conduct and compliance with the above regulations.
Depending upon the bus offense, the consequences may include, but not limited to:
1st time..... Driver verbally warns the student, assign new seat on bus and contact parents.
2nd time... Bus Driver may refer student to the office and a bus suspension may occur. Parents notified.
3rd time.... Bus Driver may refer student to the office and a bus suspension may occur. Parents notified.
4th time.... Bus Driver may refer student to the office and a bus suspension may occur. Parent notified.
K. Policy for Legal Authorities Questioning Students:
Southern Wells Community Schools has written policy regarding contact by law enforcement officials and
investigation by the Child Protection Services team members. These policies are available at the administrative offices at the school.
L. Regulations for Use and Inspection of Lockers Are:
1. Lockers shall not be used to store contraband, which includes items that cause or can reasonably be foreseen to
cause an interference with school purposes or an educational function, or which are forbidden by state law or school rules, such as drugs (other than medicine with a current prescription or common cold or headache medicine sold over the counter), beverage containing alcohol, drug paraphernalia, weapon, any volatile substance, bomb or explosive device, any acid or pungent or nauseous chemical, unreturned athletic or gym equipment, any mildewing or wet articles, or any stolen items.
2. Lockers are under the jurisdiction of school authorities. The school reserves the right to search a student's
locker if there are reasonable grounds for believing that something contrary to school rules or law, or significantly detrimental to the school will be found in the locker. Where possible, the student will be contacted and be given the opportunity to be present during the inspection, unless circumstances require that the inspection be conducted without delay. This student will be notified of such inspection as soon as practical thereafter.
3. An inspection of all lockers in the school, or all lockers in a particular area of the school, may be conducted if
an administrator reasonably believes that such an inspection is necessary to prevent, impede or substantially reduce the risk of (a) an interference with school purposes or an education function, (b) a physical injury or illness to any person, (c) damage to personal or school property, (d) a violation of state law or school rules, or (e) to ensure full compliance with the school corporation's obligations under the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act. This may include the use of drug sniffing police dogs.
4. Examples of circumstances justifying a general inspection of a number of lockers: (a) The school receives a
bomb threat; (b) Evidence of student drug or alcohol use creates a reasonable belief of a high level of student use; and (c) At
the end of a grading period, and before and during school holidays to check for missing library books, lab chemicals, or
school equipment. If a general inspection of a number of lockers is necessary, then all lockers in the defined inspection area
will be examined. Students will not necessarily be given the opportunity to be present at this type of inspection.
5. The principal or superintendent may request the assistance of law enforcement officials to assist in locker inspection if such assistance is required to (a) identify substances, which may be found in locker, or (b) protect the health and safety of persons or property, such as to aid in the discovery and disarming of bombs, etc.
6. Locker Maintenance. Nothing in these regulations shall affect custodians or other staff members who repair
defective lockers or clean out or supervise the cleaning out of (a) lockers from time to time in accordance with a posted
general housekeeping schedule, (b) the locker of a student no longer enrolled in the school, or (c) a locker during any
vacation period which is reasonably believed to contain rotting items such as food, wet clothes, etc.
M. Technology. The increased accessibility of electronic resources requires the implementation of the following use guidelines. Students in the elementary school are specifically directed in Internet activities. However, there may be times when older students are allowed specific projects. Students will be expected to follow instruction from their teacher. Students found to be non-compliant with building and/or district use policies will be subject to disciplinary action. Please adhere to these regulations:
1. Students will adhere to the Southern Wells Community Schools Acceptable Use Policy. The use of online/Internet
services is restricted to school related projects.
2. Students will observe software copyright laws and fair use guidelines. They will not be permitted to copy school
software or bring software from home to copy on school machines.
3. Students' actions will be monitored when using telecommunications to link to resources outside the school.
Guidelines are in accordance with the Southern Wells Student Behavior Policy.
4. Respect for personal data and e-mail of others including students, teachers, and administrators will be maintained.
Passwords to files should not be shared. Desktop or network security should not be breached.
5. Users will have reserved space on network servers for file storage. All computers will not access the school wide network, so flash drives will be required to save files on some machines. Backup copies need to be made of most files.
6. Unacceptable Internet use will consist of, but not be limited to the following:
a. Transmitting, accessing, printing, downloading, or uploading any material which might be deemed pornographic, obscene, sexually explicit, indecent or vulgar; and any material which might be deemed abusive, hateful, degrading, demeaning, derogatory, or defamatory.
b. Vandalizing, damaging, disabling, or gaining unauthorized access to another person’s files, property, data, or materials; and district owned computer systems, files, data or programs.
c. Accessing, printing, downloading or uploading personal web pages.
d. Engaging in any commercial or business activity.
e. E-mail, on-line game playing, and chat rooms.
f. Printing, downloading or uploading information from a personal disk without permission.
N. Playground Rules:
1. Boundaries:
a. The entire blacktop area.
b. The playground and field south of the school.
c. The grass area east of the woods.
d. Restricted: The woods. No students will enter the wooded area unless directed or accompanied by an
adult. This area includes the edge of the woods.
e. Restricted. The grass area between the blacktop and ditch on the east side of the building.
f. Students should not play in doorways, nor on the sidewalks.
g. Children should not play on the gates, nor beyond them unless the supervisor has given permission.
h. Stay on hill. Do not roll down to the pavement.
2. General Rules:
a. At all times, students should display good conduct. Students will be expected to treat property with
respect, observe safety rules, and show consideration for others.
b. Students should be dressed appropriately for weather, including water-proof boots and snowsuits.
c. Students will go outside for recess at 15 degrees (wind chill) and above. Students will not be outside during thunder or lightning.
d. Students must have a note from home each day to stay in at recess. They must have something to work on at
their seats. Exception to the rule may be made by the teacher in individual cases. *If your child is sick, please keep them
home.
e. Students should wait for teachers before going out to recess.
f. Line up promptly and quietly. Hold balls and toys while lining up and upon entering the building - no
talking. * Toys are at the discretion of each grade level.
g. Do not throw stones, sticks, nuts, snowballs, ice, or sand.
h. No tackle football or dodge ball.
i. All staff members have authority.
3. Use of Playground Equipment:
a. Swings. One person on a swing. Sit up on the swings. Swing straight. Do not jump out of the swing.
Students not swinging should use caution, staying clear of the swing area. Only students with orthopedic impairments should use the special swing.
b. Slides. No playing under the slides. One on the ladder at a time. Slide down in a sitting position and then,
promptly, clear the area. No toys or stones on the slide. Do not swing or flip on overhead bar. Do not climb up the slide.
c. Hand walkers. Students will go only in one direction. Do not sit on top of them.
d. Parallel Bars: No standing on top of them or other climbers, and no penny drops.
e. Balance Beam: One person should be on at a time - walking only - No pushing.
f. Funnel Ball Game: Use for "Funnel Ball" game only (no hanging on or shaking apparatus).
g. Caterpillar: No standing or sitting on top of equipment.
h. Handicapped Accessible Equipment: Take turns, no pushing, walking up the ramp. The ramp is not for hanging, sitting, or climbing.
4. For a child to be allowed to stay in from recess, a note must be written to the teacher explaining why. If there is no
note of explanation, the child will go out for recess.
EXTRACURRICULAR PROGRAM
A. General Information/Guidelines
Organization, class, and various other activities are available to extend the academic and social atmosphere of
the school. These include athletics, drama, band, choral groups, academic contests, leadership contests, and clubs. The involved student usually finds school more fulfilling.
1. Each organization is to be under the direction of the school and conform to school regulations.
2. A constitution and by-laws is to be on file in the high school office. Membership requirements must be clearly
stated in the constitution/by-laws.
3. Each organization is to have a list of membership, the officers, and a plan of activities (including anticipated
budget) on file in the office.
4. An organization may be declared "Non-functioning" or completely removed from the school if they act contrary
to school policies, or if they cease to have planned activities.
5. All activities, trips, excursions, etc. are to be approved by the administration and coordinated through the Master
Calendar of Activities.
6. No Sunday activities will be permitted unless approved by the school administration
7. Adequate chaperoning must be provided for all affairs whether on or off the school grounds.
8. No private home meetings are permitted unless approved by the administration.
9. Hazing is not permitted as a part of induction into a group.
10. Any regulations governing the group or activity shall be approved by the school and copies made available to
involved students.
11. When school is dismissed due to inclement weather conditions, all student activities and practices that are
scheduled for the day will be cancelled unless there is a significant change for the better, such as fog. This includes athletic, choral, drama, etc., practices and contests. To conduct a practice on these days needs administrative approval. If approved, attendance by student participants will be voluntary and not required.
12. Every effort will be made to end all practices by 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays.
B. Fund Raising
All projects and fund raising activities by clubs, organizations, groups, and/or classes must receive approval
from the administration, be scheduled in advance and be listed on the Official School Calendar (in each building's office). Advertising, selling things, or collecting money for any cause during school hours or on school premises is not permitted unless prior approval has been granted by the administration. Advanced permission is necessary before any sales or collection of monies for any non-school activity will be considered.
C. Requirements to Participate in Extracurricular Activities
In order to attend or be a participant in a school activity (includes practices) you must be in attendance at school for
all afternoon classes of that particular day, or because of extenuating circumstances (i.e., valid appointment, funeral) must receive prior approval from an administrator.
Extracurricular activity participants are expected to attend school on the day following an activity, maintain a good attendance record, and be prompt to school and classes.
Any student who is suspended out-of-school is ineligible to be in attendance or participate in any school activity during the time of suspension. The same is true of the expelled student.
Any student who drops out of school is ineligible to be a participant of any school organization, club, or school sponsored activity (except dances).
D. Classroom Conduct of Extra-Curricular Participants
Participation in school activities is a privilege. Since we all represent our school and community, it is our
responsibility to conduct ourselves in a manner that creates a positive image. School rules are always in effect when a school activity is involved.
Extracurricular participants are to give respectful attention to classroom activities, staff members, and other students. Maintain self-discipline and self-control in the classroom, school, and contest arena. Give your best efforts on the athletic field, in leadership and academic contest, and in club activities. Conscientiously fulfill all the rules established for the organization and the school.
The sponsor, teacher, or coach may remove a participant from the extracurricular activity under his/her supervision.
Violation of rules involving possession or use of alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs, being found guilty of a misdemeanor or felony, or being classified a habitual offender of disciplinary infractions can result in not being nominated to or removal from a leadership position (club/class officer), or lose the opportunity to be placed in a role model position.
E. School Sponsored Trips
The sponsor or sponsors of the individual organization are responsible for establishing, maintaining, and enforcing
rules, regulations, and procedures within the guidelines of normal school behavior and rules. Regulations governing school trips will include proper chaperoning with explicit duties, traveling rules, conduct at eating establishments and other public places, and curfew regulations.
Rule violations while on a trip may result in a student being sent home at his/her own expense, being prohibited from future school sponsored trips, being removed from the organization, being suspended from school, or some other penalty.
F. Athletic Opportunities
All students are encouraged to participate in the athletic program. For more information, secondary students may obtain a copy of the Extracurricular Activity Handbook from the main office and read it.
G. Participation in Athletics
Participation in school athletics is a privilege, which carries with it varying degrees of honor, responsibility and
sacrifice. Since athletes represent their school and student body, it is their duty to conduct themselves in a manner that is healthy and positive for themselves, their family, their school, and their community.
H. Retention and Red-Shirting
The Southern Wells Community School Corporation will enforce a policy that students will not be retained in a
grade level for the sole purpose of improving the student’s ability to participate in extra-curricular athletic programs.
Southern Wells Community Schools recognizes that participation in interscholastic athletics is a privilege and not a right. Fair competition and safety of participants are prime concerns of this school corporation. To ensure these goals, the Southern Wells Community Schools strongly recommends that students of equal physical maturity and age participate at each grade level.
Therefore, any student who repeats any grade for reasons other than academic failure will lose his/her last year of
athletic eligibility in high school. For example and eighth grader who repeats the eighth grade will have to participate as a sophomore when they become a freshman in high school; this process continues until graduation.
Appendix A – Kindergarten Discipline Plan
1. Respect one another’s rights by
- no physical contact -no name calling
- no taking things that don’t belong to you -no tattling
- no “talking back” -“hands-off” others personal belongings
2. Follow directions/rules
3. Complete ALL assignments on time
4. Take care of your school:
- no chewing gum -no pop
- no wearing hats
5. Talking will remain at an appropriate level -no talking in the hall from 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
If a student chooses to break a rule, the following procedures will be followed:
1st offense – Verbal reminder
2nd offense – Verbal reminder and warning
3rd offense – 2nd warning and 3 minute time-out
4th offense – 3rd warning and 5 minute time-out
5th offense - 4th warning and 10 minute time-out, and a letter will be sent home detailing the behavior and action taken
6th offense – 10 minute time-out, child will see the principal, parents will be contacted for a conference.
*All warnings are removed at the end of the school day. Child will begin next day with a clean record.
** In the case of a severe offense, the child will be sent to the principal immediately and parents will be notified. Examples: Hitting, biting, fighting, disrespect, weapons, throwing food, etc.
*** Students that behave appropriately will be positively rewarded with
Praise Rewards (stickers, treats, bookmarkers, etc.)
Positive notes Special privileges
Happy teachers and proud parents
Appendix B – First Grade Discipline Plan
This is a daily discipline plan. Each student begins each new day with a clean slate. We are excited about the start of this school year. We look forward to all the learning which will take place throughout the year. In order for learning to take place we must have a positive environment. Your child can enhance our classrooms by displaying a positive attitude and a respect for school and classroom rules.
Classroom Rules:
1. The students are expected to respect others and their possessions.
2. The student should complete each assignment on time.
3. The students are to follow directions given by staff members.
4. No running in the building.
5. All children are expected to keep their hands and feet to themselves at all times.
6. No talking during working time.
7. Be quiet in hallways and when in lines.
8. No inappropriate language.
If a student chooses to break a rule:
1st time – Warning
2nd time – Loss of 10 minutes of recess
3rd time – Loss of entire recess
4th time – A note sent home for parents to sign
5th time – Sent to principal and parent called
Severe disruption – sent to principal
To encourage positive behavior, we give the following awards:
Certificates Stickers Positive notes home
Extra recesses Praise Class parties
Appendix C: Raider Card Discipline Plan
for Grades 2nd – 6th
Disciplinary Committee:
Lisa Smith
Peggy Haigh
Ashley Stinson
Kim Huffman
Mike Carter
Dawn Allison
Bill Cline
Bob Pace
John Purcell
S.W.E.S.
RAIDER CODE
R - Respect one another’s' rights
A - Attend school with a "Positive" attitude
I - Improve my world for the future
D - Do what is right
E - Encourage others everyday
R - Responsible for my work
S - Share my special talents
How to qualify for a S.W.E.S. Raider Card
Every student in 2nd grade through 6th grade will begin the school year with their own Raider Card. Each card will have the student's picture and name on it. The purpose of this card is to give each student the responsibility of managing his/her own behavior, knowing that positive incentives will be given to them if they can retain their card. Qualifications for holding on to this card are based on behavior, homework, and attendance. If a student fails to hold up to any one of the following standards, then his/her Raider Card will be pulled until the next cycle (4 1/2 week period) begins.
1. A student may have only 1 written warning per week.
2. NO un-excused absences will be permitted. Only excused absences with a note on return will keep a student from losing his/her Raider Card.
3. Any behavior or language not considered to be acceptable at Southern Wells Elementary School may
be addressed with a written warning or by simply removing the Raider Card from the student.
4. Students new to Southern Wells should be enrolled at least 6 weeks for them to be included in a 9 week drawing and 16 weeks to be included in a semester activity.
If any Raider Card is removed for one reason or another, it will be given back to the student at the beginning of each 4 1/2 week period.
YEARLY POSITIVE INCENTIVES
Weekly:
Student may make a purchase of his/her choice from the weekly “Treat Cart”.
Per 4 1/2 weeks:
Teachers can reward, by choice, whatever they see fit for those students who keep their Raider Card for the 4 1/2 week period. However, just hanging onto the card can be incentive enough because of the privileges (see "Lunch Incentives for Raider Card Holders").
Per 9 weeks:
At the end of each quarter, all students who have kept their Raider Card for the previous 9 weeks period, will have their name entered into a drawing for Raider Prizes. One student will be drawn from each homeroom class, as well as one student for each grade level.
Per Semester:
At the end of each semester, all students who have kept their Raider Card for the previous two 9 week periods will be able to attend the scheduled event. Possible events are as follows:
End of 1st semester: Raider Card Swim Party – Snacks & Swimming (location to be announced)
End of 2nd semester: Raider Card Skating Party – Pizza & Skating (West Park Skate Ctr.)
LUNCHROOM GUIDELINES
-No talking in line outside the cafeteria -Quiet talking at the table
-No saving places at the lunch table) - No throwing food
-No soda drinks for lunch -No food or drink may leave the lunchroom
-Each table and floor area must be clean before student may leave the cafeteria
·
FIVE BASIC CLASSROOM RULES
1. Respect authority and others by:
*NO physical contact *NO name calling
*NO tattling *NO talking back
*NO taking things that don't belong to you *"Hands off" others' personal belongings
2. Follow directions/rules the first time
3. Complete all assignments on time
4. Take care of your school
*NO chewing gum *NO defacing school property
5. Talking will remain at an appropriate level
ZERO TOLERANCE
Southern Wells Elementary School abides by the following State Laws:
IC7.1-5-7-7 Alcoholic Beverages-Illegal Possession
IC35-47-10-5 Handgun or Weapon
IC4-30-12-1 Lottery Tickets (Sale)
IC335-46-1-10.5 Tobacco (Purchase or Possession)
The above will be reported to local authorities and can be penalized ranging from a misdemeanor to a
class C felony, depending on the child's age.
BASIC HALLWAY RULES
No talking in the hallways between 7:50 A.M. and 2:50 P.M.
No running whatsoever
Keep hands off all walls
Keep to the right when walking in groups
CLASSROOM CONSEQUENCES
Each student begins each day on a clean slate. When a teacher feels that enough verbal
warnings/reminders have been given for any misconduct or breaking of rules, the following process
begins:
1. Written Warning
2. Written Warning - Time Out / Penalty
3. Written Warning - Isolation / Penalty
4. Written Warning - Teacher calls parent
5. Written Warning - Referral to Principal
The above are daily consequences for the classroom. If a student is given a written warning from any
other authority outside of the classroom, the classroom teacher needs to be made aware of this for
accurate record keeping. If any student reaches #5 in one day's time, administrative action will be taken.
NOTE: Students who misbehave on the school bus may have their Raider Card revoked after
discussion with the driver and principal.
ADMINISTRATIVE CONSEQUENCES
The following steps are accumulative and will be kept on file in the principal’s office. Step 1 is
taken after a student reaches #5 in Classroom consequences in a one-day period. Step 2 is taken if
a student reaches #5 for a second time and so forth.
Step 1 Student will visit principal. Student may lose recess privilege, privilege of eating with classmates or time out of class.
Step 2 Student will visit principal. Student may miss 1-3 days of recess privilege, privilege of eating with classmates or time out of class. Parents will be contacted. A behavioral contract will be started with the help of the guidance counselor, teacher, parent and principal.
Step 3 Student will visit principal. Student may miss 1-3 days of recess privilege, privilege of eating with classmates or time out of class. Parents will be called in to the school to discuss the situation further.
Step 4 Student will visit the principal. Student may be assigned to 1-5 days of in-school suspension. Parents will be contacted and the behavior contract will be reviewed and updated, if necessary.
Step 5 Student will visit the principal. Student may be assigned to 1-10 days of in-school suspension or out-of school suspension. A recommendation for expulsion may be made to the hearing officer.
The principal has the right to move the student to step 5 in the event of a serious offense.
The principal has the right to take away the student’s Raider Card for inappropriate behavior.
Severe Clause: In the case of a serious offense, teacher has the right to bypass Numbers 1-5 in Classroom Consequences and sent student directly to the office for immediate Administrative Action.
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