Northport Middle/High School



Northport School District

STUDENT HANDBOOK

P.O. Box 1280

Northport, WA 99157

High School: 732-4430

Elementary/Middle School: 732-4441

Solutions Room: 732-4870

WELCOME

Welcome to Northport Elementary/Middle/High School! The faculty, staff and administration hope that the time you spend here will be educational and rewarding. This handbook is for you. It will help you understand the operations of the school as well as your rights and responsibilities as an employee, student and/or as families.

About Us… Northport staff and students have a unique and stimulating approach to education.  We are proud of our schools and wish to share with you our special qualities, programs and attractions!

With a population of around 350, Northport is a friendly, culturally diverse town with a rich history of people who work hard, support their schools, and take a keen interest in their children.  With its affordable cost of living and low crime rate, Northport offers a delightful place to live, work, and raise a family.

Northport is a rural district, of an average of 160 students.  Although we are remote from population centers, our public schools are innovative.  Our single P-12 campus offers smaller than average class sizes, opportunities for cross-age tutoring, integrated P-12 curricula and collegial sharing among staff.

The district campus includes two schools (P-8 and 9-12) as well as a shop complex, 2 computer labs, special education suite and a gymnasium.  The district employs 48 full and part-time people including 14 teachers, 1 superintendent, 1 preK-12 principal, and 23 support staff as well as a part-time psychologist, counselor, nurse, physical therapist, and speech and language pathologist. 

Our students are unique; non-generic!  They are small town kids who are accepting of individual differences, non-cliquish and enthusiastic. 

Members of our community, board of directors, administrators and faculty have been working collaboratively to institute changes that have led to a progressive school system that enjoys higher academic success and strives to maximize individual potential.   Much of the success is attributed to the establishment of a clear and shared focus, adoption and implementation of research-based curriculum and professional training.

Our teachers have received training in some of the most promising and exemplary curriculum materials and effective practices available.  Our support staff has also been an integral part of our improvement efforts, participating in in-services that strengthen their skills, as well.  Together our teachers and support staff operate much like a family would. 

Recently the Northport School District received two top awards/honors related to increasing academic achievement over the past six years. The School of Distinction Award is a state award and the Blue Ribbon and the US News and World Report Bronze Awards are national awards. As one can see, our Board of Directors, administration, staff and students believe in themselves and one another and demonstrate exemplary qualities by setting and achieving high goals.

Our facilities have improved along with our curriculum and achievement.  We have been fortunate to pass tax levies over the past few years as well as a bond to remodel the high school. We were so proud to unveil our newly remodeled high school fall of 2005, which has proven to enhance students’ education. In addition, through an E-Rate grant, we upgraded our district’s computer system to a state-of-the-art Internet Protocol telephony network that runs over fiber optic lines and is wireless. Strategically, we have given our other buildings and grounds a facelift as we replaced lighting, flooring, lockers, bleachers and other worn essentials as well as repainted the interior and exteriors.  Moreover, we have improved ball fields and landscaping with the help of our community.

OUR MISSION

At Northport School District, our mission

is to work together to maximize individual potential.

Belief Statement…

In order for students to be successful, parents, school and community must support by word and action shared belief’s that is the framework for the education of our children.

We believe:

• Parents are their children’s primary educators.

• Education is essential to a democratic society.

• The development of a student’s character is essential to educational excellence.

• Schools are an integral part of the community.

• In a safe and nurturing learning environment that maximizes individual potential.

• In fostering creative thinking and problem solving.

• Working together is beneficial to all.

• Open communication is essential.

• Learning is life-long.

• Student engagement in the learning process can be fun as well as educational.

• In providing educational opportunities that enable all students to reach their potential.

• Respect and responsibility is the cornerstone to a strong education.

• The contribution of diverse groups in the community builds a life-long foundation for education.

• The engagement of all stakeholders in the community is important to the success of the Northport School District.

• The entire community plays a role in student learning.

Vision…

We will all recognize and cultivate the best in every student. Every moment of the school day and beyond will have a focus on the student, their academic, social, personal needs, growth and success. We will form relationships with all students, provide relevance for our expectations and infuse rigor in everything we do. We will always act in a caring, thoughtful and empathetic manner and treat each student as if they were our own child.

Goals…

Student Learning

Students will meet or exceed local, state and national academic standards. Student achievement is the highest priority.

After-school programs and extracurricular opportunities for children will be continued and developed.

A process that will seek and sustain grant monies for core and extracurricular programs will be continued and developed.

Continuous school improvement plans that include curriculum, staff development and school policy will be developed.

Students and staff will show responsible, respectful, and safe behavior.

The diversity of all groups will be valued.

Communication – School/Community

A community-wide communication process will be developed to broaden understanding and community support.

Technology

Students’ learning will be enhanced through the use and support of technology.

Leadership

School/Community

An effective leadership model that includes community, staff and students, administration and board will be developed.

Facilities - Parents, Community, Business

The community will provide financial support of schools to ensure a safe, high-quality learning environment.

DISTRICT PHONE / WEB SITE

District Office 732-4251

High School/Fax 732-4430

Staff Line 732-4870

District Office/Fax 732-6606

Bus Shop 732-6158

Web Site

PHYSICAL ADDRESSES

Elementary School (Preschool – grade 8)…..404 10th Street

Annex (Special Ed., Computer lab)….. 406 10th Street

High School….. 408 10th Street

Gym and Kitchen….. 402 10th Street

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Fire, Ambulance or Police -911

Stevens County Sheriff – 684-2555

Mount Carmel Hospital – 684-2561

Northport Community Clinic – 732-4252

Poison Control Center – 1-800-732-6985 or 1-800-222-1222

ASB CARDS

Students who are involved in either sports or clubs must purchase an ASB card. ASB helps support the athletic and activity programs. Save money when attending games and activities…buy an ASB card for $40.

CLOSED CAMPUS

After arriving to school, students in grades K-12 shall remain on school grounds from time of arrival until final dismissal bell unless officially excused through the office.

DOLLARS FOR SCHOLARS

Dollars for Scholars, a community-based volunteer program, sponsors a variety of scholarships to assist you in realizing your future goals.

EQUITY

The Northport School District complies with all federal and state rules and regulations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. This holds true for all students who are interested in participating in educational programs and/or extra curricular school activities. Inquiries regarding compliance and/or grievance procedures may be directed to Wes Harris, the district’s Title IX/RCW 28A.640 compliance officer and Section 504/ADA coordinator at P. O. Box 1280, Northport, WA 99157 or phone 732-4251.

HONOR ROLL

The Honor Roll and High Honor Roll will be compiled at the end of each semester. The following criteria will be used: High Honor Roll - 3.5 GPA or higher; Honor Roll - 3.0-3.49 GPA.

LOCKERS

9-12 Students will be assigned one locker when they receive their schedule in the fall. Students are responsible for the condition and care of their locker (including P.E.) at all times. Lockers must be left in the same condition at the end of the year as when they were issued. Gym lockers will be assigned first to girls and boys participating in sports with seniority given to students in grades 12, 11, 10, 9 and so on. The next assignment will be made to girls and boys who have a P.E. class based on grade seniority. If lockers must be shared, middle school students are to share with their grade level, only.

Lockers are the property of the school and subject to inspection. Lockers are for storing and securing books, school supplies and appropriate personal items. A student’s locker, desk or storage area may be searched by district staff if reasonable suspicion exists to suspect that evidence of a violation of the law or school rules will be revealed.

PROTECT YOUR PERSONAL ITEMS

The school district is not responsible for the theft or disappearance of staff or students’ personal items therefore, all persons are discouraged from bringing valuables to school. Such items may include but are not limited to iPods, laptop computers, digital cameras, cellular telephones, CD players and other computer equipment.

ADVANCED COURSES

Courses for simultaneous high school-college credit are offered at NHS through regular classroom offerings as well as computers in the district. Only students qualifying on the ASSET test are eligible for college credit. We also offer a variety of advanced placement courses and CWU Cornerstone courses on campus in addition to the Internet based courses. See your career/guidance counselor for further details.

SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS

Our Northport School Board Meetings are the third Tuesday of each month at 6:00 PM behind the elementary school’s library. Prior to the meetings, you can find the agenda posted at the Northport Post Office and on the elementary school entrance door. Please submit your items for the agenda each Thursday prior to the monthly Board Meeting.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT

Northport High School is governed by the ASB, made up of elected officers, class presidents, class representatives and one elected representative from each club. Elections are held in the spring of each year. ASB meetings will be announced in the daily bulletin for dates and times.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES: TRANSPORTATION

Northport students have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of extra-curricular activities throughout the year. Students riding the bus to school events must return on the bus unless their parent/guardian is at the event and signs them off of the bus with the supervisor and bus driver. There are no exceptions to this policy.

OUR THREE EXPECTATIONS

Northport students are

RESPONSIBLE,

RESPECTFUL AND

SAFE; period!

Because we are committed to a safe and secure environment, students will be taught, will practice and be reinforced continuously to ensure that these expectations become common habits in our schools.

Note: In the event that students do not choose responsible, respectful and safe behaviors as taught by staff, logical and natural consequences are used. Other examples of positive interventions are “Think Time”, “Check-In/Check-Out”, counseling groups and mentoring. Occasionally, chronic and/or severe misbehavior may result in a “Success Plan” or detentions or suspensions as sanctioned by the principal and/or district policy.

EXAMPLES OF OUR STUDENT BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS

ARRIVE TO CLASS ON TIME

• High school students are in seat or workstation, on-task when bell rings

• Elementary school students go in at first whistle, on-task at teacher request

COME TO CLASS WITH ALL NECESSARY MATERIALS

Come to class with all materials necessary for each particular subject

Always have a writing utensil

MOVE THROUGH THE CAMPUS IN AN ORDERLY MANNER

Walk on floor/sidewalk

Soft voices in hallways and sidewalks

Bodies to self

Use appropriate door

Stay to the right

Open doors cautiously

Walk bicycles on school grounds

No skates, roller blades skateboards, scooters (toy wheels), remote control cars, on school grounds

CONTRIBUTE TO A POSITIVE SCHOOL CLIMATE

Positive comments only

Hands up appropriately

No advertisements of drugs, alcohol, tobacco on student clothing or jewelry

MAKE SAFE CHOICES / PLAY SAFELY

• Report incidents and conditions that could lead to violence, injury or asset loss to a school staff member or Mr. Baribault

Use equipment for intended purpose

Follow playground rules (contained in this handbook)

Follow instructor directions in use of equipment

No roughhousing or “play fighting”

Games must be played with appropriate items in designated areas

No projectiles of any kind in building

No balls around buses

No walking between buses

Yield to all buses, even walking to and from school

Follow bus rules / driver instructions

Wash hands

No more than one student in bathroom (K-8)

Must use bathroom / drink pass system when on playground and during high school classes

Grades K-3 will obtain verbal permission when on playground and enter through the second grade door

Grades 4-5 will obtain a pass and enter through the fourth grade door only

Grades 6-8 will obtain a pass and enter through the solution room door only

Passes are also required for drinks, visits to the library, solution room and computer lab

Each teacher is responsible for providing his or her own passes. Each staff member is responsible for requesting a pass from students who are out of class.

Clean up your own mess in classrooms, multi, and all common areas

LIMIT PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION

• Daylight between bodies head to toe with the exception of handholding

USE APPROPRIATE LANGUAGE

• No profanity

• Use standard English

RESPECT SCHOOL PROPERTY AND PROPERTY OF OTHERS

• No defacing, damaging or stealing any school property or property of others

• Use materials and equipment in an appropriate manner

SETTLE CONFLICTS APPROPRIATELY

• Settle conflicts respectfully and in a calm manner

• Seek mediation if necessary

TREAT PEERS WITH RESPECT

TREAT STAFF MEMBERS AND GUESTS WITH RESPECT

• Show respect for truth and honesty

FOLLOW STAFF DIRECTIONS

• Follow directions the first time

BE QUIET AT APPROPRIATE TIMES

• When teacher, guest or peer are speaking.

• During lessons, presentations, and activities when appropriate

• During tests

• Always in the library

Use technology as it was intended

• Cell phones need to out of sight and silent during all educational time

• When using computers, please use them for educational purposes only

• Do not use school technology or school time to visit social network sites or inappropriate sites online.

BEHAVE APPROPRIATELY IN ASSEMBLIES

• Follow standard dismissal procedure

• Hats off for flag salute, etc.

CELL PHONES, iPods, Walkmans, Discmans, boom boxes, MP3 players, etc. are only to be used during lunch, passing times and on buses. Continued use privileges will depend on responsible use.

The school district is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

STUDENT RIGHTS, RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUE PROCESS

One of the major goals of Northport School District is to promote in each student a sense of one’s civic rights and responsibilities.

All students have the right to a safe environment and the right to an equal educational opportunity, regardless of national origin, race, religion, economic status or sex, including being free from sexual harassment.

Students and staff will be expected to report unsafe conditions or security issues.

A list of all CPR trained staff is posted on the safety bulletin board in the staff lounge in the elementary school.

Students have the right of freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and the right to peaceably assemble. Students have the right to be secure in person, paper, and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures therefore all students have the right to due process.

Any pupil, who is aggrieved for any causes, has the right to request an informal conference with the appropriate administrator for the purpose of resolving the matter.

All students who attend school in this district shall comply with the written policies, rules and regulations established; shall pursue the required course of studies, and shall comply to the authority of the teachers of the school, subject to such disciplinary or other actions as the school officials shall determine.

“Due Process for Discipline.” The student, parent, or guardian who is aggrieved by the imposition of discipline shall have the right to an informal conference with the building principal or higher designee for the purpose of resolving the grievance, pursuant to WAC 18-40-240 and district policy. The decision of the principal may be appealed to the superintendent or his/her designee upon 2 school days notice. The decision of the superintendent/designee may be appealed to the Board of Directors upon 2 school business days notice. Multi-disciplinary Team Meetings (MDT) shall be held for students served under Federal IDEA.

TEACHER / ADMINISTRATOR RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Every teacher and administrator shall, in accordance with due process rights of the students, have the authority to discipline any student for any disruptive or disorderly conduct while that student is under his/her supervision and jurisdiction, and may exclude a student from his/her class in order to maintain an orderly learning environment.

RULES GOVERNING STUDENT CONDUCT

The school is legally responsible for students while in school, or in transit to or from school. All students shall comply with school rules and regulations and submit to reasonable directions of school authorities. Refusal shall constitute cause for discipline, suspension, or expulsion. Such rules shall apply:

a. On the school grounds during and immediately before or immediately after school hours.

b. On the school grounds at any other time when school is being used by a school group, or off the school grounds at a school activity, function or event.

c. Off the school grounds when prohibited behavior is a consequence of, or directly related to, causes or events which occurred or originated on school grounds.

d. Off school grounds when the student is enroute between home and school, including bus stops.

DISCIPLINE / CONSEQUENCES

Northport Middle/High School staff and administration care about each student and want to provide a safe, wholesome, positive atmosphere for learning and activity. To accomplish this we will not allow abusive or disruptive behavior. Depending on severity or frequency of other violations, the administration reserves the right to determine the level at which the violations will be handled. Also, an individualized Success Plan or a Functional Behavior Plan requiring specific target behaviors/consequences may be developed and implemented for a student when other interventions have failed. In addition, students on a Success or F.B. plan may be required to participate in the “check-in / check out” process each day until behavior has significantly improved.

DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS

Students are expected to use self-discipline and must assume responsibility for their behavior. When student behavior is not acceptable, necessary action will be taken.

Teachers and administrators have full authority to control or discipline a student during the time such student is in attendance, in transit to or from school, or attending any school sponsored function. Actions to be taken by the teacher or administrator include, but are not limited to the following:

Time Out / “Think Time” Option: The student may be sent to the Solution Room for a brief time during the class period to reflect on disruptive behavior. This is to be considered a last resort and only to be used when a teacher wouldn’t be able to continue teaching if the student were to remain. Students complete a behavior form and return to class for debriefing with the teacher or staff member. Time outs may or may not result in a discipline referral and/or detention or “yellow or red slip”. If a yellow or red slip is issued, the issuing staff member will call the parent or send a note if parents can’t be reached.

Lunch Detention: Students report to the Solution Room at the beginning of lunch for 15-minute detentions. No-shows for lunch detentions may result in a 1-hour after school detention. The second occurrence may result in a 1 day I.S.S. It is the student’s responsibility to make prior arrangements with the Solution Room staff if unable to serve lunch detention.

After School Detention: The student is assigned to report after school for a 1-hour detention on Wednesdays. In most cases, a student is given notice the week before the detention is assigned so that he/she can arrange transportation. Students will report to the Solution Room and are responsible for bringing study materials. Students may also complete the behavioral packet provided by the Solution Room. Students who fail to attend after school detention will be placed in I.S.S. for ½ day.

It is the student’s responsibility to make prior arrangements with the Solution Room staff if unable to serve after school detention.

Exclusion: A student may be excluded from class if the teacher is unable to maintain a suitable environment for learning, provided due process has been followed.

In-School Suspension (I.S.S.): Shall mean exclusion from school or individual classes for a specific period of time, after which the student has the right to return. Students will report to the Solution Room and are responsible for gathering study materials the DAY BEFORE their scheduled ISS. Students may also complete a behavioral packet provided by the Solution Room.

Short-Term Out of School Suspension (O.S.S.): Shall mean a denial of attendance, or suspension for any portion of a calendar day up to and not exceeding ten consecutive days. Students will not be permitted on the school campus during OSS. Students will not be permitted to participate in before and after school activities on the day(s) of their OSS.

In the event that a parent requests OSS in lieu of ISS, these absences will count toward the 12 allowed days per semester. (See “Unexcused and Excessive Absences”) Parents may also choose to shadow, or attend school with, their child in lieu of OSS for certain violations such as over accumulation of detention time.

Long-Term Out of School Suspension: Shall mean a suspension, which exceeds a short-term suspension up to the remainder of the semester.

Expulsion: Shall mean denial of attendance at any single subject or class or at any full schedule for an indefinite period of time.

Emergency Expulsion: A student may be removed immediately from a class, subject, or activity by a teacher or administrator provided that the teacher or administrator has good and sufficient reasons to believe that the student’s presence poses an immediate and continuing danger to the student, other students, or school personnel, or an immediate and continuing threat of substantial disruption of the class, subject, activity, or educational process of the student’s school. This includes suspected drug and/or paraphernalia possession and/or use.

Note: Seniors violating the disciplinary code in the last quarter of their senior year may be excluded from participating in the graduation ceremony.

Following are some examples of rule violations and possible consequences:

CATEGORY I VIOLATIONS (In-class Interventions)

• Classroom disruption/disorderly conduct (minor).

• Being out of class or in the parking lot without permission.

• Failing to have necessary materials for class.

• Failing to make safe choices.

• Failing to respect school and other’s property (minor).

• Failing to follow directions on first request (minor).

• Failing to use quiet/appropriate behavior.

• Gum, food and drink violations.

• Radios, iPod, cell phone, stereos, Walk/Discmans/MP3 players violations.

• School rule violations - littering, hallway disturbances, skateboards, scooters, computer misuse, etc.

• Public displays of affection - Displays beyond holding hands.

• Being late to class.

• Failing to follow bus rules.

Corrective Actions:

• Conference with student, in-class intervention, confiscation of inappropriate item, etc.

• 15-minute lunch detention assigned with discipline (“yellow”) slip.

• Parent Notification.

CATEGORY II VIOLATIONS (Time Out to Solution Room)

• Assault/fight/threats/intimidation - Threats or acts of physical abuse, harassment, (including bullying and teasing) altercation between two or more students.

• Leaving Class Without Permission

• Vulgar, disrespectful, or abusive language - Use of profanity, vulgarity, cursing, or disrespect may appear either verbally, in writing, as gestures or on clothing.

• Reckless driving/riding- Including reckless driving and/or speeding on school grounds, riding on car hoods, etc. The speed limit is 10 MPH.

• Cheating/plagiarism - Turning in work that is not the student’s original, allowing other students to copy work.

• Misconduct at assemblies, athletic contests, etc. - Inappropriate disorderly conduct, including disruptive behavior, use of profanity, throwing objects, and unsportsmanlike conduct.

• Forgery or misrepresentation - Impersonating parent on phone, signing for a parent, teacher, counselor, medical personnel, etc.

• Unsafe conduct - Striking another with body and/or an object, i.e. punching, kicking, chasing, horseplay, throwing objects.

• Computer Misuse – Includes intentional tampering, attempting to access non-educational sites on the Internet, using another person’s password, installing and/or downloading items that are not approved by staff, unauthorized use of e-mail, etc.

• Initiation/hazing activities

• Theft/possession of stolen property - Taking or in possession of school or other’s property without owner’s permission.

Corrective Actions:

• Conference with student, in-class intervention, confiscation of inappropriate item, etc.

• Time out to Solution Room.

• Parent notification.

• After school detention for 1 hour.

• Conflict resolution or restitution.

• Plagiarism will result in no credit for the assignment with no opportunity for a redo.

• A fight/assault will result in an immediate suspension.

CATEGORY III VIOLATIONS (Immediate O.S.S. )

• Sexual harassment, indecent liberties, sexual assault - Sexual conduct not asked for, not welcomed, not returned and as defined by law, including “de-pantsing”.

• Possession of a dangerous weapon – Possession on school grounds, at school activities, busses (on person, clothing, or property, including vehicle of student) of weapons such as knives, guns, or other martial arts weapons or other illegal weapons as defined by law and school policy. This includes guns in vehicles. Mandatory expulsion for one calendar year for gun possession!

• Criminal acts - Arson, assault, fight, larceny, vandalism, robbery, trespass, unlawful intimidation of school authorities, knife possession, etc.

• Vulgar, disrespectful, or abusive language - Use of profanity, vulgarity, cursing, or disrespect may appear either verbally, in writing, as gestures or on clothing.

• Classroom disruptions - major - An immediate and continuing threat of substantial disruption of the class, subject, activity, or educational process of the school.

• Theft/possession of stolen property - Taking or in possession of school or other’s property without owner’s permission.

• Property damage, vandalism, malicious mischief - Destruction or defacing school or personal property.

• Lack of compliance, disrespect, defiance, interference with, insulting or intimidation of staff - Failure to act as instructed by any staff member. Failure to pursue studies. Use of vulgar or abusive language toward staff.

• Use/possession/under the influence of drugs or alcohol - Includes showing evidence of being under the influence. Also includes the possession of drug and/or paraphernalia or illegal chemical substances.

• Sale or transfer/distribution of illegal drugs - Includes using school property as a base to conduct sales and transfers of controlled substances and/or drug paraphernalia.

• Use/possession of tobacco - Includes using or having tobacco in any form at any time on school property.

• Gang related activities - Activities that create an atmosphere in which a student, staff, or other person's well-being is hindered by undue pressure, behavior, intimidation, overt gestures or threat of violence; or implication of gang membership of affiliation by written communication, marks, hand signs, drawing, painting design, emblem upon any school or personal property or one’s person.

• Internet policy violations and serious computer misuse- Unauthorized use of Internet, e-mail, software and hardware.

• Cheating/plagiarism - Turning in work that is not the student’s original, allowing other students to copy work.

Corrective Actions:

DEPENDING ON THE CIRCUMSTANCES ANY OR ALL OF THE FOLLOWING MAY OCCUR:

• Parent notification.

• Immediate removal from school or I.S.S.

• Plagiarism will result in no credit for the assignment with no opportunity for a redo.

• Administrative conference.

• Conflict resolution, restitution.

• “Success plan” or Functional Behavior Plan

• Mental health counseling referrals.

• Short- or long-term suspension.

• Expulsion.

• Police report and possible arrest.

• Office of Civil Rights (OCR) notification.

• Assaults/fights in this category will result in an immediate O.S.S. and possible law enforcement notification (police report).

• Mandatory expulsion for one calendar year for gun possession!

EMPLOYEE DUTY TO ACTIVELY SUPERVISE and Report

• Walk your last period class out of the building each day and supervise at the buses until bus departure.

• Issue HALL PASSES every time you allow a students under your direction to go anywhere for any reason.

• Meet/greet your students at the door each period each day. This also helps with hall supervision!

• Report all conduct violations to Solution Room or the Principal!

POSITIVE REINFORCERS – “Green Slips”

The staff at Northport School regularly rewards those students who contribute to a responsible, respectful, and safe school climate. When employees witness responsible, respectful, safe and/or compassionate behavior from students, a green slip is submitted for each good deed. Students’ names are then entered into a weekly drawing for prizes. All green slip recipients for each quarter are also eligible for a grand prize drawing, which occurs four times per year. When students are rewarded for positive behaviors, please strive to notify the parent about the good news.

HARASSMENT / SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY

To maintain a safe, positive, and quality educational environment, the Northport School District requires courteous and respectful interactions between and among students, staff, and others involved in school activities. Harassment, including sexual harassment by any person or group will not be tolerated.

Harassment includes unwelcome persistent or repeated remarks, jokes, gestures, pranks, or behaviors that demean a person’s race, gender, ethnicity, abilities, or past conduct; or any remarks or behaviors of a sexual nature that create an offensive, intimidating environment at school.

The school district will promptly investigate any complaint of harassment. Any person being harassed is encouraged to report the incident to a teacher, counselor, or administrator. For the informal and formal complaint process; please ask for Policy and Procedures 8700 at the district office. Any student or employee who is found to have harassed any other student or employee will be disciplined.

Retaliation against any person who makes or who is witness in a harassment complaint will result in appropriate discipline, as will knowingly reporting or corroborating false allegation of harassment.

ATTENDANCE AND EXCUSED ABSENCES

In the event that a parent checks their child out for a doctor or dentist appointment, the building secretary will notify the teacher. Students arriving late will arrive to class with an admit slip. In the event that a child becomes ill or the Principal sends a student home due to disciplinary matters, the Health Aide or Solutions personnel will notify the building secretary who will then inform the classroom teacher.

Good attendance patterns play a vital role in a student’s success in school as well as in the world of employment. If students develop good attendance patterns now, there will be many benefits from these habits in the future. All students are expected to be regular and punctual in attendance to derive the most benefit from their educational opportunities.

The following absences shall be excused:

Personal illness

Family emergencies, i.e. funeral, death, hospitalization

School sponsored activities

Appearances in court when required by law

Disciplinary action: suspension

Absences pre-arranged by parents with notice to school one or more days in advance.

Students returning to school following any absences (except school activity) must present a written or verbal excuse by parent/guardian to the office within 2 days (48 hours). It must state the date(s) and reason for the absence. An excused admittance slip will be issued if the requirements of Excused Absences are met. Absences must be excused within 2 school days of return or they will automatically become unexcused.

It is the student’s responsibility to complete all work missed due to an excused absence and turn it in within a reasonable time, which is identified by each teacher.

UNEXCUSED AND EXCESSIVE ABSENCES

Any absence not listed as excusable will be considered unexcused regardless of parent note. The student’s grade may be affected since work missed during an unexcused absence(s) may not be made up. After a student has had five unexcused absences in a calendar month, or ten days in a school year, the school must fill out a PETITION FOR COURT ORDER REQUIRING STUDENT TO ATTEND SCHOOL and MOTION AN ORDER TO SET HEARING DATE ON TRUANCY PROCEEDING OR FOR OTHER COURT INTERVENTION. (“BECCA BILL” - RCW 28A.225.030).

The school will communicate with parents by written notices, phone conferences, and parent-teacher-student-administrator conferences in order to arrive at a satisfactory solution to excessive absences. Students identified as having habitual absentees (12 in one semester) may be required to appear before an attendance committee to explain the situation and devise a plan for improvement.

HIGH/MIDDLE SCHOOL ATTENDANCE POLICY

1. School sponsored absences in curricular or co-curricular activities, or absences authorized by school personnel, will not count toward the 12 absences.

2. Phone calls will be attempted and a letter will be sent to the parents warning of approaching loss of credit.

If the absence is pre-excused or is an excused absence, the student has the right to make up missed work. If the absence is unexcused the student does not have the privilege of making up missed work.

TRUANCY

A truancy (“skip”) is an absence from any class, part of class or series of classes without prior permission and/or excuse. It is the teacher’s discretion to allow students to make up work missed due to truancy. If students are 20 or more minutes late to class, this may be considered a “skip”/absence and the truancy policy will be followed.

1. The first truancy violation will result in a conference with the student and notification to the parents/guardians and a 1-day in school suspension.

2. The second instance will result in an in school suspension of 2 days.

3. The third violation may result in a County Juvenile Court referral, parent/student/administrative conference and possible out of school suspension.

TARDINESS – Accumulates each Trimester.

Promptness to class is very important. Students are to be in their seats and ready to work when the bell sounds. Tardiness without valid admit slip from another teacher, staff, or administrator will be considered unexcused.

ABSENCES AND PARTICIPATION IN ACTIVITIES/ATHLETICS

Students absent from class on the day of any activity are ineligible to participate that day unless given approval by the principal or his/her designee. Students returning home late from activities will be expected to attend ALL classes the next day.

ASB Cards and Insurance

ASB cards must be purchased by each student participating in extra-curricular activities for $40. Each extra-curricular team will be required to raise and contribute $200 to the ASB to offset equipment, officials, uniform, travel and other expenses. In addition, parents must show proof of medical insurance or purchase a plan for a nominal fee. Insurance registration forms are available in the school offices.

ILLNESS AT SCHOOL / HEALTH ROOM

When becoming ill at school, a student must report to class first and then to the office. Appropriate arrangements will then be made. Students not following this procedure will be considered truant and the truancy procedure will be followed.

Health room procedures for sick/ill students:

1. Student must check in to class and get “Health Referral to Nurse / Office” form from Teacher (this will be your hall pass).

2. Student will check in with the secretary before going to Health Room. Health Room is rarely supervised and student(s) may have to remain in office.

3. If student is to go home, the secretary will call the parent or guardian.

4. The person calling the parent will notify the classroom teacher that the student went home.

MEDICATION AT SCHOOL

Our school district is authorized by RCW 28A.31.260 to administer medication to students during school hours. Schools can administer medication only when necessary to allow a child to attend school. Medication is defined as oral drugs, whether prescription or over-the-counter, including aspirin and cough drops. Call 732-4441 Ext. 124 to leave a message for the nurse.

WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL

Students withdrawing from school must have written permission from home. After obtaining a withdrawal form from the office, the student must receive necessary signatures to show that all obligations of books and equipment have been met. The form must be returned to the office.

PROGRESS REPORTS / REPORT CARDS AND FINAL EXAMS

Report cards are issued every twelve weeks, or three times during the year as a means of evaluating a student’s performance and determining changes that should be made to improve student performance. Each teacher will explain his/her grading system to you. It is important to keep up on your daily work, homework, and test preparation.

Final exams will be given at the end of each trimester or more often at teachers’ discretion. Such exams will be rigorous and will simulate the type of questions found on the MSP/EOC/HSPE. These tests will measure the students’ ability to apply their learning to solve problems, find accurate solutions and communicate their understanding.

Parents are encouraged and invited to come to the school at a prearranged time to consult with the teacher about their child’s progress. Conferences are strongly suggested for students who are struggling.

It is also out recommendation that family’s access Skyward family access to keep on top of their student’s grades. Skyward family access is a system that allows parents to see current grades for their child right out of the teachers grading system. If you are interested in having Skyward family access, please see the school secretary for a user name and password.

Incomplete grades (I) – Students will have 15 school days to finish the work after receiving an incomplete grade. On the 16th school day, failure to turn in required work will result in a failing (F) grade.

Plagiarism / Cheating– consists of turning in work that is not the student’s original, allowing other students to copy work. Plagiarism will result in discipline under the school’s discipline program and the student must make up the assignment.

CAREER GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING

The 9-12 Career and Guidance Counselor assists with scheduling students, including AP Internet classes, course description booklets, higher education registration materials, career, college and scholarship obtainment, among many other post high school planning services. Parents/guardians are encouraged to contact and/or meet with the counselor(s) concerning their children’s progress. Contact 732-4430, Ext. 155.

STUDENT DRESS

The student and parent may determine the student’s personal dress and grooming standards, provided that the student’s dress and grooming, including jewelry, shall not:

Lead school officials to reasonably believe that such dress or grooming shall disrupt, interfere with, disturb, or detract from the school environment or activity and/or educational objectives; students should wear clothing that exposes minimal skin. “Spaghetti straps”, exposed midriffs, low-cut tops, shorts that are too short, etc. are not allowed and “underwear/garments” should not be visible.

Create a health or other hazard to the student’s safety or to the safety of others;

Create an atmosphere in which a student, staff, or other person’s well-being is hindered by undue pressure, behavior, intimidation, overt gesture or threat of violence; or

Imply gang membership or affiliation by written communication, marks, drawing, painting, design, and emblem upon any school or personal property.

Advertise alcohol, drugs or tobacco.

Students violating that dress code will be asked to change, cover-up.

EMERGENCY DRILLS / EMERGENCIES

Emergency drills, at regular intervals, are required by law and are an important safety precaution. It is essential that when the first signal is given, everyone obeys orders and clears the building or locks down as quickly as possible. The teacher in each classroom will give the students specific instructions.

Drill Practices and What to do During a School Emergency

We do have a comprehensive safe schools plan, which entails, in part, an “emergency calling” plan. Our PTO will assist with the update and drill of this part of the plan. No less than two times per year, when we have a lock-down drill, families will be notified by a volunteer caller of the drill. This is to ensure that we have the most current contact information.

In order for our emergency response plans to be effective, we must depend on the cooperation and assistance of many people, such as the police and fire departments. We also depend upon the parents of our students to support our disaster response efforts. Your cooperation is vital to helping us protect the safety and welfare of all children and school employees. We ask parents to observe the following procedures during a crisis situation:

- Do not telephone the school. We understand and respect your concern for your child but it is essential that the telephone system be available for emergency communications.

- Tune your radio to the local radio station for emergency announcements and status reports. You will also receive instructions on where you should go and how/when you may be able to pick up your child.

- Do not come to the school or evacuation location until you are instructed to do so.

Keep Your Family Emergency Information Current!

Emergency and crisis situations can happen at any time so it is very important for you to keep your family contact information current. Notify your child’s school every time there is a change. Included in this information should be an up-to-date list of which friends and family members are authorized to pick up your child, with their current contact information. In an emergency evacuation, students will only be released to individuals on the authorized pick-up list.

TEXTBOOKS, FEES AND FINES

Students will be issued textbooks for many of their classes. Books are issued by number. Students are responsible for taking care of the books that are checked out to them and returning them at the end of the course. Any damage, excess wear and tear or loss will result in a fine.

Other fees include but are not limited to wood, welding, and business/computer classes. Some elective classes will also have fees such as ceramics, etc. All students are required to have clean PE shoes for use in the gym, only.

Each year individual portraits are taken in the fall and class pictures in the spring. Packages can be ordered for a reasonable price.

Students must pay for lost books in addition to other accumulated fines in order to receive report cards, diplomas etc.

ACCIDENTS

School accidents should be reported immediately to the nearest adult in charge. If additional help is needed, contact the office for further arrangements. The first adult on the scene must fill out an accident report.

CAFETERIA

The school cafeteria is maintained as a vital part of the health program at the school. To encourage good nutrition, a well-balanced lunch is offered at a reasonable price.

The lunchroom management and your fellow students will appreciate your cooperation in:

Depositing all lunch litter in wastebaskets.

Returning all trays and utensils to the dishwashing area.

Leaving the table and floor around your place in a clean condition for others.

A lunch card is issued to each student. Families are encouraged to pay in advance (weekly/monthly).

BREAKFAST AND LUNCH PROGRAM

Lunch cards are available from the office. The Northport School District’s hot lunch program in conjunction with the state and national lunch program is a non-profit co-operation, therefore, no breakfasts and/or lunches are to be served on credit for either students or adults. Free or reduced price breakfasts and lunches are offered through this district to individuals who qualify for this program. Eligibility and application forms will be sent to all families in September and are available in the office if you income status changes.

Breakfast prices are: Grades K-8 - $1.30 (reduced rates for breakfast $.00)

Grades 9-12- $1.30

Adults- $2.00

Extra milk- $0.40

Lunch prices are: Grades K-5 - $2.00 (reduced rates $.40 for grades 4-5)

Grades 6-12 - $2.25(reduced rates $.40)

Adults- $3.25

Extra milk- $0.40

Note – Beginning with the 2007-08 school year, there will be no fee for reduced breakfasts and no fee for K-3 reduced lunches.

TELEPHONES

Office telephones are used for school business. Middle and high school students must obtain a phone pass from their teacher and use the office phone only. Phones are to be used during class change and lunch times only. Tardy slips will not be issued for students who are late to class due to phone calls. High School students will be charged 35 cents per call for non-emergencies.

Students with cell phones are to use them on their passing and break times only. Cell phones are not to be on or visible in class at any time. Phones being used or that are out during class will result in consequences and possibly confiscation of the student phone.

LIBRARY

The library has books, internet access, magazines, newspapers, and many other print and non-print materials available for assigned study and recreational use by students. Fines are charged for overdue or lost materials.

INTERNET

Students must have a signed parent permission form on file with the office before accessing the Internet. Any student who uses the Internet in an inappropriate way or who accesses restricted information may lose computer privileges for a specified amount of time.

SCHOOL VISITORS

Students must secure a guest pass from the office and receive permission from all of their teachers two days in advance of the visit in order to have a student guest at school. Guests must have an educational purpose in order to attend and are at the discretion of the principal. Parents/guardians are encouraged to visit school at any time and are also asked to check in with the office personnel and obtain a guest pass.

STUDENT DRIVING

Students who wish to drive vehicles to school must obtain a form from the high school office requesting the following information:

1. Name, address, phone number

2. Washington Driver’s License Number (copy required)

3. Make, model, year of vehicle(s)

4. License plate number(s)

5. Proof of liability insurance of at least $50,000 (copy required)

Students will receive a copy of Policy 3241 when they return the completed form to the office. If a student does not adhere to the rules in the policy, their privilege to drive to school will be revoked. Students and staff are urged to lock their vehicles upon arriving to school.

Drivers must adhere to 10 MPH in the parking lot. Students must be secured inside the car before leaving the parking lot. (No riding in the back of pick-ups, on running boards, hoods, etc.)

DANCES

Procedures to be followed before the dance:

1. Every dance must be approved at the ASB meeting prior to the dance or earlier. Next, the principal must be notified. The dance request form must be filled out IN FULL before it will be considered. (This includes signed volunteer forms for the chaperones.)

2. Three chaperones must be at the dance, including one member of the faculty. Chaperones must sign a Volunteer Form and read rules completely.

3. Guest passes must be brought to the principal with parent signature for approval two days before the dance.

4. The custodial staff and the Northport Police/Sheriff’s Office must be notified in advance of a dance including when and where it will take place.

Procedures to be followed at the dance:

1. There will be a table manned by a chaperone for money collection. After a person has paid, they will receive a stamp.

2. No open beverages will be allowed into the dance.

3. There will be a designated area outside of one entrance to the dance that will be a “fresh air” area.

4. Once a student has left the dance or the designated “fresh air” area, they will not be readmitted and parents may be notified. Students must sign out upon leaving.

5. If a student must go to the parking lot, or some other nearby place, they may do so only if they are accompanied by a chaperone.

INITIATION

There will be no initiation or “hazing” activities of any kind allowed at any time on school grounds. Any initiation ritual perpetrated on another student will result in suspension and possible police referral.

BUS DELAYS

There are three main reasons for bus delays including inclement weather, doubled routes and mechanical breakdowns. If the bus is delayed for any reason, the driver will follow their delay procedures and families will be notified by phone. If families cannot be reached, please contact the school for information or to report a delay.

BUS PROCEDURES

• All students not loading onto buses must stay behind the yellow line at the school curb.

• Bus students who are waiting for their bus to arrive must line up single file behind the yellow line.

• All bus riders must wait for their driver to be present before boarding.

• At no time are students to be near or touching any part of the bus.

• No persons are to cross between buses. Crossing is permitted in front of the first bus or behind the last bus in line, only.

• Students are encouraged to be on their way as soon as possible after being dismissed from school.

• Students shall ride only on their assigned bus unless a bus pass has been obtained through written permission or phone call.

• Student shall observe rules of classroom conduct while riding on buses. Noise and loud behavior shall be kept to a minimum to avoid distracting the driver. Students shall refrain from talking to the driver, walking or changing seats while the bus in motion.

• Students shall not carry or have in their possession articles, which may be hazardous in the event of an accident or emergency stop that would cause injury to themselves or others. Such items include but are not limited to sticks, breakables, weapons, or large, bulky items that cannot be held or placed under the bus storage area.

HOMEWORK

The school district believes that homework is a constructive tool in teaching/learning process when geared to the needs and abilities of students. Purposeful assignments not only enhance student achievement but also develop self-discipline and positive working habits. As an extension of the classroom, homework must be planned and organized; must be viewed as purposeful to the students; and must be evaluated and returned to students in a timely manner.

Homework may be assigned for one or more of the following purposes:

• Internal review of classwork

• Ongoing practice of classwork

• Extended practice for students needing extra help or for students who are accelerated.

All homework assigned must fit the needs of the individual student and must be fair and differentiated.

Family Responsibilities-

0. Families are expected to support the homework policy;

1. Families are expected to notify their child(ren)’s teacher(s) in the event that:

-there are problems with completion of the homework

-homework completion is frequently taking longer than the minimum requirement of 30 minutes or

-students indicate that they do not have homework

Teacher Responsibilities-

2. Teachers will publish the homework policy in their classroom newsletters in September of each year and as often as necessary to inform families;

3. Teachers will make every effort to make homework predictable and self-explanatory;

4. Teachers are NOT encouraged to assign computer-dependent homework in the event that families do not have access to such resources;

5. Teachers will inquire as to how much time homework assignments are actually taking students so that quantity can be adjusted;

6. Teachers are expected to connect families with the resources necessary for student success with homework completion such as involvement in the school program, mentor program, success team, etc.

STUDENT RECORDS / FERPA

The students and parents of students of the district have the right of confidentiality in regard to student records. Therefore, no one, other than the administration, the teaching staff, the student him/herself, or the student’s parent/guardian may review a student folder (on a need to know basis) unless prior written permission has been granted by the child’s parent/guardian or the child him/herself (if over 18 years of age). Lists of students, addresses, and/or parents will not be given out.

If parents or adult students believe something in the file is inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights, they may request that it be corrected or attach comments to the record.

School Employees have a legal obligation to keep all matters involving students and their families private and confidential.

TESTING AND COUNSELING SCHEDULE

Grade 3 MSP Testing

Grade 4 MSP Testing

Grade 5 MSP Testing

Grade 6 MSP Testing

Grade 7 MSP Testing

Grade 8 MSP Testing

Grade 9 EOC exams

Grade 10 EOC exams and HSPE Exams

Learning Styles Inventories—Fall

ASSET (for interested students)—Spring

Grade 11 EOC and HSPE make-ups

ASSET (for interested students)—Fall, Spring

ASVAB (recommended)--Fall

PSAT (choice)—Fall

SAT/ACT (choice)—Fall

Frequent information about career/scholarship options—All year

Transcript analysis/scheduling—Spring

Goal statement/resumes—Spring

AP Test—Spring

Grade 12 EOC and HSPE make-ups

ASSET (for interested students)—Fall

ASVAB (choice)—Fall

SAT/ACT (choice)--Fall

Parent meeting—Fall

Credit analysis/graduations status letter—Fall

Counseling session—Winter, Spring

Transcript analysis—Summer, Spring

Graduate Panel—Winter

Frequent information about career/scholarship options—All year

Letters of recommendation—Winter, Spring

AP tests—Spring

WASHINGTON STATE GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

The board shall establish graduation requirements, which, as a minimum, satisfy those established by the state board of education:

English (reading, writing and communications) 3 credits

Mathematics 3 credits

Science (physical, life and earth; one laboratory credit) 2 credits

Social Studies (civics, history and geography) 2.5 credits

Health and Fitness 2 credits

Arts 1 credit

Occupational Education 1 credit

Electives 5.5 credits

TOTAL: 20 credits

A credit is defined as 150 hours of planned instructional activities excluding passing time. A Carnegie unit (180 50-minute hours) is required unless a waiver process has occurred as provided in WAC 180.51.100. No student may earn more than one credit/year to satisfy the state board requirements in English, Mathematics and Science except as provided in RCW 28A.230.100. The board shall approve additional graduation requirements as recommended by the superintendent and they are as follows:

NORTHPORT HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

• English (reading, writing, communications) 4 credits

• Mathematics (credit granted only for IMP1 or above:

Senior math) 4 credits

• Science (physical, life and earth; one laboratory credit) 3 credits

• Social Studies (civics, history and geography) 4 credits

• Health .5 credits

• and Fitness 1.5 credits

• Arts 1.5 credits

• Occupational Education (technology mandatory) 1.5 credit

• Electives 6 credits

TOTAL 26 credits

Note: Under rare circumstances, the Northport School District may consider offering a 20-credit diploma. WA State sets 20 credits as the minimum requirement for a HS diploma, which are 6 credits less than the NPSD minimum. This will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

In addition to the minimum credit requirements, each student must complete:

1. A High School and Beyond, or Fifth-Year Plan: Within the first year of high school enrollment, each student shall develop a plan for satisfying the state and district’s high school graduation requirements and for their first year after high school completion. The plan should be developed in collaboration with the student, parent and district staff. The plan should include how the student will satisfy the district’s academic credit requirements, preparation for successfully completing the Washington Assessment of Student Learning, a description of the student’s culminating project and the student’s goals for the year following graduation. Each student plan should be reviewed annually at the beginning of the school year to assess student progress, to adjust the plan, and to advise the student on steps necessary for successful completion of the plan. FAFSA completetion is also a requirement of the 5th year plan.

2. A Culminating Project: During the course of their high school career each student shall complete a culminating project. The project shall demonstrate the student’s ability to think analytically, logically and creatively and to integrate experience and knowledge to form reasoned judgments and solve problems. The project will also have a connection to the world of work in that it will demonstrate that the student understands the importance of work and how performance, effort, and decisions directly affect future career and educational opportunities;

3. Pass the reading and writing portions of the Washington Assessment of Student Learning HSPE; and Math EOC

4. Complete additional math credits as outlined below and continue to take the mathematics EOC once each year. (If the student failed to successfully pass the math portion of the EOC or an appropriate alternative.)

Students must earn two mathematics credits or career and technical education equivalent math credits after 10th grade. Credits earned must meet 9/10 grade level expectations.

5. Complete 20 hours of community/volunteer service, half of which needs to be school related.

6. Students must meet standard on 2 student led conferences per year (Fall and Spring). Meeting standard on all 8 student led conferences during the student’s high school career is a graduation requirement.

A student will receive a certificate of academic achievement only if they earn the appropriate number of credits required by the district, complete a culminating project, complete the high school and beyond plan; and meet the reading, writing and math standards on the high school HSPE or an appropriate alternative assessment.

Students qualifying for special education services will earn a certificate of individual achievement as determined by their individual education plan.

A student’s diploma or transcript may be withheld until the student pays for any school property that has been lost or willfully damaged. Upon payment for damages, or the equivalency through voluntary work, the diploma or transcript will be released.

High School Graduation Requirements

Publication Of Graduation Requirements

Prior to registering in high school, and each year thereafter, each student and his/her parents or guardians will be provided with a copy of the graduation requirements in effect for that student (those in effect when the student enrolled in ninth grade unless ten years have elapsed). Graduation requirements shall also be included in the student handbook.

High School Completion

Each student is to develop, update as necessary, and initially have on file a high school completion plan approved by the parent. Counselors will provide assistance to incoming ninth graders and their families in developing educational plans. Changes in plans should normally reflect parent consent and should be submitted to the appropriate counselor. At the conclusion of each year the school will provide the student and his/her parents or guardians with a report which reflects the progress that has been made toward satisfying the graduation requirements. If progress is not normal, the school will identify alternative courses that can be taken to correct the deficiencies.

A High School and Beyond Plan and culminating project are also required.

In assisting students with developing a High School and Beyond Plan the district should:

A. Provide internal and external resources to ensure successful development and implementation of the High School and Beyond Plan;

B. Provide the opportunity for student choice, voice and ownership of the High School and Beyond Plan;

C. Teach students a planning process that provides a capacity to create, review and revise the High School and Beyond Plan;

D. Prepare all students for post-secondary options;

E. Align the High School and Beyond Plan with the the Essential Academic Learning Requirements, State Learning Goals and district goals and link to district high school graduation requirements;

F. Collect and analyze data to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of the High School and Beyond Plan; and

G. Assure parental involvement in the planning process, including the student’s development of the High School and Beyond Plan.

In assisting students with developing the culminating project the district should:

A. Advise the student and parents of the requirement to complete a culminating project as a graduation requirement;

B. Provide the student assistance and guidance annually on completing the project;

C. The culminating project may include:

1. A demonstration of the student’s ability to communicate in writing by completing an analytical, argumentative and/or reflective letter;

2. A demonstration of the student’s ability to communicate orally through a presentation to peers, teachers and/or community members;

3. Completion of a self directed student project that demonstrates the student’s academic and management skills; and

4. The opportunity for the student to complete a community service project or a project working with a community member;

D. Review each student’s progress annually;

E. Provide opportunities within the curriculum for students to work on projects; and

F. Ensure projects align with goals three and four of the learning goals.

Credits and Transcripts

Students shall be expected to earn a total of 26 credits in order to complete graduation requirements. For credit purposes, a class must meet for a total of 180 (50-minute) hours of planned instruction.

The principal or designee is responsible for determining which credits will be recognized by the district for students enrolling from another state approved learning program (public school, approved private school or homeschool), or from out-of-state, or out-of-country. Credits from another Washington public school or accredited state private school or accredited out-of-state public or private school shall be accepted to the extent the credit matches a district graduation requirement, or may be counted as an elective credit. Credits from unaccredited programs or home schools shall be evaluated as described below for homeschool students. Decisions of the principal or designee may be appealed to the superintendent within fifteen school days of the initial decision.

Waiver of Graduation Requirements

All state requirements must be satisfied except that Washington history and government may be waived for students who have completed and passed a state history and government course in another state during grades seven through twelve and who have fulfilled study of the Washington state constitution through an alternative learning experience approved by the principal. Additionally, physical education, pursuant to RCW 28A.230.050, may be waived upon written request of a parent or guardian on account of physical disability, employment or religious belief or because of participation in directed athletics or military science and tactics. This shall not alter the credit requirements established by the board.

The following procedure shall be followed in graduation waiver requests:

A. The principal is responsible for evaluating educational experiences of individual students and recommending graduation to the superintendent when requirements have been met.

An individual student may be granted an exemption from any requirement in this policy if such requirement impedes the progress toward graduation provided there is a direct relationship between the failure to meet the requirement and the student's ability. When a 11th or 12th grade student transfers from another high school, the student may be permitted to graduate with a lesser number of credits provided that minimum state course and credit requirements are satisfied and the student successfully passes a full schedule of classes during his/her 12th year of school.

B. Waiver of graduation requirements is determined by the principal. The procedure for processing requests for waiver shall be as follows:

5. Request shall be initiated by the parent or the eligible student;

6. The principal shall investigate the request for waiver of graduation requirements;

7. The principal shall make a determination in writing based upon appropriate data and upon conclusions of the investigation;

8. The principal shall develop appropriate record keeping procedures for storage of all pertinent data relating to each waiver request; and

9. The parent or eligible student shall be notified that an appeal to the decision on waiver requests may be made in writing to the superintendent no later than 30 days prior to the anticipated graduation date.

Alternative Programs

Credit toward graduation requirements may be granted for planned learning experiences primarily conducted away from the facilities owned, operated or supervised by a district.

A proposal for approval of out-of-school learning activities shall be submitted prior to the experience, shall be at no additional cost to the district, and shall include at least the following information:

D. The objective(s) of the program;

A. The teaching component(s) of the program, including where and when teaching activities will be conducted by school district certificated staff;

B. A schedule of the duration of the program, including beginning and ending dates within the school year;

C. A description of how student performance will be supervised, evaluated, and recorded by the certificated staff or by qualified school district employees under the direct supervision of the certificated staff;

D. A description of intervention techniques and criteria for their use;

E. Description of how student performance will be assessed;

F. Qualifications of instructional personnel; and

G. Plans for evaluation of program.

A list of approved programs shall be kept on file in the superintendent's office. Reasons for approval or disapproval shall be communicated to those making the request.

Aventa Online Courses

Students may have the opportunity to take courses from Aventa, which is an online approved provider. The courses are also a large expense to the district so students who start a course are expected to finish and pass the course. Students who do not finish a course or students who take a course already offered in the traditional schedule will be responsible for the tuition and expenses for that course.

A complete list of online learning protocols is on file with the high school secretary, please call for a copy.

Credit for Digital and On-Line Curricula

Credit may be granted for the district’s digital and on-line curricula, if the program satisfies the requirements of WAC 392-121-182.

Credit For Work Experience

The use of work experience as a part of the educational program of students should be regarded as part of the secondary school curriculum rather than just a device to relieve a manpower shortage. The following are the bases upon which credit may be granted for work experience.

A. The work program shall be supervised by the school.

H. The work experience shall be specifically related to the school program of the student.

I. Credit given for work experience shall represent growth in the student, and the type of work done should have definite educational value.

J. The job in which experience is gained shall provide varied experience.

K. A work experience program shall be supplemented by an adequate program of guidance, placement, follow-up and coordination between job and school by the career placement counselor.

L. Work experience as a planned part of a school subject may be included in the credit given for that subject (e.g., sales training class).

M. One credit may be granted for not less than one hundred eighty hours for instructional work based learning experience, and not less than three hundred sixty hours of cooperative work based learning experience related to a student’s school program.

N. A student participating shall be legally employed and must have passed his/her sixteenth birthday.

O. An employer's report of the student's work record, indicating satisfactory progress on the job, shall be filed with the school.

P. The regular state apprenticeship program, where the training is worked out cooperatively with the school and meets the standards for graduation requirements, is acceptable.

National Guard High School Career Training

Credit may be granted for National Guard high school career training in lieu of either required or elective high school credits. Approval by the district shall be obtained prior to a student's participation in a National Guard training program as follows:

A. MIL Form 115 or an equivalent form now or hereafter provided by the national guard shall be completed and filed with the school district; and

Q. The number of credits toward high school graduation to be granted shall be calculated, agreed upon by the student and an authorized representative of the school district, and such agreement noted on MIL Form 115 or such equivalent form.

Credit toward high school graduation may be granted by the school district upon certification by a national guard training unit commander on the completion component of MIL Form 115 or such equivalent form that the student has met all program requirements.

Home School Credit

Guidelines for granting high school credit for home schooling are as follows:

A. To gain credit for a course of study, a student shall provide:

1. A journal which reflects the actual work completed during a home-study course of study

10. Exhibit(s) of any specific projects completed (e.g., themes, research papers, art and/or shop projects); and/or

11. Any such other performance-based exhibits of specific course-related accomplishments.

R. To gain credit for a course of study, a student shall demonstrate proficiency at a minimum of 80% of the objectives of the course. Such testing shall be available as an ancillary service of the district if it is regularly available to all students. If not, the parent may engage district-approved personnel to conduct such an assessment at a cost to be determined by such personnel.

S. Credit is granted for the following approved schools:

1. Community colleges, vocational-technical institutes, four-year colleges and universities and approved private schools in the state of Washington, and

12. Other schools or institutions which are approved by the district after evaluation for a particular course offering.

Certificate of Attendance (COA) for Foreign Exchange Students

Foreign exchange students will be issued a Certificate of Attendance.

Graduation Ceremonies

If students fulfill graduation requirements by the end of the last term of their senior year, they may participate in graduation ceremonies. Each student shall be awarded a diploma after satisfactorily completing local and/or state requirements. Upon request, each graduating student shall receive a final transcript. Each student shall be notified of this opportunity at least one month prior to the close of the school term.

Graduation ceremonies will be conducted in the following manner:

A. Each participating student must participate in the graduation ceremony rehearsal. Each student who participates will purchase or rent the proper cap and gown as designated by the school administration and the class advisor and officers.

B. Caps and gowns will be worn in the proper manner, as designated by the school administration and class advisor.

C. Students who participate will be expected to use good taste in their choice of accessories for their attire.

T. Each student who participates will be expected to cooperate with the class advisor and to participate in all parts of the graduation ceremonies.

U. Failure to comply with the above requirements will automatically forfeit a student's privilege of participation in the graduation ceremonies.

V. Foreign exchange students receiving a COA may be invited to participate in the graduation ceremony.

HIGH SCHOOL CREDITS FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS

In the event that a middle school student takes a high school level course that student will than get a high school level credit to be input on their transcript. Students wishing to not have a high school level credit input on their transcript will need to notify the district in writing prior to starting the course.

Once a credit has been input on a student’s transcript it can not be removed regardless of the grade that was received. A student does have the option to re take the course in the event that an unsatisfactory grade is given.

For additional questions regarding H.S. credit for middle school students please call our counselor at 732-4430 Ext. 155.

REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION HONORS

The Northport School District Board of Directors approved updated requirements for graduation honors. These include:

Graduation with Honors

Minimum of 3.0 cumulative GPA earns students the right to wear honor cord.

Graduation with High Honors

Minimum of 3.5 cumulative GPA earns students the right to wear a black honor cord.

Academic Distinction

Students, who complete the requirements for Northport graduation and maintain a minimum of 3.50, plus:

o 2 years of a foreign language

o 1 extra year of math (IMP 2/Geom. or higher)

o 1 extra year of science

o no more than 1 non-elective credit pass/fail

o no more than 2 credits of T.A./peer tutor/cadet

Valedictorian and Salutatorian Selection

o Valedictorian and Salutatorian will be the top individuals from the list of students with Academic Distinction. Their GPA will be rounded to the nearest hundredth. The top cumulative GPA will be Valedictorian and the second will be Salutatorian. Only if there is a tie, will they share distinction.

o The student must be enrolled their entire senior year at NHS.

o Valedictorian and Salutatorian will be chosen after the 11th trimester. This decision will be reviewed on mid-term of 3rd trimester for final decision.

GRADING SCALE

Following is the grading scale which will be used by all teachers grading students in grades 7 through 12:

Percentile Letter Grade

94-100%………………….. A 4.0

90-93…………………..….. A- 3.7

87-89……………………… B+ 3.3

83-86……………………… B 3.0

80-82……………………… B- 2.7

77-79……………………… C+ 2.3

73-76……………………… C 2.0

70-72………….………….. C- 1.7

67-69………….………….. D+ 1.3

60-66………….………….. D 1.0

HIGH SCHOOL A.S.B. OFFICERS

President …………………………………………………………….. Teri Cox

Vice President………………………………………………………… Dylan Masters

Secretary……………………………………………………………… Shelby Rich

Treasurer……………………………………………………………… Marrisa Gilmore

Assistant Treasurer …………………………………… Sierra Johnson and Chablis Stark

Public Relations…………………………………………………….… Gabe Caznavette and Jace Shaw

Srgt. At Arms…………………………………………………………. Jeremiah Johnson and Carl Case

CLASS TIME SCHEDULES

Regular Schedule: Monday- Friday

High School

Period 1 8:25-9:35

Period 2 9:38-10:48

Period 3 10:50-12:00

Lunch 12:00-12:35

Period 4 12:35-1:45

Period 5 1:50-3:00

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSURES

If the Northport Schools administrator determines the schools should not operate for some specific reason (i.e., snow, inclement weather, etc.), you will receive the message by listening to:

AM STATIONS FM STATIONS

KCVL (12.40) 684-5031 Colville KCRK (92.1) 684-5031 Colville

KGA (15.10) 448-7000 CJAT (95.7) 250-368-5514 Trail

KJRB (7.90) 448-7000 KNFR (96.1) 241-9696

KXLY (9.70) 329-4004

KXLY (9.2) 329-4004 KXLY (99.9) 329-4004

KMBI (13.30) 448-0313 KMBI (107.9) 448-031

KAQQ (5.90) 459-5900

KSBN (12.30) 838-4000

ADDITIONAL LAWS

• Alcohol possession or consumption, under 21 years old, is unlawful. Schools are drug-free zones!

• Controlled drug possession is unlawful except when given by valid prescription. (RCW 69.50.401D) Schools are drug-free zones!

• Controlled (prescription) drug possession is unlawful unless still in the original container. (RCW 69.50.309) Schools are drug-free zones!

• Firearms possession is unlawful. Consequence results in 1 year expulsion! (RCW 9.41.070) Schools are weapon free zones!

• Use of firearms by minor (under 14 years of age) is unlawful. (RCW 9.41.240) Schools are weapon free zones!

• Fireworks possession is unlawful (RCW 70.77.255, Fireworks defined in RCW 70.77.126)

• Weapons apparently capable of producing bodily harm, carrying, exhibiting, displaying, or drawing unlawful. (i.e. switch blade knife, metal knuckles, etc.) Schools are weapon free zones!

• Students carrying dangerous weapons on school premises are unlawful. (RCW 9.41.280) Schools are weapon free zones!

• Placing or depositing on the road glass, garbage or discarded matter is unlawful. (RCW 46.61.645)

• Annoying, injuring or endangering the safety, health, comfort, or repose, or in any way rendering a considerable number of persons insecure in life or in use of property is a public nuisance. (RCW 9.66.010)

• Glue sniffing prohibited - unlawful inhalation. (RCW 9.47A. 020)

• Possession of certain glue prohibited. (RCW 9.4A.030)

• Telephone calls to harass, intimidate, torment or embarrass are unlawful. (RCW 9.61.230,240,250)

NO SMOKING AND DRUG-FREE POLICY

Effective September 1, 1991, smoking or any other use of tobacco products shall be prohibited on school district property. This shall include all district building, grounds and district-owned vehicles.

The following behaviors will not be tolerated on school premises, any school-owned vehicles, off school property during any school-sponsored or school-approved activity, such as a field trip or athletic event, where students are under the jurisdiction of the school district:

• Reporting to work under the influence of alcohol, illegal chemical substances or opiates.

• Using, possessing, transmitting alcohol, illegal chemical substances (including anabolic steroids) or opiates in any amount or in any manner on district property at any time. Any staff member convicted of a felony attributable to the use, possession, or sale of illegal chemical substances or opiates will be subject to disciplinary action, including immediate termination.

• Using district property or the staff member’s position to make or traffic alcohol, illegal chemical substances or opiates.

• Using, possessing or transmitting illegal chemical substances and opiates in a manner which is detrimental to the interest of the district.

Any employee who is taking a drug or medication, whether or not prescribed by the staff member’s physician, which may adversely affect that person’s ability to perform work in a safe or productive manner is required to report such use of medication to the principal. This includes drugs which are known or advertised as possibly affecting judgment, coordination, or any of the senses, including those which may cause drowsiness or dizziness. The principal will then determine whether the staff member can remain at work or impose necessary work restrictions.

PESTICIDE POLICY

Should the Northport School District find it necessary to use pesticides, families will be notified 48 hours prior to pesticide application. The “Notice of Pesticide Application” will list the pest to be controlled, the product name, active ingredients, date, time and location of application and a contact person. Before, during and after (for 24 hours), signs will be placed around the area(a) of pesticide application. This policy does not apply to anti-microbacterial pesticides or the use of rodent baits as well as emergency applications when an immediate human health threat is present, for example, stinging insects. For emergency applications, notification will be posted after the possible exposure.

STUDENT PUBLICATIONS

While the district believes that students should be encouraged to exercise good judgment in the content of the student publication program, such aggressive writing must be in keeping with the school’s instructional mission and values. Material must be free of content that runs counter to the instructional program, invades the privacy of individuals, demeans or otherwise damages individuals or groups, supports the violation of school rules and is comprised of material that is inappropriate for the maturity level of students. Such publication activities must also teach respect for the sensitivity of others and standards of civility as well as elements of responsible journalism.

The student publications instructor or advisor shall have the primary responsibility for supervising student publications and to see that provisions incorporated into the policy and procedures are met. The administrator may request to review any copy prior to its publication. Such copy shall be returned to the student editors soon after it has been submitted for review.

MONTHLY PIONEER NEWSPAPER

Pioneer Newspaper viability and circulation to be determined.

COMMUNITY FACILITY USE

To acquire use of school facilities, a request form must be filled out. Once the form is completed, it must be submitted to Ralph Pierce, who will then book the requested facility. Facility Request forms are available in either High School or Elementary School offices.

PTO

Our local PTO meets the 1st Thursday of each month at 3:30 p.m. at the school. If you are interested in joining the PTO, please contact Jenny Case 732-1265.

SCHOOL SPIRIT

Each Friday all staff and students are encouraged to wear red and black or school-related apparel. Show your school spirit and be a part of the red and black club! College/Career day is ever Wednesday. Wear your favorite college/university/tech. school/job related shirt or gear on Wednesdays!

OTHER PROGRAMS

Alternative Education - “Homelink” Program

The Northport School District is pleased to be able to offer this parent partnership alternative learning program. The purpose of our program is to support homeschool families as they provide their students with a high-quality education that will help better prepare them for college and the world of work. Through your involvement in the Homelink Program, you will enjoy the flexibility to choose your own materials (non-religious), your student will receive more individualized instruction, you will be able to obtain materials from such places as private school curriculum vendors or the public library; and it will allow students to access our computer lab and extra curricular activities, etc..

Contact the Homelink Office at 732-4430 ext. 162 for more information.

Each student in each family will have an individualized enrollment, depending on their needs. Some of the enrollment options include:

• full-time Homelink

• part-time Homelink / part-time home-based

• part-time traditional classroom / part-time Homelink

• part-time traditional classroom / part-time Homelink / part-time home-based

• part-time Homelink / part-time Running Start

• part-time Homelink / part-time Work-Based Learning

• part-time Homelink / part-time classroom / part-time online courses

As you can see by the various enrollment options, you can choose the way in which your student participates in the Northport School District, homeschooling and the Homelink program.

Early Head Start Preschool

Early Head start is a child development program for pregnant women and families with children ages birth to three years. It provides a wide range of services, including information on early childhood development, prenatal education, health and nutrition education, parenting, on-going staff training, home visits and parent involvement. The Eastern Washington University, Early Head Start in Northport serves children through home-visit services. Call the high school office at 732-4441ext. 112 for more information.

ECEAP Preschool

The Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program is a “whole-child” comprehensive, family focused preschool program designed to help low-income children and their families to prepare for and succeed in school. The target ECEAP population is four-year-old children whose family income is below 110 percent of the federal poverty level. Northport accepts six students per year and meet four days a week, 12:30 – 2:48, Monday through Thursdays. Contact Stephanie Young for more information at 732-4441 Ext. 112.

Coaching Opportunities

There are many youth coaching opportunities available throughout Northport schools for activities such as youth soccer, youth t-ball, youth basketball and many other activities. If you are interested in sharing some of your time coaching youth activities, please call 732-4251 Ext. 128 or the school and ask for Erik Stark.

Community Library

The Northport Community Library is open each Tuesday and Thursday from 11am to 6 pm and on Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm. The book return outside the library is always open and books from the Colville or Columbia River Libraries may be returned there. The Library District’s website is . The toll free number is (877) 838-1025, and the Northport phone is 732-8928. The Library building is located on Main Street across from the Presbyterian Church

STUDENT ACCIDENT INSURANCE

The Northport School District does NOT have accident insurance for students. We DO have forms available in the office for families to purchase their own insurance for a very reasonable rate. If a student is injured at school or during a school-related function, it is the family’s responsibility to pay medical costs UNLESS the school is NEGLIENT. In order to determine negligence, our insurance company must conduct an investigation.

COMPUTER LAB AND REPORTING COMPUTER PROBLEMS

All Computer-related questions and problems should be e-mailed to: support@

STUDENT-LED CONFERENCES for Grades 5-12

For the 5 through 12 grade students will lead their conferences.

EMERGENCY EVACUATION PROCEDURES

1. If it is determined that the safety and health of students and staff are in jeopardy, an announcement will be made to alert the staff of potential danger.

This announcement will be: SOUNDING OF THE FIRE ALARM

EMERGENCY LOCKDOWN PROCEDURES

If it is determined that the safety and health of students and staff are in jeopardy, a continuous ringing bell will sound to alert the staff of potential danger.

The announcement will be: CONTINUOUS RINGING BELL SOUND

Playground Rules and Regulations

GENERAL RULES

1. Areas of Play:

0. K-3 students must remain in the wood chip and grass area between the tennis court and the fourth grade door.

1. Fourth and fifth grade may use area outside their room from the slide to the end of the softball field.

2. Grades 6-8 area extends from the swings to the end of the softball field and around to the trailer.

1. Building Passes:

• All 5th-8th grade students wishing to enter school building during recess must first obtain a pass from the playground aide. To give permission for grades P-3 to use the restroom during recess, colored wrist bands (a different color per gender) are to be used. No more than one student per gender will be allowed to use the bathroom at a time.

3. 2nd, 4th/ 5th and Discipline classrooms only, are to be used for bathroom purposes.

No more than one student in the bathroom at any time (K-8).

3. Food and Beverage:

• Food and beverage should be consumed sitting down, in designated areas, and garbage must be disposed of in trash receptacles.

4. Fences and Boundaries:

• No fence climbing. No student is allowed beyond the fence without permission from playground aide.

4. When retrieving a ball, students may not cross highway or enter ditch.

5. Students are not allowed to crawl under fence to retrieve items.

6. No hanging on gate bar.

4. No-No’s: The following will not be allowed:

7. throwing of rocks, sticks or snowballs;

8. war ball;

9. intentional tripping, shoving, pushing, or throwing people;

10. pulling on another student’s clothing;

11. wrestling or “dog piles”;

12. “play fighting”;

13. play (or real!) guns, knives or swords;

14. tackle football; flag or soft touch football, only.

15. wooden or metal bats

6. Guests:

16. No high school students are allowed on grade school playground during noon recess without a pass except during the automotive class change.

17. Students must not be released from the playground to anyone except those showing a “visitor’s pass” from the office.

7. Supervisor Responsibilities:

18. Students must not be released from the playground to anyone except those showing a “visitor’s pass” from the office.

19. Supervisors should not touch a student for any reason during behavior corrections.

20. Stand so that you have a clear view of all students.

21. Refrain from getting involved in student excuses, bargaining and embarrassing the student with you behavior correction. Instead, state and restate the rule. If the student does not comply, tell them to stand “on/next to the wall” (for minor infractions) or go to “time out” in the solutions room (for more serious problems).

SWING AREAS

1. No students allowed in the immediate swing area except those on swings.

2. No rolling of balls for swingers to kick.

3. No twisting, swinging sideways, standing or belly laying on swings.

4. Students must “count” a person off a swing (by counting to 100) unless there is another one available. (Counting modifications are acceptable for kinders.)

5. No riding doubles on swing.

5. No pushing or pulling of students legs while on the swing.

6. No jumping out of the swings.

TETHER BALL AREA

1. Real rules are to be used at all times – no exceptions. (See attached) You may want to laminate the rules and keep them in your pocket or “fanny pack”.

2. No hanging on tether ball.

3. Students will make sure tether ball area is clear of other students and obstructions prior to play.

4. No kicking tether ball with feet or hitting it with a bat.

GYM BAR AREA

1. No grabbing with legs or swing kicking.

2. Students may not shake bars.

3. No walking on top of bars, pushing or penny drops.

4. No prying of other students’ fingers off bars.

5. No hooking self to bars with belts, coats, etc.

SLIDE AREA

1. No standing, kneeling, hanging on edge, sliding down on belly or backwards.

2. No objects of any kind may be rolled down or thrown up the slide.

3. No jumping off slide or ladder.

4. No standing in front of slide.

5. No walking up the slide.

6. No pushing or shoving on slide ladder, or walking up side of ladder.

PLAY EQUIPMENT

1. Jump ropes are to be mainly used for jumping purposes only. Playing horse and other safe practices are acceptable.

1. No intentional kicking of other students balls. Balls are not to be kicked toward school windows, walls or next to doors, on the roof or over fences.

3. Tire Structure - no standing on top, no pushing or jumping from the top.

4. Ball games like kickball, softball, football, fly-up, etc. are to be played on grass areas only.

5. No hard baseballs, wooden or metal bats.

6. Sleds may be brought to school for use during recess time if:

they are used in a safe manner;

they are made of plastic;

they are transported to and from school in private vehicles. No sleds are to be brought on busses.

BASKETBALL COURT

1. All games take precedent over individual shooting.

2. Use equipment properly and for its intended use.

Inside Recess and Emergency Procedures

INCLEMENT INSIDE RECESS PLAN

AM Recess Plan:

1. Playground supervisor(s) announce inside recess 5 minutes before recess

is scheduled to begin.

2. K-3 will be escorted over to the gym or Media Center, depending on availability. 4-5 will play board games/music/VCR/DVD in their own room. No balls or jump ropes, please. The covered playground area will be used whenever possible.

Noon and PM Recess:

1. Playground supervisors(s) announce inside recess 5 minutes before recess is scheduled to begin.

2. K-3 will have VCR/DVD available.

2. 4-5 will be in their classroom. No balls, please. The covered playground area will be used whenever possible.

4. Use covered play area. Middle school may use the media center hall for quiet purposes only as it is class and library time for others.

4. Use bathroom passes.

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