PREFACE

To Students and Parents:

Welcome to school year 2008-2009! Education is a team effort, and we know that students, parents, teachers, and other staff members all working together will make this a successful year for our students.

The Kopperl ISD Student Handbook contains information that both students and parents are likely to need during the school year. The handbook is divided into three sections:

Ø The first especially for parents, with information all parents will need about assisting their child and responding to school-related issues;

Ø The second for students and their parents, to provide information about courses, class rank, extracurricular and other activities; and

Ø The third, general information regarding school operations and requirements.

Each section has a Quick Reference component to serve as a guide for day-to-day questions that may arise.

Please be aware that the term "the student's parent" is used to refer to the parent, legal guardian, or other person who has agreed to assume school-related responsibility for a student.

Both students and parents must be familiar with the Kopperl ISD Student Code of Conduct, required by state law and intended to promote school safety and an atmosphere for learning. That document may be found as an attachment to this handbook.

The student handbook is designed to be in harmony with Board policy and the Student Code of Conduct. Please be aware that the handbook is updated yearly, while policy adoption and revision may occur throughout the year. Changes in policy that affect student handbook provisions will be made available to students and parents through newsletters and other communications.

In case of conflict between Board policy or the Student Code of Conduct and any provisions of student handbooks, the provisions of Board policy or the Student Code of Conduct that were most recently adopted by the Board are to be followed.

We strongly encourage parents to review the entire handbook with their children and keep it as a reference during this school year. If you or your child has questions about any of the material in this handbook, please contact a teacher, the counselor, or the principal.

Please note that references to alphabetical policy codes are included so that parents can refer to current board policy. A copy of the district’s policy manual is available for review in the Superintendent's office or online at www.tasb.org/policy/pol/private/018907/.

BELL SCHEDULE

1st 8:00 - 8:45 Lunch Schedule for Elementary:

2nd 8:50 - 9:15 PK - 2: 10:50 - 11:20

3rd 9:40 - 10:25 3 - 6: 11:25 - 11:55

4th 10:30 - 11:15

5th 11:20 - 12:05

Lunch 12:00 - 12:30

6th 12:40 - 1:25

7th 1:30 - 2:15

8th 2:20 - 3:05

Early Dismissal - School will have regular classes from 8:00 - 12:00. School will be dismissed at 12:30. All students will be able to eat in the lunchroom during their regularly scheduled lunch period. Busses will run at 12:30. Students will not be allowed to leave prior to 12:30.

If a parent/guardian picks up his son/daughter, (student), before school is out, he/she must sign the student out of school in the Principal's office.

SECTION I

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PARENTS

This section of the Kopperl ISD Student Handbook includes several notices that the district is required to provide to you, as well as other information on topics of particular interest to you as a parent.

STATEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION

In its efforts to promote nondiscrimination, Kopperl ISD does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sex, or disability in providing education services, activities, and programs, including vocational programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.

The following district staff members have been designated to coordinate compliance with these legal requirements:

§ Section 504 Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of disability: Katrina Adcock, Principal, 254-889-3502, X 232 or katrina.adcock@kopperlisd.org

§ Title IX Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of sex and all other discrimination concerns: Kenneth Bateman, Superintendent, 254-889-3502, X 224 or kenneth.bateman@kopperlisd.org

PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT

WORKING TOGETHER

Both experience and research tell us that a child’s education succeeds best when there is a strong partnership between home and school, a partnership that thrives on communication. Your involvement in this partnership may include:

Encouraging your child to put a high priority on education and working with your child on a daily basis to make the most of the educational opportunities the school provides. Be sure your child comes to school each day prepared, rested, and ready to learn.
Becoming familiar with all of your child's school activities and with the academic programs, including special programs offered in the District. Discuss with the counselor or principal any questions you may have about the options and opportunities available to your child. Monitor your child's academic progress and contact teachers as needed. [See Academic Counseling]
Attending scheduled conferences and requesting additional conferences as needed. To schedule a telephone or in-person conference with a teacher, counselor, or principal, please call the school office at (254) 889-3502 x 225 for an appointment. A teacher will usually return your call or meet with you during his or her conference period or at a mutually convenient time before or after school. [See Report Cards, Progress Reports, and Conferences]
Becoming a school volunteer. For further information, see policy GKG and contact Katrina Adcock.
Participating in campus parent organizations. Parent organizations include: Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), Athletic Booster Club.
Offering to serve as a parent representative on the District-level or campus-level planning committees assisting in the development of educational goals and plans to improve student achievement. For further information, see policies at BQA and BQB, and contact Kenneth Bateman.
Offering to serve on the School Health Advisory Council, assisting the district in ensuring local community values are reflected in health education instruction. [See policies BDF, EHAA, FFA and School Health Advisory Council]
Attending Board meetings to learn more about district operations. [See policies BE and BED for more information.]

OBTAINING INFORMATION AND PROTECTING STUDENT RIGHTS

Your child will not be required to participate without parental consent in any survey, analysis, or evaluation-funded in whole or in part by the U.S. Department of Education-that concerns:

§ Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student's parent.

Mental or psychological problems of the student or the student's family.
Sexual behavior or attitudes.
Illegal, antisocial, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior.
Critical appraisals of individuals with whom the student has a close family relationship.
Relationships privileged under law, such as relationships with lawyers, physicians, and ministers.
Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents.
Income, except when the information is required by law and will be used to determine the student's eligibility to participate in a special program or to receive financial assistance under such a program.

You will be able to inspect the survey or other instrument and any instructional materials used in connection with such a survey, analysis, or evaluation. [For further information, see policy EF.]

"OPTING OUT" OF SURVEYS AND ACTIVITIES

As a parent, you also have a right to receive notice of and deny permission for your child’s participation in:

§ Any survey concerning the private information listed above, regardless of funding.

School activities involving the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected from your child for the purpose of marketing or selling that information.
Any nonemergency, invasive physical examination or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered and scheduled by the school in advance and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of the student. Exceptions are hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under state law. See policies EF and FFAA.

Display of your child’s artwork, projects, and other special work products:

As a parent, you have the right to provide consent before the district can display your child’s artwork, special projects, photographs taken by your child, and the like on the district’s Web site, in printed material, by video, or by any other method of mass communication.

As a parent, you also have a right:

1. To request information regarding the professional qualifications of your child's teachers, including whether the teacher has met state qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction; whether the teacher has an emergency permit or other provisional status for which state requirements have been waived; and undergraduate and graduate degree majors, graduate certifications, and the field of study of the certification or degree. You also have the right to request information about the qualifications of any paraprofessional who may provide services to your child.

2. To review teaching materials, textbooks, and other teaching aids and instructional materials used in the curriculum, and to examine tests that have been administered to your child.

3. To inspect a survey created by a third party before the survey is administered or distributed to your child.

4. To review your child's student records when needed. These records include:

· Attendance records,

· Test scores,

· Grades,

· Disciplinary records,

· Counseling records,

· Psychological records,

· Applications for admission,

· Health and immunization information,

· Other medical records,

· Teacher and counselor evaluations,

· Reports of behavioral patterns, and

· State assessment instruments that have been administered to your child.

[See Student Records]

5. To grant or deny any written request from the District to make a videotape or voice recording of your child. State law, however, permits the school to make a videotape or voice recording without parental permission for the following circumstances:

· When it is to be used for school safety;

· When it relates to classroom instruction or a co-curricular or extracurricular activity; or

· When it relates to media coverage of the school.

6. To remove your child temporarily from the classroom, if an instructional activity in which your child is scheduled to participate conflicts with your religious or moral beliefs. The removal cannot be for the purpose of avoiding a test and may not extend for an entire semester. Further, your child must satisfy grade-level and graduation requirements as determined by the school and by the Texas Education Agency.

7. To request that your child be excused from participation in the daily recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag and the Pledge of Allegiance to the state flag. The request must be in writing. State law does not allow your child to be excused from participation in the required minute of silence or silent activity that follows. [See Pledges of Allegiance and a Minute of Silence]

§ To request that your child be excused from reciting a portion of the text of the Declaration of Independence during Celebrate Freedom Week. The request must be in writing. State law requires the recitation as part of social studies classes in grades 3-12 unless (1) you provide a written statement requesting that your child be excused, (2) the District determines that your child has a conscientious objection to the recitation, or (3) you are a representative of a foreign government to whom the United States government extends diplomatic immunity. [See policy EHBK]

8. To request in writing, if you are a noncustodial parent, that you be provided for the remainder of the school year a copy of any written notice usually provided to a parent related to misconduct that may involve placement in a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) or expulsion. See policies FL(LEGAL) and (LOCAL), FO(LEGAL), and the Student Code of Conduct.

9. To request the transfer of your child to another classroom or campus if your child has been determined by the board or its designee to be a victim of bullying as the term is defined by Education Code 25.0341. Transportation is not provided for transfer to another campus. [See policy FDB]

10. To request the transfer of your child to a neighboring district if your child has been the victim of a sexual assault by another student on the same campus, whether that assault occurred on or off campus, and that student has been convicted of or placed on deferred adjudication for that assault. [See policy FDD(LOCAL)]

OPTIONS AND REQUIREMENTS FOR PROVIDING ASSISTANCE TO STUDENTS WHO HAVE LEARNING DIFFICULITIES OR WHO NEED OR MAY NEED SPECIAL EDUCATION

If child is experiencing learning difficulties, the parent may contact the person listed below to learn about the district’s overall general education referral or screening system for support services. This system links students to a variety of support options, including referral for a special education evaluation. Students having difficulty in the regular classroom should be considered for tutorial, compensatory, and other academic or behavior support services that are available to all students including a process based on Response to Intervention. The implementation of Response to Intervention has the potential to have a positive impact on the ability of school districts to meet the needs of all struggling students.

At any time, a parent is entitled to request an evaluation for special education services. Within a reasonable amount of time, the district must decide if the evaluation is needed. If the evaluation is needed, the parent will be notified and asked to provide informed written consent for the evaluation. The district must complete the evaluation and the report within 60 days of the date the district receives the written consent. The district must give a copy of the report to the parent.

If the district determines that the evaluation is not needed, the district will provide the parent with a written notice that explains why the child will not be evaluated. This written notice will include a statement that informs the parent of his or her rights if the parent disagrees with the district. Additionally, the notice must inform the parent how to obtain a copy of the Notice of Procedural Safeguards – Rights of Parents of Students with Disabilities.

The designated person to contact regarding options for a child experiencing learning difficulties or a referral for evaluation for special education is the Counselor at 254-889-3502 X 146.

ENROLLMENT

Students who are enrolling in Kopperl ISD must be accompanied by their parent/guardian. Documented proof of legal guardianship must be presented before students will be enrolled. Students will be refused enrollment if documented proof of guardianship is not presented.

The following legal documents are required at the time of first enrollment for students of all ages:

1. Birth Certificate

2. Current 911 address

3. Immunization records (up to date)

4. Copy of Social Security Card

5. Previous school transcripts

6. Previous school withdrawal record

Immunization records should be provided to the school by the first date of attendance. If this is not possible, a child may be provisionally enrolled for 30 calendar days provided the required immunizations are completed as soon as medically possible. All new students must provide proof of immunizations upon enrollment. After 30 days, if immunization records have not been provided, a student may be dropped from the rolls.

TRANSFER APPLICANTS

The following information must be submitted to Kopperl ISD with new applications for transfer.

If any part of this information is missing, the application for transfer will not be considered. Students enrolled in the previous Spring semester are not required to submit the requested information below, however, the application for transfer must be made each year by the date required by the administration.

Checklist:

Complete transcript from previous school
Score on achievement tests.
Most recent results of TAKS test.
Records of immunization (All must be current, showing the day, month, and year the immunization was given, with Doctor’s signature or stamp).
Attendance records for pervious year.
Discipline records for previous year.
Understand that all transportation to and from school is the responsibility of the transfer student/parent/guardian. High school students driving their own vehicle risk loss of vehicle use on campus if repeated tardiness or unexcused absences occur. Vehicle must be registered in the office.
Repeated lateness or absences by any transfer student may result in transfer revocation.
Cost per semester for each transfer student:

§ Enrolled at the beginning of the year with a waiver granted - $0

§ Enrolled during the school year or after the waiver period - $250.00 per semester.

Please be aware of the following important dates:

May 2 - Last day for a returning parent/guardian to request transfer. Parent/guardian must come by the central office and sign the transfer form. Please contact the principal for further information.
May 10 - Information must be compiled by the district and submitted to the Texas Education Agency, Austin, TX.

The superintendent will determine deadline for new transfer applications each year. A list of all students applying for transfer waiver will be presented to the board at the May school board meeting for their approval.

GRADING GUIDELINES

In grades K - 12, achievement is reported to parents as:

REPORT CARDS, PROGRESS REPORTS, AND CONFERENCES

Report cards with your child's grades or performance and absences in each class or subject are issued to you at least once every 6 weeks. Students who have misplaced report cards may be issued replacements by the central office staff.

At the end of the first three weeks of a grading period, you will be given a written unsatisfactory progress report if your child's performance in any course [English language arts, mathematics, science, or social studies] is near or below 70, or is below the expected level of performance. If your child receives a grade lower than 70 in any class or subject at the end of a grading period, you will be requested to schedule a conference with the teacher of that class or subject. [See Working Together to schedule a conference.]

Teachers follow grading guidelines that have been approved and designed to reflect each student’s academic achievement for the grading period, semester, or course. State law provides that a test or course grade issued by a teacher cannot be changed unless the Board determines that the grade was arbitrary or contains an error, or the teacher did not follow the District’s grading policy. The Board’s decision is not subject to appeal. See policies at EIA.

The report card or unsatisfactory progress report will state whether tutorials are required for a student who receives a grade lower than 70 in a class or subject.

Report cards and unsatisfactory progress reports must be signed by the parent and should be returned to the school within 3 days.

SEMESTER AND FINAL EXAMS

All high school courses will have as part of the course requirements a semester and final exam. All high school students will be required to take the exam unless exempt.

Exemptions:

All high school students will be required to take a final exam at the end of each semester in each class unless he/she meets the following conditions:

A student with an average of 80 - 89 may have no more than one absence (3 tardies constitute an absence in regards to final exam exemptions) from the class in order to be exempt from the semester/final exam.
A student with an average of 90-100 may have no more than two absences (3 tardies constitute an absence in regards to final exam exemptions) from the class in order to be exempt from the semester/final exam.
A student who has been in ISS for any reason will not be exempt from any final exam.
Exemptions will be granted on a class-by-class basis.
If a student has any outstanding fees, books out, uniforms not returned, calculator out, he/she will not be exempt.

Please note: 3 tardies constitute an absence in regards to final exam exemptions.

STATE-MANDATED TESTS

In addition to routine tests and other measures of achievement, students at certain grade levels will take state-mandated tests (such as TAKS) in the following subjects:

Mathematics, annually in grades 3-8 without the aid of technology and in grades 9-11 with the aid of technology on any test that includes algebra

Reading, annually in grades 3-9

Writing, including spelling and grammar, in grades 4 and 7

English language arts in grades 10 and 11

Social studies in grades 8, 10 and 11

Science in grades 5, 8, 10, and 11

Any other subject and grade required by federal law

CHEATING

Cheating shall be defined as any abnormal method to secure information before, during, or after a quiz, assignment, project, etc., for a test, or class performance other than through the normal situations established by the teacher. A grade of zero (0) will be given for the test, assignment or homework if a student is found guilty of cheating in any form. The teacher and campus principal will be the judge of whether the student is cheating or not. Repeated cheating violations may result in ISS, suspension, or assignment to the alternative education program (AEP). Parents will be notified as soon as possible.

PROMOTION AND RETENTION

A student will be promoted only on the basis of academic achievement or demonstrated proficiency in the subject matter of the course or grade level. To earn credit in a course, a student must receive a grade of at least 70 based on course-level or grade-level standards. In addition, students at certain grade levels will be required to pass the new Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) as a further requirement for promotion:

In order to be promoted to grade 4, students must have performed satisfactorily on the Reading section of the 3^rd grade assessment test in English or Spanish.

In order to be promoted to grade 6, students enrolled in 5^th grade in school year 2004-2005 and thereafter must perform satisfactorily on the Mathematics and Reading sections of the 5^th grade assessment in English or Spanish.

In order to be promoted to grade 9, students enrolled in 8^th grade in school year 2007-2008 and thereafter must perform satisfactorily on the Mathematics and Reading sections of the 8^th grade assessment in English.

Parents of a student in grades 3,5, or 8 who does not perform satisfactorily on his or her exams will be notified that their child will participate in special instructional programs designed to improve performance. Such students will have two additional opportunities to take the test. If a student fails a second time, a grade placement committee, consisting of the principal or designee, the teacher, and the student's parent, will determine the additional special instruction the student will receive. After a third failed attempt, the student will be retained; however, the parent can appeal this decision to the committee. In order for the student to be promoted, based on standards previously established by the District, the decision of the committee must be unanimous. Whether the student is retained or promoted, an educational plan for the student will be designed to enable the student to perform at grade level by the end of the next school year. [See policy EIE]

A Personal Graduation Plan (PGP) will be prepared for any student in a middle school or beyond who did not perform satisfactorily on a state-mandated assessment or is determined by the district as not likely to earn a high school diploma before the fifth school year following enrollment in grade 9. The PGP will be designed and implemented by a guidance counselor, teacher, or other staff member designated by the principal. The plan will identify the student’s educational goals, address the parent’s educational expectations for the student, and outline an intensive instruction program for the student. [For additional information, see the counselor and policy EIF.]

Certain students—some with disabilities and some with limited English proficiency—may be eligible for exemptions, accommodations, or deferred testing. For more information, see the principal, counselor, or special education director.

Beginning in school year 2004-2005, students in grade 11 must pass the secondary exit-level assessment in English language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science in order to receive a diploma. A student who does not pass the exit-level assessment will have additional opportunities to take the test. [See Graduation for information regarding new exit-level tests required by state law.]

Certain students-some with disabilities and some with limited English proficiency-may be eligible for exemptions, accommodations, or deferred testing. For more information, see the principal, counselor, or special education director.

OTHER STANDARDIZED TESTING: COLLEGE REQUIREMENTS

Many colleges require either the American College Test (ACT) or the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) for admission. Students are encouraged to talk with the counselor during their junior year to determine the appropriate exam to take; these exams are usually taken at the end of the junior year. (Prior to enrollment in a Texas public college or university, most students must take a standardized test, such as the Texas High Education Assessment [THEA]).

MEDICINE AT SCHOOL

District employees will not give a student prescription medication, nonprescription medication, herbal substances, anabolic steroids, or dietary supplements, with the following exceptions:

· Only authorized employees, in accordance with policy FFAC, may administer:

· Prescription medication, in the original, properly labeled container, provided by the parent, along with a written request.

· Medication from a properly labeled unit dosage container filled by a registered nurse or another qualified district employee from the original, properly labeled container.

· Nonprescription medication, in the original, properly labeled container, provided by the parent along with a written request.

· Herbal or dietary supplements provided by the parent only if required by the student’s individualized education program (IEP) or Section 504 plan for a student with disabilities.

· In certain emergency situations, the district will maintain and administer to a student nonprescription medication, but only:

a. In accordance with the guidelines developed with the district’s medical advisor and

b. When the parent has previously provided written consent to emergency treatment on the district’s form.

A student with asthma or severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) may be permitted to possess and use prescribed asthma or anaphylaxis medication at school or school-related events only if he or she has written authorization from his or her parent and a physician or other licensed health-care provider. The student must also demonstrate to his or her physician or health-care provider and to the school nurse the ability to use the prescribed medication, including any device required to administer the medication.

If the student has been prescribed asthma or anaphylaxis medication for use during the school day, the student and parents should discuss this with the school nurse or principal.

In accordance with a student’s individual health plan for management of diabetes, a student with diabetes will be permitted to possess and use monitoring and treatment supplies and equipment while at school or at a school-related activity. See the school nurse or principal for information. [See policy FFAF]

All necessary forms are available in the nurse’s office.

PSYCHOTROPIC DRUGS

A psychotropic drug is a substance used in the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of a disease or as a component of a medication. It is intended to have an altering effect on perception, emotion, or behavior and is commonly described as a mood- or behavior-altering substance.

Teachers and other district employees may discuss a student’s academic progress or behavior with the student’s parents or another employee as appropriate; however, they are not permitted to recommend use of psychotropic drugs. A district employee who is a registered nurse, an advanced nurse practitioner, a physician, or a certified or credentialed mental health professional can recommend that a student be evaluated by an appropriate medical practitioner, if appropriate. [For further information, see policies at FFAC.]

STEROIDS

State law prohibits students from possessing, dispensing, delivering, or administering an anabolic steroid. Anabolic steroids are for medical use only, and only a physician can prescribe use.

Bodybuilding, muscle enhancement, or the increase of muscle bulk or strength through the use of an anabolic steroid or human growth hormone by a healthy student is not a valid medical use and is a criminal offense.

STUDENT RECORDS

Both federal and state law safeguard student records from unauthorized inspection or use and provide parents and "eligible" students certain rights. For purposes of student records, an "eligible" student is one who is 18 or older OR who is attending an institution of postsecondary education.

Both federal and state law safeguard student records from unauthorized inspection or use and provide parents and eligible students certain rights. For purposes of student records, an “eligible” student is one who is 18 or older OR who is attending an institution of postsecondary education.

Virtually all information pertaining to student performance, including grades, test results, and disciplinary records, is considered confidential educational records. Release is restricted to:

· The parents—whether married, separated, or divorced—unless parental rights have been legally terminated and if the school is given a copy of the court order terminating these rights. Federal law requires that, as soon as a student becomes 18 or is emancipated by a court, control of the records go to the student. The parents may continue to have access to the records, however, if the student is a dependent for tax purposes.

· District staff members who have what federal law defines as a “legitimate educational interest” in a student’s records. Such persons would include school officials (such as board members, the superintendent, and principals), school staff members (such as teachers, counselors, and diagnosticians), or an agent of the district (such as a medical consultant).

· Various governmental agencies or in response to a subpoena or court order.

· A school to which a student transfers or in which he or she subsequently enrolls.

Release to any other person or agency—such as a prospective employer or for a scholarship application—will occur only with parental or student permission as appropriate.

The principal is custodian of all records for currently enrolled students at the assigned school. The principal is the custodian of all records for students who have withdrawn or graduated.

A parent or eligible student may inspect records during regular school hours. If circumstances prevent inspection during these hours, the district will either provide a copy of the records requested or make other arrangements for the parent or student to review these records. The records custodian or designee will respond to reasonable requests for explanation and interpretation of the records. The address of the principal’s office is PO Box 67 Kopperl, TX 76652.

A parent (or eligible student) may inspect the student’s records and request a correction if the records are considered inaccurate or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights. If the district refuses the request to amend the records, the requestor has the right to request a hearing. If the records are not amended as a result of the hearing, the requestor has 30 school days to exercise the right to place a statement commenting on the information in the student’s record. Although improperly recorded grades may be challenged, contesting a student’s grade in a course is handled through the general complaint process found in policy FNG.

Copies of student records are available at a cost of ten cents per page, payable in advance. If the student qualifies for free or reduced-price lunches and the parents are unable to view the records during regular school hours, one copy of the record will be provided at no charge upon written request of the parent.

Directory Information

The law permits the district to designate certain personal information about students as “directory information.” This “directory information” will be released to anyone who follows procedures for requesting it.

However, the parent or an eligible student may prevent release of a student’s directory information. This objection must be made in writing to the principal within ten school days of the child’s first day of this school year.

Release of Student Information to Military Recruiters and Institutions of Higher Education

The district is required by federal law to comply with a request by a military recruiter or an institution of higher education for students’ names, addresses, and telephone listings, unless parents have advised the district not to release their child’s information without prior written consent. A form has been attached for you to complete if you do not want the district to provide this information to military recruiters or institutions of higher education.

Please note:

Parents or eligible students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if they believe the district is not in compliance with federal law regarding student records. The district’s policy regarding student records is available from the superintendent’s office.

The parent’s or eligible student’s right of access to and copies of student records does not extend to all records. Materials that are not considered educational records—such as teachers’ personal notes about a student that are shared only with a substitute teacher—do not have to be made available to the parents or student

PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION (PDA)

Appearance of intimacy among students has no place in the school setting and is not to take place on the school campus or at any school sponsored activity. Public display of affection is defined as the unacceptable contact between two or more individuals while on school property during the regular school day, at a school sponsored activity whether at Kopperl or at another site in which Kopperl ISD has a team/group participating. This includes, but is not limited to, hugging, kissing, holding hands, or any other inappropriate contact deemed unacceptable by school personnel. No misunderstanding can result on this point, if all students interpret this to mean that students are to keep their hands, arms, bodies, lips, etc. off each other.

STUDENT OR PARENT COMPLAINTS AND CONCERNS

Usually student or parent complaints or concerns can be addressed by a phone call or a conference with the teacher or principal. For those complaints and concerns that cannot be handled so easily, the District has adopted a standard complaint policy at FNG(LOCAL) in the District's policy manual. A copy of this policy may be obtained in the Superintendent's office.

In general, the student or parent should submit a written complaint and request a conference with the campus principal. If the concern is not resolved, a request for a conference should be sent to the superintendent. If still unresolved, the district provides for the complaint to be presented to the board of trustees.

RELEASE OF STUDENTS FROM SCHOOL

Because class time is important, doctor's appointments should be scheduled, if possible, at times when the student will not miss instructional time.

A student who will need to leave school during the day must bring a note from his or her parent that morning and follow the campus sign-out procedures before leaving the campus. Otherwise, a student will not be released from school at times other than at the end of the school day. Unless the principal has granted approval because of extenuating circumstances, a student will not regularly be released before the end of the instructional day.

If a student becomes ill during the school day, the student should receive permission from the teacher before reporting to the school nurse. The nurse will decide whether or not the student should be sent home and will notify the student’s parent.

WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL

A student under 18 may be withdrawn from school only by a parent. The school requests notice from the parent at least three days in advance so that records and documents may be prepared. The parent may obtain a withdrawal form from the principal's office.

On the student's last day, the withdrawal form must be presented to each teacher for current grade averages and book clearance; to the librarian to ensure a clear library record; to the clinic for health records; to the counselor for the last report card and course clearance; and finally, to the principal. A copy of the withdrawal form will be given to the student and a copy will be placed in the student's permanent record.

A student who is 18 or older, who is married, or who has been declared by a court to be an emancipated minor, may withdraw without parental signature.

SECTION II
CURRICULUM-RELATED INFORMATION

This section of the handbook contains pertinent requirements for academics and activities. Much of this information will also be of interest to your parents and should be reviewed with them-especially if you are entering 9th grade or are a transfer student. The section includes information on graduation programs and requirements; options for earning course credit; extracurricular activities and other school-related organizations; and awards, honors, and scholarships.

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

The school counselor provides students and their parents information regarding academic programs to prepare for higher education and career choices. Effective in school year 2005-2006, most ninth graders will be required to enroll in the Recommended High School Program or Distinguished Achievement Program. For more information, see the counselor.

A student removed to a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) during the school year will have an opportunity to complete a course needed to fulfill the student’s high school graduation requirements before the beginning of the next school year. The District may provide the opportunity to complete the coursework through any method available, including a correspondence course, distance learning, or summer school. The District will not charge the student for any method of completion provided by the District.

A student removed from the regular classroom to in-school suspension or another setting, other than a DAEP, will have an opportunity to complete before the beginning of the next school year each course the student was enrolled in at the time of removal from the regular classroom. The District may provide the opportunity by any method available, including a correspondence course, distance learning, or summer school.

Students and their parents are encouraged to discuss the options with the teacher or counselor to ensure the student completes all work required for the course or grade level.

CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS

The District offers career and technology programs in computer technology & nutrition and food science.

Kopperl will take steps to ensure that lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in all educational and vocational programs.

CLASS RANK / TOP TEN PERCENT

To be eligible for valedictorian or salutatorian, a student must have been enrolled in the district for the last two school years preceding graduation. Students graduating from high school in three years or less may not be considered for valedictorian or salutatorian. The student must be graduating on the Recommended or Distinguished Achievement Program. In the event of a tie between two students for valedictorian, the highest combined verbal and math score on a single administration of the SAT will be used to break the tie.

Students shall be officially ranked at the end of the fifth grading period during the second semester of the senior year. Semester grades for those courses taken on an accredited high school campus during the regular 9^th through 12^th grade years, Algebra 1 taught in the 8^th grade year, and any courses from the approved list of dual credit college courses will be taken into account for ranking. The weighted average is used for each semester grade in the computing process. Grades earned through summer school, office/teacher aide, athletics, physical education, team sports, PALS, regular high school correspondence courses, non-accredited home school courses, and credit by exam for acceleration and/or retrieval will not be computed in the ranking.

For two school years following their graduation, District graduates who ranked in the top ten percent of their graduating class are eligible for admission into four-year public universities and colleges in Texas. Students and parents should contact the counselor for further information about how to apply and the deadline for application.

[For further information, see policies at EIC.]

STATE SCHOLARSHIPS AND GRANTS

Under the Texas Early High School Graduation Scholarship Program, students who complete the Recommended or Advanced (Distinguished Achievement) High School Program may earn financial credits in varying amounts to apply toward college tuition. The amounts depend on the number of consecutive months in which the student completed graduation requirements and the number of early college credits earned and may be used at public or private higher education institutions within the state. The counselor can provide additional information about meeting the program’s eligibility requirements.

Students who have a financial need according to federal criteria and who complete the Recommended High School Program or Distinguished Achievement Program may be eligible under the TEXAS Grant Program for tuition and fees to Texas public universities, community colleges, and technical schools, as well as to private institutions. [For further information, see the principal or counselor and policy EJ.]

CLASS SCHEDULES

Students at Kopperl High School are required to take and complete eight credit courses each semester. The student must have a valid reason for a schedule change. The student must have approval from the counselor as well as the teachers and in some cases the permission of the principal, before the schedule change will be executed. In addition, schedule changes will only happen during the first two weeks of the first six weeks of the semester. Students enrolled in 1 credit courses will not be allowed to make schedule changes at mid-term. Only students enrolled in ½ credit courses will be allowed to change courses and those students will not be allowed to schedule change into a 1credit course.

COMPUTER RESOURCES

To prepare students for an increasingly computerized society, the District has made a substantial investment in computer technology for instructional purposes. Use of these resources is restricted to students working under a teacher's supervision and for approved purposes only. Students and their parents will be asked to sign a user agreement (separate from this handbook) regarding use of these resources; violations of this agreement may result in withdrawal of privileges and other disciplinary action.

Students and their parents should be aware that electronic communications (e-mail) using District computers are not private and may be monitored by District staff.

[For additional information, see policy CQ.]

CORRESPONDENCE COURSES

The District permits high school students to take correspondence courses-courses by mail-for credit toward high school graduation.

[For further information, see policy EEJC.]

COUNSELING

Academic Counseling

Students and their parents are encouraged to talk with a school counselor, teacher, or principal to learn about course offerings, the graduation requirements of various programs, and early graduation procedures. Each spring, students in grades 8 through 11will be provided information on anticipated course offerings for the next year and other information that will help them make the most of academic and vocational opportunities.

To plan for the future, students should work closely with the counselor in order to take the high school courses that best prepare them for attendance at a college, university, or training school, or for pursuit of some other type of advanced education. The counselor can also provide information about entrance exams and deadlines for application, as well as information about automatic admission to state colleges and universities, financial aid, housing, and scholarships.

Personal Counseling

The school counselor is available to assist students with a wide range of personal concerns, including such areas as social, family, or emotional issues, or substance abuse. The counselor may also make available information about community resources to address these concerns. A student who wishes to meet with the counselor should contact the counselor during school hours.

Please note: The school will not conduct a psychological examination, test, or treatment without first obtaining the parent’s written consent. Parental consent is not necessary when a psychological examination, test, or treatment is required by state or federal law for special education purposes or by the Texas Education Agency for child abuse investigations and reports.

[For more information, refer to policy FFE and FFG(EXHIBIT).]

CREDIT BY EXAM-If a Student Has Taken the Course

A student who has received prior instruction in a course or subject-but did not receive credit for it-may, in circumstances determined by the teacher and counselor or principal, be permitted to earn credit by passing an exam on the essential knowledge and skills defined for that course or subject. To receive credit, a student must score at least 70 on the exam.

The attendance review committee may offer a student with excessive absences an opportunity to receive credit for a course by passing an exam. A student may not use this exam, however, to regain eligibility to participate in extracurricular activities. [For further information, see the counselor and policy EEJA.]

CREDIT BY EXAM-If a Student Has Not Taken the Course

A student will be permitted to take an exam to earn credit for an academic course for which the student has no prior instruction. A student will earn credit with a passing score of at least 90 on the exam.

If a student plans to take an exam, the student (or parent) must register with the principal no later than 30 days prior to the scheduled testing date. The District will not honor a request by a parent to administer a test purchased by the parent from a State Board-approved university on a date other than the published dates. [For further information, see EEJB.]

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, AND ORGANIZATIONS

Participation in school related activities is an excellent way for a student to develop talents, receive individual recognition, and build strong friendships with other students; participation, however, is a privilege, not a right.

Eligibility for participation in many of these activities is governed by state law and the rules of the University Interscholastic League (UIL) - a statewide association overseeing interdistrict competition. The following requirements apply to all extracurricular activities:

A student who receives at the end of a grading period a grade below 70 in any academic class, other than a class identified as honors or advanced by either the State Board of Education or by the local Board, may not participate in extracurricular activities for at least three school weeks.
A student with disabilities who fails to meet the standards in the individualized education program (IEP) may not participate for at least three school weeks.
An ineligible student may practice or rehearse.
A student is allowed in a school year up to ten absences not related to post-district competition, a maximum of five absences for post-district competition prior to state, and a maximum of two absences for state competition. All extracurricular activities and public performances, whether UIL activities or other activities approved by the Board, are subject to these restrictions.
A student who misses a class because of participation in an activity that has not been approved will receive an unexcused absence.

Please note: Sponsors of student clubs and performing groups such as cheerleading, and athletic teams may establish standards of behavior-including consequences for misbehavior-that are stricter than those for students in general. If a violation is also a violation of school rules, the consequences specified by the Student Code of Conduct or by local policy will apply in addition to any consequences specified by the organization’s standards of behavior.

[For further information, see policies FM and FO.]

Offices and Elections

Elections will be held at the beginning of each school year for class officers.

Homecoming Queen

The Homecoming Queen selection process will be:

Four girls will be nominated from the senior class for Homecoming Queen. Selections will begin with the senior class first, junior class second, sophomore class third followed by the freshman class.
The students in grades 9 through 12 will vote for the Homecoming Queen from this group. The elementary principal and the counselor will tabulate the votes.
Each class (9, 10, 11) will select a girl from their class to serve as the class Homecoming Princess.
To be considered for nomination, a student must be passing all courses, has not been in ISS or AEP during the current year and attendance in good standing at the time of nomination.

LETTERING POLICIES

1. A player must start and complete the season with the team. (Possible exception for students who move or transfer in after the start of the season)

2. A player must not have been ruled ineligible during the course of the season.

3. A player must not have been placed in ISS during the course of the season.

A player must not have had any unexcused absences from practice during the course of the season.

Football, Basketball, Softball, Volleyball, and Baseball

A player must have participated in at least ½ of the quarters/innings/sets of district play.

Track

A player must score at least six points at the district meet.

Tennis, Golf, and Cross Country

A player must advance past district.

GRADE CLASSIFICATION

After the ninth grade, students are classified according to the number of credits earned toward graduation.

Credits Earned Classification

6 Grade 10 (Sophomore)

12 Grade 11 (Junior)

18 Grade 12 (Senior)

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY

Eligibility Requirements: To be eligible for consideration of membership by the Faculty Selection Committee, a student must be at least a second semester sophomore, have at least a 90 grade average or better, be of good character, have leadership abilities or potential and realize the need for service to others.

Active Membership Requirements:

Scholarship - Active members of the Kopperl Chapter of the National Honor Society must maintain at least a 90 or above average.

Character - Active members of the Kopperl Chapter of the National Honor Society must be of the best character. Any major infraction of the rules and regulations within the Student Handbook may lead to inactive status.

Leadership - Active members of the Kopperl Chapter of the National Honor Society should actively pursue leadership positions and training in leadership skills. A leader does not shirk from responsibility.

Service - Active member of the Kopperl Chapter of the National Honor Society are expected to actively involve themselves in two of the three chapter service projects. A minimum of 30 hours of school service and 30 hours of service to church and/or community is required each year (yearly time period to be between May 1 and April 31 of the following year). Each active member is expected to maintain a service time card with appropriate time signature verifications by service leader. Cards will be checked and recorded by the chapter secretary and chapter service vice-president(s) monthly.

Inactive members Status automatically results when any of the following occur:

· Overall grade point average drops below 87.5

· Insufficient service hours accrued by May 1.

· Majority no vote of the faculty selection committee.

Inactive members may not hold any chapter, state, or national NHS office, vote in any chapter officer election, or wear nay NHS garments including but not limited to sash, insignia, or device. Active membership returns upon majority vote of the Faculty Selection Committee.

Dues - $10.00 per year go for national dues, pin, certificate, membership card, and at graduation: NHS tassel and use of a NHS silk sash.

The Teacher Selection Committee will be determined each year by the NHS Sponsor and the KISD Administration; new teachers will be selected each year.

GRADUATION

Requirements for a Diploma

To receive a high school diploma from the District, a student must successfully complete the required number of credits and pass a statewide exit-level exam.

The grade 11 exit level test, required for students in grade 11, covers English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies and will require knowledge of Algebra I, Geometry, Biology, Integrated Chemistry and Physics, English III, and early American and United States History. A student who does not pass the exit-level assessment will have additional opportunities to take the test. Any student who was in grade 9 or higher on January 1, 2001, is eligible to graduate under the former TAAS exam.

Graduation Programs

The District offers the following graduation programs. [See policy EIF]

Number of Credits

Minimum Graduation Plan 26

Recommended High School Program 28

Distinguished Achievement Program 28

Please be aware that not all courses are offered at every secondary campus in the district. A student who wants to take a course not offered at his or her regular campus should contact the counselor about a transfer or other alternatives. If the parents of at least 22 students request a transfer for those students to take a course in the required curriculum other than fine arts or career and technology, the district will offer the course for the following year either by teleconference or at the school from which the transfers were requested.

Certificate of Coursework Completion

A certificate of coursework completion will be issued to a senior student who successfully completes state and local credit requirements for graduation, but fails to perform satisfactorily on the exit-level tests.

Early Graduation

Students graduating at any time other than the end of the school year shall be given a diploma at the time all graduation requirements are met. Students who have declared their intent to graduate in three years shall be included in senior year ranking/GPA after they have completed 17 credits. Students graduating ahead of their respective classes shall not be eligible for valedictorian and salutatorian but shall be eligible to be included in the list of honor graduates. Once ranking has been calculated no four-year graduate shall be displaced by the rank of a three-year graduate. Students in these circumstances must have attended two semesters during their third year and two semesters in either their first or second year in the district. Honors shall be recognized according to policy.

Students With Disabilities

Upon the recommendation of the admission, review, and dismissal committee, a student with disabilities may be permitted to graduate under the provisions of his or her individualized education program (IEP).

Graduation Activities

Graduation activities will include:

Baccalaureate ceremony

Graduation ceremony

Suggested attire for graduation & baccalaureate:

Gentlemen: Dress shirt & tie. Dress slacks (dark, e.g., blue, black, gray, brown). Dress shoes or boots (dark, with dark socks)

Ladies: Dresses, no longer than your graduation gown, preferably with dress shoes

** All graduates need to have their graduation gown pressed before each event.

ALL PLANNING AND ARRANGEMENTS FOR GRADUATION AND ASSOCIATED ACTIVITIES WILL BE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE SENIOR CLASS SPONSORS AND KISD ADMINISTRATION. ALL PERTINENT DATES AND TIMES WILL BE ANNOUNCED

Honor Graduate

Honor graduates shall be those students whose numerical average is 90 or above.

Graduation Expenses

Because students and parents will incur expenses in order to participate in the traditions of graduation, such as the purchase of invitations, senior ring, cap and gown, and senior picture, both student and parent should monitor progress toward completion of all requirements for graduation. The expenses often are incurred in the junior year or first semester of the senior year. [See Fees]

SPECIAL PROGRAMS

The District provides special programs for gifted and talented students, homeless students, bilingual students, migrant students, students with limited English proficiency, dyslexic students, and students with disabilities. The coordinator of each program can answer questions about eligibility requirements, as well as programs and services offered in the District or by other organizations. A student or parent with questions about these programs should contact the principal.

TEXTBOOKS

State-approved textbooks are provided to students free of charge for each subject or class. Books must be covered by the student, as directed by the teacher, and treated with care. A student who is issued a damaged book should report the damage to the teacher. Any student failing to return a book issued by the school loses the right to free textbooks until the book is returned or paid for by the parent; however, the student will be provided textbooks for use at school during the school day.

SECTION III
OTHER GENERAL INFORMATION AND REQUIREMENTS

Topics in this section of the handbook contain important information regarding school operations and requirements. Included are provisions on student health and safety issues, fees, the school's expectations for student conduct, student attendance, use of facilities, such as the cafeteria, library, and transportation services, field trips and emergency closings. For additional information or questions you may have, please see the principal.

ATTENDANCE

Regular school attendance is essential for the student to make the most of his or her education - to benefit from teacher-led and school activities, to build each day's learning on that of the previous day’s, and to grow as an individual. Absences from class may result in serious disruption of a student's mastery of the instructional materials; therefore, the student and parent should make every effort to avoid unnecessary absences. Two state laws, one dealing with compulsory attendance, the other with attendance for course credit, are of special interest to students and parents. They are discussed in the following sections:

Excused and Unexcused

An absence is excused under the following guide:

1. Student illness (FEC (local), when a student’s absence for personal illness exceeds five consecutive days, the student shall present a statement from a physician or health clinic verifying the illness or condition that caused the student’s extended absence form school. If the student has established a questionable pattern of absences, the attendance committee may also require a physician’s or clinic’s statement of illness after a single day’s absence as a condition of classifying the absence as one for which there are extenuating circumstances.)

2. Health care appointments

3. Death in the family (commemoration must be turned in)

4. Unavoidable legal affairs

5. Prior approval of office (ex: College Visit)

6. Religious reasons approved by clergy

College Visit

A student will be granted two college visits during their Junior and Senior years. The student must complete a request for college visit form, submit it to the principal and have 24-hour prior approval from the Principal. Upon return to school the student must have in their possession a letter signed by a college representative, on college letterhead from the admission’s office of the college visited stating that the student visited their campus and was given a tour.

Compulsory Attendance

Even though Pre-K and Kindergarten are not required, once a child enrolls with a public school, state law requires that a student between the ages of 4 and 18 attend school, as well as any applicable accelerated instruction programs, extended year programs, or tutorial sessions unless the student is otherwise legally exempted or excused. A student who voluntarily attends or enrolls after his or her eighteenth birthday is required to attend each school day. If a student 18 or older has more than five unexcused absences in a semester, however, the District may revoke the student's enrollment. The student's presence on school property would be unauthorized and may be considered trespass.

If kindergarten, first grade, or second grade students are assigned to an accelerated reading instruction program under state law, compulsory attendance applies to attendance in the reading program. Parents will be notified in writing if their child is assigned to an accelerated reading instruction program as a result of the reading diagnosis test.

School employees must investigate and report violations of the state compulsory attendance law. A student absent without permission from school; from any class; from required special programs, such as additional special instruction (termed “accelerated instruction” by the state) assigned by the grade placement committee and basic skills for ninth graders; or from required tutorials will be considered in violation of the compulsory attendance law and subject to disciplinary action

A court of law may also impose penalties against both the student and his or her parents if a school-aged student is deliberately not attending school. A complaint against the parent may be filed in court if the student:

· Is absent from school on ten or more days or parts of days within a six-month period in the same school year, or

· Is absent on three or more days or parts of days within a four-week period.

Attendance for Credit

To receive credit in a class, a student must attend at least 90 percent of the days the class is offered. A student who attends fewer than 90 percent of the days the class is offered may be referred to the attendance review committee to determine whether there are extenuating circumstances for the absences and how the student can regain credit.

In determining whether there were extenuating circumstances for the absences, the attendance committee will use the following guidelines:

All absences shall be considered in determining whether a student has attended the required percentage of days. If make-up work is completed, absences for religious holy days and health care appointments shall be considered days of attendance for this purpose. [See policy FEB]
A transfer or migrant student begins to accumulate absences only after he or she has enrolled in the district. For a student transferring into the District after school begins, including a migrant student, only those absences after enrollment will be considered.
In reaching a decision about a student's absences, the committee will attempt to ensure that it is in the best interest of the student.
The committee will consider the acceptability and authenticity of documented reasons for the student's absences.
The committee will consider whether the absences were for reasons over which the student or the student's parent could exercise any control.
The committee will consider the extent to which the student has completed all assignments, mastered the essential knowledge and skills, and maintained passing grades in the course or subject.
The student or parent will be given an opportunity to present any information to the committee about the absences and to talk about ways to earn or regain credit.

The student or parent may appeal the committee's decision to the board of trustees by filing a written request with the Superintendent in accordance with policy FNG.

The actual number of days a student must be in attendance in order to receive credit will depend on whether the class is for a full semester or for a full year.

When a student must be absent from school, the student-upon returning to school-must bring a note, signed by the parent, that describes the reason for the absence. A note signed by the student, even with the parent's permission, will not be accepted unless the student is 18 or older.

Medical Appointments

For an absence due to a medical appointment to be excused and coded medical (a medical absence will not count against the attendance record of the student) the student must:

1. Be in class long enough to be counted present in at least one class,

2. Sign out through the office and

3. Return to school with verification from the doctor’s office. (It is the parent/students responsibility to provide that verification.)

Make-Up Work

The teacher may assign the student makeup work based on the instructional objectives for the subject or course and the needs of the individual student in mastering the essential knowledge and skills or in meeting subject or course requirements for any class missed.

A student will be responsible for obtaining and completing the makeup work in a satisfactory manner and within the time specified by the teacher. [For further information, see policy EIAB.]

A student who does not make up assigned work within the time allotted by the teacher will receive a grade of zero for the assignment.

A student will be permitted to make up tests and to turn in projects due in any class missed because of absence. Teachers may assign a late penalty to any long-term project in accordance with time lines approved by the principal and previously communicated to students.

Driver License Attendance Verification

To obtain a driver license, a student between the ages of 16 and 18 must annually provide to the Texas Department of Public Safety a form obtained from the school verifying that the student has met the 90 percent attendance requirement for the semester preceding the date of application. The student can obtain this form at the Superintendent's office.

Truancy

Texas Education Code 37.008(m-1) states:

After three (3) unexcused absences a district can issue a warning or a ticket. At 10 days of unexcused absences, the district is required by law to file charges of truancy. Truancy is a Class C misdemeanor with a fine of up to $500.00.

Texas Education Code 25.095 states:

A school district shall notify a student’s parent in writing if, in a six-month period, the student has been absent without an excuse five times for any part of the day. The notice must state that if the student is absent without an excuse for 10 or more days or parts of days in a six-month period that either:

· The student’s parent is subject to prosecution under section 25.093; and

· The student is subject to prosecution under section 25.094.

Any student may be referred to local law enforcement or child protective agencies if he/she has an excessive number of absences.

An offense under section(s) 25.093 and 25.094 is a class C misdemeanor and is subject to fine of $25.00 to $500.00 per day for each absence.

TARDINESS - LATE ARRIVAL TO SCHOOL

A student who is tardy to school and/or class will:

When a JH/HS student is tardy, he/she must go to the attendance office and get a tardy admit to class.
When a PK – 6^th grade student is tardy, a parent must accompany the student to the attendance office to get a tardy admit to class.
Any JH/HS student who is tardy must serve a lunch detention the same day if the tardy occurs during the class periods before lunch. If the tardy occurs after lunch, his/her name will be added to the lunch detention list for the following day.
Students should report to an administrator during lunch to serve detention. If the student fails to show up for the assigned lunch detention, it becomes a discipline issue and will be handled by the principal.
After 3 tardies in one semester, the student will be assigned an after school 30-minute d-hall for each tardy. No swats will be given in lieu of d-hall.

Note: Three (3) tardies will be counted as an absence for Perfect Attendance and Final Exam Exemption purposes.

Repeated instances of tardiness will result in more severe disciplinary action.

COMMUNICABLE DISEASES / CONDITIONS

To protect other students from contagious illnesses, students infected with certain diseases are not allowed to come to school while contagious. The school nurse can provide information from the Texas Department of Health regarding these diseases.

Parents of a student with a communicable or contagious disease should phone the school nurse so that other students who might have been exposed to the disease can be alerted.

BACTERIAL MENINGITIS

State law requires the District to provide the following information:

What is meningitis?

Meningitis is an inflammation of the covering of the brain and spinal cord. Viruses, parasites, fungi, and bacteria can cause meningitis. Viral meningitis is most common and the least serious. Bacterial meningitis is the most common form of serious bacterial infection with the potential for serious, long-term complications. It is an uncommon disease, but requires urgent treatment with antibiotics to prevent permanent damage or death.

What are the symptoms?

Someone with meningitis will become very ill. The illness may develop over one or two days, but it can also rapidly progress in a matter of hours. Not everyone with meningitis will have the same symptoms.

Children (over 1 year old) and adults with meningitis may have a severe headache, high temperature, vomiting, sensitivity to bright lights, neck stiffness or joint pains, and drowsiness or confusion. In both children and adults, there may be a rash of tiny, red-purple spots. These can occur anywhere on the body.

The diagnosis of bacterial meningitis is based on a combination of symptoms and laboratory results.

How serious is bacterial meningitis?

If it is diagnosed early and treated promptly, the majority of people make a complete recovery. In some cases it can be fatal or a person may be left with a permanent disability.

How is bacterial meningitis spread?

Fortunately, none of the bacteria that cause meningitis are as contagious as diseases like the common cold or the flu, and they are not spread by casual contact or by simply breathing the air where a person with meningitis has been. The germs live naturally in the back of our noses and throats, but they do not live for long outside the body. They are spread when people exchange saliva (such as by kissing, sharing drinking containers, utensils, or cigarettes).

The germ does not cause meningitis in most people. Instead, most people become carriers of the germ for days, weeks, or even months. The bacteria rarely overcome the body's immune system and cause meningitis or another serious illness.

How can bacterial meningitis be prevented?

Do not share food, drinks, utensils, toothbrushes, or cigarettes. Limit the number of persons you kiss.

While there are vaccines for some other strains of bacterial meningitis, they are used only in special circumstances. These include when there is a disease outbreak in a community or for people traveling to a country where there is a high risk of getting the disease. Also, a vaccine is recommended by some groups for college students, particularly freshmen living in dorms or residence halls. The vaccine is safe and effective (85-90 percent). It can cause mild side effects, such as redness and pain at the injection site lasting up to two days. Immunity develops within seven to ten days after the vaccine is given and lasts for up to five years.

What should you do if you think you or a friend might have bacterial meningitis?

You should seek prompt medical attention.

Where can you get more information?

Your school nurse, family doctor, and the staff at your local or regional health department office are excellent sources for information on all communicable diseases. You may also call your local health department or Regional Texas Department of Health office to ask about meningococcal vaccine. Additional information may also be found at the web sites for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, http://www.cdc.gov/, and the Texas Department of Health, http://www.tdh.state.tx.us/.

HEALTH-RELATED MATTERS

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FOR STUDENTS IN ELEMENTARY GRADES

In accordance with EHAB, EHAC, the district will ensure that students in elementary school engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day. The district offers 45 minutes per day to students in middle or junior high school. For additional information on the district’s requirements and programs regarding elementary, middle, and junior high school student physical activity requirements, please see the principal.

School Health Advisory Council

During the preceding school year, the district’s School Health Advisory Council held several meetings. Additional information regarding the district’s School Health Advisory Council is available from Mrs. Mynar. [See also policies BDF and EHAA.]

Vending Machines

The district has adopted policies and implemented procedures to comply with agency and food service guidelines for restricting student access to vending machines. For more information regarding these policies and guidelines see the principal. [See policies CO and FFA]

OTHER HEALTH-RELATED MATTERS

Tobacco Prohibited

The district and its staff strictly enforce prohibitions against the use of tobacco products by students and others on school property and at school-sponsored and school-related activities. [See the Student Code of Conduct and policy GKA.]

Asbestos Management Plan

The District's Asbestos Management Plan, designed to be in compliance with state and federal regulations, is available in the superintendent's office. If you have any questions, please contact the superintendent of Kopperl ISD.

Pest Management Plan

The District periodically applies pesticides inside buildings. Except in an emergency, signs will be posted 48 hours before application. Parents who want to be notified prior to pesticide application inside their child/children's school assignment area may contact Joe Riddle (254) 889-3502 X 229.

Illness

A child should be kept at home if they are ill. They should remain at home until they are “symptom-free” for 24 hours. If your child has the following symptoms, either one or all of them, PLEASE KEEP THEM AT HOME.

· Fever - 100 degrees or more (fever means they are contagious and can spread infection to others)

· Diarrhea

· Vomiting

When a child becomes ill at school, parents will be notified. The child should be picked up within 45 minutes of being contacted. In the event that a parent cannot pick the child up, there should be someone else available to contact (friend, relative, neighbor). This contact person should be listed on your child’s emergency contact card and on your child’s enrollment forms kept in the principal’s office.

Head Lice

Head lice checks will be done routinely, and at the request of teacher/staff members. When head lice/nits are found, parents will be notified to pick their child up from school. If no one can be found to pick the child/children up from school, the child will be removed form the classroom and placed in an area of isolation away from other students. If a child is sent home 3 times during the school year, counseling services by the school counselor will be strongly recommended. Counseling will include viewing of a videotape on proper treatment of the child and household. The child must be accompanied by a parent upon their return to school, and proof of treatment must be provided. The child’s head must be re-checked by the school nurse before the child can return to the classroom.

Doctor’s Notes for Returning to School

When necessary or at the nurse’s discretion, a note may be required from they child’s doctor before the child can return to school. This applies to any unexplained rash with fever, scabies, chickenpox, or any other communicable diseases that are highly contagious, and by law, reportable to the state of Texas.

For information regarding the District’s School Health Advisory Council, including the number of meetings scheduled or held during the year, please see the principal. Information regarding vending machines in District facilities and student access to the machines is available from the Superintendent.

CONDUCT

Freedom From Discrimination

The district believes that all students learn best in an environment free from harassment and that their welfare is best served when they can work free from discrimination. Students are expected to treat other students and district employees with courtesy and respect; to avoid any behaviors known to be offensive; and to stop those behaviors when asked or told to stop. District employees are expected to treat students with courtesy and respect.

The board has established policies and procedures to prohibit and promptly respond to inappropriate and offensive behaviors that are based on a person’s race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sex, age, or disability. [See policy FFH] Prohibited harassment, in general terms, is conduct so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it affects the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity; or substantially interferes with the student’s academic performance. A copy of the district’s policy is available in the principal’s office and in the superintendent’s office.

Examples of prohibited discrimination may include, but are not limited to, derogatory language directed at a person’s religious beliefs or practices, accent, skin color, or need for accommodation; bullying, threatening, or intimidating conduct; name-calling or slurs, taunting, teasing (even when presented as “jokes”), or rumors; aggression or assault; graffiti or printed material promoting racial, ethnic, or other negative stereotypes; or aggressive conduct such as theft or damage to property. Examples of prohibited sexual harassment may include touching private body parts or coercing physical contact that is sexual in nature; sexual advances; jokes or conversations of a sexual nature; and other sexually motivated conduct, communications, or contact.

Sexual harassment of a student by an employee or volunteer does not include necessary or permissible physical contact not reasonably construed as sexual in nature. However, all romantic and inappropriate social relationships, as well as all sexual relationships, between students and district employees are prohibited, even if consensual.

Reporting Procedures

Any student who believes that he or she has experienced prohibited harassment should immediately report the problem to a teacher, counselor, principal, or other district employee. The student’s parent may make the report.

Investigation of Reported Harassment

To the extent possible, the district will respect the privacy of the student; however, limited disclosures may be necessary to conduct a thorough investigation and to comply with law. Allegations will be promptly investigated. The district will notify the parents of any student alleged to have experienced prohibited harassment by an adult associated with the district, or by another student, when the allegations, if proven, would constitute “sexual harassment” or “other prohibited harassment” as defined by board policy.

If the district’s investigation indicates that prohibited harassment occurred, appropriate disciplinary or corrective action will be taken to address the harassment. The district may take disciplinary action even if the conduct that is the subject of the complaint did not rise to the level of harassment prohibited by law or policy.

Retaliation against a person who makes a good faith report of prohibited harassment is prohibited. A person who makes a false claim or offers false statements or refuses to cooperate with a district investigation, however, may be subject to appropriate discipline.

A student or parent who is dissatisfied with an outcome of the investigation may appeal in accordance with policy FNG.

In its efforts to promote nondiscrimination, the district makes the following statements:

Kopperl ISD does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sex, or disability in providing education services, activities, and programs, including vocational programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.

The following district staff members have been designated to coordinate compliance with these requirements:

· Title IX Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of sex: Kenneth Bateman 254-889-3502 x 224

· Section 504 Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of disability: Katrina Adcock 254-889-3502 x 232

· All other concerns: See the superintendent, Kenneth Bateman 254-889-3502 x 224

Sexual Harassment / Sexual Abuse

Students must not engage in unwanted and unwelcome verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature directed toward another student or a District employee. This prohibition applies whether the conduct is by word, gesture, or any other sexual conduct, including requests for sexual favors. All students are expected to treat other students and District employees with courtesy and respect, to avoid any behaviors known to be offensive, and to stop these behaviors when asked or told to stop.

The District will notify the parents of all students involved in sexual harassment by students when the allegations are not minor, and will notify parents of any incident of sexual harassment or sexual abuse by an employee. To the greatest extent possible, complaints will be treated as confidential. Limited disclosure may be necessary to complete a thorough investigation.

A complaint alleging sexual harassment by another student or sexual harassment or sexual abuse by a staff member may be presented by a student and/or parent in a conference with the principal or designee or with the Title IX coordinator, Kenneth Bateman.

The student or parent may appeal the decision regarding the outcome of the investigation in accordance with policy FNCJ(LOCAL).

Applicability of School Rules

As required by law, the board has developed and adopted a Student Code of Conduct that prohibits certain behaviors and establishes standards of acceptable behavior-both on and off campus-and consequences for violation of the standards. Students need to be familiar with the standards set out in the Student Code of Conduct, as well as campus and classroom rules.

To achieve the best possible learning environment for all students, the Student Code of Conduct and other campus rules will apply whenever the interest of the District is involved, on or off school grounds, in conjunction with classes and school-sponsored activities. The District has disciplinary authority over a student in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.

Closed Campus Regulations

Kopperl ISD is a closed campus during the school day. Students are not permitted to leave once they have arrived, unless they have permission from the principal’s office. In order to minimize the length of the school day, to coordinate lunch and bus schedules for elementary, junior high, and high school students, and to maximize the safety for all students in the district, Kopperl ISD is a closed campus. Kopperl students may not leave the campus at noon. Doctor’s appointments or any emergency conditions that require students to leave campus must be verified by parents and cleared through the principal’s office.

Food and Drink

Food and/or drinks are prohibited in the halls, classrooms and library. Items of food and drink are to be consumed at lunch in the cafeteria or designated area only. The only exception will be at authorized school functions. It is the mission of the school cafeteria to serve nutritious meals at breakfast and lunch. Each grade is scheduled an appointed mealtime.

The district participates in the National School Lunch Program and offers free and reduced-price meals based on a student’s financial need. Information can be obtained from the principal’s office.

The following rules regarding the cafeteria and designated eating area apply to all students:

Food and drink will be consumed in the cafeteria and/or designated concession area only. Plates, glasses and other containers including wrappers will be discarded in areas designated for eating.
Sack lunches, snacks or other meals brought from home will be consumed in the cafeteria.
A microwave oven for student’s use will be provided in the cafeteria.
Failure to keep the outside area clean and free of litter will result in loss of the privilege to use this area.
No one will be allowed to go without a lunch, all charges must be approved by the administration and a limit of no more than three days of charges will be allowed.

Field Trips

Any JH/HS student who has been in AEP during the school year or, any JH/HS student who has been in ISS more than once during the school year, shall be excluded from all field trips. If the student goes to AEP or ISS for a 2^nd time during the end of the school year, then this guideline carries over to the next school year.

All students are to be picked up within 15 minutes of returning to the school. After 15 minutes, if no parental contact has been made, the Sheriff’s Department will be contacted to come and pick the student up. Parents will then be responsible for picking students up from the Sheriff’s Department. (Teachers and/or staff members should not, under any circumstances be responsible for taking a student home when parents won’t or can’t come and get their student).

Any student who is picked up by the Sheriff’s Department due to the parent not picking them up after a field trip will be excluded from future field trips during the school year.

Parents are welcome to attend field trips with their children. A criminal history check must be done and the parent be approved before the field trip. Siblings are not to accompany parents on field trips.

Internet/Network Acceptable Use Policy

The Kopperl ISD Internet goal is to promote innovation and educational excellence in Kopperl public schools. To achieve this, the network must provide quality, equitable, and sought-effective information and communication resources to the public education community. Successful operation of the Internet and network requires that its users cooperate to form a world class, public education in Kopperl. It is therefore imperative that members conduct themselves in a responsible, decent, ethical, and polite manner while using the network. The intent of the Kopperl Acceptable Use Policy is to ensure that all uses of the Internet and Network are consistent with its staged goal.

1. Use - Any use of the Kopperl network or the Internet for illegal, inappropriate, or obscene purposes, or in support of such activities, is prohibited. Illegal activities shall be defined as a violation of local, state, and/or federal laws. Inappropriate use shall be defined as a violation of the intended use of the network, and/or goal. Obscene activities shall be defined as a violation of generally accepted social standards for use of a publicly owned and operated communication vehicle.

2. Privileges - The use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in a cancellation of those privileges. No one will be allowed to use the Internet unless supervised by a KISD employee.

3. Vandalism - Vandalism will result in cancellation of privileges. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of another user, Internet, or other networks that are connected to the Kopperl network. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses.

4. Security - Security is a high priority, especially when the system involves many users. If you can identify a security problem on the network, you must notify the Technology coordinator. Do not demonstrate the problem to other users. Do not use another individual’s account or allow another individual to use your account. Any user identified as a security risk will have access to the network denied. Measures will also be taken to filter inappropriate Internet sites. Kopperl ISD utilizes BESS (a filtering program through ESC12_) to block out inappropriate sites. The Technology Coordinator will determine what sites will be filtered.

5. Downloading - Software found on the Internet will not be downloaded by any student unless with teacher permission. This helps to prevent viruses and corrupt files from being transferred on our computers and network.

6. E-Mail - Students will not be allowed e-mail access (including hotmail, yahoo mail, etc.) on KISD computers unless authorized for class use. KISD employees may use e-mail services at their own discretion.

7. Netiquette - You are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules on network etiquette. These include (but are not limited to) the following:

a. Be polite. Do not get abusive in your messages to others. Hate mail. Harassment, discriminatory remarks and other antisocial behaviors are prohibited on the network.

b. Use appropriate language. Do not swear, use vulgarities or any other inappropriate language. Illegal activities are strictly forbidden.

c. Malicious use of the network to develop programs that harass other users or infiltrate a computer or computing system and/or damage the software components of a computer or computing system is prohibited.

d. Extensive use of the network for personal and private business is prohibited.

e. Use of the network to access or process pornographic material, inappropriate text files, or files dangerous to the integrity of the local area network in prohibited.

f. The illegal installation and/or copying of copyrighted software for use on district computers is prohibited.

g. Do not reveal your personal address or phone number or those of students or colleagues. Users shall not intentionally seek information on, obtain copies of, or modify files, other data, or passwords belonging to other users, or misrepresent other users on the network.

8. Violations of the rules described above will be dealt with seriously. Violators will lose computer privileges, school disciplinary action may be taken, and/or appropriate legal action may be taken.

9. Kopperl ISD makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing. Kopperl School District will not be responsible for any damages suffered. This includes loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, miss-deliveries, or service interruptions caused by it’s own negligence or your errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained via the Internet is at your own risk. Kopperl School District specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through its services.

10. Web Page - Kopperl ISD will be producing a School Home Page that will be published on the Internet. All materials can be viewed via the Internet. The Kopperl ISD Home Page will include Kopperl School news, PTO news, and other pertinent information regarding Kopperl ISD. Parent/Guardian must sign a release giving permission to use their child’s picture and/or schoolwork. Kopperl ISD employees must also sign the release giving permission to use information pertaining to them.

Corporal Punishment

Corporal punishment-spanking or paddling the student-may be used as a discipline management technique in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct and policy FO(LOCAL) in the District's policy manual.

Disruptions

Due to Texas Education Agency restrictions regarding class interruptions and to prevent class disruption, flowers, balloons, gifts, etc. will not be delivered to a Kopperl ISD student while classes are in session.

As identified by law, disruptions include the following:

· Interference with the movement of people at an exit, entrance, or hallway of a district building without authorization from an administrator.

· Interference with an authorized activity by seizing control of all or part of a building.

· Use of force, violence, or threats in an attempt to prevent participation in an authorized assembly.

· Use of force, violence, or threats to cause disruption during an assembly.

· Interference with the movement of people at an exit or an entrance to district property.

· Use of force, violence, or threats in an attempt to prevent people from entering or leaving district property without authorization from an administrator.

· Disruption of classes or other school activities while on district property or on public property that is within 500 feet of district property. Class disruption includes making loud noises; trying to entice a student away from, or to prevent a student from attending, a required class or activity; and entering a classroom without authorization and disrupting the activity with profane language or any misconduct.

· Interference with the transportation of students in district vehicles.

Radios, CD players, Cell Phones, and Other Electronic Devices and Games

Students are not permitted to possess such items as pagers, radios, CD players, tape recorders, camcorders, DVD players, cameras, electronic devices or games, or telecommunications devices with text messaging at school, unless prior permission has been obtained from the principal. Without such permission, teachers will collect the items and turn them in to the principal’s office. The principal will determine whether to return the items at the end of the day for students to take home or whether parents will be contacted to pick up the items.

For safety purposes, the district permits students to possess cell phones that do not have camera and text messaging capabilities; however, cell phones must remain turned off during the instructional day, including during testing.

Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. For certain items, such as pagers, in which a third party retains a legal right of ownership, the school may charge for releasing the pager to the third party.

[See policy FNCE.]

Social Events

School rules apply to all school social events. Guests attending these events are expected to observe the same rules as students, and the person inviting the guest will share responsibility for the conduct of his or her guest.

A student attending a social event will be asked to sign out when leaving before the end of the event; anyone leaving before the official end of the event will not be readmitted.

SERVICES FOR THE HOMELESS AND FOR TITLE I PARTICIPANTS

Other designated staff members you may need to contact include:

Liaison for Homeless Children and Youths, who coordinates services for homeless students: Dan Leavitt

Parent Involvement Coordinator, who works with parents of students participating in Title I programs: Kenneth Bateman

Options and Requirements For Providing Assistance to Students Who Have Learning Difficulties or Who Need or May Need Special Education

If a child is experiencing learning difficulties, the parent may contact the person listed below to learn about the district’s overall general education referral or screening system for support services. This system links students to a variety of support options, including referral for a special education evaluation. Students having difficulty in the regular classroom should be considered for tutorial, compensatory, and other support services that are available to all students.

At any time, a parent is entitled to request an evaluation for special education services. Within a reasonable amount of time, the district must decide if the evaluation is needed. If evaluation is needed, the parent will be notified and asked to provide consent for the evaluation. The district must complete the evaluation and the report within 60 calendar days of the date the district receives the written consent. The district must give a copy of the report to the parent.

If the district determines that the evaluation is not needed, the district will provide the parent with a written notice that explains why the child will not be evaluated. This written notice will include a statement that informs the parent of their rights if they disagree with the district. Additionally, the notice must inform the parents how to obtain a copy of the Notice of Procedural Safeguards - Rights of Parents of Students with Disabilities.

Before a special education referral can be made, a student’s educational needs must be considered by the Student Assistance Team (SAT).

Student Assistance Team (SAT) Members

Principal
Counselor
Secondary Member
Elementary Member
Vocational Member
Extracurricular Member
Special Education Member

Attendance by referring teacher is mandatory.

The designated person to contact regarding options for a child experiencing learning difficulties or a referral for evaluation for special education is: Andrea Dunn 254-889-3502.

LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES

Questioning of Students

When law enforcement officers or other lawful authorities wish to question or interview a student at school, the principal will cooperate fully regarding the conditions of the interview, if the questioning or interview is part of a child abuse investigation. IN other circumstances:

· The principal will verify and record the identity of the officer or other authority and ask for an explanation of the need to question or interview the student at school.

The principal ordinarily will make reasonable efforts to notify the parents unless the interviewer raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection.
The principal ordinarily will be present unless the interviewer raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection.

Students Taken into Custody

State law requires the District to permit a student to be taken into legal custody:

· To comply with an order of the juvenile court.

To comply with the laws of arrest.
By a law enforcement officer if there is probable cause to believe the student has engaged in delinquent conduct or conduct in need of supervision.
By a probation officer if there is probable cause to believe the student has violated a condition of probation imposed by the juvenile court.
To comply with a properly issued directive to take a student into custody.
By an authorized representative of Child Protective Services, Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, a law enforcement officer, or a juvenile probation officer, without a court order, under the conditions set out in the Family Code relating to the student's physical health or safety.

Before a student is released to a law enforcement officer or other legally authorized person, the principal will verify the officer's identity and, to the best of his or her ability, will verify the official's authority to take custody of the student.

The principal will immediately notify the superintendent and will ordinarily attempt to notify the parent unless the officer or other authorized person raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection to notifying the parents. Because the principal does not have the authority to prevent or delay a student’s release to a law enforcement officer, any notification will most likely be after the fact.

Notification of Law Violations

The District is required by state law to notify:

· All instructional and support personnel who have responsibility for supervising a student who has been arrested or referred to the juvenile court for any felony offense or for certain misdemeanors.

All instructional and support personnel who have regular contact with a student who has been convicted or was adjudicated of delinquent conduct for any felony offense or certain misdemeanors.

DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLISHED MATERIALS OR DOCUMENTS

School Materials

Publications prepared by and for the school may be posted or distributed, with prior approval by the principal, sponsor, or teacher. Such items may include school posters, brochures, murals, etc.

The school yearbook is available for purchase by students.

All school publications are under the supervision of a teacher, sponsor, and the principal.

Nonschool Materials…from students

Students must obtain prior approval from the principal before posting, circulating, or distributing written materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, petitions, films, tapes, posters, or other visual or auditory materials that were not developed under the oversight of the school. To be considered, any nonschool material must include the name of the sponsoring person or organization. The decision regarding approval will be made in two school days.

The principal has designated the bulletin board in the high school hallway as the location for approved nonschool materials to be placed for voluntary viewing by students. See policy FNAA.

The student may appeal the principal’s decision in accordance with policy FNG(LOCAL). Any student who posts material without prior approval will be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. Materials displayed without this approval will be removed.

Nonschool Materials…from others

Written or printed materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, films, tapes, or other visual or auditory materials not sponsored by the district or by a district-affiliated school-support organization will not be sold, circulated, distributed, or posted on any district premises by any district employee or by persons or groups not associated with the district, except as permitted by policy GKDA. To be considered, any nonschool material must meet the limitations on content established in the policy, include the name of the sponsoring person or organization, and be submitted to the principal for prior review. The principal will approve or reject the materials within two school days of the time the materials are received. The requestor may appeal a rejection in accordance with the appropriate district complaint policy. [See policy DGBA, FNG, or GF.]

Prior review will not be required for:

· Distribution of materials by an attendee to other attendees of a school-sponsored meeting intended for adults and held after school hours.

· Distribution of materials by an attendee to other attendees of a community group meeting held after school hours in accordance with policy GKD(LOCAL) or a noncurriculum-related student group meeting held in accordance with FNAB(LOCAL).

· Distribution for electioneering purposes during the time a school facility is being used as a polling place, in accordance with state law.

All nonschool materials distributed under these circumstances must be removed from district property immediately following the event at which the materials are distributed.

DRESS AND GROOMING

The District's dress code is established to teach grooming and hygiene, prevent disruption, and minimize safety hazards. Students and parents may determine a student's personal dress and grooming standards, provided that they comply with the following:

3^rd – 12^th Grade Male Students

Earrings for males or any visible body piercing, to include the tongue will not be allowed.
No flip-flops or shoes with rollers in them.
Bangs will be cut above the eyebrows. No hair longer than the top of a dress shirt collar and not to extend below the middle of the ear on the side. Sideburns will not extend below the bottom of the ear No ponytails will be allowed. Questionable hairstyles will be approved/disapproved by Administration.
All pant/shorts must be worn fastened at the waist and may not appear to be sagging, and shorts will be no shorter than 5" measured from the middle of the kneecap in length. Violation(s) can result in the student not being allowed to wear shorts for a period of time to be determined by the principal.
Only shirts with sleeves will be worn. No tank tops, shirts with the sleeves cut off, or other types of sleeveless shirt will be permitted.
No tobacco / alcohol / drug / sexual innuendo or any other objectionable material will be allowed on any article of clothing, this includes backpacks and book bags, and includes magazine titles on clothing.
Tattoos must be covered at all times.
No underclothes should be seen at anytime.
No unnatural hair colors or eye color will be allowed.
Proper clothing / accessories will be worn appropriately.
No chains of any sort are allowed.
No facial hair is allowed. Students coming to school with facial hair will be referred to the nurse's office to shave. This constitutes a dress code violation; students will not be permitted to go home to shave.
No hats, caps or other head cover are permitted in any school building.
No holes in jeans will be tolerated.

3^rd – 12^th Grade Female Students

Shorts, split skirts, dresses, or skirts will be no shorter than 5" measured from the middle of the kneecap in length. The opening / slit in any skirt will not be shorter than 5" measured from the middle of the kneecap in length. Violation(s) can result in the student not being allowed to wear shorts for a period of time to be determined by the principal.
No flip-flops or shoes with rollers in them.
No visible body parts shall be pierced other than the ears, this includes the tongue.
No bare midriffs. Any shirts that reveal the midriff when hands are raised above the head will not be allowed. Shirts must be long enough to be tucked in when arms are extended straight overhead.
No low cut, backless, or revealing tops.
No tank tops, spaghetti straps, or shirts with the sleeves cut off will be allowed.
No tobacco / alcohol / drug / sexual innuendo or objectionable material or language will be allowed on shirts or any other article of clothing, this includes backpacks and book bags, and includes magazine titles advertised on clothing.
No underclothes should be seen at anytime.
No unnatural hair colors or eye colors will be allowed.
Proper clothing / accessories will be worn appropriately.
No chains are allowed.
No head coverings will be allowed at any time, this includes bandannas and scarves.
Tattoos must be covered at all times.
Shorts are to be worn under skirts/dresses (6^th grade and under)
No holes in jeans will be tolerated.

PK – 2^nd Grade Male Students

No flip-flops or shoes with rollers in them.
Earrings for males or any visible body piercing, to include the tongue will not be allowed.
Bangs will be cut above the eyebrows. No hair longer than the top of a dress shirt collar and not to extend below the middle of the ear on the side. No ponytails will be allowed. Questionable hairstyles will be approved/disapproved by Administration.
All pant/shorts must be worn fastened at the waist and may not appear to be sagging.
No tank tops or shirts with the sleeves cut off will be permitted.
No tobacco / alcohol / drug / sexual innuendo or any other objectionable material will be allowed on any article of clothing, this includes backpacks and book bags, and includes magazine titles on clothing.
Tattoos must be covered at all times.
No underclothes should be seen at anytime.
No unnatural hair colors or eye color will be allowed.
Proper clothing / accessories will be worn appropriately.
No chains of any sort are allowed.
No hats, caps or other head cover are permitted.
No holes in jeans will be tolerated

PK – 2^nd Grade Female Students

No visible body parts shall be pierced other than the ears, this includes the tongue.
No bare midriffs when arms are down.
No flip-flops or shoes with rollers in them.
Bangs will be cut above the eyebrows.
No tobacco / alcohol / drug / sexual innuendo or objectionable material or language will be allowed on shirts or any other article of clothing, this includes backpacks and book bags, and includes magazine titles advertised on clothing.
No unnatural hair colors or eye colors will be allowed.
Proper clothing / accessories will be worn appropriately.
No chains are allowed.
No head coverings will be allowed at any time, this includes bandannas and scarves.
Tattoos must be covered at all times.
Shorts are to be worn under skirts/dresses.
No holes in jeans will be tolerated

STUDENT FEES

Materials that are part of the basic educational program are provided with state and local funds and are at no charge to a student. A student, however, is expected to provide his or her own pencils, paper, erasers, and notebooks and may be required to pay certain other fees or deposits, including:

· Costs for materials for a class project that the student will keep.

Membership dues in voluntary clubs or student organizations and admission fees to extracurricular activities.
Security deposits.
Personal physical education and athletic equipment and apparel.
Voluntarily purchased pictures, publications, class rings, yearbooks, graduation announcements, etc.
Voluntarily purchased student accident insurance.
Personal apparel used in extracurricular activities that becomes the property of the student.
Parking fees and student identification cards.
Fees for lost, damaged, or overdue library books.
Fees for lost or damaged textbooks.
Fees for lost or damaged calculators.
Fees for driver training courses, if offered.
Fees for optional courses offered for credit that requires use of facilities not available on District premises.
Summer school for courses that are offered tuition-free during the regular school year.
Damage to lockers from stickers, vandalism or any other abuse.
A reasonable fee for providing transportation to a student who lives within two miles of the school. [See Buses and Other School Vehicles on page 28.]
A fee not to exceed $50 for costs of providing an educational program outside of regular school hours for a student who has lost credit because of absences and whose parent chooses the program in order for the student to meet the 90 percent attendance requirement. The fee will be charged only if the parent or guardian signs a District-provided request form.

Any required fee or deposit might be waived if the student and parent are unable to pay. Application for such a waiver may be made to the Superintendent. [For further information, see policy FP.]

FUND-RAISING

Student clubs or classes, outside organizations, and/or parent groups occasionally may be permitted to conduct fund-raising drives for approved school purposes. An application for permission must be made to the principal at least 7 days before the event.

Except as approved by the principal, fund-raising is not permitted on school property. [For further information, see policies FJ and GE.]

IMMUNIZATIONS

A student must be fully immunized against certain diseases or must present a certificate or statement that, for medical reasons or reasons of conscience, including a religious belief, the student will not be immunized. For exemptions based on reasons of conscience, only official forms issued by the Department of State Health Services, Immunization Division, can be honored by the district. The immunizations required are: diphtheria, rubeola (measles), rubella, mumps, tetanus, Haemophilus influenzae type B, poliomyelitis, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and varicella (chicken pox). The school nurse can provide information on age-appropriate doses or on an acceptable physician-validated history of illness required by the Department of State Health Services. Proof of immunization may be personal records from a licensed physician or public health clinic with a signature or rubber-stamp validation.

If a student should not be immunized for medical reasons, the student or parent must present a certificate signed by a U.S. licensed physician stating that, in the doctor's opinion, the immunization required poses a significant risk to the health and well-being of the student or any member of the student's family or household. This certificate must be renewed yearly unless the physician specifies a life-long condition. [For further information, see policy FFAB and the Department of State Health Services Web site: http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/immunize/school/school_info.shtm]

Delinquent Immunization

Parents will be notified by mail 30 days prior to when their child’s immunizations are due. A FINAL notification will be mailed when immunizations become past due. Parents are then given 5 days to comply with state immunization laws. After the 5-day grace period, if the child is sent to school with delinquent immunizations, the parents will be contacted to come and pick their child up from school. The child will not be allowed to return to school until their immunizations have been made current. If no one can be found to pick the child up from school, the child will be isolated from other students for the remainder of the day. Written proof of immunizations will be required from the health care provider/parent upon the child’s return.

PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS / HEALTH SCREENINGS

Physical examinations will be required as needed for extracurricular activities or by school health officials.

PLEDGES OF ALLEGIANCE AND 60 SECONDS OF SILENCE

Each school day, students will recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Texas flag. Parents may submit a written request to the principal to excuse their child from reciting a pledge.

A minute of silence will follow recitation of the pledges. Each student may choose to reflect, pray, meditate, or engage in any other silent activity so long as the silent activity does not interfere with or distract others.

PRAYER

Each student has a right to individually, voluntarily, and silently pray or meditate in school in a manner that does not disrupt instructional or other activities of the school. The school will not require, encourage, or coerce a student to engage in or to refrain from such prayer or meditation during any school activity.

SAFETY

Accident Prevention

Student safety on campus and at school-related events is a high priority of the District. Although the District has implemented safety procedures, the cooperation of students is essential to ensuring school safety. A student should:

§ Avoid conduct that is likely to put the student or other students at risk.

§ Follow the behavioral standards in this handbook and the Student Code of Conduct, as well as any additional rules for behavior and safety set by the principal, teachers, or bus drivers.

§ Remain alert to and promptly report to a teacher or the principal any safety hazards, such as intruders on campus or threats made by any person toward a student or staff member.

§ Know emergency evacuation routes and signals.

§ Follow immediately the instructions of teachers, bus drivers, and other District employees who are overseeing the welfare of students.

Accident Insurance

Soon after school opens, parents will have the opportunity to purchase low-cost accident insurance that would help in meeting medical expenses, in the event of injury to their child.

Drills: Fire, Tornado, and Other Emergencies

>From time to time, students, teachers, and other District employees will participate in drills of emergency procedures. When the alarm is sounded, students should follow the direction of teachers or others in charge quickly, quietly, and in an orderly manner.

Fire Drill Bells

3 bells leave the building

1 bell halt; stand at attention

2 bells return to the room

Tornado Drill Bells

4 bells move quietly but quickly to the designated locations

2 bells return to the classroom

Should there be a major disaster during school hours, your student(s) will be cared for at this school. Our School District has a detailed emergency operations plan, which has been formulated to respond to a major catastrophe. Your cooperation is necessary in any emergency.

1) Do not telephone the school. Telephone lines may be needed for emergency communication.

2) In the event of a serious emergency, students will be kept at the school until they are picked up by an identified, responsible adult who has been identified as such on the KISD emergency card, which is required to be completed by parents at the beginning of every school year. Please be sure you consider the following criteria when you authorize another person to pick up your child at school:

a. He/She is 18 years of age or older

b. He/She is usually home during the day.

c. He/She could walk to school, if necessary.

d. He/She is known by your child.

3) He/She is both aware and able to assume this responsibility.

4) Turn your radio to WBAP 820 AM Radio Station for emergency announcements. If students are to be kept at school, radio stations will be notified. If electrical service is not affected, information will be relayed on Channel 8 (ABC). In addition, information regarding day-to-day school operations will be available by calling the District Office.

5) Impress upon your children the need for them to follow the directions of any school personnel in times of an emergency.

Students will be released only to parents and persons identified on the School District Emergency Card. During an extreme emergency, students will be released at designated reunion gates located on school campus. Parents should become familiar with the School Emergency Disaster Plan located in the handbook and be patient and understanding with the student release process. Please instruct your student to remain at school until you or a designee arrives. Because local telephone service may be disrupted, also list an out-of-State contact on the emergency card, as calls may still be made out of the area while incoming calls are affected.

The decision to keep students at school will be based upon whether or not streets in the area are open. If this occurs, radio stations will be notified. In the event that a natural disaster takes place during the time that students are being transported, students will be kept on the bus and the driver will ask for assistance through radio contact with the school and district personnel. Any child who is home waiting for the bus will not be picked up (if roads are impassable) and remains the responsibility of the parent or guardian. In the event a natural disaster occurs in the afternoon, the driver will make every attempt to continue delivering the students to their homes. Should road conditions prevent the driver from delivering students to their home or to school in the morning, the students will be delivered to the nearest school site and that school will communicate with the home school to inform them of the students’ whereabouts.

In case of a hazardous release event (chemical spill) near the school area, Shelter-in Place procedures will be implemented to provide in place protection. All students and staff will clear the fields, report to their rooms and all efforts will be made to prevent outside air from entering classrooms during the emergency. “Shelter-In-Place” signs will be placed in classroom windows or hung outside classroom doors during a drill or emergency. Students arriving at school during a Shelter-in-Place drill or event should report to the school office or to the library because classrooms will be inaccessible. When the dangerous incident has subsided, an all-clear signal will be given.

Emergency Medical Treatment and Information

If a student has a medical emergency at school or a school-related activity when the parent cannot be reached, the school would need to have written parental consent to obtain emergency medical treatment, and information about allergies, medications, etc. Therefore, parents are asked each year to complete an emergency care consent form. Parents should keep emergency care information up-to-date (name of doctor, emergency phone numbers, allergies, etc.). Please contact the school nurse to update any information.

Emergency School-Closing Information

School will be closed as deemed necessary by the Superintendent. Local media outlets will be notified as soon as the decision is made to close. Radio Station WBAP 820 AM and TV Station Channel 8 will carry the notification of KISD School closing.

SCHOOL FACILITIES

Use by Students Before and After School

Certain areas of the school will be accessible to students before and after school for specific purposes. Students are required to remain in the area where their activity is scheduled to take place.

The following areas are open to students before school beginning at 7:30 a.m.

Cafeteria - PK through 2nd grade (students in other grades that are eating breakfast are to go to their designated area after finishing breakfast)

Old Gym - 3rd through 6th grade

New Gym - 7th through 12th grade

Unless the teacher or sponsor overseeing the activity gives permission, a student will not be permitted to go to another area of the building or campus.

After dismissal of school in the afternoon, and unless involved in an activity under the supervision of a teacher, students must leave campus immediately.

Conduct Before and After School

Teachers and administrators have full authority over student conduct at before- or after-school activities on district premises and at school-sponsored events off district premises, such as play rehearsals, club meetings, athletic practices, and special study groups or tutorials. Students are subject to the same rules of conduct that apply during the instructional day and will be subject to consequences established by the Student Code of Conduct or any stricter standards of behavior for extracurricular participants established by the sponsor.

Use of Hallways During Class Time

Loitering or standing in the halls during class is not permitted. During class time, a student must have a hall pass to be outside the classroom for any purpose. Failure to obtain a pass will result in disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.

Cafeteria Services

The District participates in the National School Lunch Program and offers students nutritionally balanced lunches daily. Free and reduced-price lunches are available based on financial need. Information about a student's participation is confidential. See Mrs. Pilcher to apply.

Library

The library is a learning laboratory with books, computers, magazines, and other materials available for classroom assignments, projects, and reading or listening pleasure. The library is open for student use during regular school hours with a teacher permit:

Meetings of Non-curriculum-Related Groups

Student-organized, student-led non-curriculum-related groups are permitted to meet during the hours designated by the principal before and after school. These groups must comply with the requirements of policy FNAB(LOCAL).

A list of these groups is available in the principal’s office.

VANDALISM

The taxpayers of the community have made a sustained financial commitment for the construction and upkeep of school facilities. To ensure that school facilities can serve those for whom they are intended-both this year and for years to come littering, defacing, or damaging school property is not tolerated. Students will be required to pay for damages they cause and will be subject to criminal proceedings as well as disciplinary consequences in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.

No skateboards, roller-blades, or motorized vehicles allowed on any part of the KISD campus.

SEARCHES

In the interest of promoting student safety and attempting to ensure that schools are safe and drug free, District officials may from time to time conduct searches. Such searches are conducted without a warrant and as permitted by law.

Students' Desks and Lockers

Students' desks and lockers are school property and remain under the control and jurisdiction of the school even when assigned to an individual student. Students will use only the locker he/she is assigned.

Students are fully responsible for the security and contents of their assigned desks and lockers. Students must be certain that their lockers are locked, and that the combinations are not available to others.

Searches of desks or lockers may be conducted at any time there is reasonable cause to believe that they contain articles or materials prohibited by board policy, whether or not a student is present.

The parent will be notified if any prohibited items are found in the student’s desk or locker.

Locker Rules:

1. No objectionable stickers, signs, banners, or any other item that would damage the paint on the locker, this applies to both the inside and outside of the locker. Magnetic mirrors are permitted.

2. Only the student’s academic supplies are permitted in his/her assigned locker.

3. Students may not change lockers.

4. The combination or a spare key to each lock must be given to the principal’s secretary. If this is not provided, the lock will be cut off at the owners expense and will not be replaced by the school.

Vehicles on Campus

Vehicles parked on school property are under the jurisdiction of the school. School officials may search any vehicle any time there is reasonable cause to do so, with or without the permission of the student. A student has full responsibility for the security and content of his or her vehicle and must make certain that it is locked and that the keys are not given to others. See also the Student Code of Conduct.

Trained Dogs

The district will use trained dogs to alert school officials to the presence of prohibited or illegal items, including drugs and alcohol. At any time, trained dogs may be used on lockers and vehicles parked on school property. Trained dogs may also conduct searches of classrooms, common areas, or student belongings when students are not present. School officials may search a locker, a vehicle, or an item in a classroom to which a trained dog alerts.

TRANSPORTATION

School-Sponsored Trips

Students who participate in school-sponsored trips are required to use transportation provided by the school to and from the event. The principal, however, may make an exception if the parent makes a written request that the student be released to the parent or to another adult designated by the parent.

Buses and Other School Vehicles

The District makes school bus transportation available to all students living two or more miles from school. This service is provided at no cost to students. Bus routes and any subsequent changes are posted at the school. Further information may be obtained by calling Kenneth Bateman.

See the Student Code of Conduct for provisions regarding transportation to the disciplinary Alternative Education Program.

Students are expected to assist District staff in ensuring that buses remain in good condition and that transportation is provided safely. When riding school buses, students are held to behavioral standards established in this handbook and the Student Code of Conduct. Students must:

· Follow the driver's directions at all times.

· Enter and leave the bus in an orderly manner at the designated bus stop nearest home.

· Keep feet, books, and other objects out of the aisle.

· Not deface the bus or its equipment.

· Not put head, hands, arms, or legs out of the window, hold any object out of the window, or throw objects within or out of the bus.

· Wait for the driver's signal upon leaving the bus and before crossing in front of the bus.

· Do not smoke or use any form of tobacco.

· There will be no food or drinks allowed on any regular bus route.

When students ride in a District van or passenger car, seat belts must be fastened at all times.

Misconduct will be punished in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct; bus-riding privileges may be suspended.

It is the responsibility of the adult/sponsor in charge of the trip to clean the bus upon completion of the trip.

Vehicles on Campus

The board may adopt rules concerning the operation and parking of vehicles on school grounds. Education Code 37.102(a) All laws regulating traffic on highways and streets apply to the operation of vehicles within school property. Education Code 37.102(b) The board may provide for the issuance and use of suitable vehicle registration and identification insignia. The board may suspend the permit or bar any vehicle from driving or parking on any school property for the violation of any rule or regulation promulgated by the board.

Permits are available for purchase in the principal’s office and must be on each vehicle parked at the school. To register your vehicle you must provide a current drivers license, proof of insurance, and tag number. Permits are not transferable.

VIDEO CAMERAS

For safety purposes, video/audio equipment may be used to monitor student behavior on buses (and in common areas on campus). Students will not be told when the equipment is being used.

The principal will review the tapes routinely and document student misconduct. Discipline will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.

VISITORS TO THE SCHOOL

General Visitors

It is the school system policy that students are not to have guests visit them at school. This includes small children or infants during the school day. Student visitors are not allowed at any time. Parents/Guardians are welcome to visit Kopperl School.

Visits by parents/guardians to individual classrooms during instructional time are permitted only with prior approval of the principal and teacher and only so long as their duration or frequency does not interfere with the delivery of instruction or disrupt the normal school environment.

For the safety of those within the school and to avoid disruption of instructional time, all visitors must first report to the principal's office, sign in and wear a visitors badge at all times. All visitors are expected to demonstrate the highest standards of courtesy and conduct; disruptive behavior will not be permitted.

Visitors Participating in Special Programs for Students

On High School Career Day the District invites representatives from colleges and universities and other higher education institutions, prospective employers, and military recruiters to present information to interested students.

PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION (PDA)

Kopperl ISD does not allow unacceptable contact between two or more individuals while on school property during the regular school day or at a school sponsored activity, whether at Kopperl or at another site in which Kopperl ISD has a team/group participating. This includes, but is not limited to, hugging, kissing, holding hands, or any other inappropriate contact deemed unacceptable by school personnel. Discipline for PDA will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.

Parent and Student Signature Forms

Kopperl ISD

Date_____________________

Student Handbook and Code of Conduct:

Parent Signature_______________________________________________________

Release of Directory Information:

Parent Signature___________________________________________________

Student Name_____________________________________________________

Regarding Release of Student Information to Military Recruiters and Institutions of Higher Education

Videotaping/Audio taping of Student:

KOPPERL INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

** Insert School Calendar Here**

PREFACE

BELL SCHEDULE

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PARENTS

PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT

WORKING TOGETHER

OBTAINING INFORMATION AND PROTECTING STUDENT RIGHTS

"OPTING OUT" OF SURVEYS AND ACTIVITIES

ENROLLMENT

TRANSFER APPLICANTS

REPORT CARDS, PROGRESS REPORTS, AND CONFERENCES

SEMESTER AND FINAL EXAMS

STATE-MANDATED TESTS

CHEATING

OTHER STANDARDIZED TESTING: COLLEGE REQUIREMENTS

MEDICINE AT SCHOOL

PSYCHOTROPIC DRUGS

STEROIDS

STUDENT RECORDS

Directory Information

Release of Student Information to Military Recruiters and Institutions of Higher Education

STUDENT OR PARENT COMPLAINTS AND CONCERNS

RELEASE OF STUDENTS FROM SCHOOL

WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL

SECTION II CURRICULUM-RELATED INFORMATION

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS

CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAMS

CLASS RANK / TOP TEN PERCENT

STATE SCHOLARSHIPS AND GRANTS

CLASS SCHEDULES

COMPUTER RESOURCES

CORRESPONDENCE COURSES

COUNSELING

Academic Counseling

Personal Counseling

CREDIT BY EXAM-If a Student Has Taken the Course

CREDIT BY EXAM-If a Student Has Not Taken the Course

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, AND ORGANIZATIONS

Offices and Elections

Homecoming Queen

LETTERING POLICIES

1. A player must start and complete the season with the team. (Possible exception for students who move or transfer in after the start of the season)

Football, Basketball, Softball, Volleyball, and Baseball

Track

Tennis, Golf, and Cross Country

GRADE CLASSIFICATION

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY

Dues - $10.00 per year go for national dues, pin, certificate, membership card, and at graduation: NHS tassel and use of a NHS silk sash.

GRADUATION

Requirements for a Diploma

Graduation Programs

Certificate of Coursework Completion

Early Graduation

Students With Disabilities

Graduation Activities

Honor Graduate

Graduation Expenses

SPECIAL PROGRAMS

TEXTBOOKS

ATTENDANCE

Excused and Unexcused

College Visit

Compulsory Attendance

Attendance for Credit

Medical Appointments

Insert School Calendar Here

SECTION II
CURRICULUM-RELATED INFORMATION