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academic letter - Thornton High School
THORNTON HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT/PARENT HANDBOOK 2016-2017 Total Commitment to High Achievement and Success for All TABLE OF CONTENTS Board of Education................................................................................................. Thornton High School Administration ................................................................... THS Calendar…………………………………………………………………….. Principal Note ......................................................................................................... Bell Schedule.......................................................................................................... Goal Sheet .............................................................................................................. Hall Pass ................................................................................................................. IB Continuum…………………………………………………………………….. Academic Letter ..................................................................................................... Activities/Clubs ...................................................................................................... Advanced Placement .............................................................................................. Advisors ................................................................................................................. After Prom .............................................................................................................. Announcements ...................................................................................................... Assemblies ............................................................................................................. Athletics ................................................................................................................. College Eligibility – NCAA ........................................................................... Athletic Participation .............................................................................................. Rules Competitions District 12 Stadiums Eligibility Financial Assistance Bruce McMillan Scholarship Sports Offered Attendance Guidelines ........................................................................................... Back to School ....................................................................................................... Bollman Technical Education Center ..................................................................... Bookkeeper’s Office .............................................................................................. Campus Supervisors ............................................................................................... Cell Phones and Electronic Devices……………………………………………… Class Rank & Determination of Valedictorian and Salutatorian ............................ Closed/Open Campus ............................................................................................. College, Financial Aid/Scholarships ...................................................................... Colorado Commission on Higher Education .......................................................... Communications..................................................................................................... Computer Guidelines .............................................................................................. Concerns/Questions ................................................................................................ Crime & Vandalism ............................................................................................... Dances .................................................................................................................... Dean’s Office ......................................................................................................... Deliveries ............................................................................................................... Discipline ............................................................................................................... Early Dismissal Before End of Year ...................................................................... Early Graduation .................................................................................................... Faculty Advisory Council (FAC) ........................................................................... Fees ........................................................................................................................ Finals ...................................................................................................................... Five Star Diploma .................................................................................................. Food and Drink Policy ........................................................................................... Food Services ......................................................................................................... GPA ........................................................................................................................ Grade Levels and Reclassification ......................................................................... Grade Replacement ................................................................................................ Grades, Weighted ................................................................................................... Graduation Requirements ....................................................................................... Guidance/Counseling Services ............................................................................... Hall Passes ............................................................................................................. Harassment/Hazing/Bullying ................................................................................. Homework/Make-up Work/Help............................................................................ Honors Pass ............................................................................................................ Incomplete Credit ................................................................................................... Interventions ........................................................................................................... Library Media Center ............................................................................................. Lockers ................................................................................................................... Lost and Found ....................................................................................................... Newsletter .............................................................................................................. Non-Discrimination Statement ............................................................................... Parking Permits ...................................................................................................... Phone Calls/Use ..................................................................................................... Physical Education Credit Waiver.......................................................................... Plagiarism/Cheating ............................................................................................... Post-Secondary Options ......................................................................................... Post-Secondary Planning ........................................................................................ Principal’s Advisory Council ................................................................................. Problem Solving Team ........................................................................................... Registration ............................................................................................................ Release of Information – Military Recruiters ......................................................... Retaliation against Parents Who Voice Concerns .................................................. Returned Checks .................................................................................................... Safety First ............................................................................................................. Schedule Additions/Changes .................................................................................. School Resource Officer ........................................................................................ Security Cameras.................................................................................................... Smoke Free Environment ....................................................................................... Student Commons .................................................................................................. Student Drop-off/Pick-up ....................................................................................... Student Identification Cards ................................................................................... Student/Family Information ................................................................................... Student Records...................................................................................................... Student Support Services........................................................................................ Syllabus/Cover Sheet ............................................................................................. Teacher/Student Assistants..................................................................................... TCAP…………………………………………………………………………….. Tobacco Use ........................................................................................................... Transcripts .............................................................................................................. Translation Services ............................................................................................... Visitors ................................................................................................................... Voice Mail .............................................................................................................. Withdrawal from School ........................................................................................ Yearbook ................................................................................................................ APPENDIX Fix-Up Strategies.................................................................................................... Punctuation Marks.................................................................................................. Capitalization ......................................................................................................... Community Resource List ...................................................................................... College Planning Guide.......................................................................................... DISTRICT POLICIES AND INFORMATION About This Document ............................................................................................ Appeals or Grievances............................................................................................ Asbestos ................................................................................................................. Assessments ........................................................................................................... Attendance .............................................................................................................. Bullying .................................................................................................................. Cell Phones and Electronic Devices ....................................................................... Community Use of District-Owned Facilities ........................................................ Corporal Punishment, Restraint or Physical Force ................................................. Extracurricular Activities ....................................................................................... Gangs, Secret Societies and Disruptive Groups ..................................................... Health Services, Immunizations and Medications at School .................................. Homeless Students ................................................................................................. FERPA…………………………………………………………………………… Law Enforcement ................................................................................................... Non-Discrimination/Harassment ............................................................................ Nutrition & Wellness ............................................................................................. Obtaining Sex Offender Information ...................................................................... Parking and Driving on District Property ............................................................... Post-Secondary Enrollment Options ...................................................................... Removal of Disruptive Student .............................................................................. Search and Seizure ................................................................................................. Services for Students with Disabilities ................................................................... Student Conduct ..................................................................................................... Student Dress Code ................................................................................................ Students’ Right to Expression ................................................................................ Student School Records.......................................................................................... Translation Services ............................................................................................... Video and Audio Monitoring ................................................................................. Visitors to Schools ................................................................................................. Weapons ................................................................................................................. THORNTON HIGH SCHOOL PARENT & STUDENT RESOURCE GUIDE 9351 North Washington Street Thornton, CO 80229 www.thorntonh.adams12.org Main Office: 720-972-4800 Fax: 720-972-4999 Administration Adams Twelve Five Star Schools Superintendent Chris Gdowski Board of Education President- Ms. Kathy D. Plomer Vice President-Ms. Laura P. Mitchell Secretary-Mr. Norman L. Jennings Director- Mr. Brian M. Batz Director – Ms. Jamey L. Lockley Bookkeeper Computer Systems Coordinator Health Aide Library Office Manager Psychologist School Resource Officer Registrar/Records Principal Asst Principal Asst Principal Asst Principal Jennifer Skrobela Patick Woytek Karen Shea Augusto Di Laura 4803 4806 4985 4874 Dean Dean Rochelle Boyd Xochilt Najar 4808 4844 Student Services Janet Frazier Ricardo Alvarez Samantha Hyatt Kristen McCloskey Valerie Forbes Sheryl Doll Scott Dodenhoeft Gail Stech 4830 4882 4819 4854 4801 4839 4840 4821 Counselors Co-Department Chair Chad Elder Co-Department Chair Patty Rolison 4880 4828 Counselors are broken down by last name of the student. Student Last Name Counselor Extension Stephanie Walker 4826 A–F Chad Elder 4880 F – Ha Kit Archbold 2813 He – M Patty Rolison 4828 N – Ra Beth Allen 4875 Re – Z Lia Emanuel 4827 IB/DP Community Reach Mental Health – Jackie Reitsma 2856 Senior College and Career – Elise Hauer 4876 The information contained in this handbook is designed to provide students and parents/guardians with school and district policies and information pertaining to academics, behavior standards and student services. All Superintendent and board policies are accessible on the district website www.adams12.org. Policies are subject to change as necessary at any time during the school year. These policies are critical in establishing a positive learning environment and maximizing learning opportunities for all students. Information regarding important dates throughout the school year is provided as well. Calendar activities and events published may not represent a total listing due to changes, deletions and additions that may occur throughout the year. Please listen to daily announcements and consult parent newsletters and the district website for updates. Thornton Highand School 2012-2013 Dear Thornton High School Student Parent: Regular Bell Schedule Welcome to the 2016-2017 school year at Thornton High School Our handbooks and monthly newsletters provide students and parents with important information regarding policies and events at THS. Our mission statement is “Total Commitment to High Achievement and Success for All.” We will continue to focus our work on this commitment to our students and parents. For us to accomplish our mission, it is imperative that students and parents join us in our quest to make THS a high achieving school. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. We look forward to a successful and productive year. Sincerely, Principal Skrobela The Vision Thornton High will be a high performing school that provides a continuum of learning for IB students along the Thornton corridor, THS will provide an environment that promotes: *Authentic Curriculum *Personalization *Democratic Decision-Making THS MISSION TOTAL COMMITMENT to HIGH ACHIEVEMENT and SUCCESS FOR ALL! THS BEHAVIORAL SUPPORT MISSION FOR STUDENTS TAKE RESPONSIBILITY to HONOR EACH OTHER and STRIVE FOR SUCCESS 2016-17 Bell Schedule Thornton High School Regular Bell Schedule Period 1 7:15 – 8:10 2 8:15 – 9:10 3 9:15 – 10:10 4 10:15 – 11:10 5 (Lunch) 6 11:10 -12:00 Wednesday Early Release Bell Schedule Period 1 7:10 – 7:45 2 7:50 – 8:25 3 8:30 – 9:05 Advisory 9:10 – 9:45 4 9:50 – 10:25 12:05 – 1:00 6 10:30 – 11:10 7 1:05 – 2:00 7 11:15 – 11:50 8 2:05 – 3:00 8 11:55 – 12:30 Activity Schedule Period 1 2 7:15 – 8:00 8:05 – 8:50 3 4 6 8:55 – 9:40 9:45 – 10:30 10:35 – 11:20 5 (Lunch) 7 8 11:20 – 12:10 Activity 1:55 – 3:00 12:15 – 1:00 1:05 – 1:50 To Students: The building will be closed at 4:00 p.m. M, T, Th, & Fr. The building will be closed at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesdays. Students are expected to wait for transportation outside the building or in the field house foyer (during inclement weather). Adams 12 Five Star School District International Baccalaureate Continuum Primary Years Programme Coronado Hills Elementary McElwain Elementary Thornton Elementary Leroy Drive Elementary Middle Years Programme Century Middle School Thornton Middle School Diploma Programme Thornton High School Students are welcome and encouraged to join the program at any time. For detailed program information please refer to www.ibo.org What is the IB Middle Years Program? The International Baccalaureate® (IB) Middle Years Program is designed to help students find a sense of belonging in the ever-changing and increasingly interrelated world around them and to foster a positive attitude to learning. The overall philosophy of the program is expressed through three fundamental concepts that support and strengthen all areas of the curriculum, assessment and community and service requirements. These concepts are based on: intercultural awareness, holistic learning and communication. The MYP, for students aged 11 to 16, provides a framework of academic challenge that encourages students to embrace and understand the connections between traditional subjects and the real world, and become critical and reflective thinkers. Century Middle School and Thornton High School have been MYP authorized IB World Schools since 2001. Taken as a whole, the curriculum provides a balanced education that will equip young people for effective participation in the modern world; whether or not they continue their IB education in the Diploma Program (grades 11 and 12 at THS.) ACADEMIC LETTER Students who take at least six classes and maintain a grade point average of 3.7 for three consecutive quarters will receive an Academic Letter. Academic letters will be presented during the Fall and Spring Academic Awards Ceremonies. ACTIVITIES and CLUBS During your high school days at Thornton High School, you are encouraged to take part in student activities. This gives students an opportunity to be active members of our student body. Those who participate are subject, at minimum, to ALL Board Policies and Procedures which address student discipline and rules of conduct. Participation in an extracurricular activity is a privilege, not a right. Students who wish to participate in extra-curricular activities and events will need to maintain a 95% attendance rate. Every student is encouraged to join and become an active Trojan. For more information regarding clubs and activities, students should contact the Student Activities Director. Activities may include, but are not limited to: Adventure Club; Anime Club; Art Club; Cheer Squad; DECA; Drama Club; FCCLA (Consumer); FCCLA (Operational); Fellowship of Christian Students; FOCUS Dance; French Club; German Club; Goulash; Key Club; LINK; Marching Band; MESA; National Honor Society; Pay It Forward; Poms; Spectrum Club; Strength and Conditioning; Student Congress; The Trojan Voice; Vocal Jazz; Yearbook. Please check the Student Information Boards located throughout the school for exact date, place, and time of meetings. Students will not be excused from class to attend club activities. ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) The Advanced Placement (AP) Program provides students an opportunity to take college-level courses and exams while they are in high school. As a result of the final national test score that students receive, college credit may be awarded. Credit awarded depends on the college the student wishes to attend. AP courses are designed to replicate college level classes, which mean they are challenging and rigorous. All students who take AP classes will be required to take the AP exams in May. The current fee for each exam is approximately $92. Financial aid is available. If the student fails to take the AP exam, then the AP class will be un-weighted from a Level 3 class to a Level 1 class. Besides the possibility of earning college credit, AP courses can help the student develop skills and study habits that will be vital in college. AP classes require substantial time outside of the classroom; therefore students may be required to complete prerequisite work in order to enter the class. Students are asked to obtain recommendations of current content teachers to help them evaluate their likelihood of success. It is recommended that students not take more than two AP classes per semester. For more information about AP, you can go to their web site at: www. collegeboard.com/ap. AFTER PROM PARENT PARTICIPATION THS parents are needed to help plan and produce the annual After Prom party. Though April seems a long time away, planning will begin in September. Volunteers are needed to help decide on the theme, help plan individual events and to work the party itself. This evening event has helped keep our students safe on prom night by giving them a place to go without the temptations of drinking and driving. You can't find a more worthwhile place to donate your time and money! To volunteer to help--or to find out more information--contact Daniel Troxell at 720-972-4874. . ANNOUNCEMENTS Announcements will be broadcast daily. Students and staff are expected to remain quiet and attentive during announcements. Members of Student Council and/or administration will read the daily announcements. Staff members will receive the announcements via email once a day. Hard copies of the announcements will be printed and made available in the Main Office. They will also be projected onto the wall in the Lower Commons. ASSEMBLIES Assemblies will be held at the end of the day. Students will be expected to attend assemblies. ATHLETICS Activity Cards/Passes The admission price for all sporting events in the East Metro Athletic Conference is: Adults - $5.00 Students K – 12th grade - $4.00 With ID Senior Citizens - $4.00 District 12 Staff Passes, CHSAA Passes, & Under 5 years – free Thornton High School, Front Range, District 12, CHSAA, and League passes are the only passes that will be accepted at the gate. Activity cards may be purchased for home sporting events (excluding district, regional or state playoff games). They may not be used at away games. Student activity passes will be available for $30. With this pass, students will be admitted to all regular season Thornton High School home games. Adult passes will be $70 and allows for 24 entries to all regular season Thornton High School home games (examples: one person could attend 24 games or a family of four could use the pass for six games). Students and adults may purchase these passes from the bookkeeper's office at Thornton High. Complimentary activity cards for tax paying senior citizens are available for individuals 55 years or older. For more information, call the District Athletic Office at 720-972-5921. Note: There will be no transporting to athletic events that are less than 10 miles from THS. The only exception is Football (due to athletic equipment). To comply with Title IX requirements the district will monetarily supplement female athletics with a stipend equal to the cost of transporting football. COLLEGE ELIGIBILITY (NCAA - DIVISION I & II) For students entering any Division I college or university on or after August 1, 2013, your NCAA initial eligibility will be evaluated under the 16 core-course rule. as described on this sheet. The 16 core-course rule INCREASES the number of core courses from 14 to 16 for Division I only. Students must complete three years of mathematics (Algebra 1 or higher), and four years of additional core courses. The additional core course may be taken in any area: English, mathematics, natural/ physical science, social science, foreign language or non-doctrinal religion/philosophy. The breakdown of the requirements is listed below. DIVISION I 16 CORE COURSE RULE 2008 and after 16 Core Courses: 4 years of English. 3 years of mathematics (Algebra I or higher). 2 years of natural/physical science (1 year of lab if offered by high school). 1 year of additional English, mathematics or natural/physical science. 2 years of social science. 4 years of additional courses (from any area above, foreign language or non-doctrinal religion/ philosophy). DIVISION II 2005 and after 16 Core Courses: 4 years of English. 3 years of mathematics (Algebra I or higher). 2 years of natural/physical science (1 year of lab if offered by high school). 1 years of additional English, mathematics or natural/physical science. 2 years of social science. 4 years of additional courses (from any area above, foreign language or non-doctrinal religion/ philosophy). www.https://web1.ncaa.org/eligibilitycenter PLEASE NOTE: The NCAA no longer accepts computer science courses, unless those courses receive graduation credit in mathematics or natural/physical science, and appear as such on the high school’s list of NCAA-approved core courses. OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION · Division II has no sliding scale. The minimum core grade-point average is 2.000. The minimum SAT score is 820 (verbal and math sections only) and the minimum ACT sum score is 68. · 14 Core courses are required for Division II. · 16 Core courses are required for Division I. · The SAT combined score is based on the verbal and math sections only. The writing section will not be used. · SAT and ACT scores must be reported directly to the clearinghouse from the testing agency. Scores on transcripts will not be used. For more information regarding the rules, please go to www.ncaa.org. Click on “Academics and Athletes” then “Eligibility and Recruiting.” Or visit the clearinghouse Web site at www.ncaa clearinghouse.net. Please call the NCAA Eligibility Center if you have questions: Toll-free number: 877/622-2321 DIVISION I CORE GRADE-POINT AVERAGE/ TEXT-SCORE SLIDING SCALE NEW CORE GPA/Test Score Index Core GPA 3.550 & above 3.525 3.500 3.475 3.450 3.425 3.400 3.375 3.350 3.325 3.300 3.275 3.250 3.225 3.200 3.175 3.150 3.125 3.100 3.075 3.050 3.025 3.000 2.975 2.950 2.925 2.900 2.875 2.850 2.825 2.800 2.775 2.750 2.725 2.700 2.675 2.650 2.625 2.600 2.575 2.550 2.525 2.500 2.475 2.450 2.425 2.400 2.375 2.350 2.325 2.300 2.275 2.250 2.225 2.200 2.175 2.150 2.125 2.100 2.075 2.050 2.025 2.000 SAT 400 410 420 430 440 450 460 470 480 490 500 510 520 530 540 550 560 570 580 590 600 610 620 630 640 650 660 670 680 690 700 710 720 730 730 740-750 760 770 780 790 800 810 820 830 840-850 860 860 870 880 890 900 910 920 930 940 950 960 960 970 980 990 1000 1010 ACT 37 38 39 40 41 41 42 42 43 44 44 45 46 46 47 47 48 49 49 50 50 51 52 52 53 53 54 55 56 56 57 58 59 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION Any student who desires to participate in Thornton High athletics must complete the proper paperwork, fees, and physical evaluations prior to being allowed to try out. Forms may be picked up in the Main Office, from the Athletic Director, or the coach. Athletic Rules to Remember On the day of a practice or an event, the athlete must be in attendance in all classes or have a pre-excused absence to participate. An unexcused absence from any class or illness makes the athlete ineligible to participate on that day. Also, if the student is out on Friday, that carries over to Saturday competition. Competitions No inappropriate signs can be held up or posted at competitions. Your signs cannot block the view of other spectators. Students must keep t-shirts on at all times. The Front Range League and CHSAA have a policy that there are to be no noisemakers at any competitions. Some examples would be thunder-sticks, cowbells, horns, or whistles. Thank you for your cooperation. District 12 Stadiums Reminder: Stadium policy – Alcohol and tobacco are prohibited. No sunflower seeds are allowed at the stadiums as they interfere with the drainage system. Eligibility Participation in interscholastic athletics and spirit squad as part of a school's education program is a privilege and not a right. Athletes are representatives of Thornton High School and must exhibit exemplary behavior at all times. Under the rules of the Colorado High School Activities Association, which governs all sanctioned high school interscholastic athletics, athletes must be scholastically eligible for participation in sports. "Scholastically eligible" and “Attendance eligible” at Thornton High School are divided into three parts. They are: 1. CHSAA REGULATION: The semester prior to participation, a student must have been enrolled in at least five (5) classes (2.5 Carnegie units) and failed no more than one (1) class (1/2 Carnegie unit). 2. CHSAA REGULATION: The semester during participation, a student must be enrolled in 5 classes (2.5 Carnegie units) and fail no more than 1 class (1/2 Carnegie unit). 3. THS REGULATION: Athletes with attendance below the weekly required 95%-or- higher attendance rate will not be eligible to compete with the team the following week. A student’s excused absences will not be calculated in the attendance percentage. Students may regain their attendance eligibility on a weekly basis. An athlete may regain eligibility by attending Summer School. Athletes and spirit squad are also monitored on a weekly basis with regard to academic and attendance eligibility. Two (2) "F's" in any week will make them ineligible for the next week. Sports Offered As a member of the Front Range League, Thornton High School offers 20 sports. Interested students may compete in: Fall Sports Cross Country (boys) Cross Country (girls) Football Co-Op Golf (boys) Co-Op Gymnastics Soccer (boys) Softball Tennis (boys) Volleyball Head Coach Jason O’Shea Jason O’Shea Dorian Cagaanan Joe Wallin (@ Northglenn HS) Phil Sailas Gonzalo Goniez Scott Gibson Chad Wilson William Quach Winter Sports Basketball (boys) Basketball (girls) Co-Op Swimming (girls) Wrestling Bailey Clark Khari Wallace Kate Booth (@ Northglenn HS) Jeremy DeHerrera Spring Sports Baseball Golf (girls) Soccer (girls) Tennis (girls) Track (boys) Track (girls) Co-Op Swimming (boys) Jeremy Miller Chad Wilson Neil Magor Jennifer Saunders Patty Wilson Christina Fox Kate Booth ATTENDANCE Attendance philosophy & goals Regular participation in the educational program is expected of all students. Regular school attendance is the single most important determining factor in student achievement and success. Attendance is primarily the responsibility of the students and the parents. State Law C.R. S. 22-33-104 and Article IX, Section 2 of the Colorado State Constitution, specify the responsibility of the school district and its staff to provide compulsory school attendance procedures. This law states that every secondary school student under the age of 17 shall attend school for at least 1,056 hours during each school year. Exceptions are those who are ill, injured, suspended, expelled, or whose absence is approved by the administration. The law also directs the Board of Education to adopt a written policy regarding the District’s Attendance Policy. Superintendent Policy Code 5020 meets the Colorado State Compulsory Education Law by stating all children between the ages of six (6) and seventeen (17) must enroll in and attend school. A student that has four (4) unexcused absences in one (1) month or ten (10) unexcused absences in a calendar year is considered habitually truant. If school and/or district intervention efforts fail, sanctions for habitual truancy may include a referral to the Truancy Court of the 17th Judicial District and/or a referral to a social service agency. In accordance with the law, Superintendent Policy 5020 also clearly outlines student, parent and administrative responsibilities regarding student attendance. Student and parent responsibilities are included in this booklet. A consistent effort by our students, our parents and community, and our staff to reduce student absences is critical for several reasons. Frequent absences of students from regular classroom learning experiences disrupt the continuity of the instructional process for all students in class. Class discussions and interactions among students and teachers are lost and cannot be entirely regained, even by extra after-school instruction. Students who miss school frequently experience great difficulty in achieving the maximum benefits of education. The regular contact of students with one another in the classroom and their participation in the education process are fundamental requirements of a sound educational program. In order to maximize academic achievement, students must attend class daily. Thornton High School believes that students are responsible for their actions. We also understand that parents/guardians need to be kept informed about their students. Because of the aforementioned beliefs we have implemented the following attendance policies: Student Responsibility The student’s responsibility is to attend school for all the days of the established School District No. 12 School Calendar. The student needs to appear in class on time prepared for academic endeavor. The student should contact his/her teachers immediately upon return from absences to arrange to complete all make-up work assigned, and establish when this make-up work shall be completed. All assigned work needs to be completed in an acceptable manner. The work should be completed as assigned by the teacher when a prearranged absence is requested. The student should also follow the established school procedure(s) when enrolling in or withdrawing from class. No early finals will be given at the end of the school year. Students are expected to attend school through the very last day. Parent/Guardian Responsibility Parents/guardians need to recognize that any absence, regardless of cause, may have a detrimental influence on student achievement. Success in learning is strongly linked to regular attendance and appropriate participation in educational programs. It is crucial that children develop habits of regular attendance at an early age. Poor attendance puts students at risk of not achieving their educational, social or psychological potential, which places them at a disadvantage in the quality of choices later in life. For these reasons please: Schedule appointments for students after 3:00 p.m., or when there is no school. Call within 48 hours to excuse their student’s absence. They should also be ready to present documentation regarding the absence. Any absence reported after two school days needs to be accompanied with documentation from a doctor’s office or legal notice. For prearranged absences, it is up to the parents and students to get prior approval from the school. Parents may excuse up to 5 days per semester without official documentation. Monitor the student’s attendance to ensure that the student is not excessively absent from school. Computer access will be given to parents in order to check student attendance and class progress. Maintain communication with his/her student regarding attendance and monitor the assigned make-up work of a student who has missed class and in the case of extended home confinement, request make up assignments. Contact the school and request a conference with the appropriate dean upon notification from the school of an attendance concern. Work cooperatively with the teacher and administrative personnel to resolve attendance concerns. Ensure compliance with the compulsory attendance statute in all cases. Teacher Responsibility The teacher’s responsibility in regards to a student’s attendance is to maintain accurate daily attendance records and to record into Infinite Campus within the first 15 minutes of each period per the guidelines established in the school. The teacher needs to support and administer the make-up work procedures for excused classes in a fair and timely manner to allow students the opportunity for completion of work. The teacher will notify parents after a student’s 4th unexcused absence from class. The teacher will participate, as necessary, in conferences to address attendance concerns. The teachers will also aid the deans and counselors who are dealing with attendance and academic issues. The teacher will furthermore provide positive recognition to students who attend school regularly. Counselor Responsibility The counselor will aid the administrator who is handling attendance issues of students; help in providing assistance to students who have been identified as having attendance problems; and provide positive recognition to students who attend school on a regular basis. Options for students who are not experiencing academic success will be provided. The counselor and dean will monitor students’ unexcused and excessive excused absences, and contact students in accordance with the school policy when students are not meeting school requirements, are in jeopardy of not graduating, or are falling behind in credits in their grade level. Meetings will be documented into Infinite Campus. The counselor will check the student’s schedule and make sure it is academically appropriate and help the student understand the ramifications of further absences. Administrator/Dean Responsibility The Administrators/Deans will develop, with staff and community input, a comprehensive building attendance policy. The Administrators/Deans will supervise the attendance policy and procedures. This will include monitoring individual attendance to ensure implementation of procedures developed in accordance with Superintendent Policy 5020. The parents or guardians, and student will be provided information about the school and district attendance policy and procedures, as well as information about their student’s attendance record when requested. The school will require from parents, guardians or legal custodians written acknowledgment of having received school and district attendance policies/procedures. The Administrators/ Deans will approve or disapprove reasons for absences and follow through on consequences for unexcused absences and excessive excused absences. Assistance will be provided to students who have been identified as having attendance problems and positive recognition will be given to students who attend school on a regular basis. The Administrators/Deans will also file a copy of the school’s attendance policy and procedures with the Superintendent or designee. This attendance policy also addresses students who are excessively absent from class. If a student accrues 5 excused (or a combination of excused/unexcused) days in a semester, further absences will only be excused by the student’s Dean. The parents/guardians will need to provide legal documentation or doctor’s note to excuse any further absences. The Thornton High School Attendance Policy is designed to accomplish the following: 1. Encourage completion of high school by all students. 2. Develop good attendance as a life time habit. 3. Make school a place where students want to be. 4. Increase potential for academic success for all students. 5. Encourage and reward a high rate of student attendance while accommodating legitimate, authorized absences. 6. Promote student responsibility for contributions to classroom activities. 7. Maximize effective use of staff’s time by minimizing: a. Instructional repetition b. Planning time spent on make-up work c. Classroom disruption to deal with attendance/ tardy procedures e. Time spent in notification process 8. Implement prevention and intervention strategies that help students who are chronic non-attendees to take positive action to correct this behavior and accept the consequences of excessive absenteeism. Attendance Policy The following policy is based on UNEXCUSED ABSENCES 1. All students and parents/guardians shall sign a Thornton High School Attendance Agreement upon enrollment. 2. At the beginning of the term, teachers will inform students and parents/guardians of policies regarding absences and tardies in a syllabus of classroom expectations. Students and parents/guardians will sign an acknowledgment of their understanding of classroom policies. 3. Students who wish to participate in extracurricular activities and events will need to maintain a 95% attendance rate for a designated period of time before the specific event. 4. Teachers will contact students and parents/guardians as per Superintendent Policy 5124 and 5020 when students' academic success is in jeopardy. This contact will be documented in Infinite Campus. 5. Parents/guardians must contact the Attendance Office within 48 hours of the absence in order for an absence to be considered excused (this excludes school related functions). The absences on record that have not been called in within the 48 hour time period will not be excused without administration/dean approval. 6. Parents may excuse up to 5 days per semester without official documentation (e.g funeral, court, or doctor). 7. Parents/guardians and students should carefully consider their decision to participate in any extended prearranged absence. For an extended prearranged absence, students must: a. Obtain a prearranged absence form from the Attendance Office. b. Obtain a parent/guardian signature. c. Obtain an administrator signature. d. Present the form to teachers for advanced recommendation and assignments. e. Submit the signed form to the Attendance Office at least two (2) days prior to the absence. 8. Students leaving campus before their regular dismissal time must have clearance from the Attendance Office or nurse prior to their departure. Parents/guardians must notify the Attendance Office before any student is permitted to leave. Students who do not follow this procedure will be considered truant. 9. Students will be marked tardy if they arrive late to class. 10. An unexcused tardy becomes an Unexcused Absence if the student is 10 minutes or more late. 11. The administrator in charge of attendance, may, upon receipt of facts clearly establishing emancipation, allow students to excuse their own absences. 12. Students, parents/guardians, or certified staff may appeal any attendance decision by contacting the appropriate administrator. Perfect Attendance School attendance is the single most important determining factor in student achievement and success. Therefore, students who have perfect attendance will be recognized and rewarded periodically. An absence is defined as non-attendance of the student in one or more class periods. To be recognized as a student with perfect attendance, the student is not to have any absences from class, with the exception of school related authorized activities such as school activities, field trips, testing, or conferences with a staff member. Students with other absences, excused or unexcused, or more than one unexcused tardy, will not be considered for perfect attendance recognition. BACK TO SCHOOL Adams 12 has changed to an online registration process. All current THS students will need to complete the online registration process before returning to school. Immunizations Students who do not have complete immunizations on file with Thornton High School will need to show proof of immunization with the health. This information is on file for ninth graders from District #12 middle schools. Outstanding Fines Students who received fine notices will have the opportunity to clear the fines during the school year. Fines can be taken care of by visiting our bookkeeping office or online at payforit.net. ID Cards ALL STUDENTS will have their pictures taken during the first weeks of school. At that time students may wish to purchase a picture packet. The picture will be used both for the ID card and yearbook. Seniors are encouraged to make appointments with a photographer of their choice for their senior photograph. Students are required to have their ID cards with them at all times when on campus. BOLLMAN TECHNICAL EDUCATION CENTER Students can enroll in Vocational/ Technical classes at Bollman Technical Education Center in grades 11 and 12 by indicating so at the time of spring registration in grade 10. These classes are taken during the day and are designed to complement the student’s academic schedule at Thornton. See the Registration Guide for Bollman offerings. It is extremely important to attend all required meetings at Bollman to be considered for enrollment. CAMPUS SECURITY OFFICERS The role of the Campus Security Officers is to be aware of, and to assist, school personnel in maintaining security, safety, and discipline. Students are encourage to contact a Campus Security Officer with any safety concerns. CELL PHONES and ELECTRONIC DEVICES See District Policy 4180 Superintendent’s Policy 5030 permits the use of electronic devices for personal, recreational, communication or instructional purposes under specific conditions. Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary sanctions up to and including expulsion from school, depending upon the severity of the violation. In academic settings (classroom, library, labs, etc) electronic devices must be in the “off” or “silent” position at all times and stored out of sight. Teachers may impose even further restrictions at their discretion in their class. However, when teachers determine the situation warrants for the phone to be used as an assistive technology or as part of a student’s individual education program, students may use phones according to teacher directions. In non-academic settings, including at school activities or on school transportation, such devices may be used in “silent mode” provided the use of such device, as determined by the supervising staff member or bus driver, in no way disrupts, poses a safety concern or otherwise violates Superintendent’s Policy 5000, Student Code of Conduct. Electronic devices may not be used in a manner which is potentially unsafe, illegal or otherwise might violate the Student Code of Conduct. Prohibited uses include, but are not limited to, creating video or audio recordings, or taking or sending photographs of students or staff without permission of the student(s) or staff member(s). Such devices may not be used for academic dishonesty or cheating. Such devices may not be used in any manner that disrupts the academic environment, or otherwise disrupts school activities or functions. Students may not depart a class to activate or operate such devices. The typical progression of consequences for violations as described in the policy includes: 1st offense. The device will be confiscated and the parent will be notified. The device will be released to the student after the student reviews and signs the policy. 2nd offense. The device will be confiscated, the parent will be notified, and a minor consequence may be assigned. The device will only be returned after the parent reviews and acknowledge the policy. 3rd or more offenses. Such offenses are considered disruptive behavior and may result in a suspension to be served in or out of school at the discretion of administration. Subsequent violations may result in increasing suspensions of up to three (3) days. Under all circumstances students shall be personally and solely responsible for the security of their cell phones and personal electronic devices. Adams 12 Five Star Schools shall not assume responsibility for theft, loss, or damage of any such device and will not be responsible for investigation of such incidents. If unique circumstances exist warranting the need for a student to use a cell phone or personal electronic device, on a temporary basis, outside the guidelines of Superintendent’s Policy 5030, such requests should be submitted to the Principal in writing. The Principal’s decision regarding such requests will be final. CLASS RANK & DETERMINATION OF VALEDICTORIAN & SALUTATORIAN The following procedures, developed with input from staff, students, and parents, will be in effect for selection of salutatorian and valedictorian. For the students graduating during 2017 – 2019: Currently, THS has three categories for Valedictorian and Salutatorian – IB Diploma Pathway, Standard, and Overall. There will be a valedictorian and a salutatorian for the International Baccalaureate Diploma program and a valedictorian and salutatorian for those students enrolled in the Standard Curriculum classes and/or Advanced Placement/Honors classes, there is also an overall valedictorian and salutatorian. To be considered for valedictorian and salutatorian the candidate must be a full-time student for both semesters of the senior year. To determine the valedictorian and salutatorian for the International Baccalaureate Diploma program, grades will be unweighted and GPA calculated. This avoids penalizing those students who choose to take additional classes, which are unweighted. To determine the valedictorian and salutatorian in the standard curriculum, GPA as calculated, including those classes with weighted grades, will be used. Regular Education students must take a minimum of two Advanced Placement courses or their equivalent (e.g., Level 3 courses) to be considered for valedictorian or salutatorian. The overall valedictorian and salutatorian will be determined using all students’ weighted GPA. For the purpose of determining class rank, total GPA's including weighted and unweighted courses will be used. A separate class rank will be figured for the total student population including IB students, and another class rank will be figured for the non-IB student population. This will allow those students who are not in IB the opportunities associated with scholarships and college entrance that might be denied them because of class rank. Junior attendants will be selected based on GPA, which will be unweighted for those in the IB program and weighted for those in regular education classes. There will be junior attendants from both IB and non-IB curriculums. Currently, valedictorians and salutatorians are determined based on the final GPA's at the end of the students' high school career. Students using grade replacement will be ineligible for consideration of salutatorian and/or valedictorian. For the students graduating in 2020 and later: THS will be moving to selecting only one valedictorian and salutatorian. The overall valedictorian and salutatorian will be determined using all students’ weighted GPA at the end of the students’ high school career. CLOSED/OPEN CAMPUS Thornton High School has a closed campus policy. Students are not permitted to leave campus during the day without first checking out through the Attendance Office. Freshmen will be required to stay on campus during lunch. They will need to make arrangements to purchase foods from the food court (Royal Gorge) or bring their lunch. Sophomores, juniors and seniors will be able to leave campus during lunch; however, they must be prepared to show their I.D. to campus supervisors to verify that they are an upperclassman Leaving campus for lunch is a privilege. Any student who takes ineligible 9th grade students off campus could lose their privileges. Students who violate this policy will be subject to discipline according to the matrix. **Freshman will have an opportunity to apply to earn off campus lunch privileges for the second semester. COLLEGE, FINANCIAL AID/SCHOLARSHIPS Financial Aid Listed below are websites offering information on costs, financial aid, sources of assistance, and what students should do to prepare themselves for college: www.collegeispossible.org Information on costs, financial aid, sources of assistance and what students can do to prepare for college. www.finaid.org Comprehensive financial aid web-site. www.fastweb.com A great scholarship search. www.salliemae.com Now includes CASHE (scholar-ship search) on line, calculators to predict the “Estimated Family Contribution”—complete guide to need-based aid www.college-assist.com Information on the Colorado Student Loan Program; links to programs in other states. “Mapping your future” is just text but good thoughts. www.collegeinvest.com www.collegeincolorado.com www.studentaid.ed.gov You can also download “Funding Education Beyond High School” at http://www.studentaid.ed.gov/students/publications/student_guide/index.html Scholarship Information Scholarship information is posted in Naviance. Since the list is continually updated, students need to check in Naviance weekly for scholarships for which they qualify. Watch the "due date" on the applications--for example: some scholarships have October deadlines and must be "postmarked by" September 30. Transcripts are available in the Guidance and Counseling Center. COLLEGE PLANNING GUIDE (See Appendix) COLORADO DEPARTMENT OF HIGHER EDUCATION (CDHE) CCHE’s Admissions Standards to Colorado’s four-year public institutions are posted on the THS website under the heading “Academic Pathways”. Community colleges will continue to be open admissions; students enrolling in these institutions are not subject to admissions standards. See Thornton High School Registration Guide for credit requirements. CDHE expectations are fulfilled if students complete Adams 12 graduation requirements. COMMUNICATIONS The staff at Thornton High School has made a commitment to openly and proactively communicate with parents regarding their son or daughter’s academic progress as well as non-academic concerns. As a positive partnership between school and home is the best arrangement for students, we encourage parents to stay in contact with their son or daughter’s teachers regarding his/her academic progress. In order to facilitate these lines of communication, parents will be able to access teachers through the following methods: Email Voice mail Individual web page In order for this process to be effective, parents/guardians must not only provide an email address, but must notify the teacher if the email addresses changes. Parent/guardians will be able to access the Counselors, Deans, and Administrators through voice mail and email as well. Voice mail and email addresses are posted on the Thornton High School web-site and in the newsletter. The Thornton High School website may be accessed at: www.thorntonh.adams12.org. Personal conferences will be arranged as needed. COMPUTER GUIDELINES Appropriate Use of Technology Resources The purpose of this document is to inform staff, parents, guardians and students of the rules governing the use of District and personal technology resources while on or near school property, in school vehicles and at school-sponsored activities, as well as the use of District technology resources via off-campus remote access. Please read the following carefully before signing. Adams 12 Five Star Schools reserves the right to modify the terms and conditions of this document at any time. Introduction Adams 12 Five Star Schools is pleased to offer staff and students access to District computers, communications systems1, the internet and an array of technology re- sources to promote educational excellence. While using District and personal technology resources on or near school property, in school vehicles and at school-sponsored activities, as well as using District technology resources via off-campus remote access, each person must comply with school, District, and legal guidelines. It is the joint responsibility of school personnel and the parent or guardian of each student to educate the student about his/her responsibilities and to establish expectations when using technology. Using the Internet and Communications Systems District technology resources are provided to conduct research, complete assignments, perform job functions and communicate with others. Access is a privilege and not a right; as such, general rules of school behavior apply. Access to these services is given to those who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner. Students and staff must comply with District standards and honor this agreement to be permitted use of technology. All digital storage is District property, and as such, network administrators will review files and communications to maintain system integrity and ensure technology is used responsibly. Files stored on District servers shall be considered District property and should not be considered private. Access to the internet will enable students to use extensive online resources. Families should be warned that some material accessible via the internet might contain items that are illegal, defamatory, inaccurate, profane, sexually-oriented or potentially offensive to some people. While the intent is to make internet access available to further educational goals and objectives, students may find ways to access these other materials as well. The District uses content filtering software to limit student access to these materials. Parents and guardians must be aware that content filtering tools are not completely fail-safe and while at school, direct supervision by school personnel of each student using a computer is not always possible. If a student accidentally accesses inappropriate material they should back out of that information at once and notify the supervising adult. Proper and Acceptable Use of All Technology Resources All District technology resources, including but not limited to District computers, communications systems and the internet, must be used in support of education, academic research and job related functions and must be used in a manner consistent with the educational mission and objectives of Adams 12 Five Star Schools. Activities that are permitted and encouraged include: • school and job related work; • original creation and presentation of academic work; • research on topics being studied or taught in school; • research for opportunities outside of school related to community service, job duties or further education. Activities that are not permitted when using District or personal technologies include but are not limited to: • Plagiarism or representing the work of others as one's own; • using obscene language; harassing, insulting, ostracizing, or intimidating others • representing Copyright ©, Registered ®, and/or Trademark ™ materials as one’s own work; • searching, viewing, communicating, publishing, downloading, storing, or retrieving materials that are not related to school work, community service, employment, or further education, including but not limited to materials with nudity or profanity; • Damaging or modifying applications, programs, computers or networks; • Intentional or neglectful transmission of viruses or other destructive computer files; hacking into District or external computers; intentionally bypassing District filters; • use of USB, bootable CDs, or other devices to monitor, capture information or alter the function of a computer or a network; • Subscription to any personal online services or ordering of any goods or services; • Use of personal e-mail accounts (not District-provided e-mail accounts) on the District network in a manner which interferes with the employee’s performance of job duties or which violates other provisions of District policy; • Online sharing of any student's or staff member’s home address, phone number or other personal information; • Non-educational uses such as games, role-playing multi-user environments, gambling, junk mail, chain mail, jokes or raffles; • Participating in online chat rooms or using instant messaging, unless specifically for professional use by staff or unless assigned by a teacher; • Use of District resources for commercial purposes, personal financial gain, or fraud; • Any activity that violates a school rule or a local, state, or federal law; Building principals may impose additional rules and regulations pertaining to the use of personal, networked, and communications resources in their respective buildings. Principals who require a signed use agreement from students, parents, or staff shall use the form attached as Exhibit B. Students are expected to report harassment, threats, and inappropriate use of District technology resources to a teacher or administrator. If a student has any questions about whether a specific activity is permitted, he or she should ask a teacher or administrator. Privacy and Security District technologies must be used responsibly and in a secure manner. Sharing logins, passwords, or access with others is strictly prohibited. Online Assessments Assessments may be conducted using technologies such as the internet or audience response systems. These assessment results shall be secured by District staff and access to such results shall be limited to authorized parties. Vandalism Any intentional act that damages District technology hardware, software, operating systems, or data that requires a person's time to repair, replace, or perform corrective work shall be considered vandalism and shall subject the user to disciplinary consequences as provided by District policies or applicable master agreement. Consequences of Misuse Misuse of personal or District technology resources while on or near school property, in school vehicles and at school-sponsored activities, as well as the misuse of District technology resources via off-campus remote access, may result in disciplinary action and/or the loss of technology use. Furthermore, intentional unauthorized access and/or damage to networks, servers, user accounts, passwords, or other District resources may be punishable under local, state, or federal law. Reliability and Limitation of Liability The District makes no warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, for the technology resources. The District will not be responsible for any damages suffered, including those arising from non-deliveries, mis-deliveries, service interruptions, unauthorized use, loss of data, and exposure to potentially harmful or inappropriate material or people. Use of any information obtained via the internet or communications technologies is at the user’s own risk. The District specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through the internet. Users of District technology resources, including students and their parents/guardians will indemnify and hold the District harmless from any losses sustained as the result of misuse of the District’s technology resources. Thornton High School Electronic Use Agreement Network, Internet, Email 1. Access provided to school electronic communications resources, including district electronic networks, are to be used only for educational research, educational communications, or instructional purposes. These resources shall not be used for any unauthorized purpose, including, but not limited to, commercial purposes, access to remote computers, without express permission from the building’s technology coordinator, non-school related activities, or in any manner which violates Board or Superintendent policy/procedure. 2. All electronic accounts assigned to a user must not be used by any other individual. Users are responsible for appropriate and authorized use of their accounts, including password protection and appropriate use of the school electronic communications resources. Obtaining another user’s password; allowing friends, family, co-workers, or any other individual use of your or another user’s accounts; or other unauthorized use of an access account, is a serious violation of this policy and will subject the account holder and/or other users to consequences. 3. Users shall not create, display, transmit, or make threatening, racist, sexist, obscene, profane or harassing language in email messages or attachments including broadcasting unsolicited messages, sending unwanted emails, or impersonating other users. Communications which disrupt or interfere with the educational process or school operations are prohibited. 4. Users shall not download programs from any source. Computer software is protected by federal copyright law. In addition, most software is proprietary and protected by legal licensing agreements. Users are responsible for being aware of the licensing restrictions for any software used on the school/district electronic network and communications resources. 5. Users shall not engage in activities to damage or disrupt the hardware or software associated with the school/district network and electronic communications resources, such as: Virus creation and propagation Wasting system resources – including streaming audio or video files Storing non-school related files such as executable, music, video, etc. (exe, dll, mp3, mp4, m3u, zip, avi, mpeg, mov, etc.) Tampering with any software protections or restrictions placed on computers and/or computer networks Distribution of advertising Use of the network to make unauthorized entry into other computational, communications, or information devices or resources (e.g. modifying or attempting to modify any student data). 6. Users shall not damage any physical or electronic property of the school or third parties such as school records, or use the school/district electronic communications resources for illegal activities. 7. Users who suspect the misuse of the school’s electronic communications resources or violations of this Electronic Use Agreement shall notify a school faculty member or administrator immediately. 8. Printing privileges: Students are limited to printing a total of 30 pages per week. Exceptions to this limit must be arranged a minimum of 2 school days in advance with teacher and/or technology department. At that time, additional pages may be requested at a cost of $.10 per page (b/w print). 9. Student email is provided by the school/district. Use or access of outside email (hotmail, yahoo mail, gmail, aol, etc.), chat services or bulletin boards (e.g. myspace.com) during school hours and/or using school equipment is against school policy and will result in revocation of computer privileges at school and/or further disciplinary consequences. 10. The use of the school/district network and electronic communications is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in cancellation of those privileges in addition to other disciplinary responses. Student communications and activities on the school/district electronic communications system are not private and may be reviewed, audited, intercepted, accessed or disclosed by the school or District staff at any time, for any reason and without notice to the student. These actions may be taken concerning any activity completed on the system including, but not limited to, electronic mail messages received, sent or created for any purpose on the system. 11. You are a student, and school is your business – you will conduct yourself electronically as it is appropriate in every workplace. These are school computers, school district networks and school provided email. You will use them for school and educational purposes only. Games, videos, personal communication and entertainment are NOT to be done at school, or on school computers or school networks. Violators of this policy may be subject to disciplinary actions up to and including suspension or expulsion, restitution or payment of other damages and may constitute a criminal offense. CONCERNS/QUESTIONS Students or parents who have concerns/questions regarding academic issues can resolve these issues in the following manner and order: a) Speak directly with the teacher. If unresolved: b) Confer with student’s counselor. If unresolved: c) Speak to a school administrator. If the concern is a peer issue involving another student: a) Speak directly with the student’s dean or counselor. If unresolved: b) Speak to a school administrator. In accordance with Board Policy 2.1 Treatment of Students, their Families, and Community Members, students and parents should not fear retribution for non-disruptive expression of dissent or concern. CRIME & VANDALISM Telephone: 720-972-4800 Thornton High School offers students the opportunity to provide anonymous tips to the administration regarding crimes or vandalism. The students may receive a monetary reward if the tip proves instrumental in solving the crime. Students who commit crimes at Thornton High School will be required to pay restitution both for the damage that occurs and the ticket issued by the School Resource Officer (SRO). DANCES The following guidelines will be in effect at all Thornton High School sponsored dances. These guidelines will help ensure safety, security, and guarantee an enjoyable time for all. In order to attend a school dance, students will need to maintain 95% attendance during the identified time window for that dance. Dress must be appropriate for a high school dance. Determination is subjective to the discretion of school administration. Those students not complying will be allowed to go home and change into more appropriate attire. If you’d like to have your outfit approved ahead of time, do not hesitate to contact the Dean’s Office prior to the dance. We will follow Safe School policy and Thornton High School Rules and Regulations during dances (hats, etc.). Guests must be approved and will be allowed to attend at the discretion of the Thornton High School Administration. Forms can be picked up in the Main Office up to 10 days before the event and MUST be returned to the Main Office no later than 2 days prior to the dance. Guests must also provide their school/Colorado ID’s. Students who bring a guest are responsible for their guest’s behavior during the dance/activity. The Thornton student and guest are expected to arrive together and remain together for the entire activity. There is a ‘no in/out’ policy. If you leave the dance, you will not be allowed to return. Parents are welcome to stop by and enjoy the event or volunteer to be chaperones. Students will be required to show their school ID’s as they enter the dance. Dance moves need to be appropriate for a high school dance. No guests 21 years of age or older. DEAN’S OFFICE The Dean’s primary role is to monitor student attendance and discipline as well as to address problems regarding the security and safety of the campus. Students experiencing problems with other students or in the classroom should consult with their Dean/Counselor for help to resolve those issues. DELIVERIES In order to create and maintain an educational setting which values learning and to cause the least disruption to the school day, we ask relatives/friends to not send deliveries to students at school. These deliveries would include balloons, flowers, teddy bears, etc. If items are delivered, they will remain in the Main Office until the end of the school day at which time a student may claim the item to take home. Classes will not be interrupted nor will students be allowed to carry items with them throughout the day and into the classroom. Please help us in maintaining an academic environment by celebrating important family events at your home. DISCIPLINE The intent of the Thornton High School administrative staff is to be corrective and restorative in most disciplinary actions and to help students modify unacceptable behavior. Teachers are expected to handle minor discipline infractions that happen in their classrooms. When a discipline referral is completed the student will be called to the Deans office, the Dean and or Administrator will make the decision regarding consequences given to the student. Prior to considering the range of disciplinary action the following factors will be considered. 1. The severity of the action. 2. The circumstances involved and the number of prior offences. 3. The requirements of the law and Adams Twelve Five Star School District Policy Every student must consider the effect his/her behavior has on others and the school climate. If the effect is detrimental or otherwise offensive to others, the behavior may be subject to disciplinary consequences. Disciplinary action may include, but is not limited to: Service Learning/Community Service Lunch Detention After School Detention Wednesday School Detention In-School Suspension Out of School Suspension Expulsion Suspension A student who is suspended will not be allowed to participate in, or attend, any school-sponsored activity during the time of suspension. Students regain eligibility for all activities once they regain student status by participating in a re-entry meeting with a dean or administrator. Any suspended or expelled student on school grounds or at a school-sponsored activity will be issued a trespassing ticket by the local law enforcement. Students are entitled to earn full credit for work completed during all in and out of school suspensions. Schoolwork must be the equivalent of that missed, and completed within the time frame provided in Superintendent Policy 5020. When a student has been suspended, the parent and student may be required at the school’s discretion to have a conference with the student’s dean when the student re-enters school to establish a Remedial Discipline Plan (RDP). Students or parents who are dissatisfied with the resolution of a disciplinary issue through the Deans’ Office should contact a school administrator. Alternative to Suspension (ATS) ATS classes are offered at the ESC (Educational Support Center) to reduce suspension. EARLY DISMISSAL BEFORE END OF THE YEAR The Colorado Department of Education requires that high school students be in class for a total of 360 hours of instruction each semester. The final week of the semester is critical for students. Final exams and other activities, and/or papers are completed during the end of a semester and not completing these activities could negatively affect a student’s grade and the credit awarded. Thornton High School requires that a request for early dismissal be completed and submitted to the appropriate administrator. The request for early dismissal can be picked up in the Registrar/Records office. EARLY GRADUATION Any junior planning to graduate one year early must meet with his/her guidance counselor prior to October 31, 2016. The request for early graduation process needs to be completed by December 1, 2016, at the latest. A full year prior is preferred. FEES All students will be charged a $10.00 technology fee and $30.00 textbook/materials/supplies fee. Some courses require fees or materials. These fees and material requirements are listed in the course catalog and/or course syllabus. Please be prepared to pay all fees at student check in. FEES CONSOLIDATED INTO HOUSEHOLD BILL Adams 12 Five Star Schools is moving to a consolidated billing process beginning with the 2016-2017 school year. Instead of receiving multiple bills in the mail for each child, one household bill will be sent electronically on the 20th of each month beginning in July. Some student fees, such as BASE and nutrition will not be included in the consolidated bill. In addition to the consolidated bill, a change in when student fees are assessed will occur. District-level fees will be assessed in October instead of July and many secondary schools will move their school-level student fee assessments to August. By changing when fees are assessed, the student check-in process will be streamlined and more focused on student registration and less on payment collection. In addition to monthly electronic bills, consolidated household bills will be mailed home in October for all district families. A February bill will be mailed to families with students graduating or transitioning to middle or high school (fifth, eighth and 12th-graders). The household bill can be viewed at any time on the Infinite Campus portal beginning in July. For more information about the consolidated billing process, please see the frequently asked questions page at http://www.adams12.org/consolidated_billing/questi ons, or contact the Financial Services Department at 720-972-4120 or [email protected]. FINALS Finals are given at the end of each semester in December and May. Students must make arrangements to take the final no later than the mid of June if they miss the regularly scheduled May finals due to an excused absence. All students will participate in a final exam or culminating project. Questions may be directed to the Assistant Principal in charge of Curriculum and Instruction. FIVE STAR DIPLOMA For over a decade, Adams 12 Five Star Schools has awarded the Five Star Diploma to graduating students who have met a number of rigorous academic criteria, including participation and high achievement on state-mandated assessments. The Five Star Diploma signifies a student has completed additional requirements toward high school graduation that are beyond the minimum requirements to earn a high school diploma from Adams 12 Five Star Schools. In the spring of 2015, House Bill 15-1323 was passed by the Colorado Legislature and signed by the governor. One portion of this new law allows parents to excuse a child from state assessments in English language arts, math, science, and social studies. The new law also precludes a school district from imposing negative consequences, including prohibiting school attendance, imposing an unexcused absence, or prohibiting participation in extracurricular activities on the student or the parent. Because this new law allows parents to excuse students from certain state assessments, many of the meaningful criteria of the Five Star Diploma can no longer be mandatory, given the requirement that the district not impose negative consequences for students excused from state tests. Consequently, the Five Star Diploma will be discontinued for the graduating classes of 2019 and beyond. For students in the graduating classes of 2016, 2017, and 2018 who have met the criteria for the Five Star Diploma during the 2014-15 school year as well as prior school years, the Five Star Diploma will still be awarded. A graduating senior (2016, 2017, or 2018 only) from any Adams 12 Five Star School district high school may receive a FIVE STAR DIPOLMA for meeting the following requirements: 1. Earns 24 credits 2. Has an accumulative GPA of 3.5 as on the end of the first semester of their graduating year. 3. Receives test scores of Met/Strong or Exceeded Expectations/Distinguished on all CMAS tests AND Proficient or Advanced on all TCAP tests 4. Receives a test score of 23 on the state mandated ACT test given on the required date at the student’s school 5. Meets or exceeds the CCHE requirements and has participated in all state mandated assessments at the current school while enrolled as a student in Adams 12 Five Star Schools FOOD AND DRINK POLICY The goal of the food and drink policy is to maintain a clean school. Students may not have food or drink within the carpeted upper Student Commons area. Teachers can establish expectations regarding food and drink in the classroom. Food and drink are never allowed in the LMC, auditorium, or computer labs and stations. Students are not to be given permission during class time to leave and purchase food or beverages. FOOD SERVICES Thornton High School is not part of the Adams 12 Five Star Schools food service program. The school has been approved to be exempt from participating in the National School Lunch Program. Thornton is not reimbursed for meals served to those who qualify for free and reduced lunches. The Thornton High School Food Court will provide Free or Reduced lunch to those who qualify if the following documentation is turned in and completed in its entirety. Student meets Federal Eligibility Guidelines for Free or Reduced lunch. Application is turned in completed with signatures and verifying documentation supporting household income. (Example: tax return statement or paycheck stub) Free or Reduced lunch will not be provided until a complete application and documentation has been received and approved by an administrator. Applications can be picked up in the Counseling Office. Student MUST present a student I.D. to obtain a lunch. The price of reduced lunch is $1.00. ABUSE of the program may include but is not limited to: Student gives lunch to another student Student tries to obtain more than one lunch per day Student gives I.D. to another student to obtain lunch Student knowingly tries to procure a lunch under false pretenses Violation of the policy may result in disciplinary action. GPA It is the responsibility of teachers to maintain accurate and consistent grading records for all students in all classes. The student’s grade point average (GPA) is an average of all grades attained in relation to the credit value of each course and the number of courses attempted. Thornton High School runs a modified schedule that incorporates courses of varied length and credit value. In calculating GPA, the credit value at that grading period is taken into consideration. All graded courses are figured into the GPA at semester with the exception of certain classes. Thornton High School has three levels of weighted grades, Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3. Please see Thornton High School’s Registration Guide for details. To be considered for Honor Roll, there are two levels of achievement: Principal’s Honor Roll- A student must receive a 3.5 or higher GPA in at least five graded classes, not counting assistantships and must not receive a failing grade in any class. Trojan Honor Roll- A student must receive a 3.0-3.5 GPA in at least five graded classes, not counting assistantships and must not receive a failing grade in any class. Academic Letter -Students may earn an Academic Letter for maintaining a 3.7 GPA for at least three consecutive quarters (grading periods) of the school year. Academic letters are awarded in the spring and fall. National Honor Society- Students who maintain a 3.5 cumulative GPA, meet the service requirements, and are nominated may apply for membership in the National Honor Society. GRADE LEVELS & RECLASSIFICATION Thornton High School students are encouraged to make regular progress toward graduation. A student must earn at least sixteen (16.0) credits to be classified as a senior. GRADE REPLACEMENT Students who fail or receive a low grade in a class may retake the class (on a space available basis) for a better grade. The student will be awarded the higher grade and the GPA will be recalculated. Upon verification of successful completion, the prior course grade will be replaced with “NC” (no credit) and the new course grade and credit listed in the transcript under the corresponding semester. Students requesting grade replacement should see their Counselor or the Registrar and complete a Grade Replacement Form before retaking a class. Grade replacement is not an option for maintaining valedictorian or salutatorian status. GRADES, WEIGHTED The various classes to be weighted and the criteria for weighting are as follows. All other classes are to be considered LEVEL I classes. LEVEL I CRITERIA A LEVEL I course will promote citizenship and encourage life-long learning. Class expectations and syllabi will be provided to each student at the beginning of the course. *A Students will demonstrate learning through a variety of assessment techniques that reflect district standards and include course-appropriate semester finals. Student work will include the use of technology and require higher-level thinking skills. Classroom instruction will incorporate a variety of teaching strategies that will reflect student needs. Study and organizational skills will be incorporated into class-room instruction and deadlines for homework and assignments will be clearly set and adhered to. Teacher expectations and grading procedures will be consistent with district standards and incorporate the use of rubrics* which will be provided to students prior to assessment. rubric defines expectations of student work Each class will incorporate content-specific literacy strategies. In addition, every student will produce at least one piece of polished writing per semester in each LEVEL I course. GRADING SCALE FOR A LEVEL I CLASS A-4.0 B-3.0 C-2.0 D-1.0 F-0 LEVEL II CRITERIA (MYP classes only) LEVEL II courses must meet all LEVEL I criteria. In addition: Courses considered for weighted grades must be offered through Thornton High School. Assessments must include a midterm and a final and show evidence of higher level thinking skills. A LEVEL II course is recognized as part of a college preparatory program, or is a prerequisite for more in-depth/comprehensive coverage. Teaching strategies and learning opportunities are designed to prepare students for college and LEVEL III courses. LEVEL II CLASSES WILL CARRY A .5 WEIGHTED GRADE A-4.5 B-3.5 C-2.5 D-1.5 F-0 CLASSES WITH LEVEL II DISTINCTION English MYP English 9 & 10 Math MYP Mathematics I & II Social Sciences MYP World History & Geography MYP Economics & Government Science MYP Chemistry/Biology MYP Integrated Science World Languages. 9th and 10th MYP Spanish/Russian/French LEVEL III CRITERIA (IB & AP classes only) LEVEL III courses must meet all LEVEL I and LEVEL II criteria. In addition: Courses considered for weighted grades must be offered through Thornton High School. However, students currently enrolled at Thornton High School may petition to take outside courses not currently offered at Thornton High School to be considered on an individual basis for weighted grades. The student must seek prior approval through his/her counselor no later than the end of the second week of their senior year. Course is equivalent, in terms of challenge and expectations, to a four-year college course and approved by the College Board or IB Program. Course carries the potential to earn college credit by transcripts or by national or international exam. If the student fails to take the AP exam, then the AP class will be un-weighted from a Level 3 class to a Level 1 class. LEVEL III CLASSES WILL CARRY A 1.0 WEIGHTED GRADE A-5.0 B-4.0 C-3.0 D-2.0 F-0 CLASSES WITH LEVEL III DISTINCTION Art IB Art Design (Pottery/Painting) English Advanced Placement English IB 11th and 12th grade English Advanced Placement Philosophy Math Advanced Placement Calculus IB 11th & 12th Methods and Studies Social Sciences Advanced Placement Psychology IB Psychology IB History of the Americas IB Philosophy Science IB 11th and 12th Biology IB 11th and 12th Chemistry Advanced Placement Physics World Languages 11th and 12th IB Spanish/German/French GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Graduation requirements have been established by Thornton High School and the Board of Education to ensure a well-balanced program to meet the challenges of our society. These requirements allow and encourage a wide range of electives to prepare for post high school work, training, and advanced study. All students should be enrolled in a minimum of 3.0 credits each semester and 1.5 of the 3.0 credits per semester need to be in core classes. Core classes include Math, Science, Social Studies, English, and World Language. Students and parents/guardians should consult the Registration Guide for specific requirements within each of the following areas: Adams 12 THS Graduation Requirements English ............................................. 4 Social Sciences ............................. 1.5 U.S. Government .......................... 0.5 U.S. History ..................................... 1 Math ................................................. 3 Science ............................................. 3 Physical Education ........................... 2 Fine/Practical Arts ........................... 2 Elective ............................................ 6 Total Required Credits 23 credits Restrictions: 1. Students must have completed all graduation requirements by the last day for seniors, to be eligible for participation in the graduation ceremony. 2. In order to receive a Thornton High School diploma, students must establish residency by attending a minimum of one full semester during their senior year and earning a minimum of 3.0 credits their final semester. 3. Students must maintain full-time student status as defined by State Statutes. 4. Students requesting to be released prior to the regular completion date for graduation must have successfully completed all Thornton High School and District Twelve Five Star School graduation requirements. Application for early release must be completed with the consent of counselor, parent, and school administration. Students must register for a complete schedule for the year. Seniors will not be allowed to drop classes midway through the course, without an academic penalty, in order to graduate early. 5. Students must have all books returned and fines and fees paid in order to be given their diploma. GUIDANCE/COUNSELING SERVICES (720-972-4825) The developmental nature of the curriculum framework is intended to provide students with a wide continuum of learning experiences so they can develop an understanding of their role as a student, worker and citizen in the 21st century. Thornton High School will provide opportunities, expectations, and support for each student to achieve academic excellence. The partnership of staff, students, families and the community will encourage individual integrity, personal growth, and enthusiasm for the future. In keeping with best practices, the counseling curriculum has aligned with the ASCA (American School Counselor Association) model of counseling. The ASCA model includes the following domains: Personal/Social Domain Students understand the concept of self-identity and the skills necessary to develop interpersonal relation-ships as well as a responsible life style. Educational Domain Students understand the personal challenges of learning in school and other settings and strategies to deal with such challenges. Career Domain Students know how to explore and identify personally appropriate careers. Each of the above domains has specific standards that the curriculum will support. Thornton High School will assign its six counselors by core in the 9th/10th grade and by alphabet in the 11th/12th grade. During the first two years of high school, the guidance and counseling program will focus on assisting students to identify goals, academic strengths, and career interests. In the 11th grade, students will identify specific classes that support their career choice and begin the application process to college. College and scholarship search information will be initiated during the Junior Year. In the 12th grade, students will concentrate on post-secondary options. Counselors will assist with identifying academic needs as it relates to the ACT and the SAT. Assistance will be provided to students regarding course selection, schedule concerns, credit counts, College and Scholarship information and interpersonal needs. ACT and SAT Test dates are listed in this handbook. See your counselor for additional information. Individual Counseling: Students may schedule an appointment to see their counselor. Students are encouraged to make appointments during free time, lunch, or after school. Parent/Guardian initiated conferences will be acknowledged and scheduled as soon as possible. Post Secondary Options: Students in their junior or senior year of high school may be eligible to enroll in coursework in a state institution of higher education, with costs reimbursed by the District, provided specific eligibility and academic criteria are satisfied. Parents and students interested in more information about post-secondary enrollment options are encouraged to review participation guidelines described in Superintendent’s Policy 6285 or to request information in the Counseling Office. Schedule Changes and Class Drops: At the time of course selection, students are reminded that changes in their schedules are not allowed for the following school year. Courses selected at that time are accommodated to the students schedule as much as possible. If a course is not scheduled for that student, alternate selections will be used. Schedule changes will only be considered for the following criteria: Student is enrolled in fewer than 3.0 credits per semester Student has failed a prerequisite for a scheduled course Student has a scheduled course that has been completed during Summer School. Student has already received credit for a class appearing on his/her schedule Student has a medical reason for dropping a class (doctor’s note required). Tips for Tough Times Reach out. Tell someone how you’re feeling. Ask for help. Be patient with yourself. Give yourself enough time to work through what you’re feeling. Focus on the solution – not the problem. Don’t allow a short term problem to become a long term decision. Eat healthy, get enough rest and exercise! You will begin to feel better and your thoughts will be clearer. Avoid using drugs or alcohol. They will only make the problem worse. Know that you are a valuable and important part of the Thornton community! Phone NumbersCommunity Reach-303-853-3500 Comitis Crisis Line-303-343-9890 Child Abuse Line-303-412-5212 Suicide-1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) Confidential Tip Box: Counselors have placed a locked box in the Counseling Office available for students to share their input/opinions/ feelings with counselors. HALL PASSES Students will be required to have a pass any time they are in the halls during class time. Students will not be given permission during class time to leave and purchase food or beverages. HARASSMENT/HAZING/ BULLYING The staff and community of Thornton High School expects all students to conduct themselves in a positive manner, one in which consideration, kindness, and respect are displayed toward fellow students. Incidents of harassment/bullying (physical, sexual, written or verbal expression) or hazing will not be tolerated. A student who feels he/she is the recipient of such behaviors should report it immediately to his/her teacher, dean, counselor, or administrator. The following examples could be viewed as forms of harassment/hazing/ bullying: repeated remarks with sexual or demeaning implications any unwelcome touching incidents involving any form of initiation verbal or physical intimidation HOMEWORK/MAKE-UP “Homework” refers to tasks assigned by teachers and intended for completion outside the classroom or class period. Homework offers additional practice of academic skills, prepares students for upcoming lessons, and/or elaborates on introduced material. Guidelines Thornton High School supports Superintendent Policy 6280 regarding homework. “Homework” refers to tasks assigned by teachers and intended for completion outside the classroom or class period. Homework offers additional practice of academic skills, prepares students for upcoming lessons and/or elaborates on introduced material. THS staff will provide guidelines for their homework policy in their course syllabi. THS staff will clarify the specifics of homework assignments including purpose, connection to in-class instruction and due date. THS staff will provide clear, timely feedback regarding student performance on homework. THS students will ask for clarification if an assignment or its due date is not understood. THS students will complete homework assignments thoroughly, thoughtfully and neatly and submit assignment on time. THS parents will realistically assess the time required to meet the needs of their student’s education being mindful that other activities may infringe on time available for academic success. THS parents will encourage and motivate their students to complete both class-work and homework to the best of their abilities. THS parents will assist their students in setting aside time(s) and place in which to complete homework assignments. THS parents will contact their student’s teacher(s) via e-mail, voicemail, letter, or in person regarding any question or concerns about homework. Homework provides opportunities for rehearsal and practice of vital skills because it extends learning opportunities beyond THS. Home-work and completion of homework is vital to THS academic success. Thornton High School has a standing summer reading homework assignment for all students. Make-up Work and Tests 1 Make-up Work 1. During an absence: a. Participation points (if included in the grade because it addresses a standard, ie. Physical education or Business) cannot be made up; they are awarded only for being present, prepared, and participating in class. b. Students shall be allowed to make up all graded assessments missed for full credit according to the school assessment policy. c. Individual teachers may grant extra time for make-up work and assessment in hardship cases. 2. During an in or out-of-school suspension: All work missed due to an in or outof-school suspension may be made up for full credit, with the exception of participation points. INCOMPLETE CREDIT Students who withdraw from Thornton High School prior to the end of the grading term will receive NO CREDIT. Extenuating circumstances which are pre-arranged with the administrator in charge of Curriculum and Instruction will be reviewed. INTERVENTIONS In-School Suspension (ISS) Thornton High School offers in-school suspension based at THS. In-school suspension meets in a designated classroom in which students will do required schoolwork. Discipline infractions for which ISS is an option are indicated on the discipline matrix. The ISS room will be monitored by a campus monitor. The intention of ISS room is to limit the number of days a student is out of school for a discipline infraction. Students will remain in the in-school suspension room for the school day with scheduled lunch. Students will not be allowed to listen to music, use cell phones, or participate in any activity that would be disruptive to the environment. Alternative to Suspension (ATS) ATS classes are offered at the ESC (Educational Support Center) to reduce suspension. THORNTON HIGH SCHOOL LIBRARY Library Mission The Thornton High School Library provides an environment ensuring student and staff success as effective users of ideas, information and technology. We support staff with the implementation of district curriculum as aligned to state standards. The library supports Standards for the 21st Century Learner as defined by the American Association of School Libraries (AASL). Library as a Learning Center The THS library is a center of learning. When you are here, you will develop research skills, engage in digital technology, connect with books for multiple purposes, create projects for class, and collaborate with other learners. The library staff takes pride in providing an excellent collection of materials, both for choice reading and for research purposes. The Teacher Librarians enjoy working with individuals and with classes to find books that meet students’ individual needs. The library also provides a welcoming atmosphere for students to work or read. Please respect the goal of providing a place where all students can work toward the THS mission : Total Commitment to High Achievement and Success for All. Book Checkout A student ID is required for all checkouts. Books are checked out for a two week time period. Books may be renewed unless there is a hold on the books. Magazines also circulate, although for only one week. Drop-In Library Use Individual students may use the library either during an off period or by having a signed pass from a teacher. In either case, students must have their IDs. General Library Use The library is available to students for study, reading and other purposeful, quiet use. We ask that your trips to the library look different than your trips to the cafeteria, the Gorge, outside, the zoo…Help us keep the library a place where students can focus on academic tasks. Computer Use A section of computers are reserved for student drop-in use. Students must have a student ID at all times to use one of these computers. These computers provide a service to our students that they may use during their off periods in order to complete school work. Students not working on school related activities may be asked to relinquish the computer if all other computers are full and a student needs to complete school work. Electronic Resources Online Databases GALE Student Resource Center, EBSCO, ABC-CLIO, Country Watch, and World Book Online, along with other subscription databases are available. These are online resources paid for by the library. Students and staff can receive training on using these databases to enhance research. In order to use the purchased databases outside of the school building, usernames and passwords are required. Country Watch Username: thslmc Password: Trojans World Book Encyclopedia (Advanced tab at the bottom of the page) RemoteID: Adams12 Password: 5star Country Reports Username: Thornton Password: Trojans Gale Student Resource Center: Username: thorntonhs Password: thornton EBSCO User ID: Password: THSLMC Trojan ABC-CLIO User ID: thorntonco Password: Search Internet/Appropriate Use Students and parents fill out and sign a contract as part of the registration process regarding appropriate use of the internet. This contract is kept on file with the district. The internet is to be used for research and academic purposes only. Internet privileges can be revoked for inappropriate use. Email Email is limited to academic purposes; the only email to be used is Gmail. Students may email documents from school to home accounts. LOCKERS Based on availability, each student may have the option to be assigned an individual locker and will be expected to maintain it and be responsible for all contents. Lockers will be issued the second week of school in the attendance office for a $2 fee. Combinations should not be shared. The display of pornography, nudes or offensive materials is not permitted. These items will be taken and destroyed and the student may face disciplinary consequences. Lockers are school property and are intended for storage of books, clothing and other school related material. Therefore, the school reserves the right to inspect lockers at any time. Locker searches may include the use of trained dogs. Misuse or damage to lockers (including writing or using lockers as a message board) will result in a fine for repairs and/or loss of locker privileges. Padlocks are not allowed on lockers. Suspicious activity, thefts, or damage of lockers should be reported to the Campus Super-visors/Deans or the School Re-source Officer. Students are discouraged from bringing large amounts of money or valuable articles to school. The school assumes no responsibility for lost or stolen articles on school grounds or at school activities. LOST AND FOUND Students who have lost items should check in the Royal Gorge. Thornton High School cannot be responsible for items left in classrooms or lockers. Items left in the Lost and Found and not claimed will be donated to a local charity. NEWSLETTER Due to the increasing costs of printing and mailing newsletters each month, the Thornton High School monthly newsletter is available on-line at www.thorntonh.adams12.org. By request, the newsletter can be emailed or mailed to your home. Also, a printed copy is available in the Main Office. NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT Notice of Non-Discrimination Under Title VI, Title IX, Section 504, Age Discrimination Act, Title II of the American with Disabilities Act (Supt. Policies 4140, 8400) Adams 12 Five Star Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, age, religion, creed, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation and disability in its programs, activities, operations and employment decisions and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: General Counsel Adams 12 Five Star Schools 1500 East 128th Avenue Thornton, CO 80241 720-972-4004 PARKING PERMITS AT THS Parking a vehicle on school grounds is a privilege. Student or parent vehicles driven by students must be registered through the Attendance Office and display the school parking permit, “cars parked in any lot on campus without a parking permit will be subject to a parking boot and a $25.00 fine. Parking permits will be sold for $50 allowing students to park in one of the following lots: Honors Lot – Students with a 3.5 GPA or higher and/or 95% or higher attendance rate will be issued an “Honors Parking Permit.” Spaces may be limited, so priority will be given to students with both GPA and attendance requirements first. If there are too many eligible drivers, students with either requirement will be entered into a lottery. Honors permits will be issued at the beginning of each quarter, based on the previous quarter’s grades and attendance. Student (Lower) Parking Lot – Any student with a valid parking permit may park in the large parking lot south of the field house. Parking will be on a first come, first serve basis. The following practices will be enforced: Seniors may purchase a parking permit following completion of their senior appointment in August. All other students may purchase a parking permit after completing registration in August. Permits will be sold until there are no more parking spaces available. In order to purchase a parking permit, students are required to show a 2016-2017 school I.D., a valid driver’s license, registration, proof of insurance, submit a signed parking contract, and pay the $50 cost before they will be issued a permit.** The administration may revoke driving privileges or impose fines or other disciplinary action for a violation of any of the following: 1. At no time will students be allowed to park in areas designated for faculty or visitor parking only. 2. Students may not sit in parked vehicles or loiter in parking lots during school hours or at school activities. Non-students may not be in the parking lots. The driver of a vehicle is responsible for anyone sitting in his/her car at any time during the school day. 3. All vehicles must be parked between the identified lines on the surfaced portion of parking lots. 4. No one will be permitted to be parked in the fire lanes or any area designated “No Parking” (to include red curbs). Parking in fire lanes and some “No Parking” areas of the campus are also subject to fines by the Thornton Police Department. 5. Student vehicles may only be parked in areas designated for student parking. 6. Unauthorized parking in a handicapped space will result in a summons issued by Thornton Police Department as well as school discipline. 7. Students must display a valid parking permit at all times. **Failure to comply with the above guidelines will result in students being assessed a $15 parking fine. Should a second parking offense occur, a student’s car may be “booted.” Students will have to pay $25 in order to have their car “unbooted.” There will be no warning tickets given. Booted Vehicles: If a student’s car is booted, he/she must pay $25 before the boot is removed. Driving a car with a boot attached may cause significant damage to the vehicle. THORNTON HIGH SCHOOL WILL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR DAMAGES TO A VEHICLE SHOULD A STUDENT CHOOSE TO DRIVE OFF. Vehicle Searches: The administration reserves the right to inspect and/or search any vehicle driven on school and/or district property. Police dogs may be used in vehicle searches. PHONE CALLS/USE Only EMERGENCY phone calls will be taken. This does not include reminders about dentist and doctor appointments or arrangements about getting home after school. Office telephones are for business use only. Personal messages will not be delivered to students. Calls should be directed to the Attendance Office at (720) 972-4800, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Please make your arrangements with your student before school. Remind them of any appointments or special instructions prior to them leaving for school. Students are allowed to carry cell phones and pagers. However, they are not to be used in class. Please do not call your child while they are in classes. Calls to cell phones are disruptive to classes, and create situations where students are forced to figure out a way to leave class to answer their phone. They miss valuable class time and run the risk of having their phone taken away. PHYSICAL EDUCATION CREDIT WAIVER Eligible juniors or seniors may request a waiver of .5-1.0 Physical Education credit. Eligible students include: Juniors or seniors participating in school-provided CHSAA (Colorado High School Activities Association) sanctioned sports and/or marching band. The Physical Education Credit Waiver Request Form is available in the Counseling Office. It is the student’s responsibility to initiate and complete all paperwork associated with the waiver within the stipulated timeframe. PLAGIARISM/CHEATING Plagiarism means to present, as one’s own, the work, writing, words, ideas, or computer information of someone else. (Sources could be published or unpublished.) Cheating is supplying, receiving or using devices (examples: looking at/using someone else’s work; using crib notes/stolen notes; or using disallowed equipment, etc.). If unclear, always ask the teacher. See Discipline Matrix for additional details. POST-SECONDARY OPTIONS Students in their junior or senior year of high school may be eligible to enroll in coursework in a state institution of higher education, with costs reimbursed by the District, provided specific eligibility and academic criteria are satisfied. Parents and students interested in more information about post-secondary enrollment options are encouraged to review participation guidelines described in Superintendent’s Policy 6179 or to request information in the Counseling Offices. POST SECONDARY PLANNING The THS Career Center is located in the Counseling Office. Students can access information on colleges, scholarships, careers and military information. College and career representatives visit THS and the Career center throughout the year. Dates and time vary and will be announced in the bulletin and/or newsletter. The Career Center is open daily. PROBLEM SOLVING TEAM (RTI Team) Any person who has an educational concern about a student may bring the concern to the attention of the school's Response to Intervention Team. The purpose of the team is to problem-solve situations in which students are having issues in the classroom. Once a person shares a concern about a student's performance in the classroom, the team will (a) explore different strategies to help the student, (b) assign responsibilities, (c) establish a timeline to implement and evaluate the strategies. This “Response to Intervention” process is available to all students. Ask an administrator or counselor for the staff member overseeing RTI. In the event that documented strategies and interventions have been attempted and fail to help the student's educational performance, a special education testing process may be started, with the consent of parents. Formal test results along with other test information and input from classroom teachers and parents will be used to identify student needs and determine special education eligibility. In the event that a student meets state guidelines for eligibility, an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) will be developed and implemented. The IEP will detail strategies, services and supports which the team feels are necessary to properly help the student. For additional information about your school's ProResponse to Intervention process, and special education program. Please contact the counseling office at 720972-4825 REGISTRATION Registration for new students will be at the 9351 N Washington St Thornton, CO 80229 (720)972-4800 Only students who reside in the Thornton High attendance area may enroll at Thornton High School. Registration is handled in the Registrar/Records Office. All students must show proof of residence, correct immunizations, and have an emergency phone number on file to be enrolled at Thornton High School. RELEASE OF INFORMATION: MILITARY RECRUITERS By law (Colorado Revised Statute 24-72-204 (3) (d) (I-V), the school district must release names, addresses and home telephone numbers of secondary school students to military recruiters, unless the student objects to the release in writing. Recruiting officers shall only use the data to provide information to students regarding military service. They are prohibited by law from further disclosing the information to anyone other than individuals within the recruiting services of the armed forces. RETALIATION AGAINST PARENTS WHO VOICE CONCERNS (Refer to Board Policy 2.1) No Retaliation against parents who voice concerns When conflicts or concerns arise, it can be a challenge to maintain a positive relationship throughout the problem solving process. Please contact your child’s teacher or school administrator when a situation arises. This will give us an opportunity to gather complete and accurate information about the situation and to focus the solution on what is best for the student. The staff will work with parents to resolve any conflicts that might arise. We seek an environment that is safe from harassment and intimidation. Therefore, all staff, students, and parents are expected to act in a manner that is respectful and focused on solutions. SAFETY FIRST Recently there has been an increased number of violent incidents in schools throughout the United States. To continue to maintain the safe and secure environment at Thornton High School all threats of harm or intimidation will be taken very seriously. Administrators and the Thornton Police Department will meet with the student and the student's parent(s) should this type of situation arise. Students who participate in this kind of behavior may be disciplined as per the Thornton High School Discipline Matrix and to the fullest extent of the law. SCHEDULE ADDITIONS/ CHANGES Student schedules are made for the full year based on their requests. Appointments for considering schedule changes can be made during the first week of the quarter in the Counseling Office. Students should not plan on requesting a change during class time. Students may request a change because they: 1. Failed a class or have not taken the prerequisite 2. Have a physical disability (must have doctor’s excuse) 3. Have previously earned credit in the same class Note: A “withdrawal” from class after 3 days is a “WF” (withdrawal failing) and is computed into the cumulative grade point average. Until a schedule change is approved, the student must continue to attend all classes on his/her schedule. SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER The School Resource Officer program is a cooperative program between the Thornton Police Department, Adams 12 Five Star School District and Thornton High School. The program provides a full-time police officer to the school to help educate and protect members of the school community. It allows students and staff the opportunity to interact with a member of the law enforcement community on a regular and positive basis. The SRO program also assists the school in responding to situations of concern. When students engage in behavior that may be against the law, the School Resource Officer will be notified and will make a determination as to possible charges. SECURITY CAMERAS In an effort to maintain the safety and security of students and staff at Thornton High School, cameras have been installed in various areas on school grounds. SMOKE FREE ENVIRONMENT State law does not allow smoking or tobacco use by anyone on school grounds, therefore, Adams 12 Five Star School District facilities and property are no-smoking areas. STUDENT COMMONS The following rules apply to the Student Commons for all students throughout the day. The lower Commons is designated for Seniors only. Students who are not engaged in quiet study may be asked to move to DECA or go outside. Students must have their IDs visible at all times. All rules of conduct as listed in the Student Handbook will be enforced. No food or drink of ANY kind is allowed in the carpeted area in the upper Commons. STUDENT DROP-OFF/PICK-UP There are two on-campus locations for student pick-up and drop-off. Please follow the expectations below when picking up or dropping off your children: 1. North Entrance: The north entrance is located along Washington Street near the Bollman Technical Education Center sign and immediately NORTH of the foot bridge. For safety reasons it is imperative that parents keep vehicles moving down the road past the first mobile, turn right and circle around back toward the direction entered. Please have children exit vehicles on the side closest to the north end of the building without crossing in front of or impeding traffic. 6:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.: Vehicles are REQUIRED TO MAKE A RIGHT TURN when exiting onto Washington. No left turn will be allowed for the safety of parents, students, staff members, and guests. 2. South Entrance: The south entrance is located just west of Washington Street off of Eppinger Blvd. From Eppinger, turn north onto Pearl Street. 3. All drop-off/pick-up vehicles will then be directed to turn left (west) into the South Parking Lot. 4. Please drive forward, allowing other vehicles behind you to safely enter and drop-off/pick-up as well. Note: The Staff Parking along Washington is NOT open to Pick-up/Drop-off. The Honors Parking is NOT open to Pick-up/Drop-off. The Bus turn-around is NOT open to Pick-up/Drop-off STUDENT IDENTIFICATION CARDS Campus security is a high priority at Thornton High School. Student ID’s help identify students on school grounds, allow students to check out materials from the LMC, serve as bus passes, internet privilege, etc. All students must have a valid ID card issued by the school. These are issued to students free of charge at the beginning of the year. Replacement fee for lost cards is $5 STUDENT/FAMILY INFORMATION UPDATES Parents are asked to call our Records or Attendance Office to report any changes, home, or work phone numbers, and emergency contact. Keeping students records up-to-date assures that we have correct telephone numbers when contacting parents and correct addresses when mailing information home. In case of severe injury or illness we will call an ambulance at the parent/ guardian expense if we are not able to reach the parent/guardian. STUDENT RECORDS In accordance with federal law and Superintendent Policy, parents or legal guardians may inspect the records of their students. The school reserves the right to have appropriate staff present to interpret the contents of the records. In accordance with school district policy, parents may challenge, in writing, the contents of the records. Student records may be released to the following persons: Parents or legal guardians (for those under 18) Students (18 and over) Officers or employees of public, private, or parochial schools in which the student has requested enrollment. The Colorado Commissioner of Education or the district superintendent and members of their staff. Law officers and court officials with appropriate release forms. In addition, records shall be furnished in compliance with a judicial order or pursuant to any lawfully issued request. A recruiting officer for any branch of the US Armed Forces. Student records are the property of Thornton High School staff. Official student records will not be released until student fines have been paid. STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES School districts are required to locate, identify and evaluate all children birth through 21 years of age who are disabled and may need specialized instruction. This includes: -children birth to five -students attending district schools -students attending private schools located within the district -students who move often (migrant and homeless) -students who drop out of school All district employees have the responsibility for locating disabled children/students living or attending schools within the boundaries of Adams 12 Five Star Schools. Commitment to work with parents Adams 12 Five Star Schools is committed to developing a collaborative working relationship between parents and staff, and we want to involve parents to the fullest extent possible in the educational process. The Department of Student Support Services works with a Special Education Advisory Committee, a group of parents who meet with the Director of Special Education on a monthly basis. These parents are knowledgeable about programs and services in Adams 12 Five Star Schools that are designed to meet the needs of exceptional students, ensure and encourage parental involvement and serve as liaisons in the community. If you are interested in additional information about the Special Education Advisory Committee please contact the Department of Student Support Services at 720-972-4770. STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES STATEMENT Vision – Success for all students. Mission – Build collaborative partnerships with Adams 12 departments, staff, parents and community to advocate for prevention and intervention programming that removes barriers to student learning. Goal – Support the district in achieving the goal of having 95% of students meeting grade level requirements in reading, writing and math. Thornton High School has a standing summer reading homework assignment for all students. SYLLABUS / COVER SHEET During the first week of class, teachers will distribute to each of their students a copy of the course syllabus. The syllabus will have the course name, description, grading scale, and approximate dates for assessment. The following information is not required but can be clarified by contacting the teacher if necessary: Department content standards/essential learn-ings Course objectives A summary of instructional material used A summary of instructional methods Expectations of student work and participation Plagiarism and Cheating policies Homework policy Make-up work (how to obtain and time limitations) Attendance and tardy policy When and where help is available Space for parent/guardian to provide an email address SUICIDE Suicide Prevention Protecting the health and well-being of all students is of utmost importance to the Adams 12 Five Star School District. Superintendent Policy 5520 addresses suicide assessments as a priority to protect all students. Adams 12 will treat all threats or attempted suicides as serious regardless of the degree of lethality involved. When a student threatens or attempts suicide, the Adams 12 personnel will follow Superintendent Policy and respond accordingly. The following steps have been taken to help protect all students: 1. Students will learn about recognizing and responding to warning signs of suicide in friends, using coping skills, using support systems, and seeking help for themselves and friends. 2. When a student is identified as being at risk, he or she will be assessed by a District mental health professional that will work with the student and help connect the student to appropriate local resources. 3. Students will have access to national resources which they can contact for additional support, such as: • The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 1.800.273.8255 (TALK), www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org • The Trevor Lifeline – 1.866.488.7386 www.thetrevorproject.org 4. All students will be expected to help create a school culture of respect and support in which students feel comfortable seeking help for themselves or friends. Students are encouraged to tell any staff member if they, or a friend, are feeling suicidal or in need of help. 5. Students should also know that because of the health and safety impacts of these matters, the confidentiality and privacy rights of individuals will be respected but concerns are secondary to seeking help for students in crisis. 6. For a more detailed review of District processes, please see the District’s full suicide prevention guidelines document. TEACHER/STUDENT ASSISTANTS Students may sign up to be a teacher’s assistant or an assistant in one of the various school offices during one of their free periods. Students may not drop a class in order to become a student assistant. Interested students may sign up in the Counseling Office during the first week of each quarter. Students will earn .25 credit for being a student assistant and will be graded on a pass/fail basis. Students may sign up for an unlimited amount of student assistantships; however, only 1 of the 6 elective credits may be earned through student assistantship. TOBACCO USE 1.0 The use of tobacco products at any school-sponsored event or activity and/or on all District property, including all District buildings, District grounds, District owned and leased vehicles, and sites leased by the District, is prohibited. 1.1 Tobacco is defined as all forms of tobacco ingested by chewing, smoking, or any other means. This includes any product packaged for smoking. 3.1 Administrators may request members of the public who use tobacco products contrary to this policy to refrain from such use. 3.2 Administrators may respond to further violations by a member of the public by issuing a directive for the member to leave District property or the District event. 3.3 Principals or District administration may bar a member of the community from entering school property or attending school activities for repeated violations of this policy. TRANSCRIPTS The Records Office of Thornton High School will provide transcripts at no cost to students. The transcripts of student grades are usually required with applications for college admission, scholarship, employment, etc. Official transcripts must be sent directly to the agency or college by Thornton High School. We will mail the application materials with the transcript; please turn in all appropriate application forms when you fill out your transcript request. All transcripts must be requested in writing. See a counselor for more details. TRANSLATION SERVICES Schools are responsible for arranging translation services for discipline actions, parent/teacher conferences, back to school/open house events, communication regarding routine or non-emergency medical health, attendance, or academic performance questions. Please contact the school office if you have any questions regarding this district service VISITORS All visitors must check in at the Main Office and wear a visitor’s badge during their time at Thornton High School. Parents and guardians are welcome to visit any time. We do not allow students’ friends or relatives (including students’ children or younger brothers and sisters) to visit unless they are accompanied by an adult (over age 25) family member. Please telephone the office ahead of time to arrange a visit or to set an appointment. Thank you for your cooperation. VOICE MAIL All Thornton High staff members are connected to the main switchboard by a Voice Mail message system. You can leave messages for them using this system. WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL When a student withdraws of their own choice from THS, the parent/legal guardian must state the reason in writing. The student must obtain a withdrawal form from the Registrar/Records Office, submit it to all teachers for grades, return materials to the LMC and be cleared of fines/fees through the bookkeeper’s office. Withdrawn students will receive an unofficial copy of their transcript and shot records for enrollment in their new school. Note: Students can be withdrawn by an administrator as a result of not following school and/or district policies. YEARBOOK Twenty years from now your children will be looking back on their school years, and, when they pull out their high school yearbook, the memories will be right there, preserved in page after glossy page. Photos show scenes from the classroom, from the halls… people and places leap out at the reader, events and personalities almost forgotten… but not quite. Stories eloquently chronicle a year in the life of Thornton High School and all the scholars, the athletes, the leaders, the personalities, the everyday people that make this school the unique wonderful place it is. Buy your Thornton High School Yearbook for only $60.00. SENIOR YEARBOOK PICTURE REQUIREMENTS AND DUE DATES!!!!! October 1st is the Senior Photo deadline. Pictures turned in late will have to pay a 10.00 fee. November 1st is the absolute LAST day SENIOR PHOTOS AND QUOTES will be accepted. You must submit a vertical head shot image. The yearbook staff reserves the right to refuse your image if it is inappropriate. Please provide us with a jpg that is 300 dpi. We will accept your image one of two ways: 1. Upload your image directly to our yearbook website. You may do that by clicking on the link located on the home page of the school’s web site. This is our preferred method. 2. Drop off a cD or a jump drive in the office. You must write your first and last name and phone number on the cD. Thank you, THS Yearbook Editors DISTRICT POLICIES, NOTIFICATIONS & INFORMATION FOR PARENTS AND STUDENTS 2016-2017 About This Document This document is provided as a resource to parents and students within the Adams 12 Five Star School District. It includes multiple notifications required by Superintendent’s Policy, Board Policy or by state or federal law. Answers to other common questions are also included for your convenience. Readers should be aware that: Much of the information is in summary form. Current policies in their entirety, including revisions which may have occurred after publication of this handbook, are available on the district website at www.adams12.org. Policies may also be reviewed in the administrative office of any district school or by calling the Adams 12 Educational Support Center at 720-9724000. Policies are subject to change as necessary at any time during the school year. Students are expected to be knowledgeable about and comply with district and school policies, including ones which may not be included in this publication. Notice of Non-Discrimination Under Title VI, Title IX, Section 504, Age Discrimination Act, Title II of the American with Disabilities Act (Supt. Policies 4140, 8400) Adams 12 Five Star Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, age, religion, creed, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation and disability in its programs, activities, operations and employment decisions and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: General Counsel Adams 12 Five Star Schools 1500 East 128th Avenue Thornton, CO 80241 720-972-4004 Appeals or Grievances Students or parents who wish to appeal a decision or discuss a grievance are asked to respectfully address the matter directly to the staff member who made the decision prior to seeking assistance from the staff member’s supervisor, the principal or from District staff. Questions regarding grades, credits, attendance records or student discipline are best addressed at the building level. Board policy 2.1 provides students, families or community members the right to be heard by the Board when internal hearing procedures have been exhausted and the person alleges that Board policy has been violated to his or her detriment. The policy forbids retaliation against anyone who appeals a decision or files a grievance in a non-disruptive manner. Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) Annual Legal Notification In accordance with the United States Environmental Protection Agency's Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act, the District has Asbestos Management Plans available for review at each school and the Educational Support Center, 1500 E. 128th Avenue in Thornton, CO, 80241. Contact the Environmental Health and Safety Specialist, with any questions. Telephone: 720-9724236. Assessments The District administers a variety of assessments to measure student learning and improve curriculum and instruction. We strive to implement a balanced system that provides an understanding of how well the student, the school and the school district are achieving. Common assessments include: Assessment for learning occurs during teaching and learning and focuses on ongoing improvement. Teachers check student understanding through in-class work, homework, quizzes, etc. These assessments are on-going, so teachers can modify lessons to make sure students are learning. Students receive feedback on an ongoing basis about how well they are doing, where they are in their learning and where they are going. Assessment of learning gathers information about how well students have mastered what they should know at their grade level. The TCAP (the Colorado Student Assessment Program) is this kind of test. This state-mandated testing program measures what students have already learned and provides accountability to parents and the community. The TCAP Reading, Writing and Math assessments are administered in the spring of each year in grades 3 through 10. The TCAP Science assessment is administered in grade 5, 8 and 10. A complete District Assessment Calendar including information about other assessments will be available at your school’s counseling or administrative office. The Assessment Calendar also includes information about beginning, mid and end-of-year assessments. Attendance Superintendent’s Policy 5020 provides specific guidelines regarding student attendance. The policy describes acceptable reasons for absences, makeup work procedures and potential sanctions for poor attendance. Colorado law (22-33-104 C.R.S.) regarding compulsory attendance requires students to attend school from the age of 6 until their 17th birthday. Please be aware that the district partners closely with local juvenile courts to intervene in the cases of students whose poor attendance constitutes “habitual truancy”, defined by Colorado law as having four (4) or more unexcused absences in a month or ten (10) or more unexcused absences during any calendar year period. Bullying Superintendent’s Policy 5115 addresses the negative impact that bullying has on student health, welfare and safety and on the learning environment. Bullying, as defined by state law, is any written or verbal expression, or physical act or gesture, or a pattern thereof, intended to cause distress upon one or more students. Bullying based upon a student’s race, gender, religion or creed, national origin, sexual orientation, or disability may actually constitute harassment. Harassment is specifically prohibited by Superintendent Policy 8400 (Nondiscrimination/Harassment), a summary of which may be found elsewhere in this book. All administrators, teachers, classified staff, parents and students shall take all reasonable steps to prevent and / or address bullying. 1. Students who have been bullied should report the situation to an administrator or teacher. 2. Students who witness bullying should report it to a staff member. 3. School staff who witness bullying should take action to stop the bullying and to report the situation for appropriate administrative intervention. 4. School administrators should promptly investigate and respond to bullying reports. Students who bully others will be subject to disciplinary action as described in Superintendent’s Policy 5000, Student Code of Conduct. In addition to discipline sanctions, schools may implement intervention strategies as appropriate. Cell Phones and Other Personal Electronic Devices Superintendent’s Policy 5030 permits the use of electronic devices for personal, recreational, communication or instructional purposes under specific conditions. Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary sanctions up to and including expulsion from school, depending upon the severity of the violation. In academic settings (classroom, library, labs, etc) electronic devices must be in the “off” or “silent” position at all times and stored out of sight except when utilized, as permitted by the instructor, as assistive technology, or as part of a student’s individual education program as determined by school administration or the teacher. Teachers may impose even further restrictions at their discretion in their class. In non-academic settings, including at school activities or on school transportation, such devices may be used in “silent mode” provided the use of such device, as determined by the supervising staff member or bus driver, in no way disrupts, poses a safety concern or otherwise violates Superintendent’s Policy 5000, Student Code of Conduct. Electronic devices may not be used in a manner which is potentially unsafe, illegal or otherwise might violate the Student Code of Conduct. Prohibited uses include but are not limited to creating video or audio recordings, or taking or sending photographs of students or staff without permission of the student(s) or staff member(s). Such devices may not be used for academic dishonesty or cheating. Such devices may not be used in any manner that disrupts the academic environment, or otherwise disrupts school activities or functions. Students may not depart a class to activate or operate such devices. The typical progression of consequences for violations as described in the policy includes: 1st offense. The device should be confiscated and the parent should be notified. The device may be released to the student after the student reviews and signs the policy. 2nd offense. The device should be confiscated and the parent should be notified. The device may be released only to the parent after the parent reviews and signs the policy. 3rd or more offenses. Such offenses are considered disruptive behavior and should result in a minimum of one day of suspension to be served in or out of school at the discretion of administration. Subsequent violations may result in increasing suspensions of up to three (3) days. Under all circumstances students shall be personally and solely responsible for the security of their cell phones and personal electronic devices. Adams 12 Five Star Schools shall not assume responsibility for theft, loss, or damage of any such device and will not be responsible for investigation of such incidents. If unique circumstances exist warranting the need for a student to use a cell phone or personal electronic device, on a temporary basis, outside the guidelines of Superintendent’s Policy 5030, such requests should be submitted to the Principal in writing. The Principal’s decision regarding such requests will be final. Community Use of District Facilities District facilities are made available on an equal basis for use by community organizations when the buildings are not otherwise being used for school purposes. Superintendent’s Policy 1300 provides guidelines related to reservations and use of district facilities by community members. The policy is available on the District website. Questions regarding facility use and reservations may be directed to 720-972-4337. Use of Corporal Punishment, Restraint or Physical Force Superintendent’s Policy 5140 prohibits the use of corporal punishment by any staff member. Corporal punishment is defined as spanking or physically handling a student in any way to purposefully inflict punishment. Permission to administer corporal punishment shall not be sought nor accepted from any parent, guardian, or school official. Superintendent’s Policy 5150 permits district personnel, acting within the scope of employment, to use and apply restraint or force as is reasonable and necessary to restrain or prevent a student from an act of wrongdoing; to quell a disturbance threatening physical injury to others; to obtain possession of weapons or other dangerous objects; for the purpose of self-defense; for the protection of persons or property; and for the preservation of order or student safety. Law enforcement shall act consistent with their agency guidelines regarding restraint or force when safety is at issue. Extracurricular Activities and Sports Students are provided a variety of opportunities to participate in school-sponsored extracurricular activities. Activities may occur before or after school and may require parents to sign permission forms, pay fees and/or to provide transportation to and from the activity. For safety and supervision reasons it is important that students arrive and be picked up promptly at prescribed times. Participation in extracurricular activities including sports may require students to meet attendance, academic and behavior eligibility standards. Please visit with the administration, sponsor or coach for answers to specific eligibility questions. Gangs, Secret Societies and Disruptive Groups School districts are required by Colorado law to adopt policies regarding gang-related activities in school. Superintendent’s Policy 5080 defines a gang, secret society or disruptive group as a group of three or more individuals, whether formal or informal, sharing a common name, interest, bond, confederation, alliance, initiation practice, network, conspiracy, or activity characterized by criminal or delinquent conduct, whose members individually or collectively engage in or have engaged in a pattern of such activity. Wearing, displaying or possessing items that signify identification with disruptive groups is prohibited on school campuses, at all school-sponsored activities, on all school transportation, and at all school bus stops. Any evidence reasonably demonstrating the existence of or membership in any disruptive group shall be admissible in any disciplinary action or proceeding brought by the District. Examples of prohibited items, behaviors or actions which may be indicative of gang, secret society or disruptive group affiliation include but are not limited to: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Colors / Numbers – A common color or number used to represent affiliation with the disruptive group. Colors and numbers may be represented through, but not limited to, clothing, bandanas, nail polish, sports logos/apparel, make-up, or other items that display a “color” or number on a person or possession. Signs – Verbal or Physical – Statements, gestures, signals, or signs flashed by individuals either to members of their own disruptive group as communication or identification, or intended as taunts or challenges to others. Graffiti – A drawing, symbol, phrase, cryptic writing, code, icon, logo, or written word used to express opinions, membership in a disruptive group or gang, about other groups or gangs, or direct challenges to others. Apparel / Jewelry – Hats, bandanas, emblems, trademarks, badges, insignias, logos, belts, belt buckles, colored shoe strings, jewelry or other clothing that identify the individual with the disruptive group and/or that carries meaning for the disruptive group. Manner of Grooming – Tattoos, hairstyles, and other unifying marks (i.e. manner of shaving, piercings) indicative of affiliation with or that carries meaning for a disruptive group. Recruitment – Action to knowingly solicit, to invite, recruit, encourage, coerce, or otherwise cause another to actively participate in or become a member of a disruptive group. Furthermore, recruitment also includes the use of force, threat, or intimidation directed at any person, or by the infliction of bodily injury upon any person, thereby preventing the individual from leaving a disruptive group. Action up to and including expulsion from school may be considered for any single violation of this policy depending upon the nature of the offense, the severity of the situation, and the student’s discipline history. Unless the student has a prior discipline history, or unless other policy violations or safety concerns exist, the typical progression of consequences for violations of this policy are: 1. 1st Offense – warning and education about the policy, school based sanctions including suspension up to three (3) days out of school, and a requirement that student and parent review and sign a statement indicating their understanding of this policy. 2. 2nd Offense – a minimum of three (3) days out-of-school suspension and a required parent meeting as a condition of re-entry for the purpose of reviewing this policy and the consequences of future violations. 3. 3rd or Subsequent Offenses – up to a 10-day out-of-school suspension and potential expulsion from school. 4. All violations of this policy which involve violence, threats of violence, or an immediate risk to the safety of students or staff shall result in suspension out-ofschool for a minimum of three (3) days. Health Services Allergies, Immunizations and Medications at School The school district provides registered nurses to train, delegate, and monitor various school staff on health procedures needed for students during the school day. The registered nurses also provide consultation to school staff and/or parents on medical concerns and often serve as medical liaisons between schools and outside agencies. A trained health aide staffs the School Health Office. The health aide is responsible for providing minor first aid to students who become sick or are injured while at school, for administering prescribed medications, and for maintaining student health records. Other designated staff members may provide coverage in the health office when the school health aide is not available. For more information about support for students with health needs please refer to the policies referenced or contact the District’s Coordinator of Section 504 and Health Services at720-972-7107. Emergency Health Concerns If your child is seriously injured or ill at school and requires care beyond the facilities of the school, an attempt will be made to contact you as well as calling emergency medical personnel (911) for treatment and/or transportation to a proper facility. Homeless Students Notification (Supt. Policy 5270) Specific rights and protections are ensured to parents, children and youth experiencing homelessness as defined under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. For more information about services for homeless students refer to Superintendent Policy 5270 or contact the Homeless/Migrant Education Liaison at 720 972-4144. Illness or Injury at School When a child becomes ill or is injured at school the health aide or other school staff will determine if your child can remain at school safely. Schools do not have adequate facilities or staffing to keep ill children at school for long periods of time. Therefore, it is essential that parents immediately inform schools of address and phone number changes. Illness Outside of School Children should typically be kept home if the following symptoms are present. If you have questions, or are unsure of whether to keep your child home from school please consult with your physician, or call your school health aide or district registered nurse. 1. Rashes –Child should stay home unless a note provided by doctor states the rash is not contagious or until the rash resolves on its own. 2. Vomiting and Diarrhea –Child should stay home until symptom-free for one day. 3. Fever of 100 or more – Child should stay home until fever free for 24 hours. 4. Strep Throat – Child may return after 24 hours of antibiotic treatment and when symptom-free. 5. Common Cold – Keep your child at home if your child is not “feeling well”, has a fever, has a lot of nasal discharge, or has a persistent cough. 6. “Pink Eye” (Conjunctivitis) – Child should stay home until physician determines the infection is not contagious. 7. Impetigo – Child should stay home until your physician advises their return. 8. Chicken Pox – Child should stay home for approximately one week after symptoms appear or until all papules (water-filled lesions) are scabbed or crusted over. 9. Persistent Cough – Child should stay home if the cough is persistent or disrupts class. 10. Untreated drainage from a wound, eye or ear infection – Child should stay home until physician advises his or her return. In general, if you are unsure whether or not to send your child to school, you should keep your child home for a day. Please let the school know any time your child has a communicable disease or serious illness. Notification of Rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) & Colorado Open Records Act (CORA) (Supt. Policy 5300) The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age ("eligible students") certain rights with respect to the student's education records. These rights are: 1. The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day the School receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the School principal a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The School official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. 2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records, that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the School to amend a record should write the School principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the School decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the School will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing. 3. The right to privacy of personally identifiable information in the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the District as an administrator, supervisor, teacher, or support staff member (including but not limited to paraprofessionals, transportation personnel, health and law enforcement unit personnel and before-and-after-school program personnel); a member of the school board; a person, agency or company with whom the District has contracted, or otherwise arranged to perform a specific task or service; or, a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another “school official” in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the District discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes of the student’s enrollment or transfer. 4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA are: Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202 Additionally, the Colorado Open Records Act generally requires education records to be furnished within 3 days of the day the School receives a request for access. Notification of Rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) & Colorado Open Records Act (CORA) (Supt. Policy 5300) The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age ("eligible students") certain rights with respect to the student's education records. These rights are: 1. The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day the School receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the School principal a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The School official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. 2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records, that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the School to amend a record should write the School principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the School decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the School will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing. 3. The right to privacy of personally identifiable information in the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the District as an administrator, supervisor, teacher, or support staff member (including but not limited to paraprofessionals, transportation personnel, health and law enforcement unit personnel and before-and-after-school program personnel); a member of the school board; a person, agency or company with whom the District has contracted, or otherwise arranged to perform a specific task or service; or, a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another “school official” in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the District discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes of the student’s enrollment or transfer. 5. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA are: Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202 Additionally, the Colorado Open Records Act generally requires education records to be furnished within 3 days of the day the School receives a request for access. FERPA Notice for Directory Information (Supt. Policy 5300) FERPA requires that the District, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education records. However, the District may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary in accordance with District procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the District to include this type of information from your child’s education records in certain school publications. Examples include: • A playbill, showing your student’s role in a drama production; • The annual yearbook; • Honor roll or other recognition lists; • Graduation programs; and • Sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling, showing weight and height of team members. Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory information categories – names, addresses and telephone listings – unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent. If you do not want the District to disclose directory information from your child’s education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the District Records Custodian, 1500 East 128th Avenue, Thornton, CO 80241 in writing by October 1 of the current school year. The District has designated the following information as directory information: • Student’s name • Student’s Grade • Photograph • Dates of attendance • Participation in officially recognized activities & sports • Weight and height of members of athletic teams • Major field of study • Degrees, honors, and awards received • Date and place of birth • The most recent previous educational agency or institution attended Student Sex Offenders (Supt. Policy 5900) Colorado Revised Statute 22-1-124 instructs school districts to notify parents of their right to request information concerning registered sex offenders in the community. More information on accessing such information may be obtained online at either of the following: http://dcj.state.co.us/odvsom/Sex_Offender/SO_Pdfs/schoolresourceguideregistration.pdf OR http://www.cde.state.co.us/cdeprevention/download/pdf/School_Sex_Offender_Guide.pdf Superintendent Policy 5900 provides more information about this topic. For additional information parents may also contact the District’s Manager of Security Services at 720-972-4256. Notification of Rights under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) (Supt. Policy 6510) The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) affords parents certain rights regarding our conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These include the right to: • Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (ED)– 1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent; 2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family; 3. Sex behavior or attitudes; 4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior; 5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships; 6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers; 7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; or 8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility. •Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of – 1. Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding; 2. Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and 3. Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others. •Inspect, upon request and before administration or use – 1. Protected information surveys of students; 2. Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and 3. Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum. These rights transfer from the parents to a student who is 18 years old or an emancipated minor under State law. The District has developed and adopted policies, in consultation with parents, regarding these rights, as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of protected information surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes. The District will directly notify parents of these policies at least annually at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes. The District will also directly notify, such as through U.S. Mail or email, parents of students who are scheduled to participate in the specific activities or surveys noted below and will provide an opportunity for the parent to opt his or her child out of participation of the specific activity or survey. The District will make this notification to parents at the beginning of the school year if the District has identified the specific or approximate dates of the activities or surveys at that time. For surveys and activities scheduled after the school year starts, parents will be provided reasonable notification of the planned activities and surveys listed below and be provided an opportunity to opt their child out of such activities and surveys. Parents will also be provided an opportunity to review any pertinent surveys. Following is a list of the specific activities and surveys covered under this requirement: •Collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution. •Administration of any protected information survey not funded in whole or in part by ED. •Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening as described above. Parents who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with: Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20202-8520 Food Allergies The District recognizes that many students are diagnosed with potentially life-threatening food allergies. To address this issue and meet state law requirements concerning the management of food allergies and anaphylaxis among students, Superintendent’s Policy 5415, Students with Food Allergies, establishes procedures to provide appropriate support plans for students with food allergies. The Students with Food Allergies Policy provides guidelines for the development of a health care plan with the assistance of the licensed school nurse. Such plans typically address communication and emergency instructions between school officials and emergency responders, as well as reasonable accommodations to reduce the student’s exposure to agents that may cause allergic reactions. Plans may also include staff training provisions, access to emergency medications and provisions under a “Section 504” or an Individual Education Plan when appropriate as determined by law. Head Lice Head lice are described as an infestation of head hair by adult lice, larvae or nits (eggs). Itching is the main sign. Eggs hatch in one week and are capable of multiplying in two weeks. A special lice shampoo treatment sold at pharmacies helps to kill the nits. After the shampoo treatment it’s important to thoroughly comb out the nits from the hair. If a child is found to have head lice/untreated nits at school the child will be allowed to remain in school until the end of the school day. The child can be re-admitted to school once treatment is done at home. The child must report to the health office upon returning to have hair check for the presence of live lice/lice nits. Immunizations Superintendent’s Policy 5410 describes student immunization requirements consistent with Colorado law. Children who do not meet the requirements listed in policy will be denied admission to school. All students must submit a completed Certificate of Immunization or Exemption upon enrollment. You must provide one of the following to your child’s school in order to comply with the law: 1. An Up-to-Date Certificate of Immunization from a licensed physician or authorized representative of the department of health or local health department certifying that your child has received immunization against communicable diseases as specified by the State Health Department; or 2. Statement of Exemption to Immunization Law printed on the reverse side of the Colorado Department of Health Certificate of Immunization: a. medical exemption signed by licensed physician stating that the child’s physical condition is such that immunizations would endanger life or health; or b. religious exemption signed by parent or guardian or emancipated child that he/she adheres to a religious belief whose teachings are opposed to immunizations; or c. personal exemption signed by parent or guardian or emancipated child that he/she adheres to a personal belief opposed to immunizations. Medicaid Program As a Medicaid provider, Adams 12 Five Star Schools will access Medicaid eligibility information for students enrolled in the Adams 12 Five Star Schools from Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF). HCPF is the designated Medicaid agency in the state. Directory information of names, date of birth, and gender will be released to the HCPF to verify Medicaid eligibility of students in the District. With consent, the description of health and health-related services delivered to Medicaid eligible students will be released to Medicaid and/or the district billing agent for proper administration of the program. A dated record of all transactions will be kept on file at the Adams 12 Five Star Schools Medicaid office. Parents may revoke their consent at any time, by calling the Medicaid office at 720-972- 4790. School Medicaid reimbursement does not affect the family’s other Medicaid benefits in any way. Administration of Medications at School Generally children do not need to take medication during the school day. However, when your doctor prescribes a prescription or over-the-counter medication that must be taken at school, Superintendent’s Policy 5420 identifies the steps which must be followed: 1. All medication given at school must have a medication request form signed by both a parent/guardian and a physician. It must provide information stating the name of the medication, the dosage, when the medication needs to be taken and why the medication is being given. These medication request forms are available at school. This policy applies to prescription medication and all over-thecounter medications such as Tylenol, cough syrups, eye drops, ointments, etc. Cough drops are not considered medication under this policy, and therefore, parent and physician authorization is not required for a student to have them at school. 2. Medication must be provided by the parent in a pharmacy labeled bottle prescribed for the student or in the original over-the-counter container. 3. All medication is kept in a locked area in the school health office. Students are typically not allowed to keep medication with them (in their lunch box, backpacks, etc.). a. Students may carry certain medications when a physician specifically authorizes this in writing. Those medications may include (1) inhalers necessary to control asthma or other respiratory conditions; and (2) other medications for serious health conditions which may require immediate intervention. 4. The health aide or other designated staff will administer prescribed medication according to parent/physician instructions. All medication administered at school is recorded on the student’s medication record and initialed by the staff person administering the medication. 5. All unused medication not picked up will be discarded by a registered nurse at the end of the school year. 6. To save time and repeat doctor visits, please have your physician complete or fax a written permission for the school at the time he/she prescribes any medication that may be administered at school. If necessary, two containers (one for school and one for home) can be requested at your pharmacy. Vision and Hearing Screening Vision and hearing screening is mandated for all students in kindergarten, first, second, third, fifth, seventh, and ninth grade levels; for children new to the district and for any child with a suspected deficiency. This screening does not include extensive testing. If a deficiency is found parents are contacted and advised to arrange for a more complete evaluation. Homeless Students Notification (Supt. Policy 5270) Specific rights and protections are ensured to parents, children and youth experiencing homelessness as defined under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. For more information about services for homeless students refer to Superintendent Policy 5270 or contact the Homeless/Migrant Education Liaison at 720 972-4144. Identification (I.D.) Badges All middle and high school students are required to wear a photo identification badge on lanyards approved by the school. Each school has campus-based policies to address replacement of lost ID’s and lanyards, as well as issues of non-compliance with the policy. Repeat violators of a schools’ ID policy may be subject to discipline sanctions including suspension out of school. Law Enforcement Adams 12 Five Star Schools works cooperatively with law enforcement agencies throughout the north Denver metropolitan area. All district secondary schools with the exception of charter or alternative schools have a law enforcement officer known as “School Resource Officer” (SRO) stationed on campus. These officers are also available to assist at elementary schools when the need arises. Law enforcement should be notified by administrators in school related situations that involve suspected criminal violations or any time school safety may be at risk. Law enforcement officers will act consistent with their agency’s guidelines in responding to referrals or otherwise becoming involved in school matters. Non-Discrimination / Harassment Adams 12 Five Star Schools is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination/harassment in relation to race or color, sex, religion or creed, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation and disability. District policies, programs and activities should foster a climate of inclusiveness in which all individuals have the opportunity to participate, to be heard, and to be acknowledged for their dignity and worth and for their unique role in the pluralistic nature of our society. Students and staff who feel safe and welcome are more likely to perform more effectively. Superintendent’s Policy 8400 establishes guidelines related to discrimination and / or harassment of or by students or staff. Any student who believes that s/he has been harassed, or who witnesses conduct that might constitute harassment, shall promptly report the conduct to a principal or staff member. Reports may also be submitted directly to the District’s Nondiscrimination / Harassment Compliance Officer. A complaint or report may be made either orally or in writing. All reports of discrimination or harassment will be investigated. Consequences where warranted may include but are not limited to a range of disciplinary action, which may include expulsion from school if warranted. Depending on age and circumstances, educational interventions, rather than, or in addition to, discipline shall be appropriate. Support resources will also be provided to victims of school-related discrimination or harassment as appropriate. Anyone who retaliates against a person who reports harassment, regardless of the outcome of the harassment investigation, will be subject to disciplinary action. Any person who knowingly makes a false report of harassment shall be subject to disciplinary action as well. Additional information regarding the district administrative procedures for compliance with Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, Section 504 and / or The Americans with Disabilities Act is available online or by reviewing the policy and procedures in their entirety as explained on the first page of this publication. In addition, questions may be directed to: District Compliance Officer – Cheryl Karstaedt, General Counsel, Educational Support Center, 720-972-4000 In addition to, or as an alternative to, filing a harassment complaint pursuant to this policy, a person may file a harassment complaint with the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights or the Colorado Civil Rights Commission. Colorado Civil Rights Commission 1560 Broadway, Suite 1050 – Denver 303-894-7830 U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights 1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 310 – Denver 303-844-5695 Email: [email protected] Nutrition Services and Student Wellness Superintendent’s Policy 3700 and its subsections describe the District’s commitment to promoting good nutrition and physical activities. Information about free or reduced price meals, costs of meals, a la carte food offerings, and student meal charge accounts is available at each school’s kitchen or administrative office. Information may also be found on the District’s website under the parent resource link. Schools along with parents can play a major role in reducing the number of overweight and obese children and youth. Schools are a place where students can gain the knowledge, motivation, and skills needed for lifelong physical activity and lifelong healthy eating habits and are also a place for students to practice these habits. Nutritional content of foods and beverages sold by Nutrition Services are available on the District’s website and in the school kitchens. In support of student wellness schools are expected to provide access to healthful items for fundraisers, classroom parties, and other school activities. Superintendent’s Policy 3710 discourages the use of food as a reward, and prohibits the denial of food as a form of punishment. The policy further explains that physical activity should typically not be used as a form of punishment. Obtaining Sex Offender Information Colorado Revised Statute 22-1-124 instructs school districts to notify parents of their right to request information concerning registered sex offenders in the community. More information on accessing such information may be obtained online at either of the following: http://dcj.state.co.us/odvsom/Sex_Offender/SO_Pdfs/schoolresourceguideregistration.pdf OR http://www.cde.state.co.us/cdeprevention/download/pdf/School_Sex_Offender_Guide.pdf Superintendent’s Policy 5900 provides more information about this topic. For additional information parents may also contact the District’s Manager of Security Services at 720972-4256. Parking and Driving on District Property Parents and students who drive or park on campus are expected operate their vehicle in a safe manner complying with all signs and parking only in appropriately designated areas. Failure to follow parking and driving guidelines may result in warnings, vehicles being towed, referrals to law enforcement or loss of the privilege of driving on campus. Students may also face discipline sanctions for driving violations on campus that jeopardize the safety of others. Information about parking fees and regulations for high school students is provided in each high school’s handbook. Post-Secondary Enrollment Options Students in their junior or senior year of high school may be eligible to enroll for coursework in a state institution of higher education, with costs reimbursed by the District, provided specific eligibility and academic criteria are satisfied. Parents and students interested in more information about post-secondary enrollment options are encouraged to review participation guidelines described in Superintendent’s Policy 6285 or to request information in the Counseling Offices. Removal of Disruptive Students by a Classroom Teacher To the extent authorized by Colorado law, a classroom teacher has the authority to remove a student who disrupts the educational environment of the classroom for the remainder of that class. Upon a third such removal from class, teachers are given authority to remove the student from class for the remainder of the term, so long as such removal is consistent with federal and state law, and with due process and intervention procedures established in Superintendent’s Policy 5015. The policy in its entirety is available on the District’s website at www.adams12.org or is available in hard copy at the administrative office of each school. Search and Seizure Superintendent’s Policy 5130 authorizes district officials to conduct a search when on school grounds, in a vehicle owned, leased or otherwise used by the district or school, or at a school activity, when there is a reasonable suspicion that the search will result in the discovery of "contraband," which includes all substances or materials prohibited by district/school policy or state law including, but not limited to, drugs, drug paraphernalia, alcoholic beverages, guns, knives, weapons, incendiary devices, and dangerous items. Under conditions specified in policy, automobiles parked on or being operated on school property or at a school activity may also be subject to search by school officials. When possible, an involved student shall be informed of the reason for a search, and the official conducting the search shall attempt to secure the student's consent to the search. The scope of a search must be no more intrusive than is reasonably necessary under the circumstances. Inappropriate items found during the course of a search may be seized and at the discretion of school administration such items may be returned to the parent or guardian of the student from whom the items were seized; offered as evidence in any suspension or expulsion proceeding if they are tagged for identification at the time seized; turned over to law enforcement officers; or destroyed. Many district secondary schools utilize random canine searches from time to time to deter students from bringing contraband on district property. Such searches involve trained dogs and their handlers scanning property or general areas, but never individuals. Should a dog alert its handler to the possible presence of contraband, the handler would notify school officials. A canine alert constitutes reasonable suspicion for school officials to conduct a search following the procedures established in Superintendent’s Policy 5130. Services for Students with Disabilities Students with disabilities are afforded certain rights including those described in the following notifications regarding “Section 504” and Special Education. Parents or guardians who believe their child may have a disability requiring special accommodations or support services may contact the administrative office of their child’s school for more information about assessment and eligibility for such services. Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act is a nondiscrimination statute barring discrimination on the basis of one’s disability. It is the policy of Adams 12 Five Star Schools not to discriminate on the basis of disability in its educational programs, activities or employment policies as required by the Act. The Act requires Adams 12 Five Star Schools to locate, evaluate and determine if the student is a qualified individual requiring accommodation necessary to provide access to educational programs. Parents are entitled to have the opportunity to review relevant educational records under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Parents or guardians disagreeing with the decisions reached by school personnel for accommodations necessary for access to educational programming and/or facilities may request a hearing before an impartial hearing officer by notifying the school principal. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 guarantees basic rights and provides the framework for special education services. Every student between the ages of 3 and 21 with a disability is assured a public education at no cost to the parent. The public education is to be appropriate to the needs of the student. In addition, students with disabilities must be educated in the least restrictive environment. Student Code of Conduct The District’s Student Code of Conduct Matrix provided in this booklet summarizes student behavior expectations and the range of consequences for violations. The matrix is intended as a quick reference guide. However, students are expected to be familiar and comply with all expectations identified Superintendent’s Policy 5000, Student Code of Conduct. Superintendent’s Policy 5010, Student Due Process, provides information regarding district procedures for suspension (short and long term), expulsion and denial of admission. Student conduct policies are available to all parents and students on the District’s website or by request through the administrative office at each school. Board Policy directs that student discipline methods be clear, timely and consistently applied. Students should receive information about school discipline expectations within the first four weeks of each school year. Students who arrive after the first month of school should receive information individually or in small groups as soon as possible following enrollment. Student Dress Code In order to promote a safe environment that focuses on education and minimizes distractions students are expected to abide by the following general guidelines as identified in Superintendent’s Policy 5060. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Shirts must be fitted and long enough to naturally touch the top of the lower garment and/or be tucked in; shirts must cover the shoulders; all attire should be sized to fit without exposing undergarments, buttocks, stomachs or cleavage; shorts and skirts must be fingertip length when arms are resting at sides; shoes/sandals must be worn at all times. The following items or clothing are specifically prohibited: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. Spaghetti straps, tank tops (anything less than 1” wide) and halter tops; transparent/mesh clothing; make-up that makes a student unidentifiable; exposed undergarments; pajamas and house slippers; shirts with revealing necklines or armholes; shirts hanging longer than the fingertips when arms are fully extended; sunglasses (prohibited indoors); gloves (prohibited indoors); hairnets, bandanas, and du-rags; caps, athletic headbands and armbands (prohibited indoors except when the wearer is participating in a sporting event); clothing or accessories that promote drugs, alcohol or tobacco either by brand or message; clothing or accessories with sexually suggestive language or messages; clothing or accessories that promote violence, criminal activity, intimidation or intolerance of others (based on religion, ethnicity, gender or lifestyle); clothing or accessories that could readily be used as a weapon or might otherwise injure the wearer, including items with spikes or loose hanging chains; attire, accessories or manners of grooming indicative of affiliation with a gang, secret society or disruptive group as defined in Superintendent’s Policy 5080. This includes, but is not limited to clothing, gang-related colors or numbers, bandanas, sports logos/apparel, make-up, hats, emblems, trademarks, badges, insignia, logos, belt buckles, colored shoe strings, and jewelry; trench coats and other like jackets capable of concealing weapons; clothing or accessories affiliated with Insane Clown Posse, including all items related to the band’s record label “Psychopathic Records” and other groups it sponsors in addition to Insane Clown Posse, including but not limited to Twiztid, Blaze, Boondox, Psychopathic Rydaz and Dark Lotus: and all professional athletic team attire. Dress guidelines for special events or school-sponsored purposes, including but not limited to dances, extra-curricular activities, and fundraisers shall be at the discretion of school administration based upon the nature of the particular event. Students may avoid the risk of being asked to leave or change clothing at an event by having attire approved in advance by an administrator. Except when other contributing policy violations or safety concerns exist, the typical progression of intervention for dress code violations is: 1st Offense – warning and education about the policy and the student being provided an opportunity to correct the violation. 2nd Offense – sanctions up to one (1) day out-of-school suspension and requirement that parent and student review and sign a statement indicating their understanding of the “Student Dress Code” policy. 3rd Offense – sanctions up to three (3) days out-of-school suspension and required parent meeting as a condition of re-entry. 4th or Subsequent Offenses – sanctions up to a 10-day out-of-school suspension for each repeat violation. Students’ Right to Expression Superintendent’s Policy 5050 acknowledges students’ right to dissent peacefully, including the right of legal protest through proper channels, provided such dissent does not interfere with the educational process or result in harm to persons or property. Policy 6260 describes guidelines by which students may exercise expression in school-sponsored publications. Students should be aware of their rights and responsibilities according to the guidelines established in each policy. Student School Records In compliance with state and federal laws, Superintendent’s Policy 5300, Student School Records, provides guidance for the development, use, release and maintenance of school records. Generally, student school records, or education records, are documents, files, records, and other materials maintained by a school which contain information relating to a student, including special education records. Student school records do not include the personal notes or records of district personnel that are in the sole possession of the author and are not revealed to anyone other than a substitute; employment records about a student who is employed by the school district; or information obtained about a student after he/she is no longer a student. Challenging Records - Parents and eligible students (over age 18) have the right to inspect and review their records, and / or to request that the school correct inaccurate or misleading records; and to control the release of the record without consent except as provided by law and district policy. If a parent or eligible student believes that the student’s school records, including disciplinary records, contain inaccurate information, are misleading, or are otherwise in violation of the privacy rights the party may submit a written request for the record to be changed to the principal. A hearing may be conducted, if necessary, provided the request is in accordance with guidelines outlined in Superintendent’s Policy 5300. Disclosure of Records - Disclosure of education records will be made to a “school offi- cial” who has a specific and legitimate educational interest in inspecting the records for use in furthering the student’s academic achievement or maintaining a safe and orderly learning environment. A “school official” is a person employed by the district as an administrator, supervisor, teacher, or support staff member (including but not limited to, paraprofessionals, transportation personnel, health and law enforcement unit personnel and before-andafter-school program personnel; a member of the school board; a person, agency or company with whom the district has contracted, or otherwise arranged to perform a specific task or service; or, a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a “specific and legitimate educational interest” if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his/her professional and/or official responsibility. The necessary interest will also be found where a staff member or authorized volunteer works directly with students, and has a specific and actual need to review education records to increase his/her awareness of steps necessary for the safety and welfare of students and staff members. This provision applies whether or not the school official receives compensation. Upon request, the District discloses educational records without consent to officials of another school district in which the student seeks or intends to enroll, or another agency in accordance with state law or district policy. Release of Information to Military Recruiters - The District will provide certain information to recruiting officers for any branch of the U. S. Armed Forces, upon requests from the officer, including names, addresses and home telephone numbers of secondary school students. If a student does not want such information released, he/she must submit a written request to the school’s principal asking that the information not be disclosed to recruiters. Release of Directory Information - The District may disclose “directory information” which includes: student’s name, parents’ names, student’s date and place of birth, major field of study, yearbook/athletic/co-curricular and extra-curricular activity photographs, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance in a district school, degrees and awards received, and most recent previous educational agency or institution attended. Parents and eligible students may refuse to have any or all of these types of information released without written consent. Such refusal may be indicated by written statement sent by October 1 of the school year to: District Records Custodian, 1500 East 128th Avenue, Thornton, CO 80241. Such statement should include student’s name, student’s I.D. number, birth date, addresses, school he/she attends, and grade level Media or Internet Publishing - There may be times during the school year when different media groups (newspapers, television, university, school production class, district public relations, etc.) will cover activities at the various Adams 12 Five Star Schools with articles, video or still photography that may be published. In addition, schools or the district may want to include school-oriented articles, video or photography on their own Web sites. If parents DO NOT want their child(ren) to be photographed or videotaped for news media or school publicity purposes, they should request and submit an “opt-out media form” from the school. District photographers will make every reasonable effort to identify the primary subjects in photographs and to not publish photos containing students on the opt-out list. The requests remain in effect for the current school year. This policy only relates to classroom activities or school events that are not open to the public. Events and activities which are open to the public are not covered by this “opt-out” option. Attaining Records - Individual school offices may be closed much of the summer. Parents or eligible students needing copies of records should request that information prior to the end of the school year when possible. Teacher Qualification Information Federal law allows parents to request information regarding the professional qualifications of their student’s classroom teacher, including whether the teacher is teaching under emergency licensing, the area of study in which the teacher majored in college and degrees and endorsements that the teacher has achieved. Parents may also request information regarding the qualifications of any paraprofessional staff member providing service to their child. Parents who would like to request this information should contact the administration of their child’s school. Translation Services Schools are responsible for arranging translation services for discipline actions, teacher conferences, back to school or open house events, non-emergency medical information, student attendance, or academic performance concerns. Please contact the school administration office if you have any questions regarding translation services. Video and Audio Monitoring Superintendent’s Policy 3520, Video and Audio Monitoring, allows video surveillance to be utilized in schools, on school property, and on transportation provided by the district. Many cameras are equipped with audio recording capabilities as well. Such monitoring may assist in deterring misbehavior and may provide evidence to be presented in student discipline hearings, court proceedings, and similar venues. Recordings may be used in student discipline investigations and as evidence in school discipline matters including suspension or expulsion cases. Recordings may also be used to prosecute crimes against property, students or staff. Recordings will be made available as appropriate to school administration and law enforcement, or as otherwise may be required for disclosure by subpoena. Students will not be notified when a recording device has been installed or is being utilized in a specific vehicle or building. Students should proceed with the assumption that their conduct and comments in public places (e.g., school hallways, buses, athletic facilities, etc.) may be recorded by video and audio devices. Parents or guardians who wish to view a videotape or listen to a recording may submit a written request to the Director of Security Services for tapes concerning district facilities and property. Written requests may be made to the Director of Transportation concerning district buses and vehicles. Superintendent’s Policy 3520 identifies circumstances under which requests may be granted or denied. Visitors to Schools Parents and visitors are welcome in district schools or facilities. For the safety of students, staff and visitors, Superintendent’s Policy 1200, Visitors to Schools, provides guidelines regarding school visits. Visitors should report to the school office or building reception area and follow all check-in procedures upon arrival. Building visit procedures typically include presenting identification, signing a visitor log, wearing a visitor identification card, and / or being accompanied by a staff member. In some schools scanning software exists to verify that there are no individual criminal concerns that might jeopardize school safety. Classroom visits by parents or guardians should be requested and approved by the principal prior to the visit to avoid disruption of the learning environment. Visitors who fail to abide by district and school guidelines for visitors may be requested to leave school property and may be subject to future restrictions regarding school visits as explained in Superintendent’s Policy 1210, Public Conduct on School Property. Law enforcement or district security staff may also be contacted. Weapons Consistent with the district’s obligation to provide a safe and secure environment, Superintendent’s Policy 5100, Student Weapons in School, prohibits students being in possession of any dangerous weapon or dangerous item at school, during school activities, or on any district property. Knives or other instruments with sharpened blades or edges that might easily be used as a weapon are not permitted at school, regardless of the length of the blade. Exceptions include scissors and other sharpened instruments commonly used during supervised educational activities. In addition, Superintendent’s Policy 8700, Weapons, specifically makes it a violation for any pupil, staff member, volunteer, or visitor to possess a firearm, explosive device, knife with a blade longer than three (3) inches, or other dangerous weapon when in a district facility; on district grounds; at any or district activity, regardless of location; or on any district vehicle. This restriction does not apply to School Resource Officers or other law enforcement officers who are legally required to carry a weapon to perform their job. Any other request for an exception from this restriction should be communicated in writing to the Superintendent.
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