2015-2016 Gainesville HS Student/Parent Handbook

GAINESVILLE HIGH SCHOOL
Home of the Red Elephants
STUDENT-PARENT HANDBOOK
2015-2016
Student-Parent Handbook 2015-2016 Gainesville High School
Home of the Red Elephants
830 Century Place
Gainesville, Georgia 30501-3002
Telephone: 770 536-4441
www.gcssk12.net
Mr. Tom Smith – Campus Principal
Mr. Adrian Cromwell – Assistant Principal Mr. Bryson Worley – Assistant Principal
Mrs. Misty Freeman – Assistant Principal, 9th Grade Center/CTAE
Mrs. Dawn Jordan – Dean of Instruction
Mr. Billy Kirk – Director of Athletics
Mrs. Teresa Hughes – SPED Specialist
Mrs. Tonya Sanders – Academic Coach
Mrs. Natalie Smith – Instructional Specialist
This Agenda Belongs To:
NAME:
Address: Phone Number:
Grade: The Gainesville High School Student Handbook/Agenda went to press in July, 2015. Any district changes in information supersede the information contained herein. Students will be notified of any changes during the first week
of school or thereafter through class meetings and/or advisement teachers. A copy of the Gainesville High School
Code of Student Conduct is included in this handbook.
GHS Parents and Students,
Welcome to Gainesville High School, the proud home of the Red Elephants. I hope everyone had
a restful summer and is anxious to get back into the swing of a new school year. We, “ONE
GAINESVILLE,” believe this will be another great year at GHS. We will be looking to the senior
class of cohort 2016 to provide the leadership within our student body to ensure we are working to
develop a “brand” of which we all, “ONE GAINESVILLE,” can be proud! To us, “ONE
GAINESVILLE” represents past, present, and future Red Elephants.
This handbook is specific to Gainesville High School and includes the Gainesville City Schools
Student Code of Conduct. This is just another tool we prepare with hopes of providing Gainesville
High School students, parents, and staff with information that is needed for a successful educational
experience. As administrators, our primary responsibility is to provide a safe and orderly school
environment that is conducive to student achievement. Our expectations are high for all those
associated with GHS; therefore, this handbook addresses the expectations we deem most important.
High school is a time when we learn to develop our decision making skills. In addition, we learn to
accept ownership and responsibility for our decisions. Our hope is this information will help our
students make informed decisions that will enhance their high school experience. Our expectation is
that every student, parent, and staff member read, retain, and refer to this handbook.
In closing, we would like “ONE GAINESVILLE” to embrace the following slogan for 2015-2016:
“At GHS, we S.T.O.M.P.” The S.T.O.M.P. acronym stands for: “Strategically Taking Ownership in
Making Progress.” We all should take pride in making progress every day regardless of the endeavor
we have chosen for ourselves.
We look forward to meeting and working with each of you as we strive to serve our students and
help each of them reach their full potential. Please know our doors will always be open to our
community. Feel free to call upon us if you should have any questions or concerns. You may also
visit our website (www.gcssk12.net) for updated information. We know and understand that
communication is the key to a successful year.
Thank you for your continued support!
Tom Smith
Principal
TABLE OF CONTENTS
GHS School Calendar
7
Student Council
8
Important Locations
9
Bell Schedules
10
GHS Personnel
11
GHS Club and Activity Sponsors and Athletic Coaches
14
Clubs
15
Honor Societies
18
GCSS Student Code of Conduct
19
GHS Procedures and Policies
43
GHS Code of Conduct
50
School Guidance and Counseling
52
GCSS Code of Conduct for Athletes
61
Appendix
63
5
GAINESvILLE HIGH SCHOOL CALENDAR 2015-16
FIRST SEMESTER
SECOND SEMESTER
July 30, 31–August 3, 4
Teacher Pre-Planning Days
January 5
2nd Semester Begins
August 4
Open House
January 5
1st Semester Report Card
August 5
First Day of School
January 18
Martin Luther King Holiday
August 20
9th Grade Parent Night
February 2
3rd Quarter Progress Report
August 27
Senior Parent Night
February 15
Teacher Planning
September 1
Junior/Sophomore Parent Night
March 9
End of 3rd Quarter
September 7
Labor Day Holiday
March 11
Student Holiday
September 8
1st Quater Progress Report
March 15
3rd Quarter Report Card
October 7
End of 1st Quarter
April 1
Teacher Planning
October 12-13
Fall Break Holiday
April 4-8
Spring Holidays
October 20
1st Quarter Report Card
April 26
4th Quarter Progress Report
November 10
2nd Quarter Progress Report
May 9-20
Milestone Testing
November 23-27
Thanksgiving Holidays
May 20
End of 2nd Semester
December 7-18
Milestone Testing
May 23-24
Teacher Post-Planning Days
December 18
End of 1st Semester
May 25
Staff Holiday
May 27
2nd Semester Report Card
December 21 – January 4 Winter Holidays
January 4
Teacher Planning
Other Important Dates
August 10
“Monday Madness” Welcome Back Celebration
August 14
“Frantic Friday” 9th Grade Welcome Back Celebration
September 30
Probe College Fair
October 22
Football Homecoming Parade
October 23
Football Homecoming
October 24
Football Homecoming Dance
November 6
Fall Senior Night
February
Winter Senior Night
February
Basketball Homecoming
March 30
Student Council Inauguration
April
Spring Senior Night
April 30
Prom
May 15
Baccalaureate 3 P.M.
May 20
Graduation 7 P.M.
GHS Charter School Governance Council meetings will be posted on the website and at school.
*The above dates are subject to change.
The 2015-16 Student and Teacher Calendars are available at www.gcssk12.net under “Calendar at a Glance.”
7
2015-2016 GHS Student Council
President
vice-President
Secretary
Treasurer
Public Relations Officer
Ana Oropeza
Bill Hood
Max Sumner
Sally Callahan
Kevin Dinh
Seniors - Class of 2016
President
vP
Secretary
Treasurer
Communication Officer
Representative
Hannah Martin
Pramoda Karnati
Sydney Sanchez
John Wagner
Houston Roberts
Jack Langford
Juniors - Class of 2017
President
Thomas Alexander
vP
Sidney Cochran
Secretary
Sarah Grace Couvillon
Treasurer
Pratyusha Karnati
Communication Officer
Alicia Ibarra
Representatives
Faith Moss, Logan Nation
Gordon Cain, Diana Bonilla
Sophomores - Class of 2018
President
Wilson Roberts
vP
Guillermo Beltran
Secretary
Cameron Sturdivant
Treasurer
Spencer Sumner
Communication Officer
AD Winston
Representatives
Anita Medepalli, Christy Ho
Kathy Dao
Freshmen- Class of 2019
(to be elected August 2015)
Student Council Website: www.bigredstudentcouncil.weebly.com
Click on Calendar to see student events.
Sponsors: Jenny Givens and Nancy Ware
8
IMPORTANT LOCATIONS
1st Floor - Main Office
Campus Principal
Bookkeeper
Principal’s Secretary
Receptionist
Director of Athletics
Dean of Instruction
QBE Clerk
Tom Smith
Laura Hughs
Leslie Dorsey
Mindy Ferran/Debbie Little
Billy Kirk
Dawn Jordan
Kendall Thompson
1st Floor - Guidance Office
Lead Counselor for Grade 10-12 A - F
Counselor for Grade 10-12 G - N
Counselor for Grade 10-12 O - Z
Receptionist
Graduation Coach
Tracey Wilson
JD Mutchler
Michael Jackson
Sha Lopez
Antione Whelchel
1st Floor - SPED
SPED Specialist
Teresa Hughes
2nd Floor - Office
SRO Office
Griggs Wall
3rd Floor - Office
Assistant Principal
Attendance Secretary
School Nurse
Student Services Secretary
Adrian Cromwell
Ashley Behal
Paula Sawyer
Berlinda Lipscomb
PAC
Chorus
Theatre
Julia Hamilton
Pam Ware
CTAE
Assistant Principal
Secretary
Youth Apprenticeship/Work Based Learning Coordinator
Parent Coordinator
Bryson Worley
Pat Caldwell
Helen Perry
Yolanda Gomez
Bandroom
Band Director
Larry Miller
Where do I…
Get a physical form?
Get a certificate of attendance?
Get a work permit?
Buy athletic tickets?
Turn in excuses for absences?
Discuss my schedule?
Find lost items?
Buy Drama tickets?
Buy Dance tickets?
Pay dues or fines?
Buy a parking permit?
Get a bus pass?
Get an ID?
Recover my cell phone?
Purchase a locker?
Check out and return from check out?
Get dropped off or get a ride (car riders)?
Make a phone call?
Main Office or online
Main Office
Main Office
Main Office
3rd Floor Office
Guidance Office on 1st Floor or 9th Grade Center
Blue Bin in 1st Floor Lobby
email: [email protected]
1st floor lobby during lunches
3rd Floor Office
3rd Floor Office
Main Office
3rd Floor Office
Main Office
Main Office
3rd Floor Office
Outside 3rd Floor Office on Elephant Trail
Main Office Student Phone
9
2015-2016 BELL SCHEDuLES
Warning Bell
8:15
1st Period
8:20
5
9:44
84
class change
2nd Period
7
9:51
11:15
84
class change
3rd Period
1st Block
7
11:22
1:49
11:22
11:49
1st Lunch
27
class change
2nd Block
11:53
12:20
27
Instruction Instruction
Instruction
Lunch
Instruction
4
12:24
12:51
27
class change
Instruction Instruction
Lunch
4
4th Block
12:55
1:21
26
5th Block
1:21
1:49
28
class change
4th Period
3rd Lunch
4
class change
3rd Block
Lunch
2nd Lunch
Instruction Instruction Instruction
IF
IF
7
1:56
3:20
84
*IF- Instructional Focus is a non-credit bearing time built into the school day
to support students in a variety of ways. 1. Tutoring
2. Retest opportunities
3. Homework assistance
4. SAT/ACT prep
5. AP support
6. Guidance meetings
7. Assistance with college apps
8. Peer mentoring
9. Grade level meetings
10
IF
GAINESvILLE HIGH SCHOOL PERSONNEL 2015-16
ADMINISTRATION
Campus Principal
Assistant Principal
Assistant Principal
Assistant Principal, 9th Grade Center/CTAE Director
Dean of Instruction
Director of Athletics
SPED Specialist
Academic Coach
Instructional Specialist
Mr. Tom Smith
Mr. Bryson Worley
Mr. Adrian Cromwell
Ms. Misty Freeman
Ms. Dawn Jordan
Mr. Billy Kirk
Ms. Teresa Hughes
Ms. Tonya Sanders
Ms. Natalie Smith
ADMINISTRATIvE SuPPORT
Bookkeeper
Secretary to Campus Principal
Receptionist
Attendance Secretary
Secretary to CTAE
Student Support Receptionist
Parent Coordinator
9th Grade Center Receptionist
Stomp Lab Instructor
QBE Clerk
Ms. Laura Hughs
Ms. Leslie Dorsey
Ms. Mindy Ferran/Ms. Debbie Little
Ms. Ashley Behal
Ms. Pat Caldwell
Ms. Berlinda Lipscomb
Ms. Yolanda Gomez
Ms. Pat Cook
Mr. John Thompson
Ms. Kendall Thompson
GuIDANCE
Lead Counselor for Grade 10-12 A - F
Counselor for Grade 10-12 G - N
Counselor for Grade 10-12 O - Z
Receptionist
Graduation Coach
9th Grade Center Counselor A - P
9th Grade Center Counselor Q - Z/Woods Mill Counselor A - Z
Ms. Tracey Wilson
Mr. J. D. Mutchler
Mr. Michael Jackson
Ms. Sha Lopez
Mr. Antione Whelchel
Ms. Rakia Marcus
Ms. Wendy Savitz
MEDIA LEARNING SERvICES
Media Specialist
Assistant to Media Specialist
Ms. Susan Wooten
Mr. Rey Zamora
AuXILIARY SERvICES
Adolescent & Family Counseling Center
Mr. David Smith, Director
Mr. David Calloway
Mr. Griggs Wall
Mr. Chris Coy
Ms. Paula Sawyer
Ms. Natalie Smith
Ms. Nivea Williams
Ms. Haydee Anderson
Ms. Vickie Nicely
Mr. Jarod Anderson
Mr. Jesse Sandlin
Mr. Tony Vega
School Resource Officer (SRO)
9th Grade Center SRO
School Nurse
SST Coordinator
Instructional Assistants
Social Worker
Athletic Trainer
Technology Specialist
11
CTAE
CTAE Director
Youth Apprenticeship/Work Based Learning Coordinator
Early Childhood Education
Engineering & Technology
Culinary Arts
Marketing
Business & Computer Science
Construction
Healthcare Science
Law & Public Safety
Audio/Video Technology
Manufacturing/Robotics
Ms. Misty Freeman
Ms. Helen Perry
Ms. Karen Jackson
Mr. Ed Nemec
Ms. Whittney McPherson
Mr. Steven Cornett
Ms. Donna Miller
Ms. Lorissa Crumley
Ms. Patricia Pratt
Mr. Darrell Lucas
Ms. Sarah Jackson
Ms. Kateria Bogans
Mr. Steve Lawhorne
Mr. Dave Head
ENGLISH
Ms. Cindy Lloyd, Dept. Chair
Ms. Lara Mallard
Ms. Sandy Blankenship
Mr. Jarrett Holland
Ms. Stephanie Hulsey
Mr. John Price
Mr. Bryant Tench
Ms. Wyoma Newman
Ms. Jenny Givens
Ms. Pam Michelsen
Ms. Jenny Sanders
Ms. Amanda Toney
Ms. Sally Jackson
SCIENCE
Mr. Ernie Osburn, Dept.Chair
Mr. Derrick Jones
Dr. Nantheyyen Ramachandran
Ms. Teresa Leach
Ms. Pamela Quigley-Jones
Mr. Dane Robar
Mr. James Bradley
Dr. Lori Dunagan
Ms. April Karn
Ms. Laura Elsarelli
Mr. Chip LaJeunesse
Mr. Alejandra Quevedo
Mr. Stephen Jameson
MATHEMATICS
Ms. Mikki Stinchcomb, Dept. Chair
Ms. Susan Bolen
Ms. Chandra Karnati
Ms. Gail King
Ms. Sarah Almand
Ms. Melissa Hill
Ms. Ashley Burroughs
Ms. Shelley Cornett
Ms. Janna Mallis
Ms. Trailly Holland
Ms. Katie Fox
Ms. Christy Britton
Ms. Beth Hintze
Mr. Daniel LeCroy
Mr. John Kemp
Ms. Brandy Stapleton
Mr. Randy Roys
SOCIAL STuDIES
Mr. Dave McConnell, Dept. Chair
Ms. Shannon Faile
Mr. Charlie Sea
Mr. Rick Howard
Ms. Kathy Smith
Ms. Nancy Ware
Mr. Cris Carpenter
Mr. Rickey Young
Ms. Sandy Rivera
Mr. Michael Newton
Mr. Richard Elsarelli
Ms. Claire Cox
FINE ARTS
Art
Ms. Sarah Claussen
Mr. Clayton Sayre
ESOL
Ms. Kristy Smith (Social Studies)
Ms. Chiqui Artley (English)
Ms. Nicoleta Freeman (English)
Ms. Beth Dudley (English)
Ms. Katie Denning (English)
Drama
Ms. Pam Ware
Choral Music
Ms. Julia Hamilton, Dept. Chair
Band
Mr. Larry Miller
12
FOREIGN LANGuAGE
Spanish
Ms. Deidre Kell, Dept Chair
Ms. Emily Webster
Mr. Jose Sanchez
Special Education
Ms. Marianna Connor, Dept Chair
Ms. Kendall Gruhn
Ms. Allison Worley
Mr. Robert E. Horne
Mr. Tyler Perry
Mr. Michael Perry
Mr. Sam Wallace
Ms. Connie Henderson
Ms. Christie Langford, Inst. Asst.
Ms. Christy Pierce, Inst. Asst.
Ms. Cindy England, Inst. Asst.
Ms. Tavrus Hendrix, Inst. Asst.
Ms. Shelly Garner
Mr. Shane Millwood
Ms. Kelly Cooper-Bagwell
Mr. Joab Rico
Ms. Emily Cain
French
Ms. Stacey Ansley
Latin
Mr. Ken Basinger
Chinese
Ms. XiuFeng Zhu
HEALTH & P.E.
Mr. Adam Miller, Dept. Chair
Mr. Benji Wood
Mr. Bradley Prestridge
Mr. Jeremy Kemp
Mr. Clay McDonald
Mr. Wayne Jones
Mr. Bruce Miller
Mr. Matt Shirley
Mrs. Brenda Gilmore
Mr. David Hawkins
JROTC
Master Sgt. Jack Reese
Lt. Cmdr. Ray Hatfield
DRIvER’S ED
Mr. Wayne Vickery
Mr. Mike Newton
LuNCHROOM
Ms. Brandy Thomas, Manager
Ms. Amy Morrison, 9th Grade Center Manager
Ms. Consuelo Hernandez
Ms. Mary Robinson
Ms. Maria Elias
Ms. Margarita Ibarra
Ms. Paula Lewis
Ms. Denise House
Ms. Nita Jennings
Ms. Lola Fay Davis
WOODS MILL
Ms. Sheryl Williams (Science)
Ms. Christi Conti (English)
Ms. Gay Maehrlein (Social Studies)
Ms. Sarah Bailey (Math)
Ms. Wanda Maldonado, Receptionist
GLA
Ms. Stacy Reese
13
CLuB AND ACTIvITY SPONSORS, ATHLETIC COACHES
Club and Activity Sponsors
Student Council
Senior Class Junior Class Sophomore Class Freshman Class Academic Team - Varsity Academic Team - JV
A.W.A.R.E.
Band National Beta Club Chess Club
Chinese Club/Honor Society
Chorus/Music Nation
Color Guard Communiversity
CTI/Natl.Technical Honor Society
DECA Debate Team
Educators Rising Environmental Club (EAC) FBLA FCA FCCLA French Club/Honor Society Gaming Club
Generation Inspiration
Honors Night Coordinator
H.O.P.E. HOSA
Interact
International Thespians Society
Key Club Literary Mock Trial National Art Honor Society National Honor Society NJROTC
Peer Leaders
Quill & Scroll
Reading Bowl/TOMES Society
Robotics Alliance
SAD/SPEED
SkillsUSA or TSA
Nancy Ware
Jenny Givens
Lara Mallard
Spanish Club Spanish Honor Society
Technical Student Association
The Trumpeter Yearbook
Youth Leadership Hall
Shannon Faile
Shelly Cornett
Pam Michelsen Bryant Tench Rickey Young
Larry Miller Pam Michelsen
Charlie Sea
XiuFeng Zhu Julia Hamilton Larry Miller Helen Perry
Kelly Cooper-Bagwell Steven Cornett Karen Jackson Teresa Leach
Lorissa Crumley
Shannon Faile
Dave McConnell
Bruce Miller
Whittney McPherson Stacey Ansley
Charlie Sea
Cindy Lloyd
Marianna Connor
Nicoletta Freeman
Sarah Jackson
Trailly Holland
Pam Ware Claire Cox
Pam Ware Richard Elsarelli
Clay Sayre, Sarah Claussen
Sandy Rivera Master Sgt. Jack Reese
Tracey Wilson
Rakia Marcus
Stephanie Hulsey
Donna Miller
Susan Wooten
Dr. Nantheyan Ramanchandran
Emily Webster
14
Athletics – Head Coaches
Baseball Basketball (Boys) Basketball (Girls) Cheerleaders Basketball
Cheerleaders JV Basketball
Cheerleaders Football
Cheerleaders JV Football Cross Country Football Golf Lacrosse ROTC (Riflery)
Soccer Softball Step Team
Swimming Tennis Track Volleyball
Wrestling Steve Lawhorne
Darrell Lucas
Kateria Bogans
Deidre Kell Emily Webster
Dave Head
Stephanie Hulsey Donna Miller Helen Perry
Jeremy Kemp Benji Wood
Brenda Gilmore Martina Hewitt
Andreaka Thompson
Helen Perry
Amanda Reeves Adam Miller (B &G) Bruce Miller Bryson Worley (B)
Clay McDonald (G) Lyn Marsh (B)
Stephen Jameson (G) MSG Jack Reese
Lt. Cmdr. Ray Hatfield
Rick Howard (B)
Shelly Garner (G) David Hawkins Brandon Evans
John Price CJ Weaver (B)
Kelli Smith, Kendall Gruhn (G)
Wayne Jones (B/G) Randi Moore
Shane Millwood
School sponsored clubs (excluding competitive interscholastic activities or events) are those under the sponsorship, direction, and
control of the school that organize and meet for common goals, objectives, and purposes. State law requires that parents have the right
to withhold permission for their students to participate in any school sponsored club or organization designated by them. The following
school sponsored clubs will be in operation during this school year. You, as the parent/guardian, have the right to withhold, in writing,
your permission for your student’s participation in any club or organization. If a club is added after this information is distributed, you
will be provided information concerning the club and your written permission will be required prior to your student’s participation.
Each parent should refer to the “Parental Opt-Out of Club Participation” form that they are required to sign upon enrollment or at the
first of the school year. It reads: “I hereby acknowledge receipt of information regarding school clubs that are scheduled to be operational
at the school during the current school year. I understand that if a club for which information has not been provided is distributed, I will
be provided the club information at that time and my written permission will be required prior to my student’s participation. I wish to
withhold permission for my child to participate in the following clubs (please list).”
CLuBS
Academic Team
The GHS Academic Team is a highly competitive varsity and junior
varsity academic team that participates in weekly games with
other high schools in northeast Georgia. Players must be able to
answer questions in the areas of math, science, social studies,
language arts, and current events. The teams practice after school
on Wednesdays and compete on Mondays. Practice starts in
August and ends with the championship in November. A fee is
required to cover transportation and uniforms. This team is fun
and for the intellectually inclined.
Debate Team
The Debate Team, a chapter of the National Forensic League,
competes locally and statewide in speaking and debate events.
Dues are required to cover the costs of attending debate
tournaments. The team holds monthly meetings.
DECA
DECA is a co-curricular marketing education club that helps students
to develop skills for successful business careers, experience
leadership and practice community service. DECA offers a wide
range of services and activities for its student members. The
services and activities are organized around the areas of
conferences, school-based enterprise, competitive events,
and leadership opportunities. Club dues are required.
AWARE
"The AWARE (African-Americans Working to Achieve Relevance
and Excellence) Club is student led organization which focuses
on maximizing student potential through receiving an education,
improving and/or enhancing student personality & student character, discovering true student identity & purpose, and performing
school and community service. While there is concentration on
the improvement and/or enhancement of African-American students, the AWARE Club is open to all students. AWARE meets
Monday mornings at 7:30 a.m. in the library/media center, and
dues are required for all those students interested in joining the
club. Dues will be $30.00 for the year. Dues will pay for Club
Polo Shirt & the Club Activity T-Shirt.
Educators Rising
Purpose: to promote teaching as a profession. Meeting Times:
1st Monday of the month 1st and 2nd lunch and before or after
school as needed.
Environmental Awareness Club
Our purpose is to educate students and community members about
the positive impact that humans can have on the environment.
Membership is free, but members are expected to participate in
recycling and other activities. Meetings are held after school.
Chess Club
The Chess Club offers opportunities to play chess to players of all
abilities and interests. Students may play socially in the club or
play competitively on the team. Both practice together. We
instruct beginning players and offer challenges to more advanced
players. Activities are monthly and dues are required.
FCA
The Fellowship of Christian Athletes challenges coaches and
athletes on the professional, college, high school, middle school
and youth levels to use the powerful medium of athletics to impact
the world for Jesus Christ. FCA is the largest Christian sports
organization in America. FCA focuses on serving local communities by equipping, empowering and encouraging people to make
a difference for Christ. FCA meets every Tuesday morning at
7:45 am in the media center.
Chinese Club
The mission of the Chinese Club is to provide students with after
school opportunities to experience the Chinese language
and culture. Dues are required and the club meets every other
week unless otherwise specified.
FCCLA, Family, Career and Community Leaders of America
FCCLA is one of the nation’s largest career and technical clubs
and it has a rich history and heritage. We are an active leadership and community service organization with a focus on strengthening family ties, building career skills, and helping those in need.
We have annual region, state and national competitions as well
as various trips around the State of Georgia to camp, Georgia
National Fair and to the Capitol. Dues are $25/year. Meetings are
held once a month on the first Monday of the month in Room 7.
See Mrs. McPherson for details.
CTI
To provide assistance to students with disabilities in CTAE classes
by giving them opportunities to develop leadership skills and
prepare them for life after high school. No Dues, but conferences
have registration fees. Meetings are held weekly before and after
school depending on agenda.
15
French Club
French Club is for present and past students of French who wish
to celebrate French culture in a relaxed setting. Activities are
monthly and dues are required.
HOSA
National organization for students that are current or past HOSA
students get together and discuss current healthcare issues and
careers, expand their knowledge in the healthcare area. They will
be practicing healthcare skills and then go on to the regional,
state, and national level to compete in various aspects of healthcare. Meet: 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month (3:30-4:30).
Dues are required.
Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)
Future Business Leaders of America is an education association
of students preparing for careers in business and business-related
fields. The mission is to bring businesses and education together
in a positive working relationship through innovative leadership
and career development programs. Membership in FBLA
prepares students for “real world” professional experiences.
Students meet on the 1st Wednesday of each month and the
club is co-curricular. Dues are required.
Interact
Interact is an international service oriented organization that is an
extension of Rotary International. Our purpose is to help young
people understand the value of serving others in a positive way
here at home and abroad. The club meets every other Tuesday
at 7:45 a.m. in the Media Center. Annual dues are required.
Gaming Club
The GHS Gaming Club is an opportunity for students to have an
experience unlike any other. Students will have the opportunity to
enter into a competitive environment that consists of other students with similar interests. The GHS Gaming Club will promote
friendly competition, cooperation among students, meeting and
socializing with new people, and more. We aim to give students a
fun, friendly, and competitive environment where they can enjoy
playing video games with their fellow peers. Meetings will be determined by the number of people that join the club in the current
year. There will be an annual fee of $25.00 to cover the costs of
consoles, games, controllers, etc. (DISCLAIMER: Certain "MRated" video games will be banned because they have exceeded
the level of violence that is appropriate for school. Parents will
have to sign a consent form to allow their child to play the "MRated" games that are allowed in the school. Students may not
play "M-Rated" video games without returning the completed
consent form).
International Thespian Society
The International Thespian Society honors students who excel in
theatre arts and meets monthly with programs provided by out of
town guest artists in acting, dance, stage combat, audition, plus
service projects such as Trick or Treat So Kids Can Eat and
Adopting a Family at Christmas. Dues are required annually for
Troupe 2445 and International Dues when initiated. Generally our
meetings are the first Tuesday in each month. State Conference
is in February. Anyone interested in theatre can attend the
monthly meetings whether or not you are taking a theatre class.
Key Club
Key Club is the oldest and largest service program for high
school students. Key Club is successful because it is a student
led organization that teaches leadership through serving others.
Kiwanis Clubs serves as the big brothers and sisters to our Key
Club members. Membership fee is required.
Generation Inspiration
Generation Inspiration is an interactive youth leadership society
that allows students to develop life and entrepreneurial skills
while taking an active part in defining and achieving their personal goals. GI helps its members to apply to college, become
aware of numerous scholarship opportunities at GHS, fulfill a
community service requirement, and plan special activities
throughout the school. Students may also participate and graduate from an eight week course that is facilitated by local business, religious, and civic leaders who help them gain necessary
skills to help Hall County bridge the generational gap of leadership in the community. This organization has allowed young high
school graduates to assume leadership roles on governmental
and non–profit boards and has also awarded thousands of dollars to students in scholarships.
Mock Trial
Gainesville High Mock Trial Team is part of the Georgia Mock
Trial Competition and is an academic extra-curricular activity that
provides students with the opportunity to expand their writing,
reading, speaking and analytical skills while preparing as well as
trying fictitious cases in a courtroom situation. No dues.
MuSIC NATION
MUSIC NATION is a club open to all lovers of music, founded in
2015 to support and share the appreciation of all music programs
at Gainesville High School.
NJROTC
NJROTC you explore the intriguing world of civilian, industrial
and military science and have an opportunity to sharpen your
leadership skills. You will be able to discover the rich history of
the Naval Service and scientific aspects of tomorrow’s naval
technology, while at the same time honoring your leadership
potential. Membership fee is required.
H.O.P.E.
H.O.P.E. (Hispanic Organization Promoting Education) is driven
by the main focus of helping students stay in school and continue
furthering their education after high school. Dues are required and
students meet the first Thursday of every month in Room 102.
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Reading Bowl
This is a game format reading competition using the GA Peach
award nominees for the current year. Our team competes against
other high school teams in a challenge to test our knowledge of
the selected books. Team members meet regularly during lunch
to practice using buzzers and to make new questions. Lively discussions about the books always make the practices fun. In late
January, the GHS team will help with the district competition for
the elementary schools. February 13, 2016 is the Regional
HRRB (Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl) Competition. The Divisional
HRRB is February 27th and the State HRRB is March 19th.
Dues are only $10 a year for the team shirt.
The TOME Society
The mission of The Tome Student Literacy Society is to promote
multiple literacies among 4th-12th grade students across the
United States through: service; collaboration; competition-based
club activities; and clean, entertaining, encouraging literature.
Tome Society provides student competitions; an annual It List of
clean, entertaining, and encouraging Young Adult Literature; book
club activities; curriculum materials for educators; and an annual
state conference for both students and educators. All activities
promote self-esteem, leadership skills, strong values, and nurture
critical thinking, creativity, and imagination in the digital age.
This will be our first year to have a chapter at GHS. Dues are
$6.00 a year and $10 for the team shirt. Junior and Senior high
school Tome Society chapter members who meet certain academic and chapter requirements are eligible for induction into the
Tau Omicron Mu Epsilon Honors Society each spring at State
Conference. To be eligible, students must have a minimum 3.5
unweighted GPA and have earned 30 Tome Society Chapter
points.
Robotics Alliance
Robotics Alliance is a new club that will focus on robotics and
provide opportunities to learn about robotics and attend
competitions.
SkillsuSA
SkillsUSA is a partnership of students, teachers and industry
working together to ensure America has a skilled work force.
Dues are required and meetings are 8:00 am Thursday mornings.
Yearbook
The Radiator is the GHS yearbook. Students must fill out an
application in the spring and go through an interview process to
be selected as a staff member for the yearbook. Planning for the
yearbook begins before school is out. After attending a summer
workshop in order to learn the basics, students begin planning
the yearbook based on a common theme. Staffers are responsible
for 30-50% of the photography for the school year.
SPEED
The mission of SPEED is to prevent underage drinking especially
as it relates to highway safety by making students, faculty and
the community aware of the issue through SADD activities and
other prevention campaigns.
Student Council
Student Council develops student leaders who plan and implement activities such as Football and Basketball Homecoming,
Back to School Dance, Homecoming Parade, Blood drives,
canned food drive and the Good-bye Senior dance. We will also
help to raise money for Relay for Life.
Technical Student Association (TSA)
The Technical Student Association fosters personal growth, leadership, and opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering,
and Mathematics (STEM); members apply and integrate these
concepts through co-curricular activities, competitions, and related programs. Dues are $25.
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HONOR SOCIETIES
National Beta Club
The purpose of the National Beta Club is to promote the ideals of
honesty, service, morality, ethical conduct, and leadership among
exemplary secondary school students, to reward meritorious
achievement, and to encourage and assist students in continuing
their education after high school. To be considered for the Beta
Club, students must have a 3.8 GPA by the second semester of
the sophomore year, possess a willingness to serve others and
pay a membership fee of $25. The Beta Club is committed to
recognizing student achievement in the classroom as well as the
community. Students receive invitations during their sophomore
year. Seniors have the honor of wearing the
National Beta Club honor cord at graduation.
National Art Honor Society
National Art Honor Society was formed especially for high school
students who have shown a superior ability in art. Membership is
available to all accomplished art students even if scheduling
problems prevent a student from enrolling in an art class each
year. Students receive invitations to become inducted during
their sophomore year. Requirements to become a member of
NAHS include, maintaining an A average in an art class,
demonstration of outstanding skill in art, and as well as
complying with the national guidelines. Students willingly devote
their time to community service. Earning an honor cord is
determined by a point system, as seniors only have to pay $12 if
they accumulate the required amount of points. Membership
places students among the highest ranks in the art community
as well as recognizing artistic excellence and achievement.
National Honor Society
National Honor Society is an academic club focused on altruistic
projects. Students must have a 4.0 average by the end of their
sophomore year. Each student must complete 10 hours of
school/community service and pay dues of $20.00.
National Technical Honor Society
The National Technical Honor Society is the acknowledged leader
in the recognition of outstanding student achievement in career
and technical education. Member schools agree that NTHS
encourages higher scholastic achievement, cultivates a desire for
personal excellence and helps top students find success in today’s
high competitive workplace. To become a member, students must
maintain a 3.5 overall GPA with a 90 percent or higher in Career
Technical Educational classes. Students are required to pay $35.00
dues, which covers both national membership and local dues.
Inductions are held in the spring and seniors receive white tassels
as part of their membership. Seniors are required to pay $20.00
for their silver stoles for graduation.
National Spanish Honor Society
The National Spanish Honor Society is an organization that
recognizes students in high schools who have high achievements
in the Spanish language and who promote the Spanish culture.
There is an annual induction ceremony for new members held at
the end of the second semester. To be eligible, a student must be
currently enrolled and maintained A’s in 3 consecutive semesters
of Spanish. Additionally, for a student to be eligible for an Honor
Cord, he/she must maintain A’s in 4 levels of Spanish.
National French Honor Society
The Société Honoraire de Français, also known as French Honor
Society, is an honor society committed to recognizing student
achievement in French class. Any student interested in becoming a
member must be in the 10th, 11th or 12th grade, must currently be
enrolled in French beyond French II. Additionally, students must
have maintained an “A” average or higher in French during the three
semesters immediately preceding the spring semester of initiation,
and must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher.
National Chinese Honor Society
The National Chinese Honor Society (NDCHS) is dedicated to the
advanced study of Chinese language in public and independent
secondary schools, and it is sponsored by the national Chinese
Language Association of Secondary Schools also called CLASS.
The NCHS was established in November 1993. Its objective is to
acknowledge the high academic achievment of students studying
Chinese as a second language. Like any other honor societies,
the National Chinese Honor Society not only recognizes high
scholastic achievement, but also leadership, character, and
service. In addition, its aim is to perpetuate the advancement of
international friendships and to create enthusiasm for Chinese
language learning as well as the understanding of culture.
Students who are inducted into the National Chinese Honor
Society should exemplify these qualities.
Quill & Scroll
Quill and Scroll International Honorary Society for High School
Journalists was organized for the purpose of encouraging and recognizing individual student achievement in journalism and scholastic publication. Each chapter is encouraged to engage in activities
and service that best serve the school’s journalism/media program.
The induction fee is $25 per student and members must be involved in a publication for 3 semesters in a leadership position.
There are no club meetings, but members are encourages to submit some of their work. Honor cords are awarded at graduation for
student who qualify and have paid their induction fee.
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STuDENT CODE OF CONDuCT
GAINESvILLE CITY SCHOOL SYSTEM
High School Level
2015 – 2016
FOREWORD
It is the purpose of the Gainesville City School System (GCSS) to operate each school in a manner that will provide an orderly process
of education that ensures the welfare and safety of all students who attend the schools within the district. In accordance with that purpose, the Board of Education has adopted a policy that requires all schools to provide codes of conduct. These require students to conduct themselves at all times in a manner that facilitates an optimum learning environment for themselves and others.
GCSS has adopted this Code to support the creation of a safe learning environment for all members of the school community. The purpose of this Code is to state clearly our standards for acceptable conduct of students. The Code also explains the consequences for not
meeting these standards of conduct. This Code establishes a strict policy for conduct that endangers the safety of the schools and/or
disrupts the educational experience for other students. GCSS does not permit corporal punishment.
The Code also sets forth the discipline procedures for the students who have committed violations of the Code. This Code is not meant
to be a contract between the District and the students, and may be amended at any time. It is a place for GCSS to explain certain policies applicable to students.
We expect students to:
• Respect each other
• Respect school district employees
• Obey student behavior policies adopted by the Board of Education
• Obey rules established by individual schools
The school’s primary goal is to educate, not to punish; however, when the behavior of an individual student comes in conflict with the
rights of others, corrective actions may be necessary for the benefit of that individual and the school as a whole. Accordingly, students
shall be governed by policies, regulations and rules set forth in this Code of Conduct.
The Code of Conduct is effective during the following times and in the following places:
• At bus stop
• At school or on school property at any time
• Off school property at any school activity, function or event and while traveling to and from such events
• On vehicles provided for student transportation by the school system
In addition, students may be disciplined for felonious conduct off campus, which may pose a threat to the school’s learning environment
or the safety of students and employees.
Parents/guardians are encouraged to become familiar with the Code of Conduct and to be supportive of it in their daily communication
with their children and others in the community. We ask your cooperation in sharing this responsibility for maintaining a proper learning
environment.
AuTHORITY OF THE PRINCIPAL
The principal is the designated leader of the school and, in concert with the staff, is responsible for the orderly operation of the school.
In cases of disruptive, disorderly or dangerous conduct not covered in this Code, the principal may undertake corrective measures,
which he or she believes to be in the best interest of the student, and the school provided any such action does not violate school board
policy or procedures.
Students Should:
Participate fully in the learning process. Students need to report to school and class on time, attend all regularly scheduled classes,
remain in class until excused or dismissed, pay attention to instruction, complete assignments to the best of their ability, and ask for
help when needed.
Avoid behavior that impairs their own or other students’ educational achievement. Students should know and avoid the behaviors prohibited by this code, take care of books and other instructional materials, and cooperate with others.
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Show respect for the knowledge and authority of teachers, administrators, and other school employees. Students must obey
reasonable directions, use acceptable and courteous language, avoid being rude and follow school rules and procedures.
Recognize and respect the rights of other students and adults. All students should show concern for and encouragement of educational achievements and participation of others in curricular and extra-curricular activities.
Disciplinary action for violations of expected behaviors will include appropriate hearings and reviews. In all cases, the rights of individuals will be ensured and protected. The Gainesville City School System will make every reasonable effort to administer the discipline
code consistently in all schools. When applicable, individualized plans (i.e. IEP, 504, and SST) will be reviewed for appropriate consequences.
ADMISSION REQuIREMENTS – POLICY JBC
Age Eligibility
• All students, including homeless, who have attained the age of five by September 1st, shall be eligible to enroll in kindergarten.
• Those who have attained the age of 6 by September 1st shall be eligible for first grade.
• Students are eligible to attend school unless they attain the age of 20 by September 1 or they have received a high school
diploma or the equivalent as if they have dropped out of school for a quarter or more. Students who have not dropped out of
school for a quarter or more are eligible to attend school unless they attain the age of 21 by September 1st.
• Mandatory attendance age for enrollment is age 6. Every parent, guardian, or other person residing in Georgia having control or
charge of any child or children between their sixth and sixteenth birthdays is required to enroll and send such child or children in
their care to a public or private school or provide a home study program for these children which meets requirements set forth in
law. If a student is enrolled prior to age 6 in a kindergarten program and attends for 20 days, then the child is subject to
provisions of compulsory school attendance.
• Students who were legal residents of one or more other states or countries for a period of two years immediately prior to moving
to Georgia, and who were legally enrolled in a public kindergarten or first grade, or a kindergarten or first grade accredited by a
state or regional association or the equivalent thereof shall be eligible for enrollment in the appropriate general or special
education program if such child will attain the age of five for kindergarten or six for first grade by December 31 and is otherwise
qualified
• Special education students, including homeless, are eligible for enrollment in appropriate education programs until they receive a
high school diploma or equivalent or they reach their twenty-second (22) birthday, whichever comes first; provided, however they
were enrolled during the preceding school year and had an approved Individualized Education Plan (IEP) which indicated that a
successive year of enrollment was needed.
STuDENT ENROLLMENT/PROOF OF RESIDENCY
Gainesville City Schools requires the parent or guardian to provide proof of residency in the district unless the student is homeless. The
student must live with the authorized person(s) who resides within the school district.
Proof of Residency - Gainesville City Schools requires the parent or guardian to provide two proofs of residency in the district at the
time a student is initially enrolled in a school. Proof of residency may be verified by presenting of the following documents:
• A non-contingent sales contract, a lease agreement, mortgage/deed and
• At least one current utility bill or receipt of service deposit in the parent/guardian's name with the same address
Students under the age of 18 must be accompanied by one of the following authorized individuals
•
•
•
•
Parent (natural or adopted)
Legal guardian or other person legally entitled to act on behalf of the child
Foster parents appointed by a state agency
Sponsor for an approved International Exchange Program.
The person who is enrolling a student should provide one of the following acceptable forms of identification for purposes of
enrollment
• A driver’s license
• A state identification card
• A passport
When a student's family is residing in the home or apartment of another individual, the following is necessary for enrollment
• A notarized affidavit signed by the individual with whom the student's parent/guardian is residing verifying that enrolling
parent/guardian is residing in that home or apartment. This affidavit must be notarized and witnessed at one of the Gainesville
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City School System locations. And
• Proof of residency documents for that individual with whom parent/guardian is residing (See Proof of Residency documents
above)
For your convenience, registration is available at the Registration/International Center, located at 508 Oak Street Gainesville, GA
30501. Registration is not available at the schools. Please contact the Registration/International Center at (770) 536-5275.
Proof of residence is subject to investigation. Students enrolled under false information are illegally enrolled and will be withdrawn from
school. Also, knowingly and willfully providing false information regarding proof of residence violates state law and may subject one to
fine and /or imprisonment (O.C.G.A. 16-10-20).
IMMuNIZATION CERTIFICATES
All students entering or attending Grades Pre-K through12th grade in the Gainesville City School System are required to have a complete Georgia Certificate of Immunization (Form 3231) in accordance with Georgia State Law , O.C.G.A. 20- 2-771 and Regulations,
Chapter 290-5-4. All students must be immunized against disease as specified by the Georgia Department of Human Resources, or
have medical or religious exemption on file at the school.
Beginning in the 2014- 2015 school year, ALL 7th grade students and NEW entrants into Georgia schools grade 8th through 12th
grade, are required to have one dose of Meningococcal (meningitis) conjugate vaccine and Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
booster. Immunization information and flyers for Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten and 7th Grade students are available on the website. All students enrolled in a Georgia Public School for the first time are required to file a completed Certificate of Vision, Hearing,
Dental and Nutrition Screening (Form 3300) in accordance with Georgia Regulations, Chapter 290-5-31.
ARRIvAL/DISMISSAL TIMES
High schools will open at 7:30 AM. The school day begins at 8:20 and ends at 3:20 PM. Students arriving after 8:25 AM should sign in
at the 3rd floor office to receive a tardy slip.
ATTENDANCE REQuIREMENTS –POLICY JBD
School Attendance Compulsory Education Law (O.C.G.A. 20-2-690.1) requires that every parent/guardian or other person who has
control of any child between the ages of 6 and 16 shall enroll and send such child to school. All children enrolled for 20 calendar days or
more in the public schools of this state prior to their seventh birthday shall become subject to the provisions of the compulsory school
attendance law. State Board of Education policy defines the school year as 180 attendance days.
Full Day Attendance Students are expected to be in attendance for the full school day. Students who check-in late or check-out early
should submit a written note from their parent/guardian explaining their absence. Disciplinary action may be taken against students not
in attendance for the full school day for reasons that cannot be excused.
Absence From School For a Portion of the School Day Individual students who have emergencies necessitating their absence from
school for a portion of the school day must have been present for one-half of the instructional day in order to be counted present. When
there is cause necessitating an individual student to be excused from school for a portion of the school day, the student shall be released from school only to his/her parent(s), to a person properly identified to the school administration, or upon request by letter or
telephone from the parent(s).
Student Absences Whenever students are absent, for any reason, their parent/guardian must send a signed and dated written explanation of the absence to their child’s teacher no later than the Third Day following the students return to school after their absence. An
automated phone call will be made to parents/guardians when their child is absent from class.
Excused absences include the following:
• Personal illness
• Death or illness in the immediate family
• Religious holidays
• Instance where attendance by the student would be hazardous
• When mandated by government agency
• One day to register to vote
• Pre-arranged absence approved by an administrator
• Visiting with a U.S. military parent prior to or on leave from overseas deployment (limited to 5 days per school year)
• Students are to be counted present when serving as page for the General Assembly.
• Students in foster care are to be counted present when attending court proceedings related to their foster care
Students are expected and permitted to make up all work for credit missed due to absences. This shall include all assignments,
quizzes, and tests.
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Students who are absent will be responsible for submitting assignments and/or taking scheduled tests/quizzes in accordance with
school rules.
unexcused Absences The definition of an unexcused absence is "absence from school with or without parents' consent for reasons
other than those specified within this policy."
Make-up work - unexcused absences Students will be allowed to make up all work missed during an unexcused absence in accordance with school rules. High School Absence Policy: Students shall not be absent more than 3 days in a semester course. Provisions of this policy are: A. All students who have 3 absences for a semester course or must meet with the designated administrator. A parent or
guardian(s)will be required to attend this meeting. An Action Plan for completing required course work may be developed at this
meeting.
B. Any unexcused absences will warrant administrative action. C. Students who meet with the designated administrator where an Action Plan is developed may complete course requirements
either:
• During the grading period of the absences
• In the next grading period if the absences occurred at the end of the preceding grading period.
D. Class tardiness will not be tolerated.
E. In extreme absentee cases, juvenile court authorities may be contacted, but only after the system's social worker has
investigated the matter thoroughly and makes the referral.
The following regulations are in place in regards to student absences:
• 0-2 days - the school will provide incentives, awards, etc
• 3 days - phone call home by the teacher
• 5 days- a teacher, administrator, or counselor will send a letter home if there has been no response from previous
communication attempts. A home visit by administrators, counselors, graduation coaches is possible.
• 6-10 days - School administrator(s) will set up an attendance meeting to include the parent, student, administrator, counselor,
graduation coach, etc. if there has been no response from previous communication attempts.
• 7 days - Social work referral will be made by school administrator(s), counselor, graduation coach, etc. if no response or
improvement from previous communications.
• 11+ days – Children in Need of Services (CHINS) referral will be made by system school worker, if no response or improvement
from previous communication
• 15 days+ days - A referral to Solicitor’s office will be made by system social worker, if no response or improvement from previous
communications
Tardiness - Students are expected to arrive at school on time. Students who are tardy for school must go to the school office to sign-in
before going to class.
Attendance/Discipline and Driver’s License – (O.C.G.A. 40-5-22) This law requires that the local school system’s central office receive information from the public schools and home schools regarding students 14 through 17 years of age whose driver’s licenses are
to be revoked or not issued according to the provisions of the law.
Effective July 1, 2015, schools will have to certify that a student is enrolled in and not under expulsion from a public or private school to
be eligible for a driver's license or learner's permit.
Students applying for an instruction permit or driver’s license must obtain from their school a Certificate of School Enrollment form to certify that a student is eligible for a driver's license or learner's permit. The Certificate of School Enrollment form will replace the Certificate of Attendance form and the Certificate of Eligibility for Restoration of Driving Privileges form. certifying that none of
the above provisions apply to them at the time the letter is generated or for the preceding year. All students who intend to get their
learner’s permit or driver’s license over the summer months must receive a “Certificate of School Enrollment” from the school administration prior to the end of the school year.
PowerSchool -Parent/Student Portal Students and parents may access pupil attendance, grades, and assignments as well as the
daily bulletin containing announcements through the parent/student portal. Student log-in information is available through guidance;
parent log-ins may be obtained by going to the system webpage www.gcssk12.net to sign up for the PowerSchool Single Sign On
(SSO) parent portal. This portal allows parents/guardians the ability to view all of their children with one log in name and password.
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AWARDING uNITS/TRANSFERRING CREDITS – POLICY JBC(4)
The Board of Education (“Board”) shall fully comply with the requirements of Georgia Board of Education Rule 160-5-1-.15 Awarding
Units of Credit and Acceptance of Transfer Credit and/or Grades and the State Department of Education’s Guidelines for Awarding
Units of Credit. All terms used in this policy are as defined in the Rule and its Guidelines. The requirements of this policy shall apply to all students regardless of the date they first entered the ninth grade.
Awarding units of Credit
1. Students shall be awarded credit only for courses that include concepts and skills based on the state-adopted curriculum for grades
9-12 approved by the State Board of Education (SBOE) in accordance with the provisions for each program or course described in
the State Board Rule(s) and State Department Guidelines.
2. The Board shall award units of credit for middle school courses that are based on the state-adopted curriculum for grades 9-12. 3. The superintendent or designee is authorized to establish procedures whereby a student may earn course credit by demonstrating
subject area competency without regard to the amount of instructional time the student spends in the course. Students and parents
shall be advised of such opportunities through the student handbook, presentations at parent and family workshops, and/or
advisement material.
4. An eligible student may earn course credit by “testing-out,” which means scoring at the “Exceeds” level on a state End of Course
Test (EOCT) prior to taking the course. Students attempting to test-out must have parent permission and their parents shall be
informed of potential costs prior to the EOCT administration. The cost of EOCT administration to students who attempt to test out,
but who do not score at the Exceeds level shall be paid by the student and/or parent of the student. Course credit earned through
testing-out shall be reported in the same way as credit earned through course completion. A student’s numerical grade for a course
in which the student tests out shall be determined by converting the student’s EOCT scale score to a prorated numerical score
using the state EOCT conversion scale for that subject. Student eligibility criteria for earning credit by EOCT “testing- out” and
information regarding grade assignment and collection of any associated fees shall be included in the student handbook,
presentations at parent and family workshops, and/or advisement materials. Accepting Transfer Credit and Grades
1. The Board will accept student course credit earned in an accredited school, which must have been accredited or hold
provisional status at the time the credit was earned.
2. The Board will not substitute courses and exempt students from the required secondary minimum core curriculum unless the
student transferred from an accredited secondary school or the courses presented for credit include concepts and skills based
on the state-adopted curriculum for grades 9-12 approved by the SBOE.
3. Transfer credit shall be validated for courses taken at non-accredited schools, home study programs, and non-traditional
educational centers. 4. Elementary and middle school students transferring from home study programs, non-accredited schools or non-traditional
educational centers will be placed at the appropriate grade level in a probationary placement based on the student’s records in
prior schools or programs and satisfactory performance in a district school for a nine weeks and/or the end of the grading period
OR based on satisfactory performance on standardized or locally developed tests focusing on grade level or subject area. b. High school students transferring from home study programs, non-accredited schools or non-traditional educational centers will
be placed in the appropriate grade level based on the number of units earned toward graduation. Units of credit shall be granted
for courses that meet state-adopted curriculum standards for grades 9-12; OR based on satisfactory performance on
standardized or locally developed tests focusing on subject area. High school transfer students must take any state-mandated
assessments, including applicable End of Course Tests.
4. For student transcript purposes, grades for courses taken by transferring students will be accepted as recorded on the transcript
from the issuing school or program. Letter grades for high school transfer students will be converted to numerical grades using
either a conversion scale provided by the prior school or, if a scale is not available, using a conversion formula established by the
Superintendent or designee. Transferred course titles, if necessary, will be changed to appropriate course titles in the list of state
funded courses.
• Transcripts will be analyzed at the School (United States transcripts) and/or District (International transcripts) level by trained
personnel to determine whether courses meet state-adopted curriculum standards for grades 9-12.
• If core credit will be issued for a course, the appropriate EOCT, released GHSGT test (by domain), or locally developed test will
be administered. Students are required to earn a score of 70% or higher in order to receive core credit. Those scoring below this
threshold should be enrolled in the course.
• If elective credit will be issued for a course, an appropriate elective from the list of state funded courses will be selected.
• International students who may have limited English skills and would be unable to demonstrate proficiency on assessments to be
administered to receive core credit will initially receive an elective credit. However, the school has the option to convert the
elective credit to a core credit at a later date if it is determined that a lack of English skills previously prohibited the student from
demonstrating proficiency. In order to make the conversion, the appropriate EOCT, released GHSGT test, or locally developed
test should be administered prior to placement in the course for core credit. Students are required to earn a score of 70% or
higher in order to receive core credit. Those scoring below this threshold should be enrolled in the course and retain the initial
elective credit. 23
•
•
•
•
•
•
Transferred courses will be recorded using the following course numbering protocols:
In state public school credit – course number from transferring school or internal course number
Out of state public school credit – xx.xxxx6xx
In state and out of state private school credit – xx.xxxx7xx
Out of USA credit – xx.xxxx8xx
Home school credit – xx.xxxx9xx
Teacher identification for transferred courses will be recorded using the following SSN protocols:
• In state school – 999999999
• Out of state school – 888888888
Transferred courses will be changed to the appropriate course title in the list of state funded courses, as needed. Letter grades will be
converted to numerical grades using either a conversion scale provided by the prior school or, if a scale is not available, using the following conversion formula: Letter Grade
A
B
C
D
F
P
Numeric Grade
95
85
75
70
60
70
Earning units of High School Course Credit by Testing Out
• Beginning in school year 2013-2014, a student may demonstrate subject area competency by testing out of any course that has
an associated End of Course Test (EOCT).
• A unit of course credit is awarded to students who reach the performance level of Exceeds on an EOCT prior to taking a specific
EOCT course.
• Students have only one opportunity per course to test-out.
• At this time, a student may only earn up to three credits by testing-out.
• Students must meet the following requirements for earning course credit through testing-out:
• Not currently or previously enrolled in the course;
• Have earned a grade of B or better in a content area course that is the same content area of the course for which the student
is attempting the EOCT. For example, a student wishing to exempt 9th Grade Literature and Composition would need to have
earned a grade of B or better in either 7th or 8th Grade ELA;
• Received a teacher recommendation from a previous teacher in the same content area;
• Received parent/guardian permission.
• Students who do not reach the performance level of Exceeds when attempting to test-out must enroll in and complete the
associated course and retake the EOCT even if the students make a passing grade on the EOCT during the testing-out attempt.
• Students who are currently enrolled, or have previously been enrolled, in a higher-level course are not allowed to earn credit by
later attempting to test-out of a lower level course. For example, a student already taking AP Physics may not earn credit for
Physical Science by testing-out.
• Course credit of students who test-out of a course is reported in the same way as the course credit earned through completing
courses.
• Course credit earned by testing-out will not be utilized as part of the calculation of the student’s GPA for the HOPE Scholarship,
if the student is enrolled in grades 9-12. Course credit earned by testing-out will be utilized as part of the local GPA calculation,
regardless of grade level.
• Under NCAA requirements, units of credit earned through testing-out using the EOCT will not count as a core course credit for
athletic aid for any student seeking NCAA Division I or II athletic scholarships.
• Students who meet criteria for testing out and choose to take the EOCT will be required to pre-pay for the administration. The
cost is $50.
• The cost of the test for students who perform at the Exceeds level will be reimbursed, unless the student subsequently decides
to take the course.
• A student who Exceeds and then decides to take the course will be responsible for the entire cost of the test.
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Procedures for Awarding units of Credit for Dual Enrollment Courses
The Board shall award units of credit to students for high school courses taken through postsecondary institutions as described in the State Board of Education Rule 160-4-2-.34 Dual Enrollment.
• For students who participate in approved dual enrollment credit programs, the grades and amount of credit for each approved
course shall be placed on high school transcripts and shall be used in computing grade point averages for both class ranking
and HOPE eligibility.
• Dual enrollment courses will be given an additional .5 weighting for the purpose of calculating gpa for both class ranking and
HOPE eligibility.
• For each successfully completed, approved dual enrollment credit course, secondary credit shall be awarded toward state and
local high school graduation requirements based on the credit conversions below, regardless of the course location or school day
class schedule followed. Per approval from the State Board of Education in January 2010, the following new credit conversions
must be used and followed without local adjustments or requirements:
• Postsecondary semester hour credit shall be converted to high school unit credit as follows: 1 to 2 semester hours = .5 unit; 3 to
5 semester hours = 1 unit
• Postsecondary quarter hour credit shall be converted to high school unit credit as follows: 1 to 3 quarter hour credits = .5 unit; 4
to 8 quarter hour credits = 1 unit.
• Students are limited to 4 units of dual credit per semester and 8 units per year regardless of the combination of dual or regular
classes scheduled. One hour labs that are part of a class are not counted for dual credit at the high school level, just the college.
Joint enrollment is an arrangement whereby a high school student is enrolled in postsecondary coursework with an eligible postsecondary institution while continuing to pursue his or her high school diploma. Joint enrollment coursework earns post-secondary credit
only. High school credit cannot be given for joint enrollment courses.
BuS CONDuCT
Transportation service for students is a privilege, not a right. Students will be allowed to ride Gainesville City School’s buses as
long as they remain a student in good standing for that purpose. A student in good standing is one who follows the rules. Students are
responsible for maintaining good behavior while riding the school bus. Parents should remind their children to follow all the rules listed
below and to be a person of responsible character while riding to and from school, on field trips, or any other school-sponsored trip.
The school bus is considered school property; therefore, all rules that apply to school building also apply to school buses.
1. Students are to be at their designated stop in the morning at least five minutes before the bus is to arrive.
2. Students are expected to get off at their designated stop unless they have a note from a parent or legal Guardian stating that
they have permission to exit at a different stop.
3. Students are prohibited from using cell phones or other Electronic Communication Devices (ECD’s) while on school vehicles.
4. No excessive noise or rowdy behavior is permissible on the bus. Only normal conversation is allowed except when at railroad
crossing, red lights, and stop signs. At these times there shall be no talking.
5. A student shall immediately take his/her seat upon entering the bus and remain seated in that seat until the bus stops and it is
time to get off.
6. Head, hands and feet shall be kept inside the bus at all times.
7. Throwing any article inside the bus or at the bus is strictly prohibited.
8. Students must wait for the bus in an orderly manner a safe distance off the roadway. The bus shall come to a complete stop
before students move toward the bus. Students must not rush or walk between buses when loading or unloading.
9. Lighters, matches, or other igniting devices, as well as smoking on the bus are strictly prohibited.
10. Eating or drinking on the bus will not be allowed.
11. Student will not use profane or foul language at any time.
12. Students shall not deface or damage the bus (i.e., writing or painting inside or outside the bus). Any guilty of such acts will pay
the cost of repairs.
13. Students will not open the emergency door except for emergencies when instructed by the bus driver to do so.
14. Students who must cross the road after being discharged from the school bus must cross in front of the stopped school bus.
15. Students are strictly prohibited from acting or talking disrespectfully in any way to the bus driver.
16. Misconduct on buses near the end of the school year that cannot be dealt with during the remainder of the school year will carry
over the beginning of the school year.
17. For the safety and protection of riders and drivers, buses may be equipped with video cameras and audio capabilities. These
tapes may be used for identifying behavioral problems. These tapes are held for one school day only and then are taped over.
Videotapes will be reviewed only by district staff.
Because safety on the school bus affects many other students, the administration reserves the right to invoke a penalty more severe
than listed for the offense. This may include behaviors that threaten the safety of anyone else in the bus. Violations of the School Bus
Rider’s Rules will be dealt with as follows for grades PK-12:
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First Offense- The student is reported to the principal by the bus driver. The principal talks with the student and send written communication to the parent/legal guardian to be signed and returned to the principal. A copy of this communication is sent to the bus driver.
Second Offense- The principal again talks with student and sends written communication to the parent/legal guardian. The communication in part will warn the parent/legal guardian that another offense will deny the student of bus riding privileges from one to five days
(depending upon the nature of the offense). The communication is to be signed by the parent/legal guardian and returned to the principal. A copy is sent to the bus driver.
Third Offense- The parent/legal guardian is notified in writing that the bus riding privileges are suspended (from one day to ten days).
The communication is to be signed by the parent/legal guardian and returned to the principal. A copy is sent to the bus driver.
ADDITIONAL GuIDELINES
Parents/guardians are responsible for providing transportation for students suspended from riding the bus.
• Bus drivers are in complete charge at all times and are authorized to assign seats.
• Conversation with the driver or behavior distracting the driver by students during loading and unloading of buses should be
avoided. During this critical time complete concentration by the driver is required. Parents/guardians with concerns or complaints
that need to be addressed by the bus driver should contact the Director of Transportation, Jerry Castleberry at (770) 536-8312..
Under no circumstances should parents distract the driver by boarding the bus or complaining at the bus stop. Student safety
must be top priority during this time.
• Student conduct in school and on school buses may be videotaped with surveillance equipment. This equipment is installed for
the purpose of promoting a safe environment for students, personnel, passengers and drivers.
• Any action or disturbance that endangers the well-being of any student will be handled in accordance with the student discipline
section of this handbook.
• It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly disrupt or interfere with the operation of any public
school, public school bus, or public school bus stop as designated by local school boards of education. Any person violating this
Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature (OCGA 20-2-1181)
CHILD ABuSE AND NEGLECT – POLICY JGI
All employees of the Gainesville City School System, as well as persons who attend to a child pursuant to their duties as a volunteer for
the school system, who have reason or cause to believe that suspected child abuse has occurred shall notify the principal or the school
system’s designee, who shall report such abuse immediately, but in no case later than 24 hours from the time there is reasonable
cause to believe that suspected child abuse has occurred, in accordance with Georgia law and the protocol for handling child abuse
cases for Hall County, Georgia.
Under no circumstances shall the principal or designee to whom a report of child abuse has been made exercise any control, restraint,
modification or make any other change to the information provided by a mandated reporter, although the reporter may be consulted
prior to the making of a report and may provide any additional, relevant and necessary information when making the report.
CHRONIC DISCIPLINARY STuDENT ACT (O.C.G.A. 20-2-764
A chronic disciplinary problem student is a student who exhibits a pattern of behavioral characteristics which interfere with the learning
process of students around him or her and which are likely to recur. Georgia law mandates that any time a teacher or principal identifies
a student as a chronic disciplinary problem student, the principal shall notify by telephone call and by mail the student’s parent/guardian
of the disciplinary problem, invite the parent/guardian to observe the student in a classroom situation, and request at least one
parent/guardian to attend a conference to devise a disciplinary and behavioral correction plan. Georgia law also states that before any
chronic disciplinary problem student is permitted to return to school from a suspension or expulsion, the school shall request by telephone call and by mail, at least one parent/guardian to schedule and attend a conference to devise a disciplinary and behavioral correction plan. The law allows a local board of education to petition the juvenile court to require a parent/guardian to attend a school
conference. If the court finds that the parent /guardian has willfully and unreasonably failed to attend a conference requested by the
principal pursuant to the laws cited above, the court may order the parent/guardian to participate in such programs or such treatment as
the court deems appropriate to improve the student’s behavior, or both. After notice and opportunity for hearing, the court may impose a
fine, not to exceed $500.00, on a parent/guardian who willfully disobeys an order of the court under this law.
CLuBS AND ORGANIZATIONS FOR STuDENTS
All student clubs and organizations must follow guidelines and procedures governing the creation and operation of such clubs, organizations, and groups in accordance with the policies of the Gainesville City Board of Education. State law requires that parent/guardian
receive information regarding school clubs and organizations, such information must include the name of the club or organization, mission or purpose, name of the club’s faculty advisor, and a description of past or planned activities. On the parent/guardian signature
page the parent/guardian will have an opportunity to decline permission for his or her student to participate in a club or organization
designated by him or her.
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DISCIPLINE PROCEDuRES (PROGRESSIvE DISCIPLINE) – POLICY JCDA
When it is necessary to impose discipline, school administrators and teachers will follow an age appropriate progressive discipline
process. The degree of discipline to be imposed by each school official will be in proportion to the severity of the behavior of a particular
student and will take into account the student’s discipline history, the age of the student and other relevant factors.
The Code of Conduct provides a systematic process of behavioral correction in which inappropriate behaviors are followed by consequences. Disciplinary actions are designed to teach students self-discipline and to help them substitute inappropriate behaviors with
those that are consistent with the character traits from Georgia’s Character Education Program.
Major offenses including, but not limited to, drug and weapon offenses can lead to schools being named as an Unsafe School according to the provisions of State Board of Education Rule 160-4-8-.16 Unsafe School Choice Option. Parents and police will be notified in
every instance where the law is violated.
Tier I - Minor acts of misconduct are those that interfere with orderly school procedures, school functions, extracurricular programs,
approved transportation, or the student’s learning process. Students may be disciplined by the professional staff member involved or
may be referred directly to the administration.
Penalties for minor acts of misconduct include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Warning
• Conference with student
• Alternative seating
• Loss of recess or other free-choice activity
• Time out in classroom
• Time out in another classroom
• Isolation during lunch
• Conference with parent/guardian, teacher and/or administrator
• Practice of desired behavior
• Development of an action plan or contract
• Time out in the administrator’s office
• One day in-school suspension (ISS)
• Participation in the cleaning/repair of any damage caused to the school-related environment
• Detention
• Any other disciplinary technique that positively promotes the student Code of Conduct and desired character trait(s)
Tier 2 - Intermediate acts of misconduct require administrative intervention. These acts include, but are not limited to, repeated, unrelated acts of minor misconduct and misbehaviors directed against persons or property, but which do not seriously endanger the
health, safety or well-being of others. Consideration of necessary behavior support services should be given if not already provided.
Penalties for intermediate acts of misconduct include but are not limited to the following:
• Student participation in conference with parent/guardian, teacher, and/or administrator
• Restriction from school programs or other activities
• Time out in administrator’s office
• Up to three days out-of-school suspension
• Participation in the cleaning/repair of any damage caused to the school-related environment
• Financial restitution for the repair of any damage caused to the school-related environment
• Development of an action plan or contract
• Detention
• Change in Academic Setting
• Any other disciplinary technique that positively promotes the student code of conduct and desired character trait(s)
Tier 3- Serious acts of misconduct require administrative intervention and may require use of outside agencies and/or law enforcement. These offenses include, but are not limited to, repeated misbehavior that is similar in nature, serious disruptions of the school environment, threats to health, safety, or well-being of others, or property. Because serious acts of misconduct may result in placement in
a separate alternative educational program or expulsion, students have benefit of due process, such as the Disciplinary Tribunal, the
procedural safeguards and other requirements identified in the 1997 Federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and the Georgia
Board of Education’s Special Education Rules. Penalties for serious acts of misconduct include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Restriction from school programs and/or other activities
• Out-of-school suspension for up to ten days
• Participation in the cleaning/repair of any damage caused to the school-related environment
• Financial restitution for the repair of any damage caused to the school-related environment
• Change in Academic Setting
• Placement in a separate alternative educational program
• Expulsion
SEE HIGH SCHOOL CODE OF CONDuCT (ATTACHED)
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OFFENSES
CONSEQuENCES
Absences and/or truancy-unexcused (O.C.G.A 20-2-690.
• Excused absences are defined as
• Illness
• Death in immediate family
• Religious Holiday
• Instances in which attendance could be hazardous as
determined by Gainesville City School System
• Service as page in legislature
• Court Order
• Absence to vote in an election
• Up to five (5) days excused absences per year to students
where the parents are in the military and are being
deployed or on leave.
1. Penalty may range from warning and/or conference with student/parent/guardian to one to three days in-school suspension.
2. Academic dishonesty/misrepresenting self or others
2. Penalty may range from the student receiving a zero on the assignment and warning or conference with student/parent/guardian
to one to three days out-of-school suspension.
3. Assault on faculty or staff member Threatening bodily harm to faculty or staff member. This includes
threats that are verbal, written or implied.
3. Penalty may range from restriction from school programs and/or
other activities to expulsion.
4. Bullying (OCGA 20-2-751.4)An act which occurs on school property, on school vehicles, at
designated school bus stops, or at school related functions or activities, or by use of data or software that is accessed through a
computer, computer system, computer network, or other electric
technology of a local school system, that is:
1. Any willful attempt or threat to inflict injury on another person,
when accompanied by an apparent present ability to do so;
2. Any intentional display of force such as would give the victim
reason to fear or expect immediate bodily harm; or
3. Any intentional written, verbal, or physical act, which a reasonable person would perceive as being intended to threaten, harass,
or intimidate, that:
A. Causes another person substantial physical harm within the
meaning of Code Section 16-5-23-.1; or visible bodily harm as
such term is defined in Code Section 16-5-23-.1;
B. Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s education;
C. Is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment; or D. Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.
The term also applies to acts of cyberbullying which occur through
the use of electronic communication, whether or not electronic act
originated on school property or with school equipment, if the electronic communication (1) is directed specifically at students or
school personnel, (2) is maliciously intended for the purpose of
threatening the safety of those specified or substantially disrupting
the orderly operation of the school, and (3) creates a reasonable
fear of harm to the students' or school personnel's person or property or has a high likelihood of succeeding in that purpose. Electronic communication includes, but is not limited to, any transfer of
signs, signals, writings, images, sounds, data or intelligence of any
nature transmitted in whole or in part by a wire, radio, electromagnetic, photo electronic or photo optical system.
5. Bus Misbehavior
4. Penalty may range from restriction from school programs and/or
other activities to expulsion.
upon a finding that a student in grades 6-12 found by tribunal
to have committed the offense of bullying for the third time in
a school year, the student will be assigned to an alternative
school.
5. Penalty may range from warning and/or conference with student/parent/guardian, suspension of bus riding privileges (1-10
days) to expulsion. See Bus Conduct section above
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6. Computer Trespass
Unauthorized use of a computer or computer network including
deleting, obstructing, interrupting, altering, damaging, or in any
way causing the malfunction of the computer network, program(s)
or data as well as visiting inappropriate web sites.
6. Penalty may range from warning and/or conference with student/parent/guardian to out-of-school suspension.
7. Disturbance – Classroom
7. Penalty may range from warning and/or conference with student/parent/guardian to one to three days out-of-school suspension.
8. Disturbance
School Acts which cause substantial disruption of learning opportunities and/or threatens the safety or well being of other students
which may include pulling fire alarms, inciting disturbances,
threats, or actual violence during period of disruption.
8. Penalty may range from student participation in conference with
parent/guardian, teacher and/or administrator to expulsion.
9. Dress Code Violations
9. Penalty may range from warning and/or conference with student/parent/guardian to one-day in-school suspension.
10a. Drug Sell/Transmission/Solicitation –
No student shall sell/buy, attempt to sell/buy, intend to sell, transmit or distribute any legal or illegal drug in any form whatsoever,
including, but not limited to, any narcotic drug, inhalant, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, cocaine, marijuana, other
controlled substance, alcoholic beverage, anabolic steroid, intoxicant of any kind, vitamin, herbal supplement, any over-the-counter
pill, medication or similar substance, or any substance represented to be or reasonably appearing to be any type of drug, including alcohol. This rule shall be in effect at school or on school
property at any time, off school property at a school sponsored activity, function, or event, and en route to and from school.
10a. Penalty may range from restriction from school programs
and/or other activities to expulsion.
10b. Drug Possession/Use/Under the Influence –
No student shall possess, use or be under the influence of any
legal or illegal drug in any form whatsoever including, but not limited to, any narcotic drug, inhalants, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, cocaine, marijuana, other controlled substance,
alcoholic beverage, anabolic steroids, intoxicant of any kind, vitamins, herbal supplements, over-the-counter pills, medications or
similar substances, or any substance represented to be or reasonably appearing to be any type of drug, including alcohol. In addition, a student may not possess or use any drug-related
paraphernalia. This rule shall be in effect at school or on school
property at any time, off the school property at a school-sponsored
activity, function, or event, and en route to and from school. Possession and use of over-the-counter medications or medications
prescribed to the student by a doctor will not be considered a violation of this rule provided that all school and school district rules
and procedures are followed.
10c. Violations of the Medication Policy
11. Electronic communication devices
Students may possess cell phones and other similar devices on
school property as long as they adhere to the guidelines of Electronic Devices Use and Technology Resource Acceptable Use
policies.
12. Failure to accept administrative disciplinary action
10b. Penalty may range from restriction from school programs
and/or other activities to expulsion
10c. Penalty may range from restriction from school programs
and/or other activities to expulsion.
11. Penalty may range from administrative warning to out-ofschool suspension. Devices will be confiscated when in violation
of the guidelines.
12. Penalty may range from warning and/or conference with student to one to ten days out-of school suspension.
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13. False Reporting and Statements.
Students are prohibited against falsifying, misrepresenting, omitting or erroneously reporting information regarding instances of alleged inappropriate behavior by a teacher, administrator, or other
school employee.
13. Penalty may range from a warning, suspension, or a recommendation for a disciplinary tribunal hearing which may result in
long-term suspension or expulsion.
14. Gambling on school property, at a school function or on property used by the school with permission of the owner.
14. Penalty may range from student participation in conference
with parent/guardian, teacher and/or administrator to one to ten
days out-of-school suspension.
15. Gang-related activity
A gang member is a person who is part of an association of three
or more people, associated for common purpose, which engages,
individually or collectively, in illegal behavior. Gang-related activity
includes, but is not limited to, communication of gang affiliation
through hand sign flashing, wearing of clothing articles in a certain
way or color scheme, jewelry, tattoos, gang signs, symbols or graffiti on personal items, vandalism of public or private property and
acts of intimidation, threats, fighting or other forms of violence
16. Harassment
Any act of harassment based upon race, color, religion, national origin,
disability and gender (including sexual orientation and gender identity).
This includes, but is not limited to, sexual harassment as used in connection with Title IX of the education amendments of 1972.
17. Off Campus Misconduct and Criminal Law Violations
Any off campus behavior of a student which could result in the student being criminally charged with a felony and which makes the
student’s continued presence at school a potential danger to persons or property at the school or which disrupts the educational
process. This includes any such conduct outside of school hours
or away from school that shows disrespect to school personnel or
which endangers the health, safety, morals, or well-being of other
students, teachers, or employees within the school system (such
as, theft or vandalism to property of a school employee).
18a. Physical Violence (O.C.G.A. 20-2-751.6)- A student shall not
commit an act of physical violence against a teacher, school bus
driver, or other school official or employee either by
(1) Intentionally making physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with the person of another, or
(2) Intentionally making physical contact that causes physical
harm to another unless such physical contacts or physical harms
were in defense of himself or herself.
15. Penalty may range from restriction from school programs
and/or other activities to expulsion.
16. Penalty may range from student participation in conference
with parent/guardian, teacher and/or administrator to one to ten
days out-of-school suspension.
17. Penalty may range from student participation in conference
with parent/guardian, teacher and/or administrator to expulsion.
18a. (1) Immediate suspension with disciplinary tribunal hearing.
Possible recommendation for expulsion.
18a. (2) Immediate suspension with disciplinary tribunal hearing.
Possible recommendation for expulsion for the remainder of the
student’s eligibility to attend public school.
18b. Violence
A student shall not commit an act of physical violence against another student. Offenses include physical violence, i.e., assault,
battery, hazing, and fighting.
18b. Penalty may range from short-term suspension to recommendation for a disciplinary tribunal hearing that may result in
long-term suspension or expulsion.
19. Profanity
Use of vulgar or obscene words, gestures, or other actions, which
disrupt school system operations or show disrespect to school
personnel during and after school hours
19. Penalty may range from warning and/or conference with student/parent/guardian to up to three days in-school suspension.
20. Property
Willful or malicious damage of and/or threats to destroy or damage
school, public, private property which may include such actions as
the use of or threat of bombs, explosive devices, setting fires, firecrackers, homemade bombs, and/or the deliberate and serious
destruction or defacement of school property or property used by
the school with the permission of the owner
20. Penalty may range from warning and/or conference with student/parent/guardian to up to three days in-school suspension to
placement in alternative school.
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21. Repeated violations/misbehavior
21. Penalty may range from restriction from school programs
and/or other activities to expulsion.
22. Rude and/or disrespectful behavior and/or refusal to carry out
instructions of faculty or staff.
22. Penalty may range from warning and/or conference with student to one to three days out-of-school suspension.
23. Sexual improprieties
Inappropriate bodily contact Commission of an act of sexual contact
or indecent exposure, or inappropriate public displays of affection.
23. Penalty may range from warning and/or conference with student/parent/guardian to expulsion.
24. Tardiness – Chronic
24. Penalty may range from warning and/or conference with student/ parent/guardian to one-day in-school suspension.
25. Theft/Larceny
Unlawful taking, carrying, leading, or riding away of property of another person.
25. Penalty may range from student participation in conference
with parent/guardian, teacher and/or administrator to one to ten
days out-of-school suspension
26. Threats or intimidation of another student(s), written, verbal or
implied, but not involving actual physical contact.
26. Penalty may range from student participation in conference
with parent/guardian, teacher and/or administrator to one to ten
days out-of-school suspension.
27. Tobacco and/or paraphernalia
Possession or use: Includes smoking tobacco, chewing tobacco or
snuff, e-cigarettes, hookas, and other similar item
27. Penalty may range from student participation in conference
with parent/guardian, teacher and/or administrator to one to ten
days out-of-school suspension.
28. Vandalism and misuse of equipment
Destruction, or defacement of public or private property located on
school premises or at a school function or on property used by the
school with the permission of the owner, or inciting, advising or
counseling of others to engage in prohibited acts such as marking,
defacing or destroying school property
28. Penalty may range from warning and/or conference with student/parent/guardian to one to ten days out-of-school suspension.
29. Weapons
A student shall not supply, possess, handle, use or transmit a dangerous instrument, weapon, or any object which can be reasonably considered a weapon on school property, on his/her way to
and from school, or at any school function or activity, or at any
school-related activity or event away from school.
Weapon means and includes any handgun, firearm, rifle, shotgun
or similar weapon; any explosive compound or incendiary device;
or, any other dangerous weapon as defined in O.C.G.A. § 16-11121, including a rocket launcher, bazooka, recoilless rifle, mortar,
or hand grenade.
Hazardous objects include any dirk, bowie knife, switchblade
knife, ballistic knife, any other knife having a blade of two or more
inches, straight-edge razor, razor blade, spring stick, knuckles,
whether made from metal, thermoplastic, wood, or other similar
material, blackjack, any bat, club, or other bludgeon-type weapon,
or any flailing instrument consisting of two or more rigid parts connected in such a manner as to allow them to swing freely, which
may be known as a nun chahka, nun chuck, nunchaku, shuriken,
or fighting chain, or any disc, of whatever configuration, having at
least two points or pointed blades which is designed to be thrown
or propelled and which may be known as a throwing star or oriental dart, or any instrument of like kind, any nonlethal air gun, and
any stun gun or taser. Such term shall not include any of these instruments used for classroom work authorized by the teacher.
29. Students who possess any weapon described in #1 in violation
of this policy will be subject to a minimum of a one calendar year
expulsion. The Superintendent shall have the authority either before or after
the student is referred for a tribunal hearing to reduce the mandated one year expulsion under circumstances where the one
year expulsion appears excessive to the superintendent.
The tribunal shall also have the authority to modify such expulsion
requirement on a case-by-case basis in determining the appropriate punishment.
Finally, in any tribunal decision appealed to the board of education, the board may reduce the mandated punishment but shall
consider whether the superintendent and/or tribunal considered a
reduction and any rationale in denying such a reduction.
Students who possess other weapons or hazardous objects as described in # 2 will be subject to discipline that may range from restriction from school programs and/or other activities to expulsion.
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Electronic Devices use Policy – POLICY JCDAF
Use of personal electronic devices and other electronic media during the regular school day must be in support of and consistent with
the vision, mission, and goals established by the Gainesville City Board of Education. All personal electronic devices on Board property
or used during a school sponsored activity are subject to the Technology Resources Acceptable Use Policy IFBG.
Students may be permitted to use their personal electronic devices for instructional purposes and to access the District provided network/internet. Students must follow all directions given by school personnel in regards to using personal devices.
Only a student whose parent or legal guardian has completed and returned a “Permission Form for Personal Electronic Devices” shall
be allowed to use an electronic device on Board property. The form is to be completed yearly.
Students shall be personally and solely responsible for the maintenance, support, and security of their personal electronic device. All
personal laptops are required to have updated virus protection and the latest security patches to the operating system and browser
prior to connecting to the network. Neither the district nor staff shall assume responsibility or liability for the theft, loss, or damage to
personal devices, nor is responsibility for the unauthorized use of any device assumed.
While on Board property, students are not permitted to use their own personal Wi-Fi, data plans or other types of Internet access provided by Internet service providers/carriers that is not provided by the Board of Education. All Internet access will be filtered.
No student shall photograph, videotape, record, or reproduce, via any audio or video means, another student or staff member on Board
property without the expressed prior permission of a teacher or administrator. Students shall not disrupt instruction with ringtones,
music, or sound effects.
No student shall have a personal electronic device in their possession during district-wide assessments or state testing. Personal devices must be turned off completely (not simply on silent or vibrate mode) and turned into a teacher or testing proctor.
Electronic resources provided by the district may be limited. When demand for these resources exceeds available capacity, priorities for
their use will be established and enforced. Authorized staff members may set and change the priorities for these resources. The highest
priority for use district electronic resources will include uses that support the educational and business mission of the school system,
purchased services, and online testing.
There can be no expectation that electrical power will be made available for student-owned devices. Therefore, it is recommended that
personal technology is charged prior to school. Printing from personal devices will not be available at school.
Students shall be permitted to use electronic devices during the operation of a school bus, including but not limited to cellular phones,
MP3 players, and iPods, provided that the safety of staff members and other bus riders is not jeopardized.
School staff may confiscate personal electronic devices and school administrators may search the device if inappropriate activities are
suspected.
Students who do not comply with this regulation or any supporting directives related to the use of personal electronic devices will be
subject to appropriate disciplinary action. The school district reserves the right to change or deny the use of personal electronic devices
of students who do not comply with procedures.
EMAIL COMMuNICATION BY TEACHERS
Teachers will respond to parent/guardian email correspondence during planning times and at the end of the school day. During instructional times, teachers will not be able to read or respond to email.
EQuAL EDuCATIONAL OPPORTuNITIES – POLICY JAA
The Gainesville City School System does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability or gender in employment decisions or educational programs and activities, including its athletic programs. Any student, employee, applicant for employment, parent or other individual who believes he or she has been subjected to harassment or discrimination by other students or
employees of the school district based upon any of the factors previously listed should promptly report the same to the principal of the
school or the appropriate coordinator as listed below, who will implement the board’s discriminatory complaints or harassment procedures. Students may also report harassment or discrimination to their school counselor.
Title vI, Section 504, and Americans with Disabilities Act - Mrs. Sarah Bell, Chief Academic Officer– 508 Oak Street Gainesville,
GA 30501, 770-536-5275, Ext 5136
Title IX – Mrs. Priscilla Collins, Chief Professional Services Officer –508 Oak Street Gainesville, GA 30501, 770-536-5275 Ext 5127
Students and employees will not be subjected to retaliation for reporting such harassment or discrimination. A copy of the discriminatory
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complaints procedure under Gainesville City Board of Education Policy JAA/GAAA (Equal Opportunity/Discriminatory Complaints Procedure) or under Policy IDFA (Gender Equity in Sports) is located on the Gainesville City Board of Education Web site at
www.gcssk12.net – Quick Links-Board of Education.
Any student, parent, or other person who believes he or she or any student has been discriminated against or harassed in violation of
this policy must make a complaint in accordance with the procedures outlined below.
COMPLAINTS PROCEDuRE Complaints made to the School System regarding alleged discrimination or harassment on the basis of
race, color or national origin in violation of Title VI, on the basis of sex in violation of Title IX or on the basis of disability in violation of
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 or the Americans With Disabilities Act will be processed in accordance with the following
procedure:
1. Any student, employee, applicant for employment, parent or other person with a complaint alleging a violation as described
above shall promptly notify, in writing or orally, either the principal for his/her school or the appropriate coordinator designated
from time to time by the Board of Education or by the principal. If the complaint is oral, either the coordinator or school principal
to whom the complaint is made shall promptly prepare a memorandum or written statement of the complaint as made to him or
her by the complainant and shall have the complainant read and sign the memorandum or statement if it accurately reflects the
complaint made. If the complaint is made to a school principal, he or she shall be responsible for notifying the appropriate
coordinator of the complaint.
2. If the alleged offending individual is the coordinator or the principal, the complaint shall either be made by the complainant to the
Superintendent or, if the complaint is initially made to the school principal, reported by the principal to the Superintendent. If the
alleged offending individual is the Superintendent, the complaint shall be made to the designated coordinator, who shall, without
further investigation, report the complaint to the Board chairperson.
3. The coordinator or his or her designee shall have fifteen work days to gather all information relevant to the complaint made,
review the information, determine the facts relating to the complaint, review the action requested by the complainant, and
attempt to resolve the complaint with the complainant and any other persons involved. The coordinator or designee shall prepare
a written response to the complaint detailing any action to be taken in response to the complaint and the time frame in which
such action will be taken and copies of this response shall be furnished to the complainant, the appropriate coordinator and the
Superintendent or his or her designee.
4. If the complaint is not resolved at the conclusion of this fifteen-day period or if the complainant is not satisfied with the resolution
of the complaint, the complainant shall have the right, within five work days of receiving a copy of the written response, to have
the complaint referred to the Superintendent of Schools. If the alleged offending individual is the Superintendent, the complainant
may have the complaint referred to the Board of Education, rather than the Superintendent.
5. The Superintendent shall have fifteen workdays to review the complaint and the response of the coordinator or designee and
attempt to resolve the complaint. The Superintendent shall furnish to the complainant a written response setting forth either his
or her approval of the action recommended by the coordinator or designee or the action to be taken by the system in response to
the complaint in lieu of that recommended by the coordinator or designee and the time frame in which such action shall be taken.
6. This policy is not intended to deprive any student or parent of any right they may have to file a grievance pursuant to any other
policy of the local Board of Education, or to contact the Office of Civil Rights or other appropriate state or federal agency with
regard to any allegations that the School District has violated the statues described above. The school system shall be
responsible for distributing and disseminating information relevant to this policy and procedure to students, applicants for
employment and employees through appropriate procedures.
7. No reprisal shall occur as a result of reporting unlawful discrimination or harassment under this policy, and any attempt to
retaliate against a complainant shall be disciplined as is appropriate.
8. The confidentiality of any individual making a complaint or report in accordance with this policy, to the extent it is reasonably
possible, shall be protected, although the discovery of the truth and the elimination of unlawful harassment shall be the
overriding consideration.
GRADING
Grading System for Grades 9-12
A – 90-100
B – 80-89
C – 70-79
F – Below 70
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GRADuATION EXERCISE PARTICIPATION
Participation in the graduation ceremonies is a privilege. The student must have completed all state and local requirements for a
diploma to be allowed to participate in graduation ceremonies. In addition, the student must maintain good conduct and be in good
standing with the school by not having any outstanding obligations. Students suspended, expelled, or placed at the Alternative
School through the second semester of their senior year will not be allowed to participate in any school-sponsored activities, including the prom, baccalaureate or graduation ceremonies.
GRADuATION REQuIREMENTS – POLICY IHF
All students enrolling in the ninth grade for the first time in the 2008-2009 school year and subsequent years will receive a general
high school diploma. The diploma will be awarded to students who have satisfied attendance, course/credit, and state assessment
requirements.
units
Areas of Study Required
English/Lang. Arts
4
Mathematics
4
Science
4
(The 4th science unit may be used to meet both the science and an elective requirement.)
Social Studies
3
Modern/Classical Language
3
and/or CTAE and/or Fine Arts
Health and Physical Education
1
JROTC (3 units to meet the personal fitness/health requirement)
Electives
4
Total units (minimum)
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HARASSMENT – POLICY JCAC
It is the policy of the Gainesville Board of Education to prohibit any act of harassment of students by other students or employees based
upon race, color, national origin, sex, or disability at all times and during all occasions while at school, in the workplace or at any school
event or activity. Any such act by a student or employee shall result in prompt and appropriate discipline, including the possible termination of employment or suspension or expulsion of the student. Sexual harassment may include conduct or speech which entails unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, taunts, threats, comments of a vulgar or demeaning nature, demands or physical
contact which creates a hostile environment. There may be other speech or conduct which employees or students experience as inappropriate or illegal harassment which should also be reported; harassment can take many forms and it is not possible to itemize every
aspect of the harassment forbidden by this policy.
Any student, parent, employee, or other individual believes that a student has been subjected to harassment or discrimination by other
students or employees of the School District as prohibited by this policy should promptly report the same directly to a principal of their
school or to the appropriate coordinator designated in policy JAA, who will implement the board's discriminatory complaints procedures
as specified in that policy. Students may also report harassment or discrimination to their school counselor or any administrator. Students and employees will not be subjected to retaliation for reporting such harassment or discrimination. If at any point in the investigation of reported sexual harassment of a student, the coordinator or designee determines that the reported harassment of a student
should more properly be termed abuse, the reported incident or situation shall be referred pursuant to the established protocol for child
abuse investigation. It is the duty of all employees to promptly report harassment forbidden by this policy. All supervisors will instruct their subordinates as to
the content of this policy and, through appropriate professional learning activities, enlighten employees as to the varied forms or expression of prohibited harassment. The principals of all schools shall ensure that students and parents are informed through student handbooks and verbally that such harassment is strictly forbidden, how it is to be reported and the consequences for violating this policy.
HOSPITAL/HOMEBOuND SERvICES
Rule 160-4-2-.31
Hospital/Homebound (HHB) services are designed to provide continuity of educational services between the classroom and home or
hospital for students in Georgia public schools whose medical needs, either physical or psychiatric, do not allow them to attend school
for a limited period of time. HHB instruction may be used to supplement the classroom program for students with health impairments
whose conditions may interfere with regular school attendance (e.g., students receiving dialysis or radiation/chemotherapy or students
with other serious health conditions). Students must be enrolled in a public school in Georgia in order to receive HHB services.
HHB services are not intended to supplant regular school services and are by design temporary. The student must anticipate being absent from school for a minimum of ten consecutive or intermittent school days due to a medical or psychiatric condition. The student’s
inability to attend school for medical or psychiatric reasons must be certified by the licensed physician or licensed psychiatrist who is
currently treating the student for the diagnosis presented.
Hospital/Homebound Services Program Overview For more information, contact Jarod Anderson at [email protected]
or 770.536.5275
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INTERNET ACCEPTABLE uSE POLICY IFBG
The Gainesville City School System is pleased to provide our students with electronic resources for the purpose of supporting the
school system and its educational mission. To gain access to the Internet, all students under the age of 18 must obtain parental permission by signing and returning an Acceptable Use form to the school. The policy establishes the boundaries of “acceptable use” of these
limited electronic resources, including computers, networks, email and other electronic information and services. Authorized users of
these electronic resources assume personal responsibility for their appropriate use and agree to comply with this policy, other related
school policies, and state and federal laws and regulations. The Policy on Acceptable Use of Electronic Resources applies to all users
of the school system’s network or equipment.
Acceptable Use of Electronic Resources by Staff Members
Staff shall not send, create, post, or access material that is obscene, pornographic, harmful to minors, abusive, damaging to another
person’s reputation, threatening or demeaning to another person, illegal, inappropriate for educational purposes.
Email accounts are provided to employees for educational purposes. School email should not be used for commercial activities, profit
making, chain letters, political or religious causes or promoting causes unrelated to supporting the vision, mission, goals, or objectives
of the Gainesville City School System. Such uses are a violation of policy with regard to employee time commitments and use of VCS
equipment. All emails are subject to monitoring and public disclosure.
Teacher Web Pages and Internet Resources
The Gainesville City School System supports and provides training to teachers on creating classroom websites for expanding the learning environment for their students.
When using the Internet for class activities, teachers will:
• Select material that is appropriate in light of the age of the students and that is relevant to the course objectives.
• Preview the materials and sites they require students to access in order to determine the appropriateness of the material
contained on or accessed through the site.
• Provide guidelines and lists of resources to assist their students in channeling their research activities effectively and properly.
• Assist their students in developing the skills to ascertain the truthfulness of information, distinguish fact from opinion, and engage
in discussions about controversial issues while demonstrating tolerance and respect for those who hold divergent views.
INTERPRETERS FOR TRANSLATIONS
Interpreters are available for Spanish speaking parents. Additionally, all communication from school is sent in English and Spanish
PARENT CENTER
A Parent Center is available at each school. It is designed to assist parents with academic support for their child. Various literacy and
math related items are available for parent check-out.
PROMOTION AND RETENTION – POLICY IHE
The Gainesville City Board of Education endorses the concept that a student's success in school depends to a great extent upon the
cooperation between home and school. The Board believes its primary function is to provide students a quality educational opportunity.
It is the responsibility of the school, home, community and the individual learner to take full advantage of that educational
opportunity. Although the Gainesville City Board of Education strongly believes that students should continue to advance to the next
grade level annually, promotion is based primarily on student achievement and is not an automatic process. It is recognized that under
certain circumstances retention or placement may be required for some students. 1. Definitions consistent with those contained in State Board Rule 160-4-2.11 Promotion, Placement and Retention.
2. Students shall be tested in accordance with requirements specified in State Board Rule 160-3-1-.07 Testing Programs-Student
Assessment.
3. The decision to retain a student in grade K, 1, 2, 4, 6, or 7 (and for students in grades 3, 5, and 8 in years when reliance on
state-adopted assessments has been waived) shall be made by a school level committee appointed by the principal and shall be
based on the student's achievement with consideration of state-mandated assessments, attendance, ability, age, motivation and
development. Parents will be invited for a conference regarding the decision to retain their student.
4. The parent/guardian or the teacher(s) may appeal the decision to retain a student. A Placement Committee, comprised of the
parent or guardian, the teacher(s), and the principal or designee, will hear appeals. The Placement Committee will review the
overall academic achievement of the student in light of the performance on standardized assessments and/or classroom
measures. The decision to place students in the next grade in response to an appeal must be made unanimously by the
Placement Committee.
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• Grades 9-12: Promotion is based on the number of units for which a student has credit toward graduation as follows:
9th to 10th grade
5 units
10th to 11th grade
11 units
11th to 12th grade
19 units
To graduate
23 units
Graduation requirements are specified in the local boards graduation policy in accordance with the appropriate State Board Rule. Parents or guardians shall be notified annually that placement or promotion of a student into a grade, class, or program will be based on
the academic achievement of the student on criterion-referenced assessments and other criteria established by the Board. There shall
be no appeal of promotion/retention decisions beyond the school level.
SCHOOL NuTRITION INFORMATION
Children need healthy meals to learn. Gainesville City Schools offers healthy meals every day. Gainesville City Schools participates in
the Provision 2 Breakfast and Lunch program, which is a program that provides breakfast and lunch to students at no charge. For students who bring their lunch, milk may be purchased for $0.35. Adults and visitors may purchase meals from the cafeteria at the cost of
$1.50 for breakfast and $2.75 for lunch. Contact School Nutrition Director Penny Fowler at [email protected] or 770-532-5481
for additional information.
SCHOOL SAFETY
Asbestos Management Plan During the spring of 1997 an asbestos inspection of Gainesville City Schools took place through the combined efforts of Pioneer RESA and the Gainesville City School System. Based on this inspection, a management plan was written and
submitted to the State Department of Education. This plan will be available for public inspection at the superintendent’s office. It contains the following:
1) Location, amounts and types of asbestos contained materials in all schools and support buildings;
2) Response actions to the asbestos contained materials selected by the City School System; 3) Plans for re-inspection, periodic surveillance and operation and maintenance programs; and
4) Public notification procedures. Anyone interested in reviewing this plan, please contact the Gainesville City School Superintendent’s
office at 770-536-5272.
Disruption of Public Schools (O.C.G.A. 20-2-1181) It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly disrupt
or interfere with the operation of any public school, public school bus, or public school bus stop as designated by local school boards of
education. Any person violating this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature.
Emergency Preparedness Plan/Emergency Drills The Georgia Emergency Management Agency reviews and approves the school
system’s comprehensive School Safety Plan and each school’s Emergency Preparedness Plan. These plans are coordinated with
county, state, and federal emergency plans. Fire/evacuation drills will be held on a monthly basis. In addition, drills for severe weather,
lockdown of the school, and bus evacuation will be held at least once each year. Parents/guardians should remind their children that
during emergency drill students must respond quietly and quickly and must follow the direction given by their teachers and administrators.
Failure to Leave Campus (O.C.G.A. 16-22-35) Any person who fails to leave the premises when requested to leave any school property and/or returns to any school property after instructed by school staff or law enforcement to leave the property, they are considered
trespassing and faces criminal prosecution of a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature.
Loitering on School Property (O.C.G.A. 20-2-1180) It is unlawful for any person to remain within the school safety zone when that
person does not have a legitimate cause or need to be present thereon. Students are not allowed to enter the premises of a school
other than his/her school unless prior permission is received from an administrator of the school to be visited or unless the school is
hosting a school-related function, such as an academic or athletic activity. A student may not enter or remain in any school building on
weekends or after school hours without authorization or permission.
School Resource Officer (SRO) The Gainesville City Board of Education and Gainesville Police Department employ school resource
officers jointly. Their main purpose is to assist in providing a safe and secure learning environment for students, teachers and staff.
They are an excellent resource for teachers, parents/guardians and students in dealing with individual problems or questions with respect to delinquency prevention and the law. Consistent with board policy and legal requirements, school resource officers also provide
law enforcement support when needed.
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SEARCH OF A STuDENT BY AuTHORITIES
School officials may search a student if there is reasonable suspicion that the student is in possession of an item that is illegal or
against school rules. Student book-bags, school lockers, desks, and any other school property, is subject to inspection and search by
school authorities at any time without further notice to students or parents. Students are required to cooperate if asked to open bookbags or lockers. Metal detectors and drug or weapon sniffing dogs may be utilized at school or at any school function, including activities that occur outside of school hours or off the school campus, at the discretion of administrators.
SECTION 504
Any student or parent or guardian (“grievant”) may request an impartial hearing due to the school system’s actions or inactions regarding your child’s identification, evaluation, or educational placement under Section 504. Requests for an impartial hearing must be in
writing to the school system’s Section 504 Coordinator; however, a grievant’s failure to request a hearing in writing does not alleviate
the school system’s obligation to provide an impartial hearing if the grievant orally requests an impartial hearing through the school system’s Section 504 Coordinator.
The school system’s Section 504 Coordinator will assist the grievant in completing the written Request for Hearing. The Section 504
Coordinator may be contacted through the school system’s central office located at 508 Oak Street. Copies of the 504 Procedural Safeguards and Notice of Rights of Students and Parents Under Section 504 may be found at the system website or may be picked up at
the central office or at any of the school offices.
SECLuSION AND RESTRAINT – POLICY JCF (2)
The District complies with state requirements related to restraint and seclusion as set out in Georgia SBOE Rule 160-5-1-.35. Consistent with that rule, physical restraint will be used only in situations in which the student is in immediate danger to himself/herself or others and the student is not responsive to verbal directives or other less intensive de-escalation techniques. A parent or guardian will be
notified in writing each time their student has been restrained. The District maintains written policies and procedures governing the use
of restraint.
STuDENT HEALTH SERvICES INFORMATION – POLICY JGC
The Board of Education, in order to implement the requirements of Official Code of Georgia 20-2-771.2, established a school health
nurse program for the system.
The program will be staffed by licensed health care professionals and others whose duties will be set forth in job descriptions to be prepared by the Superintendent or designee, and may include offsite consultation with health professionals through appropriate protocols
or contracts.
STuDENT EMERGENCY/SAFETY INFORMATION
Please make corrections, sign and return your student’s Emergency Safety Card. This information must be updated annually to enable
us to contact you in case of an emergency. If any phone numbers or contact information changes, please notify the school immediately.
STuDENT ILLNESS /INJuRY
The main reasons for keeping your student home from school are that he/she is too sick to participate comfortably at school or might
spread a contagious disease to other students. If your student has been diagnosed with a contagious disease, please contact the clinic
so other student’s parents and school staff may be alerted of the symptoms.
Reasons Your Child will be Sent Home from School
• Fever >100.4 degrees F * Student should stay home until there is NO FEVER for 24 hours WITHOUT MEDICATION. Call your
doctor if the fever is with pain, rash, weakness, vomiting or diarrhea. (*Based on CDC Recommendations)
• vomiting or Diarrhea Student should stay home with ONE event of vomiting or watery diarrhea. Call your doctor if vomiting or
diarrhea continues or with fever, rash, or weakness. Student needs to be without symptoms for 24 hours before returning to
school.
• Drainage from a wound, rash or eyes Student should stay home with drainage from a wound, rash, or eyes. Call your doctor
for treatment, and to rule out the possibility that the student is contagious to others.
• Head Lice or Scabies Head Lice - student should stay home until after treatment is complete and student has no live lice.
Contact the health department or your doctor for treatment for scabies. A note from the doctor stating that the student has been
treated and may return to school is required.
• unexplained Rash Student should stay home with an unexplained rash with or without fever. Call your doctor for treatment.
Your student may not return to school until they have been fever-free and symptom-free for ONE FULL school day
• When there is doubt in your mind about sending your student to school, consult your doctor. Your school nurse or principal may
ask for a “Release to Return to School” from your doctor before returning to school. Please make sure that your student’s school
knows how to reach you during the day.
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Insurance is available for protection of the child in the event of an accident at school. Information about the insurance program is sent
the first day of school. Contact the school office if you have not received an application. Claim forms can also be obtained from the
school office
Student Medication Administration
The Gainesville City School’s Medication Policy is available on the website e-Board under Policies and will be followed for all medications given at school.
• The parent or legal guardian must complete and sign the School Medication Authorization for ALL medications given at school.
For prescription medications, a duly-licensed, Georgia physician must also complete and sign the School Medication
Authorization available from your school nurse.
• A parent/legal guardian or other designated adult must bring all medications, accompanied by the School Medication
Authorization to the school clinic unless special permission is given by the principal or school nurse.
• All over-the-counter and/or prescription medications must be in their original containers with unexpired dates and labeled in
English. Prescription medications must be clearly labeled with the physician’s name, medication’s name, strength, dosage, date,
time for administration, and dispensing pharmacy. Parent/Guardian must provide over-the-counter medications to the clinic.
If your student has a life-threatening condition (i.e. asthma, diabetes, or severe allergy), permission may be granted to carry the
medication (such as inhaler, glucose tablet, epinephrine injector, etc) on his or her person from the student’s physician and
parent/guardian on the School Medication Authorization.
STuDENT RECORDS
It is the policy of Gainesville City Schools that all employees shall comply with the requirements of the Family Educational Rights and
Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Pupil Protection Rights Amendment (PPRA). The Superintendent shall implement procedures whereby
every principal is directed to develop a means to notify, on an annual basis, students and parents, including non-English-speaking parents, of their rights under the FERPA and the PPRA, either by letter or through a student handbook distributed to each student in the
school. FAMILY EDuCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIvACY ACT (FERPA) AND PROTECTION OF PuPIL RIGHTS AMENDMENT (PPRA)
NOTICE TO PARENTS/GuARDIANS AND ELIGIBLE STuDENTS
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, within 45 days of a request, the education records of a student who is your child, or in the case of a
student who is eighteen (18) or older, your own education records. Parents or eligible students should submit to the Superintendent a
written request identifying the record(s) they wish to inspect. The Superintendent or designee will make arrangements for access and
provide notice of such arrangements.
(2) The right to request the amendment of the student's education records to ensure that they are not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student's privacy or other rights. To request the school district to amend a record, parents or eligible students
should write the school principal, specify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy or other rights. If the district decides not to amend the record, it will notify the parents or eligible students of the decision and inform them of their right to a hearing. Additional information regarding the hearing procedure will be
provided with the notification of the right to a hearing.
(3) The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information (PII) from the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA and its implementing regulations authorize disclosure without consent. One exception that permits disclosure without
consent is to school officials with legitimate educational interest. A school official is a person employed by the district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including school nurses and school resource officers); a members of the Board of
Education acting as a collective group; a person or company with whom the district has contracted to perform a specific task (such as
attorney, auditor, medical consultant, therapist, or online educational services provider); a contractor, consultant, volunteer, or other
party to whom the school district has outsourced services, such as electronic data storage; 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/her tasks. The District allows school officials to access only student records in which they have a legitimate educational interest. School officials remain under
the district’s control with regard to the use and maintenance of PII, which may be used only for the purpose for which disclosure was
made, and cannot be released to other parties without authorization.
A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an educational record in order to fulfill his/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.
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(4) FERPA requires the school district, with certain exceptions, to obtain written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable
information from the student’s education records. However, the district may disclose appropriate designated “directory information”
without written consent, unless the parent or eligible student has advised the district to the contrary in accordance with district procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the school to include this type of information from the student’s education records in certain school publications, such as the annual yearbook, graduation or sports activity programs, and honor roll or other
recognition lists. The School District has designated the following information as directory information:
(a) Student’s name
(b) Student’s participation in official school activities and sports;
(c) Weight and height of members of an athletic team;
(d) Dates of attendance at schools within the district;
(e) Honors and awards received during the time enrolled in district schools
(f) Photograph; and
(g) Grade level.
Unless you, as a parent/guardian or eligible student, request otherwise, this information may be disclosed to the public upon
request. In addition, two federal laws require school systems receiving federal financial assistance to provide military recruiters, upon
request, with students’ names, addresses, and telephone numbers unless parents have advised the school system that they do not
want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent. You have the right to refuse to allow all or any part of the
above information to be designated as directory information and to refuse to allow it to be disclosed to the public upon request without
your prior written consent. If you wish to exercise this right, you must notify the principal of the school at which the student is enrolled in
writing within 5 days after officially enrolling in school or within 5 days of the date of the release of this notice.
(5) You are also notified that from time to time students may be photographed, video -taped, or interviewed by the news media at school
or some school activity or event; unless you, as a parent/guardian object in writing to the principal to your student being photographed,
video- taped or interviewed. You must notify the principal of your objection by the date specified above. The principal will take reasonable steps to control the media’s access to students. However, your submission of a written objection does not constitute a guarantee
that your student will not be interviewed in circumstances which are not within the knowledge or control of the principal.
(6) You have the right to file with the United States Department of Education a complaint concerning alleged failures by the school district to comply with the requirements of FERPA or the regulations promulgated there under. The name and address of the Office that
administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C.
20202.
PROTECTION OF PuPIL RIGHTS AMENDMENT (PPRA)
PPRA affords parents and eligible students (18 or older or emancipated minors) certain rights regarding the 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.
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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 Shearing, 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.
Parents and eligible students will be notified at the beginning of the school year if the school district has identified the specific or approximate dates during the school year when any of the activities listed above are expected to be scheduled. For surveys and activities
scheduled after the school year starts, parents will be provided reasonable notification of the planned activities and surveys and be provided an opportunity to opt their child out of such activities and surveys. The Board of Education has developed and adopted policies, in
conjunction 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 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 school is required by federal law to give this notice to parents. However, the school does not have scheduled any such activities as
are described above. If any such activities are initiated during the school year, parents will be notified accordingly and will be afforded
all the rights described herein.
Parents who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with the Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of
Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20202.
STuDENT REMOvAL FROM CLASS
A teacher may remove or refer to the principal or designee a student from class if the student has exhibited behavior that repeatedly or
substantially interferes with the teacher's ability to teach students in his or her class or the ability of other students to learn in the class.
(O.C.G.A. 20-2-738 (a- h)). The superintendent shall fully support the authority of principals and teachers to remove a student from the
classroom pursuant to O.C.G.A. 20-2-738.
Where a teacher has previously filed a report of a student's repeated or substantial interference with the classroom or where the behavior of a student poses an immediate threat to the safety of student's classmates or the teacher, the teacher shall have the authority to
remove the student from the classroom pursuant to O.C.G.A. 20-2-738.
STuDENT SuPPORT PROCESS
Gainesville City Schools provides support for students to maintain appropriate codes of conduct by the use of a Positive Behavior Support System, which includes student participation in establishing a respectful and positive learning environment. Each school has components of Character Education that supports positive behavior. Further resources are offered by counseling, social work services,
school psychologists, and partnerships with community agencies.
TEACHER QuALIFICATIONS
Within the provision of Elementary Secondary Education Act (ESEA) statute, parents/guardians may request information about the professional qualifications of their child’s teacher(s). The following information may be requested; certification information, college
major/graduate certification or degree held, teaching under an emergency or provisional status through which Georgia qualifications or
certification criteria have been waived, and qualifications of paraprofessionals. Parents/guardians wishing to request this information
must notify the principal of the school at which the student is enrolled or the Chief Professional Services Officer, Priscilla Collins at
(770) 536-5275.
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TITLE ONE PARENT INvOLvEMENT POLICY
The Gainesville City School System (GCSS) Title I Program promotes the belief that all children can learn and acknowledges that parents share the system’s commitment for the educational success of all students. We recognize that a student’s education is a responsibility shared by system, school, family, and community.
The Title I District staff and the Title I Schools work jointly to provide opportunities for the regular involvement of parents. To ensure
both, maintenance and effectiveness of the Parent Involvement Program mandate, the system provides opportunities for parents to become involved in the child’s education. For more information, see the entire policy on the district’s website or at the school.
TRANSFERS/WITHDRAWALS
Student Transfers: Middle and High School
1. A student currently enrolled in Gainesville City Schools in grades 6-12 may request a transfer to a traditional or non-traditional school setting for the upcoming (next) school year during the period of Choice Enrollment which is January and February prior to the next school year. The transfer would be honored for the upcoming (next) school year.
2. A student who is currently enrolled in Gainesville City Schools in grades 6-11 may request a transfer during the school year with parent and administrative approval. Transfers will be made at the beginning of a semester. 3. An administrative placement to a setting that will best accelerate course acquisition may be made for a student when it is determined that the student is in danger of not graduating with his/her cohort. Placement decisions will be made by a Consultation Team composed of the administration, parent(s), counselor, and teachers. A final decision based on the Consultation Team’s recommendation is determined by the Superintendent or his/her designee.
vISITORS
All visitors to a school or school campus must report immediately to the main office of the school. Visitors may not go beyond the office
without permission. Students are not allowed to bring nor have other children as visitors at school.
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SECONDARY PARENT/GuARDIAN SIGNATuRE PAGE
2015– 2016
Please review the following statements before signing:
1. The signature of a parent/guardian on this page signifies receipt and review of this document, as well as knowledge and understanding of the Gainesville City School System policies and guidelines contained within.
2. The signature of a parent/guardian on this page signifies you have received and reviewed the 2015-2016 School Health Services Information.
3. The signature of a parent/guardian on this page gives your child as having your permission to access school based, Internet-capable
technology, and Electronic Device Use at school and are aware of the school’s and district’s initiatives to maintain a cyber-safety learning environment, including your child’s responsibilities. If any parent does NOT wish for his or her child to utilize the Internet while at
school, please signify those wishes in the comment section provided below.
4. The signature of a parent/guardian on this page signifies that you have received and understand the consequences and penalties for
failing to comply with the State of Georgia’s laws regarding Compulsory Education, Student Attendance Protocol Committee and Attendance/Discipline and Driver’s License (for more information see pages 2 and 3 in the Student Code of Conduct).
5. Within the provisions of O.C.G.A. § 20-2-705, schools must provide notification at the beginning of the school year to
parents/guardians relative to the various school clubs provided at each of their respective schools. (These notifications will specifically
exclude interscholastic activities). This notification will be accomplished through each school’s web site. If any parent/guardian does
NOT wish for his or her student to participate in a club or organization designated by him or her, please signify those clubs or organizations in the comment section below.
6.. The signature of a parent/guardian on this page also identifies your child as having your permission to participate in the Georgia Student Health Survey II for 3rd through 12th grade students about substance abuse and violence. The surveys are anonymous and no
personal identification is required. If any parent/guardian does NOT wish for his or her child to participate in this survey, please signify
those wishes in the comment section provided below.
This handbook is meant to serve as a guide to students, parents, and teachers. It is filled with information such as school rules and policies, student code of conduct, and the school calendar. Please sign and return to your child’s Homeroom Teacher during the first week
of school.
I have received and read the 2015-2016 Student Handbook and have reviewed it with my child.
Student Name (Please Print) ____________________________________________________________________________________
Student Signature ________________________________________________________________________ Date_______________
Parent/Guardian Signature ____________________________________________________________________Date _____________
Comment:
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GAINESvILLE HIGH SCHOOL PROCEDuRES AND POLICIES
ABSENCES
Excused absences include student illness, death in the immediate family, Page at the General Assembly, natural disaster, religious holidays,
and instances where attendance would be hazardous, or when mandated by a governmental agency. Parents are requested to make
doctor appointments during non-school hours when at all possible. When students are absent they should bring a note when returning
to school stating the reason for the absence. Please refer to the GCSS Attendance Policy.
ARRIvAL AND DISMISSAL TIMES
Gainesville High School will open at 7:30 AM. The school day will be from 8:20 am - 3:20 pm. Students arriving after 8:20 AM should
sign in at the 3rd Floor Office to receive an admit slip. All excuses for tardies or absences must be turned in to the 3rd Floor Office.
All students must leave campus by 4:00 PM unless under the immediate supervision of a teacher or coach.
BEHAvIOR AT EXTRACuRRICuLAR ACTIvITIES
All extracurricular activities are supervised by a faculty sponsor and are considered an integral part of the school program. Students must
adhere to all Gainesville High School disciplinary rules and the Student Code of Conduct to which they are subject during the school day.
BEHAvIOR AT SCHOOL ASSEMBLIES
1. Movement into and out of the gym and fine arts building should be in an orderly fashion with no running, pushing, loud talking,
or crowding. Students will sit in sections assigned to each grade level and will be dismissed by grade levels.
2. There should be no food (including gum and candy) or drink present and no use of electronic devices. Hats must be removed.
3. Talking and unnecessary movement during any kind of program are rude and inappropriate. Reverant behavior is expected
when appropraite.
4. Use of good taste and common sense in showing your appreciation for a performance is encouraged. Applause (when
appropriate) in good taste is encouraged; catcalls, chants, and whistling are unacceptable.
5. Students at Gainesville High School are expected to show the utmost class, manners, and respect toward any person(s) who
is/are speaking to or leading an assembly program. No type of misbehavior will be tolerated. Students not showing proper
behavior or respect during any performance or program will be removed and will be subject to disciplinary action.
BRING ALL REQuIRED LEARNING MATERIAL EACH DAY
• Homework should be neatly completed as assigned and brought to class each day. If the student is absent, it is his/her responsibility
to find out what assignments were given and to complete them.
• Pen or pencil, textbook and notebook are to be brought to all classes along with other materials as required.
• Plan locker trips wisely! Being late because you had to go to your locker is not excused. A student who has to leave class to go to
a locker may be charged with a tardy.
• Keep locker secured (locked). Students who lose or damage books or other school materials issued to them are responsible for
replacements.
• Teachers are available for extra help each day until 4:00 pm. The student must make arrangements ahead of time with the teacher
for an extra-help session.
CAMPuS ACCESS DuRING SCHOOL HOuRS
Gainesville High School welcomes parents and legitimate visitors during school hours. Please note that the Century Place entrance
under the “Arch” is the one main entrance and exit during the hours of 10:30 AM until 2:15 PM during school days. All other entrance/exit
gates will remain locked during these times. All visitors must check in with the Main Office immediately upon arriving on campus.
CERTIFICATE OF SCHOOL ENROLLMENT
Certificates of School Enrollment must be obtained by applying with the Main Office. There is a $5.00 fee for this service and there is a
24-hour turnaround period. Refer to “Attendance/Discipline and Driver’s License” in the GCSS Student Code of Conduct for more information.
CHECKING OuT OF SCHOOL
Gainesville High School believes consistent attendance at school is essential for academic success.
1. Bring a note to the Third Floor office before 1st period begins. It must include the student’s name, reason for dismissal, and time of
dismissal. It must be signed by a parent/legal guardian and must have a phone number where the parent/legal guardian can be
reached for verification. The student will not be allowed to leave unless the office verifies the note.
2. Students are not allowed to return to school after checking out unless they have a medical appointment, are appearing in court,
or are attending a funeral. Written documentation from the health care provider or the court is required. Othe requests to return to
campus must be approved by the administration.
3. Student checkout on days before holidays or on exam days is by note only. No checkout requests will be accepted by phone.
4. CHECKING OuT FOR LuNCH IS NOT PERMITTED.
Any student who leaves school without properly signing out and without authorization will face disciplinary action. To leave
school during the day at any time and for any reason, a student must sign out through the Third Floor office or a Work-Based
learning program.
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CLASS DuES
Class dues are used for many activities during the school year and accumulated for expenses as a Senior. Senior dues cover the cost
of caps and gowns, diplomas, class gift, and graduation expenses.
Dues are as follows:
Freshman Dues: $5
Sophomore Dues: $10
Junior Dues: $25
Senior Dues: $75
COMPuTER LAB uSAGE POLICY
• Students are NOT to be in the Computer Labs without supervision at any time. NO EXCEPTIONS!
• No food or drinks (including water) are allowed in the computer labs.
• No computer equipment should be removed or disassembled.
• All computers should be logged off when work is complete.
• All chairs should be pushed in, and trash picked up before leaving the lab.
• No computer equipment should be moved from its established position.
• All equipment should be operated with respect and care.
• Failure to follow these lab rules may result in the loss of lab privileges.
DEBTS
Debts may include, but are not limited to: library book fines, outstanding classroom books, athletic and extracurricular uniforms or
equipment, class or club dues, fundraising monies, returned checks, camp fees, restitution, or any other outstanding obligations. Georgia H.B. 1450 states that parents and guardians of minor children will be liable for their willful, malicious damage to school property up
to $5000 plus court cost. Students must clear up all financial obligations at the end of each semester and/or prior to graduation. Report
cards and transcripts of permanent records will be withheld until all debts have been cleared. Seniors who owe debts will not be allowed
to participate in graduation ceremonies.
DONATIONS OF FLOWER AND vEGETABLE GARDENS, PLANT BOXES AND OTHER ITEMS
The Gainesville City School System Maintenance Department maintains the basic Board owned facilities. Any donations of flowers,
flower and vegetable gardens, shrubbery, plant boxes, green houses or other enhancements donated by the community, parents and
staff of all schools must be maintained by donor or school volunteers.
If the above mentioned donations are made and not aesthetically maintained by the community, parents and staff, and become overgrown, they will be dismantled.
The Classroom Electronic use Procedure
Electronic devices (cell phones, iPads, tablets, music players, etc.) are to remain silent and out of sight in the classroom, unless the
teacher has established classroom procedures for their use in class. Headphones, earbuds, etc. may be worn only before or after
school outside the buildings or during lunch, or during class time under the direction of a teacher for instructional purposes.
No electronic devices will be permitted during testing. Failure to comply will result in confiscation of the device and/or disciplinary
referral. If confiscated, the device will be held in the Main Office for 24 hours. After that time the device may be retrieved only by the
parent/legal guardian.
FACuLTY & STAFF RED ELEPHANT AWARDS
The Red Elephant Awards is an event held at the end of each school year to honor the many accomplishments our school has received
in academics, athletics, the arts, and extracurricular activities.
HOMEWORK
Each student must be expected to spend some time studying and reading at home, in addition to class instruction, to achieve success.
Some assignments are long-range in nature and require planned study time for completion. Planned study eliminates the necessity of
spending too much time in completing an assignment the day before it is due. Students are encouraged to access teacher websites for
class assignments and information.
HONOR CODE
The purpose of this Honor Code is to communicate the meaning and importance of academic integrity to all members of the high school
community and support the interest of the community in maintaining the highest standards of conduct in student learning.
Gainesville High School embodies a spirit of mutual trust and intellectual honesty that is central to the very nature of learning, and represents the highest possible expression of shared values among the members of the school community.
The core values underlying and reflected in the Honor Code are:
• Academic Honesty is demonstrated by students when the ideas and the writing of others are properly cited; students submit
their own work for tests and assignments without unauthorized assistance; students do not provide unauthorized assistance to
others; and students report their research or accomplishments accurately,
• Respect for others and the learning process to demonstrate academic honesty,
• Trust in others to act with the academic honesty as a positive community-building force in the school,
• Responsibility is recognized by all to demonstrate their best effort to prepare and complete academic tasks,
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•
•
Fairness and equity are demonstrated so that every student can experience an academic environment that is free from the
injustices caused by any form of intellectual dishonesty, and
Integrity of all members of the school community as demonstrated by a commitment to academic honesty and support of our
quest for authentic learning.
This Honor Code summarizes the Honor Policy, which defines the expected standards of conduct in academic affairs. The Honor Policy
is published on our school website (www.gcssk12.net). The student body and faculty at Gainesville High School will not tolerate any violation of the Honor Code.
IDENTIFICATION CARD (ID) POLICY
1. All students and faculty must have their current school ID while on the GHS campus. You must be able to present it upon request
NO EXCEPTIONS. This is for safety and security purposes. IDs may also be required for certain school functions. A valid ID is
an ID from the current school year. The ID must be in the student’s possession at all times.
2. Students are given the first ID, lanyard and holder free. Parents and students are encouraged to purchase a back-up for $7.00
and keep it either on them or in their locker. The student should keep his/her spare ID in something they will bring back and forth
to and from school everyday (purse, bookbag, wallet, etc).
3. This is a safety and responsibility issue. Gainesville High School DOES NOT give loaners or have a debt list.
4. Students must have their valid ID to receive a school lunch.
5. Please contact the 3rd Floor Office for all ID related matters.
INTERNET uSAGE POLICY
Students must have on file parental permission to use the Internet.
Acceptable use:
• The GHS network and Internet connection have been established solely for educational purposes.
• The Internet is to be used to pursue intellectual activities, seek resources, and access libraries in order to enhance the learning
process.
• Be polite and use appropriate language. Do not use profanity, obscenities, sexually explicit material, or expressions of bigotry,
racism and/or hate.
• Maintain individual anonymity and privacy. Do not reveal names, personal addresses or phone numbers.
• Adhere to copyright laws and restrictions. Do not transmit material in violation of federal or state law or regulation. (Such material
includes, but is not limited to, commercial software, copyrighted material, threatening or obscene material, or material protected by
trade secret.)
unacceptable use:
• Any use of the GHS network and Internet connection for commercial purposes or political lobbying is prohibited.
• Any use of the GHS network and Internet connection for illegal, inappropriate, or obscene purposes, or in support of such
activities, is prohibited. Illegal activities shall be defined as a violation of local, state or federal laws. Inappropriate use shall be
defined as a violation of the intended use of the network, including the intentional introduction of viruses, corruption of systems,
files and resources. Obscene activities shall be defined as a violation of generally accepted social standards for use of a
publicly-owned and operated communications vehicle.
• Students are prohibited from illegally copying documents, software, and other materials.
• Students are not allowed to enter or participate in any Internet "Chat Rooms".
• Students will not tie up the GHS network resources with idle activities. Students are not allowed to play non-educational games on
the network or across the Internet.
• Students will not intentionally disrupt network traffic or crash the network and related systems.
• Students shall not waste or take supplies, such as paper, printer accessories and storage devices that they are provided.
• Students shall not electronically video GHS students or staff and posting any video of GHS students or staff is prohibited.
Procedures for use:
• Students must always get permission from their instructors before using the GHS network or the Internet.
Encounter of Controversial Material:
With access to computers and people all over the world also comes the availability of material that may not be considered to be of
educational value in the context of a school setting. Gainesville High School has taken precautions to restrict access to controversial
materials. However, on a global network it is impossible to control effectively the content of the data and an industrious user may
discover controversial material. It is the student’s responsibility not to initiate access to such material.
No Warranties:
Gainesville High School makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the Internet service it is providing.
Gainesville High School will not be responsible for any damages suffered. This includes loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, mis-deliveries, or service interruptions caused by its own negligence or user errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained
via the Internet is at the users own risk. Gainesville High School denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information
obtained through its services. Gainesville High School has the right to monitor GHS network and/or Internet access activity in any form
that it sees fit to maintain the integrity of the network.
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LATE ARRIvAL TO SCHOOL
Upon late arrival to school, all students must receive a tardy pass from the 3rd Floor Office and report directly to class. The tardy pass
must be shown to the teacher and the tardy will be recorded in Powerschool by the teacher. The Gainesville City School System
provides bus transportation for all in-district students daily. Those students who do not use this transportation are still expected to
arrive to school on time, ready to participate and learn. Students are expected to plan their time effectively so that they mat arrive to
school and classes in a timely manner. It is the belief of Gainesville High School that each child should be entitled to the maximum
instructional time each day and for each class.
LOCKERS
Students may choose to rent lockers for the year at a fee of $5.00. The school may open lockers for inspection at any time. Only
school locks will be permitted. Personal locks will be removed. For security, students are advised to keep lockers locked at all times.
Each student is responsible for the condition of his or her assigned locker. Damage to the locker will be considered vandalism and the
student will be subject to suspension and/or assessment of damage. Only one student is allowed per locker, no sharing of lockers is
permitted. Lockers must be cleaned out before final exams.
Combinations will be given only to the person to whom the locker is assigned.
LuNCH
• Students MUST show their valid Gainesville High School identification card (ID) to receive a lunch. Cards from
other students will be confiscated and the student attempting to use the card will be subject to the school code of conduct.
• Food should be eaten only in designated areas. Students are expected to use trash cans and recycling bins to keep the school
campus clean. Food or drink is not allowed in classrooms unless approved by administration.
• Students may bring their lunch to school from home.
• Off-campus lunch privileges for seniors: To be determined. A criteria will be evaluated by meeting with senior representatives and
teachers at the beginning of the year.
LuNCH PRICES
Children need healthy meals to learn. Gainesville City Schools offers healthy meals every day. Breakfast and lunch are provided to all
students at no cost. Adults and visitors may purchase meals from the cafeteria at the cost of $1.50 for breakfast and $2.75 for lunch.
MAKE-uP WORK POLICY
Special circumstances may warrant teacher or administrative discretion for allowing different arrangements. Students have two days to
make arrangements with teachers for making up work.
MONEY AND OTHER vALuABLES
• Students should leave money and other valuables at home except that which is necessary for school.
• The school will not be responsible for money or valuables left in clothes in dressing rooms and lockers or unattended in the
classroom or other places on the school grounds.
• Students in the gym may ask the P.E. teacher or their coach to hold valuables for them or utilize a PE locker. Students must furnish
their own lock.
MOTOR vEHICLES AND PARKING LOTS
Students who park on campus must follow the parking regulations as printed in the GHS Parking Application Contract and the Student
Handbook. Failure to follow rules and regulations will result in parking privileges being revoked with no refunds. Only students with current
valid permits will be allowed to park on campus. Parking permits are issued in the 3rd floor office for a fee, and they are not transferable.
Spaces are available for a non-refundable yearly fee of $30.00. The speed limit on campus is 10 mph. Students are to leave their cars immediately upon parking. No student is to remain seated in a student’s car upon arrival at school or remain seated and parked in the afternoon when it is time to depart from school. All students who accumulate five (5) unexcused tardies, check-outs/check-ins OR three (3)
unexcused absences per semester will have their parking pass revoked for one week. Students who accumulate six (6) or more unexcused tardies, check-outs/check-ins OR four (4) unexcused absences will have their parking permit revoked for the remainder of that semester.
A student's parking permit may be revoked without refund for disciplinary infractions. Permits will be revoked upon withdrawal from school.
Parking permits are non-transferable. CARS WITHOuT PERMITS AND CARS PARKED IN uNAuTHORIZED AREAS CAN BE TOWED
AT OWNER’S EXPENSE.
All items necessary for school, including but not limited to, lunch money, books and projects, need to be brought in from cars when you
enter the building in the morning. Trips to the student parking lot will not be allowed during the school day, including lunch without administrative approval.
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NON-SANCTIONED GROuPS / GANG ACTIvITY
No student shall act in any way which would lead school officials to believe the student to be affiliated with gangs in any capacity. For
the purpose of this policy, gangs are defined as “groups or individuals who promote activities which potentially disrupt the learning environment and are harmful to the educational process.” Gainesville High School has a zero tolerance toward any gang or gang related
activity. The following are strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated:
1. No colors, bandanas, articles of clothing, or paraphernalia which promotes or identifies with a non-sanctioned group is acceptable.
No extremes in dress and/or grooming will be permitted.
2. No recruiting, intimidating, or hazing will be permitted on school property and/or at school related functions.
3. No signs, symbols, gestures, songs, drawings, or writings which show allegiance or affiliation with non-sanctioned groups will be
permitted. Tattoos, body carvings showing allegiance or affiliation with non-sanctioned groups must be covered at all times.
4. Any items found on school property which displays signs, symbols, gestures, songs, drawings, or writings which show allegiance
or affiliation with non-sanctioned groups will be confiscated by school officials and turned over to law enforcement agencies.
5. No student shall threaten to commit, or actually commit, any crime of violence or damage property with the purpose of terrorizing
another, cause evacuation of a building, place of assembly, school bus, or other school facility; or otherwise disrupt the orderly
operation of any activity on any school campus or school property in reckless disregard of the risk of causing such terror disruption.
6. Any student who urges, encourages, counsels, furthers, promotes, assists, causes, advises, procures, or abets any other
student to violate any section or paragraph of this policy shall be deemed to have violated this policy.
PLATINuM PRIDE IDs
To be determined. The criteria for Platinum Pride will be evaluated and established after meeting with teachers and students during the
first week of school. We will post the criteria once established on the school webpage.
RESERvATION TO PAINT THE GHS ROCK
To paint the GHS Rock, a permit must be obtained by registering through the Main Office at GHS. This permit must be shown upon request while painting the rock. Only current GHS students are permitted to paint the rock for current students or school-related activities.
School-related activities take precedent over birthday or other announcements. Refer to application for more information.
RESIDENCY vERIFICATION
It is the responsibility of each student at Gainesville High School to provide a current verification of address and residency. Proof of residency must be a current lease agreement or a utility bill (gas, water, electric, cable/dish bill) in the parent/guardian’s name.
Gainesville High School reserves the right to make home visits to ensure valid residency.
Residency shall mean the place where the student lives with a parent, guardian, or other person, unless the student is an emancipated
minor. The student must be an occupant of a dwelling located within the school system. Proof of residence in the school district shall be
required when a student enrolls and whenever a change of residence occurs, unless the student is homeless. Individuals not legally admitted into the country shall not be denied a free public education.
Please note that there are additional requirements to be eligible to participate in interscholastic athletics as governed by the Georgia
High School Association. All eligibility questions must be directed to the Department of Athletics.
Students may be withdrawn if the address verification is not provided or kept current.
If the provided proof of residency is in the name of another family member, the parent/legal guardian and the family member (whose
name appears on the proof of residency) must appear before the school notary to complete a non-resident affidavit.
SAFETY DRILLS AND EMERGENCY PROCEDuRES
Gainesville High School will conduct fire and severe weather drills periodically. The sever weather drill will be announced over the
intercom. Return to class will be announced over the intercom. The intercom system will be used when possible to communicate with
everyone during drills or actual emergencies. Students will be given instructions on the evacuation process for both drills. An Emergency Procedures Plan is in place for all other emergencies.
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STuDENT DRESS CODE
We, the Gainesville City District family, aim high to create a warm and inviting environment. We want every reflection of our brand to be
consistent with our tradition of excellence. As a member of this family, your appearance is a reflection of the GCSS brand and how we
show up collectively is important to our community. At the same time, we want to build a district where individuality, empowerment, and
inclusion are nurtured. With this balance in mind, we have updated our dress code.
Our dress code is generally based on what we like to think of as “school appropriate.” All clothing must fit modestly and provide appropriate coverage and length. Shoes should be safe for the school environment. Care must be taken to avoid distractions caused by tattoos, piercings, and unnatural hair colors and styles.
For further clarity it is helpful to provide examples on a “we don’t wear list.” On this list are examples of the things we don’t wear.
We Don’t Wear…
• pajama attire, sleepwear, or bedroom footwear.
• spaghetti straps, backless, strapless, or tank tops.
• holes in jeans above the knee if skin is exposed.
• pants that sag off the hips.
• shorts/skirts/dresses that are too short (five fingers above the knee). The wearing of Spandex and tights does not change this
expectation.
• clothing that allows the exposure of our midriff or waist.
• hats, caps, or hoods inside. This includes headbands and bandanas.
• clothing in a way that reveals underwear.
• clothing that fits immodestly.
• clothing that causes distractions to our mission (examples: clothing with inappropriate language, pictures or symbols; clothing
depicting gangs, drugs, alcohol, or tobacco; clothing that advocates/promote violence).
Please understand this list is not all inclusive.
Dress Code violations
Dress code violations will be handled using the four step form found in the Appendix.
STuDENT GRIEvANCE PROCEDuRE
Directions: Students are to begin with Step #1. If the problem is resolved at Step #1, do not proceed to any other step. If a student
grievance/problem is not answered in Step #1 or any other step the student will continue following each step in the procedure in order.
Step #1: Discuss discrimination-related problems or other concerns/complaints with teacher or staff member whose
compliance is being questioned.
Step #2: If Step #1 does not resolve the problem, put grievance or complaint in writing. This complaint/grievance should be given
to campus Principal.
Step #3 If Step #2 does not resolve the problem, submit the grievance in writing to the GCSS Title IX and Section 504
coordinator.
Step #4: If Step #3 does not resolve the problem, submit grievance in writing to the GCSS Board of Education.
Step #5: Should all previous steps fail to resolve the complaint, OCR should be contacted.
Timeline:
1. All grievances should be initiated within 5 school days of the occurrence of the problem.
2. At each step the student will be notified within 5 school days of the time, date, and location of the meeting.
3. At any of the steps, an answer to the complaint or grievance should be given to the student within 5 school days
following the meeting date.
STuDENT OF THE MONTH & TEACHER OF THE MONTH
Student of the Month & Teacher of the Month are two learning support initiatives designed to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments
and hard work of our students and teachers each month of the school year. Students and Teachers of the Month are awarded a certificate of
achievement, in addition, their picture is taken with administration, placed in the school's newspaper, and displayed on bulletin boards
throughout the school. Students are given an incentive card from one of the local restaurants within the community and teachers are taken to
lunch.
Awards recipients of the Student of the Month qualify for the Student of the Year honors held on Awards Night at the end of the school
year.
Students and Teachers who were nominated for Student of the Month & Teacher of the Month are also celebrated at the end of each
quarter for their nomination in the 1st Floor Lobby of the main building. Students and Teachers of the Month are also invited to attend
this celebration as well.
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TARDY TO SCHOOL/CLASS
Gainesville High School believes promptness to class is essential for academic success.
Tardy is defined as not being in the classroom as the late bell begins to ring. If a student is tardy between classes, he/she will report
directly to class and will receive a step in the Four-Step Form found in the Appendix.
Students only report to the 3rd Floor Office if they are late to school.
Discipline for being tardy becomes more progressive as the student accumulates more tardies. Students receive teacher detentions
on their second and third tardies. Upon the fourth tardy, a student will be referred to an administrator to receive the appropriate
consequences as defined in the Behavior Code. Each additional occurrence will result in progressive discipline.
TELEPHONES
Telephones in all offices are for school business. Parents should immediately call the Main Office for any family emergency. There is a
student phone located in the Main Office. Calls are limited to three minutes.
TESTING POLICY
All testing policies are in effect for the 2015-2016 school year. These policies are subject to change in accordance with updates from
state policies.
TuITION POLICY
Students living outside the city school district wishing to attend GHS must apply for out-of-district tuition status. The campus administrator
must approve all tuition applications. Scheduled tuition payments are due to the Central Office. Nonpayment may result in student
withdrawal from GHS.
uNAuTHORIZED LOCATIONS
Students should always be in an area that is directly supervised or monitored by school staff. Students should not be in another class or
area without a valid reason and permission from their teacher or administration.
WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL PROCEDuRES
All withdrawals are handled by the Guidance Office. Parents must contact Guidance Office before withdrawal procedures can begin.
WORK PERMITS
Work Permits must be obtained by applying with the Main Office. Turnaround time is 24 hours, and applicants must bring the completed
form and copies of their social security card, birth certificate and a picture ID.
49
CODE OF CONDuCT
The purpose of the Code of Conduct is to provide students with an effective and safe learning environment. Included in this section are
prohibited behaviors and consequences for such behaviors.
Expectations
Each student is expected to:
• Behave in a responsible manner at school, on school buses, at school bus stops, and at all school-related functions on or off
campus.
• Demonstrate courtesy and respect for others.
• Attend all classes, regularly and on time.
• Prepare for each class, take appropriate materials to class and complete assignments.
• Obey all District and School rules and cooperate with school staff and volunteers in maintaining safety, order, and discipline.
Behavior Code
The Behavior Code governs students’ conduct on school grounds; off school grounds at a school activity; off school grounds at a nonschool activity, but where the misconduct leads to a disruption on school or any other violation of the Student Code of Conduct and en
route to and from schools, or any school-sponsored activity, on the bus, and at the bus stop.
The Behavior Code is organized into four (4) categories or levels of prohibited behaviors: Level I Offenses, Level II Offenses, Level III
Offenses, and Level IV Offenses. Additional information regarding prohibited behaviors and disciplinary actions follow this section.
Parents and student should carefully review ALL information contained in the Code of Conduct. Students are subjected to disciplinary
action for engaging in or attempting to commit any of the prohibited behaviors listed in the Code of Conduct.
PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLINE MATRIX
Level I (Classroom Disruptions)
Classroom disruptions (Teachers)
Level II
Behavior detrimental to learning, which
includes but is not limited to unexcused
tardies to school or class and conduct that
disrupts the learning environment
(Completion of a Four Step Referral).
Being disrespectful or insubordinate to
school personnel or school volunteers.
Level III
Fighting to the degree that does not constitute
physical abuse/assault.
Dress Code violations (Administration)
Inappropriate physical contact between
students including, but not limited to
inappropriate displays of affection or
inappropriate touching. For the purpose of
this rule, inappropriate physical contact does
not include fighting.
Engaging in gang-related activity that
encourages, solicits, promotes, condones,
causes, assists, or abets any illegal or disruptive
act.
Unauthorized use of electronics.
(Administration)
Inciting, encouraging, counseling or advising
others to engage in prohibited behavior that
violates the Student Handbook. A student
violates this rule when he/she verbally or
physically encourages others to engage in
prohibited behavior, which may include oral
instructions or physically showing a student
how to engage in prohibited behavior.
Leaving school, skipping school, or skipping
class without permission.
Causing or contributing to the disruption and
interference of school operations. Examples of
prohibited conduct include but are not limited
to causing a false fire alarm. Discharging a fire
extinguisher in the absence of a fire.
Participation or encouraging a food fight.
Being in an unauthorized area without
permission. (Administration)
Late to class (Teacher)
Late to school (Administration)
Possessing, using, selling, buying, giving
away, bartering, or exchanging any tobacco
product or smoking paraphernalia.
Using profane, vulgar, obscene, insulting, or
threatening language, gestures, graphics, or
materials, whether spoken written,
Damaging or vandalizing school or personal
property, regardless of whether there is a
monetary loss of value.
Sexual misconduct, including but not limited to
harassment, possessing, accessing or viewing
obscene or vulgar materials, indecent
exposure, entry or inviting into areas
designated for the opposite sex only, or
inviting using and electronic or other device to
forward or take inappropriate, indecent,
vulgar, sexual or obscene pictures of students
or school employees and/or sexual contact.
Terroristic threats. A terroristic threat occurs
when one threatens, whether spoken, written,
or transmitted by an electronic device, to
commit an act of violence against any person,
and that person has reason to believe they
may suffer immediate harm.
Theft including, but not limited to, attempted
theft, extortion, bribery, theft by deception,
and/or possession of stolen property.
50
Level IV
Possessing, using, selling, buying, giving away,
bartering, receiving, or exchanging any firearm,
dangerous weapon, explosive compound, or an object
that can reasonably be considered and/or used as a
weapon.
Possessing, using, selling, buying, giving away,
bartering, receiving, or being under the influence of
any alcoholic beverage whether at school or any
school-related activity prior to attending school or a
school-related activity.
Possessing, using, selling, buying, giving away,
bartering, receiving, or being under the influence of
any drug or substance declared unlawful, any
substance or chemical that is mood altering when
taken, or any substance represented to be a drug or
unlawful substance or admits to the use of any
substances represented to be a drug prior to attending
school or a school-related activity; or, possessing any
drug paraphernalia.
Possessing, using, selling, buying, giving away,
bartering, receiving, or exchanging any counterfeit
money.
Physical abuse, inappropriate physical contact, or
actions toward students or staff.
Accumulation of six (6) Section 2 offenses.
Accumulation of Two (2) Section 3 offenses. Or
A combination of six (6) Level II and Level III offenses.
Charged with a felony on or off-campus
Late to school (Administration)
Level I (Classroom Disruptions)
Sequence of Discipline
A Four Step Referral Process is
completed
Possessing, using, selling, buying, giving
away, bartering, or exchanging any tobacco
product or smoking paraphernalia.
Terroristic threats. A terroristic threat occurs
when one threatens, whether spoken, written,
or transmitted by an electronic device, to
PROGRESSIVE
DISCIPLINE
MATRIX
commit
an act of violence
against any person,
and that person has reason to believe they
Level II
Level
III
may suffer immediate
harm.
Using profane, vulgar, obscene, insulting, or
Theft including, but not limited to, attempted
threatening language, gestures, graphics, or
theft, extortion, bribery, theft by deception,
materials, whether spoken written,
and/or possession of stolen property.
gestured, or communicated in person or via
any electronic device.
Failing to report to detention and/or
Verbally abusing others, including but not
violating rules of the In-School Suspension
limited to, threats, or intimidation, including
program.
but not limited to, harassing or taunting in
person, on the internet, or other mode of
electronic communication.
Failure to report to a teacher or
Participation in written, verbal, or physical
administrator the knowledge of an event,
act(s) that meet(s) the definition of bullying as
nd
device, object, or substance that could cause listed above (2 offense).
harm to self or others. Refusing to comply
with assigned disciplinary consequences.
Any act that endangers the welfare or safety
of other students or staff.
Participation in written, verbal, or physical
act(s) that meet(s) the definition of bullying
st
(1 offense).
Completed Four Step Referral Form From
Teacher or Administration
Accumulation of six (6) Section 2 offenses.
Sequence of Discipline
st
1 Violation: In-School Suspension for two
(1) school day.
nd
2 Violation: In-School Suspension for
three (2) school days.
rd
3 Violation: In-School Suspension for five
(3) school days.
th
4 Violation: Out-of-School Suspension for
two (2) school days.
th
5 Violation: Out-of-School Suspension for
three (3) school days.
th
6 Violation: Referral to a disciplinary
hearing and Out-of-School Suspension
pending the hearing.
Sequence of Discipline
Student Disciplinary Hearing.
Sequence of Discipline
st
1 Violation: Out-of-School Suspension for
three (3) school days.
nd
2 Violation: Out-of-School Suspension for
five (5) school days.
rd
3 Violation: Referral to a disciplinary hearing
and Out-of-School Suspension pending the
hearing.
Accumulation of Two (2) Section 3 offenses. Or
A combination of six (6) Level II and Level III offenses.
Level IV
Charged with a felony on or off-campus
Please understand this list is not all inclusive and depending on the circumstances surrounding the violation, school administrators reserve the right to deviate from the progressive discipline policy. For example, a student may be assigned In-School Suspension for up
to five (5) days or assigned Out-of-School Suspension for up to five (5) days for any Level I or II offense regardless of the number of
previous violations, if the violation warrants deviation from the progressive discipline policy.
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SCHOOL GuIDANCE AND COuNSELING
The Guidance and Counseling Program at Gainesville High School seeks to positively impact the lives of our students by partnering
with parents, community, faculty and staff. Our program offers comprehensive planning and guidance services addressing student academic and career goals, as well as personal and social needs. We work to give students the opportunities to acquire the educational
and social competencies necessary for their growth toward lifelong success and effective, responsible citizenship for a diverse and
changing world. The Counseling Department is a student service division of the total school program providing assistance to all GHS
students and families. Connect with us at www.bigredguidance.weebly.com.
Students may go to counselors for concerns about their grades, schedules, study habits, attendance, college and career planning, home
life and friendship issues. Except in emergencies, students should make an appointment to see their counselor. A student must have permission from a teacher to see a counselor during class time. The counselor will then see the student as the counselor’s schedule permits.
Who is my Counselor?
If you are a first time 9th grader (Cohort 2019):
Everyone Else:
If your last name begins with A-F
If your last name begins with G-N
If your last name begins with O-Z
Graduation Coach
Mrs. Marcus
9th Grade Center
Mrs. Wilson
Mr. Mutchler
Mr. Jackson
Coach Whelchel
1st Floor Counseling Office
1st Floor Counseling Office
1st Floor Counseling Office
1st Floor Counseling Office
Counseling Program
Some areas of responsibility of the Guidance Department include:
Academic difficulties and interventions
Governor’s Honors Information
Short term crisis counseling
ACT/SAT Information including Fee Waivers
Individual Graduation Planning
PSAT/NMSQT (National Merit Program)
College and Career Advisement
ASVAB and ASSET/COMPASS Testing Coordination
Schedule Corrections
College Visits
Dual Enrollment
Community Resource Referrals
Scholarship Information
Transcripts
Grade Level Meetings
Parent Conferences
Online/Virtual Learning
Mentoring (Near Pear and Center Point)
GHS GRADuATION REQuIREMENTS
Effective July 1, 2008, all students entering the ninth grade will no longer select a College Prep or Technology/Career Prep Diploma. All
students will earn credit towards the same diploma, a General High School Diploma. The diploma will be awarded to students who have
satisfied attendance, course/credit, and state assessment requirements (GHSWT and EOCTs). Parents should continue to be involved and
give their child guidance as they move through their high school career and work towards graduation and post-secondary opportunities.
The senior application and contract specifies procedures for participation in all graduation activities. All students will be required to complete a total of 23 units for graduation.
Areas of Study Required:
• 4 units of English (must include 9th Lit. and American Lit.)
• 4 units of Math
• 4 units of Science (must include Biology and Physics or Physical Science)
• 3 units of Social Studies (must include American Govt., W. Hist., U.S. Hist., Econ.)
• 3 units of Career/Technical/Agricultural and/or Modern/Classical Language and/or Fine Arts *
• 4 units in additional electives
• 1 unit of health/personal fitness
*For admission to Georgia four-year universities, students are required to pass specific courses in each academic area, including two
units of world/classical languages (foreign language). Core academic courses, both required and elective, are included in calculation of the HOPE GPA for HOPE Scholarship eligibility
Promotion/Classification Requirements
Promotion
9th to 10th
Promotion
10th to 11th
Promotion
11th to 12th
GHS Graduation
5 Carnegie units
11 Carnegie units
19 Carnegie units
23 Carnegie units
Pass all required units/courses
Any other standardized assessment requirements as determined by state and district policies
52
Senior Planning
In the early Fall, each senior will have the opportunity to meet with her/his counselor to review individual graduation plans (IGPs) and
post-secondary plans. Counselors will check on graduation requirements and make sure that seniors are in line for graduation. However, students are responsible for making sure they meet graduation requirements and should re-check themselves after each semester to determine what courses and number of units they need. College bound students should seek assistance for completing college
applications, scholarship materials and applications for financial aid from the counseling office.
Retention
If it is determined that a student needs to be retained, it is likely that they will have to double up on their academic coursework in the
area that caused them to be retained. Doubling up on their English, for instance, taking both English I and English II in the same school
year will allow the student to stay on track to graduate with the cohort with which they entered high school.
A cohort is defined as the group of students who entered high school in the same year. For example, for a student who enters high
school in August of 2012, the expectation is for the student to graduate with his/her classmates in May of 2016. Students entering high
school in 2012‐13 would be referred to as the Cohort 2016.
While GCSS will continue to use the promotion and retention policy that is currently in place, students will be grouped by cohort for
standardized testing and graduation tracking purposes. The language the high school will begin to use with all of its students concerning graduation requirements will change slightly, as we will transition away from using the traditional terms of freshman, sophomores,
juniors, and seniors. Students will belong to a cohort and they will either be on track or off track for graduating with their cohort.
STuDENT TESTING
GHS High School Code Number is: 111385
Most colleges will accept either the ACT or SAT. If you have a question about whether a specific university will accept both tests, you
can contact the admission office of that school. Once you have completed English III and your junior level math course, you will be
ready to take a college admissions test. Below, you will find a breakdown of the various tests for high school completion and college entrance. See your counselor for more details.
Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) ‐ This test is given seven times a year; at least five of these times it is offered at Gainesville High
School. This test is for college admission purposes and students are encouraged to take this test by the end of their junior year to determine strengths and weaknesses and then again during the senior year as needed (student should seek a counselor's advice).
American College Test (ACT) - This test is given six times during the school year; at least two of these times it is offered at Gainesville
High School. It serves the same purposes as the SAT and should be taken as needed (student should seek a counselor's advice).
Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) ‐ This test is given seven times a year; at least five of these times it is offered at Gainesville High School.
This test is for college admission purposes and students are encouraged to take this test by the end of their junior year to determine
strengths and weaknesses and then again during the senior year as needed (student should seek a counselor's advice).
Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT/NMSQT) - The PSAT is offered to all 10th graders through State funding. Ninth and
11th graders may choose to take it through a fee and registration process. Juniors (11th graders only) who take the PSAT may qualify
for National Merit Scholarships. The National Merit Scholarship Program is open to all students who meet entry requirements. Each
year, some 1.5 million high school students enter the competition, 50,000 are recognized for their academic potential and 9,600 win
Merit Scholarship awards or Special Scholarships for college undergraduate study. Students who qualify for recognition in the National
Merit Program are notified through their schools in September. Detailed information about entry requirements, program recognition and
scholarships may be found in the Official Student Guide to the PSAT/NMSQT (sent to PSAT/NMSQT Coordinators), in NMSC program
publications (sent to high school principals in September) and at nationalmerit.org.
Armed Services vocational Aptitude Battery (ASvAB) - Measures developed abilities and helps predict future academics and occupational success in the military. Administered by Armed Services personnel to 11th, and 12th graders to determine Technical & Career
interest and aptitude.
End of Course Tests (EOCT) - The course average using the EOCT as 20% must be 70 or higher in order to earn credit. A student
must take the EOCT in order for credit to be awarded. The courses are: Coordinate Algebra, Analytic Geometry, Biology, Physical
Science, Ninth Grade Literature and Composition, American Literature and Composition, U.S. History and Economics.
53
ACT Test Dates 2015-2016
Test Date
*September 12, 2015
*October 24, 2015
*December 12, 2015
February 6, 2016
*April 9, 2016
*June 11, 2016
GHS Test Center Number for the ACT is: 187970
Registration Deadline
August 7, 2015
September 18, 2015
November 6, 2015
January 8, 2016
March 4, 2016
May 6, 2016
**Fee (No Writing) $39.50
**Fee (With Writing) $56.50
Late Fee Required
August 8-21, 2015
September 19-October 2, 2015
November 7-20, 2015
January 9-15, 2016
March 5-18, 2016
May 7-20, 2016
*Test will be offered at GHS
** Test fees subject to change, includes sending your scores to at least four colleges of your choice
SAT Test Dates 2015-2016
Test Date
*October 3, 2015
*November 7, 2015
*December 5, 2015
*January 23, 2016
*March 5, 2016
May 7, 2016
*June 4, 2016
GHS Test Center Number for the SAT is: 11-460
Registration Deadline
September 3, 2015
October 9, 2015
November 5, 2015
December 28, 2015
February 5, 2016
April 8, 2016
May 5, 2016
**Standard Fee $ 54.50
Late Fee Required
September 18-22, 2015
October 23-27, 2015
November 20-23, 2015
January 8-12, 2016
February 19-23, 2016
April 22-26, 2016
May 20-25, 2016
** Test fees subject to change, includes sending your scores to at least four colleges of your choice
SAT vs. ACT vs. COMPASS/ASSET
The SAT, ACT and COMPASS are significantly different tests. Each college selects the test that they will accept for application to attend
their school. Students need to explore the websites of the schools they are interested in to determine which tests they need to take and the
minimum GPA requirements. The ACT and Compass tests are content-based test, and the SAT tests critical thinking and problem solving.
The ACT is closer to testing the “core curriculum” taught in high schools. The ACT includes a science reasoning test with problem solving in biology, chemistry, physical, earth and space science, and the SAT does not cover science. The ACT math section covers algebra,
geometry, and trigonometry. The SAT math has numbers and operations, algebra and functions, geometry and measurement, and data
analysis, statistics, and probability. The SAT tests vocabulary much more than the ACT; and the ACT tests English grammar; whereas
the SAT does not. The Compass tests basic skills in reading, writing, math, and English grammar.
The SAT has a guessing penalty, so make sure you feel confident about your answer. The ACT does not have a guessing penalty. Only
correct answers count on the ACT. The SAT offers Subject Tests which are sometimes required by more selective schools. A perfect
score on the SAT is a 2400. The SAT costs $50. The ACT cost $35 without taking the writing section and $50.50 with the writing. You
only need to take the writing section once if you are taking the ACT multiple times. However, colleges require the ACT writing at least
once, so make sure to sign up for the ACT with writing. (The prices of the test are subject to change).
The COMPASS/ASSET test is an entrance exam used primarily by technical and 2-year colleges, such as Lanier Technical College, to
place students in postsecondary courses and/or programs of study. This test helps you and your school work together to identify your
strengths as well as the knowledge and skills you will need in order to succeed in specific subject areas. Check with your postsecondary institutions of choice to see what tests you need for admissions.
54
SAT
ACT
COMPASS/ASSET
Scoring
Three sections scored
from 200-800 for a total
score of 2400
Four sections scored
from 1-36 to make up
an average composite
score of 1-36.
COMPASS scores indicate areas in which you are
strong and areas in which you may need help.
Sections
3 Sections: Critical
Reading, Math, Writing
Writing Section
Included
Optional
Included
Length of Time
3 hours and 45 minutes
3 hours and 25 minutes
(including Writing section)
Not timed
What type of college
accepts this test?
4 year colleges
4 year colleges
Technical Colleges, 2 year colleges, and a few less
competitive 4 year colleges
GPA ranges
(varies by College)
GPA 2.5 – 4.0
GPA 2.5 – 4.0
GPA 2.0 – 4.0
Highest Level Math
Tested
Alegrbra II
Trigonometry
Trigonometry
Wrong Answer Penalty
Yes
No
No
www.collegeboard.org
www.actstudent.org
(866) 756-7346
(319) 337-1000
4 sections: English, Math, Reading, Writing Skills, Writing Essay, Math, English,
Reading, Science
2nd language.
Contact
http://www.act.org/compass/student/index.html
Score Choice
Yes
Yes
Cost
$54.50
www.gacollege411.org
$56.50 (includes Writing)
www.gacollege411.org
www.collegeboard.com
www.act.org
Preparation
Take test at the college attending
Varies among schools but the average is $25
http://www.act.org/compass/student/index.html
GACollege411 – Expand Your Opportunities
GACollege411 is a one stop shop for high school, college and career planning. All GHS students must have an account and complete
your grade level activity each year. Your HOPE scholarship eligibility, In-state college applications, transcript requests, career and college profiles are all done through this website. See the receptionist or your counselor to get signed up.
ACADEMICS
Regular College Prep. Classes – These classes are for students who are able to perform at grade level. Classes are designed for students who are college-bound or who will be entering the workforce directly out of high school. Students interested in attending “selective” colleges/universities should strongly consider enrolling in an Honors or A.P. level course to demonstrate their ability to achieve in
courses with increased rigor.
Honors Classes – These classes differ from regular college prep courses in the following areas:
•
Class pace is faster, coursework is more rigorous
•
Activities and assignments are more complex and require a greater degree of independent inquiry
•
Usually requires advanced writing, research and problem-solving skills
Advanced Placement (AP) Classes – These classes are college level and are the most rigorous courses offered at Gainesville high
school. The AP curriculum is defined by The College Board and is designed to prepare students for The College Board AP exams.
Many colleges and universities throughout the country will award college credit to a student who receives a particular score on a College Board AP test and successfully completes the associated course. AP courses receive a higher weighted grade point (.5 on 4.0
scale) than Regular and Honors courses.
The following AP courses are offered at GHS. Additional AP courses are available through Online Learning
AP World History
AP Biology II
AP Calculus AB
AP English Language/Comp
AP US History
AP Chemistry II
AP Calculus BC
AP English Lit and Comp.
AP Government/Politics: US
AP Physics II
AP Statistics
AP Macroeconomics
AP Human Geography
AP European History/Humanities
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Dual Enrollment Classes – These are classes taken at an accredited college allowing the student to receive high school credit and
college credit simultaneously. Student must go through the normal steps for getting accepted into college (University of North GA,
Lanier Tech, etc.). Dual enrollment courses also receive a higher weighted grade point (extra .5 on 4.0 scale) than Regular and Honors.
Course Weightings
Currently, all AP courses and courses taken through Dual Enrollment are given an additional 0.5 weight when computing student’s GPA
on a 4.0 scale. (This is a GHS grading scale, HOPE Scholarship does not award weights above 4.0)
Reg. and Honors
A = 90-100
B = 80-89
C = 70-79
Below 70
Reg. and Honors
4.0
3.0
2.0
0
AP/Dual Enrollment Weighted
4.5
3.5
2.5
0
Carnegie units
Students who graduate from any state-supported Georgia high school must earn at least 23 Carnegie units of credit earned through the
Georgia Performance Standards. The Gainesville City Schools Board of Education requires 24 units for graduation. The student will
have the opportunity to earn over 32 units covering middle school through 12th grade.
Grade Point Average (GPA)
The GPA reflects the student’s overall grade average at the end of each semester.
Cumulative GPA – All final course grades averaged at the end of each semester (including middle school, online, etc.)
Academic/Core GPA – Only core final grades (English, Math, Science, SS and World language) averaged at the end of each semester.
Class Ranking - A mathematical summary of a student’s academic record as compared with other students in the same graduating
class. It takes into account both the degree of difficulty of the courses a student is taking (AP or regular) and the grade the student
earns. The compilation of courses and grades is converted to an overall grade point average (GPA), and the higher the GPA, the higher
the student’s class ranking.
Academic Honors
Students have many opportunities to compete for academic honors and awards. Major awards administered by the counseling office
include: Governor's Honors, National Merit Scholarship Competition, Star Student, Top Four Graduates, numerous local, state, and
national scholarships.
LETTERS AND SPECIAL AWARDS
vARSITY LETTERS
Letters are awarded at the discretion of the head coach of the sport involved. All letters will be 6 or 7 inch block style and may either be
in red with white trim, or white with red trim. Second, third, or fourth year awards may be indicated by a service stripe. The service stripe
may either be woven in or be in the form of a metal bar.
vARSITY BAND, CHORuS AND DRILL TEAM
A letter with appropriate activity designation may be awarded at the discretion of the bandmaster and choral director. The student may
receive only one activity letter. The directors will make additional awards as necessary.
LITERARY
Certificates and individual trophies are awarded to outstanding individuals for best performance in region and state competition. This
includes: debate, one-act play, interpretation, essay, and music.
FACuLTY CuP
This award is presented to the most outstanding "all-around" senior at graduation. The recipient is selected by faculty vote.
SuE JOHNSON CuP
This award is presented at graduation to the "Most Creative Scholar." The recipient is selected by faculty vote.
SuPERINTENDENT'S CuP
The Superintendent presents this award at graduation to the First Honor Graduate.
CuRTIS SEGARS ROTARY CuP
This award is named in honor of Curtis Segars, former principal of Gainesville High School, who always believed that a student could
“turn things around.” This award is presented to the senior who has demonstrated the greatest improvement in academics during
his/her high school career. The recipient is selected by faculty vote.
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CHRIS MANCE POINT OF PRIDE AWARD
Named for late principal Chris Mance, this award is voted on by the faculty and given annually to a member of the senior class who best
exemplifies the overwhelming character that Mr. Mance possessed: exceptional love, integrity, honesty, loyalty, honor, and extraordinary
pride in being a Red Elephant.
SENIOR SCHOLASTIC AWARD
These awards are presented to the outstanding senior in each subject area at the Honor's Day Program.
HONOR CORDS & STOLES
Students must meet criteria of clubs or organizations.
HONOR GRADuATES
Throughout the high school years, individual grades are averaged together to establish an overall grade point average (GPA).
Gainesville High School uses the GPA for several things, including determining if students are graduating with honors. Adopting the
tiers used by most colleges to acknowledge honor graduates, the three levels with which a student can graduate include: Cum Laude,
Magna Cum Laude and Summa Cum Laude. Each level requires a different cumulative GPA range. With the exception of graduates in
the top 3% of the class, honor graduates will be determined after the 1st semester of senior year. The top 3% will be calculated after
2nd semester grades have been submitted as to determine the top four graduates of the class.
Cum Laude – The first level of graduating with honors actually translates from Latin to mean “with praise”. If your GPA is 3.5 to less
than 3.70 you will graduate with this honor of distinction.
Magna Cum Laude – The second highest level meaning “with great honor”. To qualify for this honor a student must have a cumulative
GPA of 3.70 to less than 4.0.
Summa Cum Laude – The highest of all honors issued at graduation. Meaning “with highest praise” in Latin, this honor is bestowed
only on those who have the highest cumulative GPA of 4.0 and above.
Each year, a member of the senior class shall be determined to be the valedictorian and salutatorian of that senior class. Selection of
the valedictorian shall be the student who has obtained the highest grade point average on a 4.0 grading scale. The salutatorian shall
be the student who has obtained the second highest grade point average on a 4.0 grading scale.
valedictorian and Salutatorian Determination Procedure
• The valedictorian and salutatorian must be students enrolled in the 12th grade and who graduate with their cohort class. Credits
must have been earned from an accredited school. All Gainesville High School graduation requirement policies must be followed
and all grades accepted and verified by the high school principal and counselor.
• A student’s graduation class is established by a student’s ninth grade entry date.
• The student must have attended GHS for at least three consecutive semesters immediately preceding the determination of the
class valedictorian and salutatorian (1st semester junior year).
• The valedictorian must have earned the highest grade point average in his/her graduating class based on the school’s consistent
use of a weighted scale. The salutatorian must have earned the second highest grade point average in his/her graduating class.
The grade point average shall be determined by grades received in all approved high school classes where credit is awarded and
accepted including: high school classes at middle school, online courses, dual enrollment, summer school, and other alternative
options approved by the school and administration. All grades will be calculated using the Gainesville High School grade point
system. The grade point average is calculated to the fourth place beyond the decimal point.
• When the determination of valedictorian status between the top two honor graduates is affected by the fact that one of the students
transferred to GHS from a different program of study (such as a non-block high school) and thus has fewer total courses and a
lower denominator in calculating grade point average, co-valedictorians may be named. The naming of co-valedictorians may occur
after comparing each student’s four year program of study and it is determined that the difference in grade point average is based
on the above mentioned mathematical anomaly.
• Final grades will be calculated after the GHS senior grades have been submitted during the second semester of 12th grade. All
final grades from virtual/online and dual enrollment courses must be received by the GHS grade deadline or those grades will not
be used in the calculation for this award. Only grades received by the GHS Senior Grade deadline will be used for calculating Val
and Sal. (Grade deadlines are determined by Administrators at the beginning of the term).
Tie Breakers
• If two or more students have the same grade point average, calculated to the fourth decimal place, the following criteria, in rank
order, shall be used to determine valedictorian and/or salutatorian:
• The student with the highest number of credits earned from middle school through 12th grade shall be selected. This includes all
electives and all non elective classes (i.e., band, chorus, driver’s ed, etc.)
• If all students involved in the tie have or will have taken the SAT by the November SAT date, the student with the highest composite
SAT score in one setting shall be selected (STAR student guidelines).
• If a tie still exists, the student who has earned the highest numerical average based on all courses taken and accepted for credit
from middle school through second semester 12th grade shall be selected. The numerical average is calculated to the fourth place
beyond the decimal point. All grades will be calculated using Gainesville High School’s consistent use of a weighted scale.
• Beyond these measures, if a tie still exists between two or more students, the valedictorian or salutatorian honors will be shared.
57
Student Services
(located in the GHS Counseling Office on 1st floor)
Who Can Help Me in Student Services?
Counseling Secretary
Withdrawing, Transcripts, Appointment with counselor, Testing information
New Registrations or Re-enrollment to GHS
WITHDRAWING FROM SCHOOL
A student withdrawing from school must report to the Counseling Office accompanied by a parent/guardian. The student will be given a
withdrawal form which will be completed and signed by parent, administrator and counselor. All fees and fines must be paid before a
transcript will be forwarded.
TRANSCRIPTS
Students are to request transcripts for Board of Regents (in-state) universities, colleges, technical schools and NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) through their GACollege411 account. Once a student makes this request, the counselor reviews and fulfills
the request electronically. After the counselor fulfills the request, the transcript(s) is delivered to the post secondary school(s) that the
student has authorized/requested.
Students are to only request that a paper transcript be processed when the purpose of the transcript is to meet admissions requirements for an out-of-state college or university, to complete documentation for a scholarship(s), and/or to provide a potential employer or
the military: there is a three (3) day turn around time to prepare these transcript requests. There is a $3.00 fee per transcript for former
GHS students (transcripts will be processed in 24 hours).
HOPE eligible and ineligible transcripts are available for viewing on the student’s GACollege411 account as well. If we do not have the
student’s social security number in the school system, the student will not be able to properly utilize services available through GACollege411 website, nor participate in the HOPE scholarship program. Any questions about electronic or paper transcript requests should
be addressed with the student’s school counselor.
Course Selection and Registration
Parents are encouraged to take an active role in the registration and course selection process. It is the responsibility of the student and
parent to insure that courses selected are adequate for graduation requirements, and post secondary plans.
Teacher Advisors, counselors, and administrators will seek to inform students of their standing and cumulative academic record during
the registration process. Recommendations for course of study will be made through advisement sessions and schedule verification
processes. Course placement criteria is determined by each department.
Schedule Changes/Dropping Courses
After registration, students may request a schedule change ONLY if one or more of the following situations apply: (1) if the student does
not have the necessary prerequisite course, (2) if the student has already received credit for the course, (3) the student has failed this
same course under the same teacher before and there is not another teacher teaching the same course, (4) the student is a senior and
needs a course to graduate and/or complete a pathway, (5) adding or dropping in special circumstances (work study, dual enrollment,
etc.). All schedule requests must be done within the specified time announced during the registration process, the first five (5) days of a
block class and ten (10) class days of the semester. Students are NOT permitted to “drop a course” in the middle of the course unless a
prerequisite is not met and then only if another suitable course is available and the student schedule can be arranged to meet the need.
Schedule changes based upon teacher preference are not considered.
Dual Enrollment “Move on When Ready”
Programs that provide opportunities for Georgia high school students to take college-level courses and earn concurrent credit toward a
high school diploma and a college degree while still in high school.
AP Courses – students may earn college credit based on examination score and the college acceptance policy
Dual Enrollment/Accel - academic courses: high school and college credit
Dual Enrollment/HOPE Grant Technical program: high school and college credit
Career Pathways - A grouping of courses in CTAE (Career Technical and Agricultural Education), advanced academics, fine arts or
world languages that provides knowledge and skills to use in college and in the workplace. Students need to choose a pathway of their
interest and take at least 3-4 courses in that area before graduating from GHS. GHS offers pathways in the following areas:
Broadcasting/Video Production
Construction
Administrative and Information Support
Small Business Development
Early Childhood Education
Teaching as a Profession
Engineering
Manufacturing
Nutrition and Consumer Science
World Language
58
Advanced Academic
Fine Arts
Marketing Management
Therapeutic Services /Medical Services
NJROTC
How to stay connected with your counselor and receive updates about your Cohort:
¸
¸
Find us on Face book at GainesvilleGuidance
¸
Sign up for Remind 101 to get messages sent to your cell phone. Text the following message to 678-707-8435:
@gville2016 if you are in Cohort 2016
@gville2017 if you are in Cohort 2017
@gville2018 if you are in Cohort 2018
@gville2019 if you are in Cohort 2019
¸
Email or call your counselor at:
A-F
Mrs. Wilson
G-N
Mr. Mutchler
O-Z
Mr. Jackson
Freshmen
Mrs. Marcus
Grad. Coach Coach Whelchel
Visit our website at www.bigredguidance.weebly.com
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
59
Ext. 5417
Ext. 5418
Ext. 5443
Ext. 5419
Ext. 5415
GCSS CODE OF CONDuCT FOR ATHLETES
Participation in interscholastic athletic competitions is a privilege extended to the students by the Board of Education. Students participating in Georgia High School Association (GHSA) extracurricular athletic activities act as representatives of Gainesville City School System(GCSS). All students are expected to conduct themselves in such a manner as to meet the highest standards of GCSS at all times.
The Code of Conduct is designed to establish high expectations and standards for all students participating in GHSA sanctioned athletic
activities. All students, parents, and coaches understand that the top priority is academic achievement. The Code of Conduct establishes
high expectations regarding behavior and consistent consequences when violations occur.
The Code of Conduct goes into effect on the first day a student joins a GCSS high school athletic team. The Code remains in effect for the
entire calendar year, including time when school is not in session. The offenses and consequences listed below are in addition to (not in lieu of) any school or criminal consequences associated with the student misconduct.
All consequences listed in this Code of Conduct are minimum standards. The coach has the discretion to set consequences over and
above the minimum standards.
CODE OF CONDuCT vIOLATIONS AND CONSEQuENCES
violation A: Students given Long-Term (exceeding ten days) Suspension (With or without GLA -Alternative School option)
Consequence: Ineligible to attend or participate in any athletic or extracurricular activity during time of suspension
violation B: Arrest for, or charged with the commission of any act that is a felony or would constitute a felony if committed by an
adult. (regardless of location or time of the alleged act; in or out of school)
Consequence: Immediate suspension from all participation until such time as:
a. School officials determine that the student did not commit the act(s) or other felony conduct; or
b. Local prosecutors dismiss or drop all pending charges and petitions; or
c. The student pleads guilty to a misdemeanor charge, in which case refer to Violation D listed in this
Code; or
d. The student is convicted and sentenced to a felony or is adjudicated delinquent in the Juvenile Court
of conduct which if committed by an adult could be charged as a felony and serves any and all
portions of the sentence including all periods of probation.
For the following violations (C, D and E), the school administration must have valid evidence and/or verification of the violation
as defined in the following:
1. Self-admitted involvement by the student 2. Witnessed student involvement by the sponsor, coach , or any staff member
3. Parent admission of their student’s involvement in tobacco, alcohol, or other drugs
4. Verification by official police report given to the school
5. Evidence of violations through investigation by school officials
If the offense occurs at school or on school property (at any time), off school grounds, at a school-sponsored activity, function,
or event or en route to and from school, the student will be subject to the actions described in the Student Conduct Behavior
Code (Policy JCD) and the following consequences for extracurricular activities.
violation C: Tobacco (any type)
Consequence: 1st Offense - Suspension from athletic extracurricular competition for 10% of the remainder of the season
2nd Offense - Suspension from athletic extracurricular competition for a minimum of 20% of the remainder of the season
3rd Offense - Dismissal from team but allowed to try out for subsequent athletic extracurricular activities after that sport/activity has completed its season
61
violation D: Alcohol/Other Drugs (Possession and/or use)/Misdemeanor Criminal Law violations
Consequences: Coach/Sponsor and Administrator will meet with the student and parent(s) or guardian
1st Offense – Suspension from athletic extracurricular competition for a minimum of 20% of the remainder of the season and a successful
negative drug test
2nd Offense - Suspension from athletic extracurricular competition for a minimum of 50% of the remainder of the season and a successful
negative drug test
3rd Offense – Suspension from all athletic extracurricular activities for the remainder of the school year and will not be allowed to participate the following year until an approved drug/alcohol prevention class is completed and a successful negative drug test.
violation E: violations of school rules that result in ISS or OSS
Consequences: In-School Suspension - Participation may resume when student is released from ISS. Student cannot participate on the day s/he is released from ISS.
Out-of-School Suspension (Short Term – not exceeding 10 days) – Participation may resume after suspension is served – Policy JDD
violation F: Hazing
Consequences: Coach/Sponsor and Administrator will meet with the student and parent(s) or guardian.
1st Offense - Suspension from any athletic extracurricular activity for a minimum of 10% of the remainder of the season
2nd Offense - Suspension from all athletic extracurricular activities for remainder of school year
62
APPENDIX
65
GAINESvILLE HIGH SCHOOL 2015-2016
INCLuSIvE STuDENT / PARENT CONSENT
Homeroom
Cohort
STuDENT NAME (Please Print) _________________________________________________
STuDENT/PARENT HANDBOOK
By signing below, I have acknowledged that I have received a copy of the GHS Handbook which includes the Code of Conduct. I understand
that the Code of Conduct will govern me. I understand that if I fail to abide by the code, consequences will be administered by the Administration and Faculty to correct the violation. It is the goal of the Administration of GHS to provide a safe and orderly school, one that is
conducive to learning. I also understand that there is an online version of the GHS Student Handbook available on the GHS web page.
Student Signature
___________________________________________
Date
____________
Parent Signature
___________________________________________
Date
____________
FEDERAL EDuCATION RIGHTS AND PRIvACY ACT (FERPA)
FERPA provides that an educational agency or institution that receives Federal education funds may not have a policy or practice of
releasing education records, or personally identifiable, non-directory information from education records, unless the parent or eligible student
has provided prior written consent for the disclosure, except in several statutorily specified circumstances. 20 U.S.C. § 1232g(b)(1); 34
CFR §§ 99.30; 99.31. An institution may designate certain information as " directory information" and then disclose or release the information without first obtaining written consent. See 34 CFR § 99.31(a)(11). "Directory Information" includes the following:
The student's name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities
and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, and the most recent
previous educational agency or institution attended by the student.
20 U.S.C. § 1232g(a)(5)(A). FERPA regulations explain further that directory information means
information contained in an education record of a student which would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed.
By signing below, I authorize Gainesville High School to release directory information pertaining to my child that is not considered harmful
or an invasion of privacy to third parties with legitimate educational interests (colleges, technical schools, athletic recruiters, etc.).
Parent Signature
___________________________________________
Date
____________
INTERNET uSE PERMISSION
By signing below, I am granting permission for my child to use the Internet. I understand that my child will be required to abide by all rules
established by the school district with regard to the use of the Internet. I also understand that inappropriate behavior may lead to disciplinary
action, including one or more progressive discipline measures. I also understand that the Gainesville City Board of Education, its members,
officers, employees and agents to not have or assume any liability for damages or losses which may occur as a result of my child’s use
of the Internet, and we release the Board of Education from any liability relating to the consequences for our child’s Internet use.
Parent Signature
___________________________________________
Date
____________
BuS CONDuCT
By signing below, I acknowledge that Gainesville City Schools’ transportation is a service for students that is a privilege, not a right. Students
will be allowed to ride Gainesville City Schools’ buses as long as they remain a student in good standing for that purpose. I have received
and read the GCSS Bus Conduct Policy in the Student Handbook. Failure to agree to this policy by signing below acknowledges that I
forfeit the privilege of GCSS Transportation.
Student Signature
___________________________________________
Date
____________
Parent Signature
___________________________________________
Date
____________
Please complete the reverse side of this consent form.
GAINESvILLE HIGH SCHOOL 2015-2016
INCLuSIvE STuDENT / PARENT CONSENT
Homeroom
Cohort
STuDENT ATTENDANCE POLICY
O.C.G.A. 20-2-690.1 – Compulsory Education
(a) Every parent, guardian, or other person residing within this state having control or charge of any child or children between their sixth and sixteenth
birthdays shall enroll and send such child or children to a public school, private school, or a home study program that meets the requirements for a public school, private school, or a home study program; and such child shall be responsible for enrolling in and attending a public school, private school, or a
home study program under such penalty for noncompliance with this subsection as is provided in Chapter 11 of Title 15, unless the child’s failure to enroll and attend is caused by the child’s parent, guardian, or other person in which case the parent, guardian, or other person alone shall be responsible;
(b) Every parent, guardian, or other person residing within this state having control or charge of any child or children and who shall violate this code section shall be convicted of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction thereof shall be subject to:
• A fine not less than $25 and not more than $100
• Imprisonment not to exceed 30 days
• Community service
• Any combination of such penalties at the discretion of the court having jurisdiction
Each day’s absence from school in violation of this part after the child’s school system notifies the parent, guardian, or other person who has control or
charge of a child of five unexcused absences shall constitute a separate offense.
O.C.G.A. 20-2-150 – Compulsory Education Law Pertaining to Kindergarten Students
All children enrolled for 20 school days or more in the public schools of this state prior to their seventh birthday shall become subject to all provisions of
this article, the provisions of Code Section 20-2-690 through 20-2-701, and the rules and regulations of the State Board of Education relating to compulsory school attendance even though they have not attained seven years of age.
As the parent/guardian of
, I have read Georgia Law on Compulsory Attendance.
(Student’s Name)
Parent’s Signature
Date
Student’s Signature
Date
(Students who are age 10 years or older by September 1st of this school year must sign here.)
PERMISSION FOR PuBLICATION
By signing below, I grant Gainesville City Schools my permission to interview, photograph, and publish in print (newsletters, brochures, newspapers, Internet web pages, etc.) in conjunction with activities of the Gainesville City School System.
Parent Signature
Date
CLuB OPT-OuT OPPORTuNITY
By signing below, I acknowledge receipt of information regarding school clubs that are scheduled to be operational at the school during the current
school year. I understand that if a club for which information has not been provided is distributed, I will be provided the club information at that time and
my written permission will be required prior to my student’s participation. I wish to withhold permission for my child to participate in the following clubs
(please list below).
Student Signature
Date
Parent Signature
Date
List clubs for opt-out:
HONOR CODE PLEDGE
By signing below, I acknowledge receipt of information regarding the Gainesville High School Honor Code.
I pledge on my honor that I will not give or receive any unauthorized assistance on any assignment and/or examination.
Student Signature
Please complete the reverse side of this consent form.
Date
GAINESVILLE HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC REGISTRATION
PLEASE PRINT ALL INFORMATION:
Grade:
Name of Student:
Name(s) of Parent or Guardian:
Home Phone Number:
Emergency Number:
PARENTAL CONSENT FOR ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION
WARNING:
Although participation in supervised interscholastic athletics may be one of the least hazardous in which students will engage in or out of school, by its nature participation in interscholastic athletics includes a risk of injury which may range in severity from
minor to long term catastrophic. Although serious injuries are not common in supervised school athletic programs, it is possible only to
minimize, not eliminate, the risk.
Participants have the responsibility to help reduce the risk of injury. Players must obey all safety rules, report all physical problems to their coaches, follow a proper conditioning program, and inspect their equipment daily.
By signing this permission form, you acknowledge that you have read and understand this warning.
Parents or students who do not wish to accept the risks described in this warning should not sign this permission form.
to:
I, (we) hereby give consent for
(1) Compete in interscholastic athletics at Gainesville High School in Georgia High School Association (GHSA) sports,
except those CROSSED OuT below:
Baseball
Basketball
Cheerleading
Cross Country
Football
Golf
LaCrosse
Soccer
Softball
Tennis
Track & Field
Volleyball
Wrestling
(2) To accompany any school team of which the student is a member on any of its local or out-of-town trips;
(3) And, I hereby verify that the information on both sides of this form is correct and understand that any false information
may result in my son/daughter being declared ineligible.
This acknowledgement of risk and consent to allow participation shall remain in effect until revoked in writing.
SIGNATuRE(S) OF PARENT(S) OR GuARDIAN(S): ______________________________
DATE: ______________________
SIGNATuRE OF STuDENT-ATHLETE:
DATE: ______________________
11/14/2013 GAINESVILLE HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC REGISTRATION.DOC
INSuRANCE INFORMATION
Please INTIAL one of the following statements regarding insurance coverage for your student-athlete for the _____________ school
year, then sign below.
______My student-athlete is adequately and currently covered by accident insurance that will cover injuries sustained while participating in interscholastic athletics, including, but not limited to varsity and junior varsity football.
Company providing insurance:
Name of insured:
Policy Number:
______I wish to purchase the Benefit Plan provided by the Gainesville City School System. (A signed copy of this Benefit Plan should
be stapled to this form.)
As a parent (guardian) of the above-named student-athlete, I understand that unless I have insurance, or purchased
school insurance, there is no school district insurance which may cover any injuries, loses, or damages arising out of my
child’s participation in the activities previously indicated.
SIGNATuRE(S) OF PARENT(S) OR GuARDIAN(S):
DATE:
DRuG-TESTING ADMINISTRATION ACKNOWLEDGEMENT/CONSENT FORM
The Gainesville City Board of Education has consented to mandatory random drug tests for all student-athletes who participate in Georgia
High School Association (GHSA) interscholastic athletics. Any sports activity that requires an annual physical as a condition of participation
is subject to this procedure.
1. The student-athlete must present to the head coach this signed consent form, which authorizes the school to administer drug testing
and that allows the results of the test to be released to parents or guardians, administrative officials, and the head coach. (Note: A signed
consent form is a requirement for participation in any GHSA governed inter-scholastic activity that requires an annual physical
examination for participation. Parents and students do not have the option of not participating in the drug-screen program.)
2. Random testing will take place at any time during the season with the student-athletes chosen through lottery/random selection. Testing
consists of providing a urine sample to those representatives of the firm administering the test. School personnel will supervise but will
not administer the test. Privacy will be protected. Specimens will be processed for identity and secured to ensure against tampering.
Test results will be reported to the school through the proper chain of command. In case of a positive result, the parent or guardian will
be notified.
Testing will be done by the Northeast Georgia Forensic/Toxicology Lab under the supervision of the Toxicology Program Manager.
This acknowledgement of administration and consent to allow participation in the random drug-testing program shall remain in effect until
revoked in writing.
SIGNATuRE(S) OF PARENT(S) OR GuARDIAN(S): ______________________________
DATE: ______________________
SIGNATuRE OF STuDENT-ATHLETE:
DATE: ______________________
11/14/2013 GAINESVILLE HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC REGISTRATION.DOC
PREPARTICIPATION PHYSICAL EVALUATION
Physical Examination FORM
Name
Date of Birth
PHYSICIAN REMINDERS
1. Consider additional questions on more sensitive issues.
• Do you feel stressed out or under a lot of pressure?
• Do you ever feel sad, hopeless, depressed, or anxious?
• Do you feel safe at your home or residence?
• Have you ever tried cigarettes, chewing tobacco, snuff or dip?
• During the past 30 days, did you use chewing tobacco, snuff or dip?
• Do you drink alcohol or use any other dugs?
• Have you ever taken anabolic steroids or used any other performance supplement?
• Have you ever taken any supplements to help you gain or lose weight or improve your performance?
• Do you wear a seat belt, use a helmet, and use a condom?
2. Consider reviewing questions on cardiovascular symptoms (questions 5–14).
EXAMINATION
Height
o Male
Weight
BP
/
(
/
) Pulse
Vision R 20/
o Female
L 20/
Corrected o Y
oN
MEDICAL
V
Appearance
• Marfan stigmata (kyphoscoliosis, high-arched palate, pectus excavatum, arachnodactyly,
arm span height, hyperlaxity, myopia, MVP, aortic insufficiency)
Eyes/ears/nose/throat
• Pupils equal
• Hearing
Lymph nodes
Hearta
• Murmurs (auscultation standing, supine, +/- Valsalva)
• Location of point of maximal impulse (PM)
Pulses
• Simultaneous femoral and radial pulses
Lungs
Abdomen
Genitourinary (males only)b
Skin
• HSV, lesions suggestive of MRSA, tinea corporis
Neurologicc
MuSCuLOSKELETAL
Neck
Back
Shoulder/arm
Elbow/forearm
Wrist/hand/fingers
Hip/thigh
Knee
Leg/ankle
Foot/toes
Functional
• Duck-walk, single leg hop
a Consider ECG, echocardiogram, and referral to cardiology for abnormal cardiac history or exam.
b Consider GU exam if in private setting. Having third party present is recommended.
c Consider cognitive evaluation or baseline neuropsychiatric testing if a history of significant concussion.
o Cleared for all sports without restriction
o Cleared for all sports without restriction with recommendations for further evaluation or treatment for
o Not cleared
o Pending further evaluation
o For any sports
o For certain sports
Reason
Recommendations
I have examined the above-named student and completed the participation physical evaluation. The athlete does not present apparent clinical contraindications to practice and participate in the sport(s) as
outlined above. A copy of the physical exam is on record in my office and can be made available to the school at the request of the parents. If conditions arise after the athlete has been cleared for participation,
the physician may rescind the clearance until the problem is resolved and the potential consequences are completely explained to he athlete (and parents/guardians).
Date
Name of Physician (print/type)
Address
Signature of physician
DO
Phone
MD or
©2010 American Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Sports Medicine, Amercian Medical Society for Sports Medicine, Amercian Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, and
Amercian Osteopathic Academy of Sports Medicine. Permisson is granted to reprint for noncommerical, educational purposes with ackowledgement.
PREPARTICIPATION PHYSICAL EVALUATION
CLEARANCE FORM
Name
Sex
o M
o F
Age
Date of birth
o Cleared for all sports without restriction
o Cleared for all sports without restriction with recommendations for further evaluations or tretament for
o Not cleared
o Pending further evaluation
o For any sports
o For certain sports
Reason
Recommendations
I have examined the above-named student and completed the participation physical evaluation. The athlete does not present apparent clinical contraindications to practice and participate in
the sport(s) as outlined above. A copy of the physical exam is on record in my office and can be made available to the school at the request of the parents. If conditions arise after the athlete has been cleared for participation, the physician may rescind the clerance until the problem is resolved and the potential consequences are completely explained to he athlete (and parents/guardians).
Date
Name of Physician (print/type)
Address
Signature of physician
DO
Phone
MD or
EMERGENCY INFORMATION
Allergies
Other information
©2010 American Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Sports Medicine, Amercian Medical Society for Sports Medicine, Amercian Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, and Amercian Osteopathic Academy of Sports Medicine. Permisson is granted to reprint for noncommerical, educational purposes with ackowledgement.
PREPARTICIPATION PHYSICAL EVALUATION
HISTORY FORM
(Note this form is to be filled out by the patient and parent prior to seeing the phyisician. The physician should keep this form in the chart.)
Date of Exam
Name
Sex
Date of Birth
Age
Grade
School
Sport(s)
Medicines and Allergies: Please list all of the prescription and over-the-counter nedicines and supplements (herbal and nutritional) that you are currently taking.
Do you have any allergies?
o Medicines
o Yes
o No If Yes, please identify specific allergy below:
o Pollens
o Food
o Stinging Insects
Explain “Yes” answers below. Circle questions you don’t know the answers to.
GENERAL QuESTIONS
1. Has a doctor ever denied or restricted your participation in sports for
any reason?
2. Do you have any ongoing medcial conditions? If so, please specify
below: o Asthma o Anemia o Diabetes o Infections
Other:
3. Have you ever spent the night in the hospital?
4. Have you ever had surgery?
HEART QuESTIONS ABOuT YOu
5. Have you ever passed out or nearly passed out DURING or
AFTER exercise?
6. Have you ever had discomfort, pain, tightness, or pressure in your
chest during exercise?
7. Does your heart ever race or skip beats (irregular beats) during exercise?
8. Has a doctor ever told you that you have any heart problems? If so,
check all that apply:
o High Blood Pressure
o A heart murmur
o High cholesterol
o A heart infection
o Kawasaki disease
Other:
9. Has a doctor ever ordered a test for your heart? (For example, ECG/EKG,
echocardiogram)
10. Do you get lightheaed or feel more short of breath than expected
during exercise?
11. Have you ever had an unexplained seizure?
12. Do you get more tired or short of breath more quickly than your friends
during exercise?
HEART HEALTH QuESTIONS ABOuT YOuR FAMILY
13. Has any family member or relative died of heart problems or had an
unexpected or unexplained sudden death before age 50 (including
drowning, unexplained car accident, or sudden infant death syndrome)?
14. Does anyone in your family have hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, Marfan
syndrome, arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, long QT
syndrome, short QT syndrome, Brugada syndrome, or catecholaminergic
polymorphic ventricular tachycardia?
15. Does anyone in your family have a heart problem, pacemaker, or
implanted defibrilator?
16. Has anyone in your family had unexplained fainting, unexplained
Seizures, or near drowning?
BONE AND JOINT QuESTIONS
17. Have you ever had an injury to a bone, muscle, ligament, or tendon
that caused you to miss practice or a game?
18. Have you ever had any broken or fractured bones or dislocated joints?
19. Have you ever had an injury that required x-rays, MRI, CT scan,
injections, therapy, a brace, a cast, or crutches?
20. Have you ever had a stress fracture?
21. Have you ever been told that you have or have you had an x-ray for neck
instability or atlantoaxial instability? (Down syndrome or dwarfism)
22. Do you regularly use a brace, orthotics, or other assistive device?
23. Do you have a bone, muscle, or joint injury that bothers you?
24. Do any of your joints become painful, swollen, feel warm, or look red?
25. Do you have any history of juvenile arthritis or connective tissue disease?
YES
NO
MEDICAL QuESTIONS
26 Do you cough, wheeze, or have difficulty breathing during or
after exercise?
27. Have you ever used an inhaler or taken asthma medicine?
28. Is there anyone in your family who has asthma?
29. Were you born without or are you missing a kidney, an eye, a testicle
(males), your spleen, or any other organ?
30. Do you have groin pain or a painful bulge or hernia in the groin area?
31. Have you had infectious mononucleosis (mono) within the last month?
32. Do you have any rashes, pressure sores, or other skin problems?
33. Have you ever had herpes or MRSA skin infection?
34. Have you ever had a head injury or concussion?
35. Have you ever had a hit or blow to the head that caused confusion,
prolonged headache, or memory problems?
36. Do you have a history of seizure disorder?
37. Do you have headaches with excercise?
38. Have you ever had numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms
or legs after being hit or falling?
39. Have you ever been unable to move your arms or legs after being hit
or falling?
40. Have you ever become ill while excercising in the heat?
41. Do you get frequent muscle cramps when excercising?
42. Do you or someone in your family have sickle cell trait or disease?
43. Have you had any problems with your eyes or vision?
44. Have you had any eye injuries?
45. Do you wear glasses or contact lenses?
46. Do you wear protective eyewear, such as goggles or a face shield?
47. Do you worry about your weight?
48. Are you trying to or has anyone recommended that you gain or
lose weight?
49. Are you on a special diet or do you avoid certain types of food?
50. Have you ever had an eating disorder?
51. Do you have any concerns that you would like to discuss with a doctor?
FEMALES ONLY
52. Have you ever had a menstrual period?
53. How old were you when you had your first menstrual period?
54. How many periods have you had in the last 12 months?
YES
NO
Explain “yes” answers here
I hereby state that, to the best of my knowledge, my answers to the above questions are complete and correct.
Signature of athlete
Signature of parent/guardian
Date
©2010 American Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Sports Medicine, Amercian Medical Society for Sports Medicine, Amercian Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, and Amercian Osteopathic Academy of Sports Medicine. Permisson is granted to reprint for noncommerical, educational purposes with ackowledgement.
PREPARTICIPATION PHYSICAL EVALUATION
THE ATHLETE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS:
SUPPLEMENTAL HISTORY FORM
Date of Exam
Name
Date of Birth
Sex
Age
Grade
School
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Type of disability
Date of disability
Classification (if available)
Cause of disability (birth, disease, accident/trauma, other)
List the sports you are intersted in playing
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
Do you regularly use a brace, assistive device, or prosthetic?
Do you use any special brace or assistive device for sports?
Do you have any rashes, pressure sores, or any other skin problems?
Do you have hearing loss? Do you use a hearing aid?
Do you have a visual impairment?
Do you use any special devices for bowel or bladder function?
Do you have burning or discomfort when urinating?
Have you had autonomic dysreflexia?
Have you ever been diagnosed with a heat-related (hyperthermia) or cold-related (hypothermia) illness?
Do you have muscle spasticity?
Do you have frequent seizures that cannot be controlled by medication?
Sport(s)
YES
NO
Explain “yes” answers here
Please indicate if you have ever had any of the following.
Atlantoaxial instability
X-ray evaluation for atlantoaxial instability
Dislocated joints (more than one)
Easy bleeding
Enlarged spleen
Hepatitis
Osteopenia or osteoprosis
Difficulty controlling bowel
Difficulty controlling bladder
Numbness or tingling in arms or hands
Numbness or tingling in legs or feet
Weakness in arms and hands
Weakness in legs or feet
Recent change in coordination
Recent change in ability to walk
Spinabifida
Latex allergy
Explain “yes” answers here
I hereby state that, to the best of my knowledge, my answers to the above questions are complete and correct.
Signature of athlete
Signature of parent/guardian
Date
©2010 American Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Sports Medicine, Amercian Medical Society for Sports Medicine, Amercian Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, and Amercian Osteopathic Academy of Sports Medicine. Permisson is granted to reprint for noncommerical, educational purposes with ackowledgement.
STuDENT/PARENT CONCuSSION AWARENESS FORM
GAINESvILE HIGH SCHOOL - GAINESvILLE, GEORGIA
DANGERS OF CONCuSSION
Concussions at all levels of sports have received a great deal of attention and a state law has been passed to address
this issue. Adolescent athletes are particularly vulnerable to the effects of concussion. Once considered little more than a
minor “ding” to the head, it is now understood that a concussion has the potential to result in death, or changes in brain
function (either short-term or longterm). A concussion is a brain injury that results in a temporary disruption of normal brain
function. A concussion occurs when the brain is violently rocked back and forth or twisted inside the skull as a result of a
blow to the head or body. Continued participation in any sport following a concussion can lead to worsening concussion
symptoms, as well as increased risk for further injury to the brain, and even death.
Player and parental education in this area is crucial – that is the reason for this document. Refer to it regularly. This form
must be signed by a parent or guardian of each student who wishes to participate in GHSA athletics. One copy needs to
be returned to the school, and one retained at home.
COMMON SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF CONCuSSION
• Headache, dizziness, poor balance, moves clumsily, reduced energy level/tiredness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Blurred vision, sensitivity to light and sounds
• Fogginess of memory, difficulty concentrating, slowed thought processes, confused about surroundings
or game assignments
• Unexplained changes in behavior and personality
• Loss of consciousness (NOTE: This does not occur in all concussion episodes.)
BY-LAW 2.68: GHSA CONCuSSION POLICY: In accordance with Georgia law and national playing rules published by
the National Federation of State High School Associations, any athlete who exhibits signs, symptoms, or behaviors consistent with a concussion shall be immediately removed from the practice or contest and shall not return to play until an
appropriate health care professional has determined that no concussion has occurred. (NOTE: An appropriate health care
professional may include, licensed physician (MD/DO) or another licensed individual under the supervision of a licensed
physician, such as a nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or certified athletic trainer who has received training in concussion evaluation and management.)
a) No athlete is allowed to return to a game or a practice on the same day that a concussion (a) has been diagnosed,
OR (b) cannot be ruled out.
b) Any athlete diagnosed with a concussion shall be cleared medically by an appropriate health care professional prior
to resuming participation in any future practice or contest. The formulation of a gradual return to play protocol shall
be a part of the medical clearance.
c) It is mandatory that every coach in each GHSA sport participate in a free, online course on concussion management
prepared by the NFHS and available at www.nfhslearn.com at least every two years – beginning with the 2013-2014
school year.
d) Each school will be responsible for monitoring the participation of its coaches in the concussion management
course, and shall keep a record of those who participate.
I HAVE READ THIS FORM AND I UNDERSTAND THE FACTS PRESENTED IN IT.
SIGNED:
(Student)
DATE:
(Parent or Guardian)
Gainesville High School
Parking Application Contract
Student’s Name:
Permit #:
First
Last
Middle
vehicle Information:
Make
Model
Color
Tag
In consideration for the privilege of driving and parking a motor vehicle on the campus of Gainesville High School, the student and parent
hereby ackowledge and agree to abide by the rules and regulations of the Gainesville City School District stated in the Parking Permit
Application and Vehicle Registration form and the rules and regulations of Gainesville High School stated below.
Students may have their parking privileges suspended or revoked as a result of any of the following:
1.
a. An out-of-school suspension for any reason or an accumulation
of more then five (5) days of in-school suspension (ISS).
f.
b. Failure to sign in with the 1st Floor Office when tardy to school or
3rd Floor Office when returning to school from a prior early
dismissal.
c. Leaving or attempting to leave campus without signing out or
leaving campus without proper permission (lunch privileges). This
includes any student who drives or rides as a passenger, any
student who walks off campus without written permission, or any
student who transports a student off campus who has not properly
checked out of school.
Improper or reckless vehicular conduct including, but not limited to:
exceeding the 15 mph campus speed limit, driving across aisles
of parking, failure to follow the signals of school staff members
who may be directing traffic on campus, failure to stop at stop
signs, and failing to yield to pedestrians.
g. Parking or allowing another student to park an unregistered
vehicle or a vehicle belonging to someone other than the
registered student or their parent(s).
T
F
A
h. Parking in an unauthorized area (faculty area, no parking area,
etc.)
i.
Failure to adhere to the GHS Drug Screening Policy.
d. Transporting students who have not been properly checked out
or who do not have lunch privileges.
R
D
e. Truancy/Excessive Tardies
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
Revocation of parking privileges may range in length from a minimum of the remainder of the term (or 45 school days, whichever
is greater) to permanent revocation. The length of revocation shall be at the discretion of the principal or his/her designee. Any
student who parks, registers, or attempts to register a vehicle which belongs to someone other than themselves or their parents
may have their parking privileges revoked permanently.
Students whose parking privileges have been revoked into the subsequent semester or school year will be eligible to purchase
a parking permit and regain the privilege of driving and parking on campus at the conclusion of the period of revocation IF
student parking spaces are available at that time.
Refunds will not be issued to students who have had their parking privileges suspended or revoked.
Students enrolled in early release programs/off-campus lunch programs must meet the parking rules and regulations as stated.
No exceptions will be made nor special privileges extended to students enrolled in any of these programs.
Students are responsible for any contraband in their vehicle. All vehicles parked on campus are subject to search.
Students may be ticketed for the improper or illegal parking of vehicles on campus.
Students must park in the designated student parking lots. If there are no spaces left in the desired lot, DO NOT BLOCK ANY
CARS IN. Go to another lot. Students will not be excused for tardies resulting from “full” parking lots. Students cannot park in
faculty lots. Parking spots are first-come, first-served.
Students can only register a car owned/leased by them or their family and that is legally registered in Georgia. upon registration,
students must provide a legal driver’s license, proof of current insurance, and payment ($30).
The school-issued parking sticker must clearly be displayed when the vehicle is parked on the Gainesville High campus. If you
drive a different car than you registered you must go to the 2nd Floor Office for a temporary pass. Temporary parking passes
will be valid for one (1) week.
Replacement parking stickers may be purchased at a cost of $30.00.
Students are not permitted to go to their cars during the school day without the permission of an administrator. Once on campus,
the student may not drive unless he or she has properly checked out; those with lunch dismissal approval may only leave
during their designated lunch period.
Students and parents must consent to the GHS Drug Screening policy to obtain a parking permit. See the back of this form.
I have read, understand, and agree to abide by the rules and regulations specified in the Gainesville High School Parking Permit Application
and Vehicle Registration Form and the Gainesville High School Parking Contract. I have received a copy of these regulations.
Student Signature
Parent Signature
Date
Date
Student Cell #
Parent #
DRUG-TESTING ADMINISTRATION ACKNOWLEDGEMENT/CONSENT FORM
The Gainesville City Board of Education has consented to mandatory random drug test for all student-athletes who participate
in Georgia High School Association (GHSA) interscholastic athletics and for any student drivers who wish to park on campus.
Any sports activity that requires an annual physical as a condition of participation is subject to this procedure.
1. The student must sign this form upon registering for parking permit, which authorizes the school to administer drug testing
and that allows the results to be released to parents or guardians, administrative officials, and the head coach.
(NOTE: Parents and students do not have the option of not participating in the drug-screen program, if they wish to have the
student participate in such an interscholastic activity or park on campus).
2. Random testing will take place at any time during the school year with the student-athlete chosen through lottery/random
selection. Information regarding the testing protocol and procedure is available upon request.
Testing will be done by the Northeast Georgia Forensic/Toxicology Lab under the supervision of the Toxicology Program Manager.
The acknowledgement of administration and consent to allow participation in the random drug-testing program shall remain in
effect until revoked in writing.
SIGNATURE(S) OF PARENT(S) OR GUARDIAN(S):
DATE:
SIGNATURE OF STUDENT:
DATE:
The Red Elephants
Legends abound in the world of competitive sports, oen growing larger in stature and girth as years go by. Heralded
stories of individual or collective feats are regaled with spirited pride. Yet, minus recorded history or factual verification, legends are sustained. e story of how the Red Elephants got their name is one of lore.
Under the tutelage of the legendary Julian Howard Pittard, the fondly called “Coach Pitt,” the once-called Gainesville
Gladiators amassed a record of 91 victories against 16 losses from 1923-33. Gridiron greats of the era included Tom
Paris, Pat Patterson, Bennie Rothstein, Tiger Bennett, and Cy Bell. During a three year-stint, 1923, 1924, and 1925,
his teams scored 1200 points while the opponents posted 63. is incredible record was recorded and described by
the “iron ment of sport” — no specialty players, no two-platooned systems, no face guards on leather-stitched helmets
which, aer competition, were folded and put into back pockets. Morever, City Park was but a bowl cut into the red
hills of the region and the playing field was miminally kept.
Coach Pitt’s teams were tough and big, inaugurating a legendary tradition of Gainesville’s teams throughout the twentieth century. e teams of 1923-24-25 were declared “state champions” even though there was no play-off system in
place.
In the late 1920s and 1930s as the school’s football tradition flourished, Coach J. A. “Cotton” Neighbors succeeded
Pittard as head coach. He continued to champion the teams’ traits to which opponents were accustomed — well
coached, physically strong young men reared in a virtual gridiron nursery of a city and game strategies of strength
and finesse.
It was also an era when Everett Strupper, a sportwriter for the Atlanta Journal, reported on a University of Alabama
football game versus Mississippi. He described the crimson-clad Alabama team as “powerful, big, tough, fast,
aggressive, and well-schooled in fundamentals with the best blocking.” He reported a fan saying “the elephants are
coming.”
Legends and the consensus of opinion lend itself to believe that, during the mid 1930s, the same sportswriter witnessed
a hard fought GHS game against Marietta. Hampered with star players’ injuries, the Marietta team was predicted to
inflict a crippling loss. GHS prevailed and the awed writer described the scene: Gainesville marched up and down
the field like a heard of red elephants.”
Elephants — intellectual, majestic, leaders protective of their herd, sturdy — the qualities of a mighty mammal which
a spirited student body admires and emulates.
Nourished by tradition and bolstered by a city of pride, the famed mascot became the Red Elephants. Legions of
players and fans have long cheered those who doned the legendary red and white. Forever celebrated is the enduring
tradition of being a mighty Red Elephant.
Donated with pride by the GHS Class of 2007
Alma Mater
I
Let our voices loudly ringing
Echo far an near.
Songs of praise thy children singing
To thy memory dear.
CHORUS
Alma Mater, Alma Mater
Tender, fair, and true,
Grateful we with love unfailing
All our vows renew.
II
All the years we’ve been together
Fondly we recall,
Days of fair and stormy weather
ou has gladdened all.
III
Years may dim our recollection.
Time its change may bring.
Still thy name in fond affection
Ever more we’ll sing.
M
7
14
21
28
M
7
14
21
28
M
7
14
21
28
M
6
13
20
27
S
6
13
20
27
S
6
13
20
27
S
6
13
20
27
S
5
12
19
26
7
14
21
28
M
1
8
15
22
29
GGS
28
7
14
21
T
29
W
1
8
15
22
30
T
2
9
16
23
June 2016
March 2016
T W T
1
2
3
8
9 10
15 16 17
22 23 24
29 30 31
F
3
10
17
24
F
4
11
18
25
December 2015
T W T
F
1
2
3
4
8
9 10 11
15 16 17 18
22 23 24 25
29 30 31
S
5
12
19
26
September 2015
T W T
F
1
2
3
4
8
9 10 11
15 16 17 18
22 23 24 25
29 30
S
4
11
18
25
(22)
S
5
12
19
26
(14)
S
5
12
19
26
(21)
S
6
13
20
27
F
5
12
19
26
June 2015
T W T
2
3
4
9 10 11
16 17 18
23 24 25
30
3
10
17
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3
10
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31
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4
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4
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11
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M
6
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20
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7
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11
18
25
S
1
8
15
22
29
7
14
21
28
S
S
1
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15
22
29
Student/Teacher Days
Teacher Planning Days
Holidays
M
T
M
2
9
16
23
30
M
1
8
15
22
29
M
2
9
16
23
30
T
F
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3
10
17
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F
5
12
19
26
W T F
4 5 6
11 12 13
18 19 20
25 26 27
May 2016
February 2016
T W T
2
3 4
9 10 11
16 17 18
23 24 25
November 2015
T W T
F
3
4 5 6
10 11 12 13
17 18 19 20
24 25 26 27
W
August 2015
(15)
S
7
14
21
28
(20)
S
6
13
20
27
(16)
S
7
14
21
28
S
1
2
3
4
5 6 7
8
9 10 11 12 13 14
15
16 17 18 19 20 21
22
23 24 25 26 27 28
29
30 31
(19)
S
New Teacher’s Report
6
13
20
27
April 2016
W T
5
12
19
26
T
5
12
19
26
January 2016
T W T
October 2015
T W T
1
6
7
8
13 14 15
20 21 22
27 28 29
July 2015
W T
1
2
7
8
9
14 15 16
21 22 23
28 29 30
T
GCSS Board of Education Approved January 20, 2015
27-29 July
New Teachers Report
30 July
190 Day Staff Report for Pre-planning
Open House Events 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
31 July
Open House for Middle School
3 August
Open House for Elementary Schools
4 August
Open House for Pre-K Classes
4 August
Open House for High School
5 August
School Starts
7 September
Labor Day Holiday
8 September
Progress Reports
7 October
End of 1st Grading Period
12-13 October Fall Break Holiday
20 October
Report Cards
10 November
Progress Reports
23-27 November Thanksgiving Holidays
7-18 December HS Milestone Testing
18 December
1st Semester Ends (90 Student Days)
21 December
Winter Break Holidays Begins
4 January
Teacher Planning (Weather Make-up)
5 January
2nd Semester Begins
5 January
1st Semester Report Cards
18 January
Dr. ML King Holiday
2 February
Progress Reports
15 February
Teacher Planning (Weather Make-up)
9 March
End of 3rd Grading Period
11 March
Teacher Planning (Weather Make-up)
15 March
Report Cards
1 April
Teacher Planning
4-8 April
Spring Break Holidays
18-22 April
ES & MS Milestone Testing
26 April
Progress Reports
9-20 May
HS Milestone Testing
20 May
Last Day of School (180 Student Days)
20 May
GHS Graduation @ 7:00 PM
20 May
ES Report Cards
23-24 May
Teacher Planning
27 May
MS & HS Report Cards Mailed
Gainesville City School System
2015-2016 Calendar