Student Behavior Prohibited Student Conduct

Students may be disciplined for gross disobedience or misconduct, including but not limited to the following:

1. Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, selling or offering for sale tobacco or nicotine materials, including electronic cigarettes or e-cigarettes.

2. Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, or selling alcoholic beverages. Students who are under the influence of an alcoholic beverage are not permitted to attend school or school functions and are treated as though they had alcohol in their possession.

3. Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, selling or offering for sale:

a. Any illegal drug, controlled substance, or cannabis (including marijuana, medical cannabis and hashish).

b. Any anabolic steroid unless it is being administered in accordance with a physician’s or licensed practitioner’s prescription.

c. Any performance-enhancing substance on the Illinois High School Association’s most current banned substance list unless administered in accordance with a physician’s or licensed practitioner’s prescription.

d. Any prescription drug when not prescribed for the student by a physician or licensed practitioner, or when used in a manner inconsistent with the prescription or prescribing physician’s or licensed practitioner’s instructions. The use or possession of medical cannabis, even by a student for whom medical cannabis has been prescribed, is prohibited.

e. Any inhalant, regardless of whether it contains an illegal drug or controlled substance: (a) that a student believes is, or represents to be capable of, causing intoxication, hallucination, excitement, or dulling of the brain or nervous system; or (b) about which the student engaged in behavior that would lead a reasonable person to believe that the student intended the inhalant to cause intoxication, hallucination, excitement, or dulling of the brain or nervous system. The prohibition in this section does not apply to a student’s use of asthma or other legally prescribed inhalant medications.

f. “Look-alike” or counterfeit drugs, including a substance that is not prohibited by this policy, but one: (a) that a student believes to be, or represents to be, an illegal drug, controlled substance, or other substance that is prohibited by this policy; or (b) about which a student engaged in behavior that would lead a reasonable person to believe that the student expressly or impliedly represented to be an illegal drug, controlled substance or other substance that is prohibited by this policy.

g. Drug paraphernalia, including devices that are or can be used to: (a) ingest, inhale, or inject cannabis or controlled substances into the body; and (b) grow, process, store, or conceal cannabis or controlled substances.

h. Any substance inhaled, injected, smoked, consumed or otherwise ingested or absorbed with the intention of causing a physiological or psychological change in the body, including without limitation, pure caffeine in a tablet or powdered form.

Students who are under the influence of any prohibited substance are not permitted to attend school or school functions and are treated as though they have the prohibited substance, as applicable, in their possession.

4. Using, possessing, controlling or transferring a “weapon” or violating the procedures listed below under the Weapons Prohibition section of this handbook procedure.

5. Using or possessing an electronic paging device.

6. Using a cellular telephone, smartphone, video recording device, personal digital assistant (PDA), or similar electronic device in any manner that disrupts the educational environment or violates the rights of others, including using the device to take photographs in locker rooms or bathrooms, cheat, or otherwise violate student conduct rules. Prohibited conduct specifically includes, without limitation, creating and sending, sharing, viewing, receiving or possessing an indecent visual depiction of oneself or another person through the use of a computer, electronic communication device or cellular telephone, commonly known as “sexting.”

7. Using or possessing a laser pointer unless under a staff member’s direct supervision and in the context of instruction.

8. Disobeying rules of student conduct or directives from staff members or school officials. Examples of disobeying staff directives include refusing a staff member’s request to stop or submit to a search.

9. Engaging in academic dishonesty, including cheating, intentionally plagiarizing, wrongfully giving or receiving help during an academic examination, altering report cards and wrongfully obtaining test copies or scores.

10. Engaging in bullying, hazing or any kind of aggressive behavior that does physical or psychological harm to a staff person or another student or encouraging other students to engage in such behavior. Prohibited conduct specifically includes, without limitation, any use of violence, intimidation, force, noise, coercion, threats, stalking, harassment, sexual harassment, public humiliation, theft or destruction of property, retaliation, hazing, bullying, bullying using a school computer or a school computer network or other comparable conduct.

11. Engaging in any sexual activity, including without limitation, offensive touching, sexual harassment, indecent exposure and sexual assault.

12. Causing or attempting to cause damage to, stealing, or attempting to steal, school property or another person’s personal property.

13. Entering school property or a school facility without proper authorization.

14. In the absence of a reasonable belief that an emergency exists, calling emergency responders (calling 9-1-1); signaling or setting off alarms or signals indicating the presence of an emergency; or indicating the presence of a bomb or explosive device on school grounds, school bus or at any school activity.

15. Being absent without a recognized excuse.

16. Being involved in a gang or engaging in gang-like activities, including displaying gang symbols or paraphernalia.

17. Violating any criminal law, including but not limited to, assault, battery, arson, theft, gambling, eavesdropping, vandalism and hazing.

18. Engaging in any activity, on or off campus, that interferes with, disrupts, or adversely affects the school environment, school operations, or an educational function, including but not limited to, conduct that may reasonably be considered to: (a) be a threat or an attempted intimidation of a staff member; or (b) endanger the health or safety of students, staff, or school property.

19. Making an explicit threat on an Internet website against a school employee, a student, or any school-related personnel if the Internet website through which the threat was made is a site that was accessible within the school at the time the threat was made or was available to third parties who worked or studied within the school grounds at the time the threat was made, and the threat could be reasonably interpreted as threatening to the safety and security of the threatened individual because of his or her duties or employment status or status as a student inside the school.

For purposes of these rules, the term “possession” includes having control, custody, or care, currently or in the past, of an object or substance, including situations in which the item is: (a) on the student’s person; (b) contained in another item belonging to, or under the control of, the student, such as in the student’s clothing, backpack, or automobile; (c) in a school’s student locker, desk, or other school property; (d) at any location on school property or at a school-sponsored event; or (e) in the case of drugs and alcohol, substances ingested by the person.

Efforts, including the use of positive interventions and supports shall be made to deter students, while at school or a school-related event, from engaging in aggressive behavior that may reasonably produce physical or psychological harm to someone else.

No disciplinary action shall be taken against any student that is based totally or in part on the refusal of the student’s parent/guardian to administer or consent to the administration of psychotropic or psychostimulant medication to the student.

When and Where Conduct Rules Apply

The grounds for disciplinary action also apply whenever the student’s conduct is reasonably related to school or school activities, including but not limited to:

1. On, or within sight of, school grounds before, during, or after school hours or at any time;

2. Off school grounds at a school-sponsored activity or event, or any activity or event that bears a reasonable relationship to school;

3. Traveling to or from school or a school activity, function, or event; or

4. Anywhere, if the conduct interferes with, disrupts, or adversely affects the school environment, school operations, or an educational function, including but not limited to, conduct that may reasonably be considered to: (a) be a threat or an attempted intimidation of a staff member; or (b) endanger the health or safety of students, staff, or school property.

Disciplinary Measures

School officials shall limit the number and duration of expulsions and out-of-school suspensions to the greatest extent practicable, and, where practicable and reasonable, shall consider forms of non-exclusionary discipline before using out-of-school suspensions or expulsions. School personnel shall not advise or encourage students to drop out of school voluntarily due to behavioral or academic difficulties. Potential disciplinary measures include, without limitation, any of the following measures:

1. Notifying parents/guardians.

2. Disciplinary conference.

3. Withholding of privileges.

4. Temporary removal from the classroom.

5. Return of property or restitution for lost, stolen or damaged property.

6. In-school suspension.

7. After-school study or Saturday study.

8. Community service.

9. Seizure of contraband; confiscation and temporary retention of the personal property that was used to violate school rules.

10. Suspension of bus riding privileges.

11. Suspension from school and all school activities for up to 10 days. A suspended student is prohibited from being on school grounds.

12. Expulsion from school and all school activities for a definite time period not to exceed 2 calendar years. An expelled student is prohibited from being on school grounds.

13. Transfer to an alternative program if the student is expelled or otherwise qualifies for transfer under State law.

14. Notifying juvenile authorities or other law enforcement whenever the conduct involves criminal activity, such as, illegal drugs (controlled substances), “look-alikes,” alcohol or weapons or in other circumstances as authorized by the reciprocal reporting agreement between the District and local law enforcement agencies.

The above list of disciplinary measures is a range of options that will not always be applicable in every case. In some circumstances, it may not be possible to avoid suspending or expelling a student because behavioral interventions, other than a suspension or expulsion, will not be appropriate and available, and the only reasonable and practical way to resolve the threat and/or address the disruption is a suspension or expulsion.

Corporal Punishment

Corporal punishment is illegal and will not be used. Corporal punishment is defined as slapping, paddling, or prolonged maintenance of students in physically painful positions, or intentional infliction of bodily harm. Corporal punishment does not include reasonable force as needed to maintain safety for students, staff, or other persons, or for the purpose of self-defense or defense of property.

A student who is determined to have brought one of the following objects to school, any school-sponsored activity or event, or any activity or event that bears a reasonable relationship to school shall be expelled for a period of not less than one year but not more than 2 calendar years:

(1) A firearm, meaning any gun, rifle, shotgun, weapon as defined by Section 921 of Title 18 of the Unites States Code, firearm as defined in Section 1.1 of the Firearm Owners Identification Card Act, or firearm as defined in Section 24-1 of the Criminal Code of 1961. The expulsion period may be modified by the superintendent, and the superintendent’s determination may be modified by the board on a case-by-case basis.

(2) A knife, brass knuckles or other knuckle weapon regardless of its composition, a billy club, or any other object if used or attempted to be used to cause bodily harm, including “look alikes” of any firearm as defined above.

The expulsion requirement may be modified by the superintendent, and the superintendent’s determination may be modified by the board on a case-by-case basis.

Gang & Gang Activity Prohibited

“Gang” is defined as any group, club or organization of two or more persons whose purposes include the commission of illegal acts. No student on or about school property or at any school activity or whenever the student’s conduct is reasonably related to a school activity, shall: (1) wear, possess, use, distribute, display, or sell any clothing, jewelry, paraphernalia or other items which reasonably could be regarded as gang symbols; commit any act or omission, or use either verbal or nonverbal gestures, or handshakes showing membership or affiliation in a gang; or (2) use any speech or commit any act or omission in furtherance of the interest of any gang or gang activity, including, but not limited to, soliciting others for membership in any gangs; (3) request any person to pay protection or otherwise intimidate, harass or threaten any person; (4) commit any other illegal act or other violation of district policies, (5) or incite other students to act with physical violence upon any other person.

Re-Engagement of Returning Students

The building principal or designee shall meet with a student returning to school from an out-of-school suspension, expulsion or alternative school setting. The goal of this meeting shall be to support the student’s ability to be successful in school following a period of exclusion and shall include an opportunity for students who have been suspended to complete or make-up missed work for equivalent academic credit.

Cell Phones and Other Electronic Devices

Students may have cell phone or other electronic devices at school under the following guidelines:

•   Students should have Cell phones silenced and stored out of sight prior to entering restricted areas. Restricted areas include:

              1.       Classrooms during times of instruction (includes time from when the tardy bell rings to start class until the next bell
                             rings to end class).

•   Teachers may choose to have an area where students may store their phones during instruction time.
•   Exceptions may only be granted by the supervising teacher.

                  2.       Restrooms
                  3.       Locker Rooms 
                  4.       All Assemblies
                  5.       ISS (students in ISS will not be allowed to have their phone on their person. The supervising teacher will provide a  
                              location for students upon entering ISS).
                                   

•       Any student found in violation of this policy will be asked to turn off their phone and face the following disciplinary action:

First Offense: Cell Phone/Electronic Device will be confiscated without incident and can be picked up  at the office by the student at the end of the school day.

Second Offense: Cell Phone/Electronic device will be confiscated without incident and a parent/guardian can pick up the phone at the office at the end of the day. Student will serve two days of after-school detention. Detention will be one hour in length.

Third and Subsequent Offenses:  Cell Phone/Electronic Device will be confiscated without incident and a parent/guardian can pick up the phone at the office at the end of the school day. Student will serve 1-3 days ISS.

•          Students who do not comply when asked for their Cell phone/Electronic device will have their disciplinary consequences 
           escalated.
•          Additional violations may result in revocation of all cell phone privileges due to continued noncompliance.

*Warsaw High School will not be responsible for cell phones or other electronic devices brought on campus by students.

ASSIGNMENT NOTEBOOK/STUDENT HANDBOOK

Use the AGENDA notebook to keep yourself organized and prepared for all the happenings in our school, and to familiarize yourself with our expectations. Pay close attention to deadlines, and scheduled activities so you may plan your study-work schedule around conflicts. The information in this notebook is valuable and vital to your success. Use it to your advantage.

ALL CLASSES COUNT

All high school classes receive credit toward graduation. All except SPECIAL PERMISSION CLASSES will count toward the accumulative grade point average (Accum. GPA). The only way a student will not receive credit for class is with a failing grade or if she has been removed from class for disciplinary reasons.

CO-CURRICULAR AND EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Each student is encouraged to participate in one or more activity. We feel this is an important part of the educational process. If you cannot participate, become a spectator. Join or attend the activities that interest you. There are many activities in the areas of music, drama, subject oriented clubs, student council, athletics. etc. ALL RULES AND REGULATIONS OF WARSAW SCHOOLS ARE IN EFFECT FOR ALL ACTIVITIES WHETHER HOME OR AWAY. When you commit to an activity, you owe it to yourself to do your best and be a positive force. In order to take advantage of extra learning opportunities, plan your activities schedule carefully, DON’T BECOME OVERLOADED! If you fall behind in your school work, extra help may become necessary and you may be requested to drop the activity.

ATHLETIC HANDBOOK

The Athletic Handbook covers rules and regulations governing our sports policies. Students should know and be prepared to observe all training rules and team rules (as outlined by the coach). Remember, when you join a team, you do everything you do in the name of that team. Bring pride and good sportsmanship to yourself, your team, your school and community.

WARSAW SCHOOLS ON THE WEB

The Warsaw High School web site can be found online at www.warsawschool.com .

WE ARE A “CLASS ACT” AT WARSAW

We dress appropriately, treat our facility and others with care, and display positive sportsmanship at athletic contests. Students who do not conduct themselves as ladies and gentlemen will be removed from the activity and not allowed to return. We are looking forward to working with you. Have a great year!

WHS BELL SCHEDULE

A DAY/B DAY

Period 1A/1B…………………………………………………………………………………………… 8:30 –   9:45

Period 2A/2B………………………………………………………………………………………….   9:58 – 11:10

Period 3A/3B…………………………………………………………………………………………. 11:15 –   12:30

Lunch ……………………………………………………………………………………………………12:35 – 1:05

Period 4A/4B………………………………………………………………………………………….. 1:10 –   2:25

Study Hall ……………………………………………………………………………………………….2:30 – 2:55

MONDAY/WEDNESDAY are always A days

TUESDAY/THURSDAY are always B days

FRIDAYS alternate A or B

Welcome to School

Your student handbook has been prepared to help you have a successful and gratifying school year. You are responsible for knowing the contents of this handbook, so please read it thoroughly to help avoid later misunderstandings. THIS HANDBOOK IS NOT INTENDED TO CREATE A CONTRACTUAL RELATIONSHIP WITH THE STUDENTS; RATHER, IT IS INTENDED TO DESCRIBE THE SCHOOL, ITS CURRENT PRACTICES, PROCEDURES, RULES AND REGULATIONS (CODE OF CONDUCT). Many of the items included in this handbook are covered in greater depth in the school board policy manual. A policy manual is available in the district office.  This handbook may be amended during the year without notice. The administration will notify all parents and students in writing, where possible, of any changes to the handbook as soon as it is practicable. (§1.20)

PHILOSOPHY

We at Warsaw HS believe that every student will be given the opportunity to maximize his/her ability to learn. We recognize that education is fostered through cooperation between the teacher, students and community.

To this task we commit ourselves to build an atmosphere for learning which will provide our students the opportunity to develop the self-esteem and skills necessary to continue individual growth and become productive members of society.

This is your school. The buildings, materials, teachers, and administrators are here to assist you in preparing you for your future. The record you produce in school; academics, attendance and extra-curricular activities, will be reviewed by all of your future employers. It is hoped that you will produce a record of which you can be proud.

The following guidelines should be helpful in providing a fun and cooperative atmosphere, which will help make your time more productive and enjoyable.

BE ON TIME: Arrive to school on time and be in each class before the bell rings.

BE PREPARED: Come to school and report to class with the tools necessary for that class period. It is your responsibility to come prepared. Your teachers will not excuse you to go to your locker, or go home to get forgotten items. Plan ahead!!

DO ASSIGNMENTS: Do what is assigned and turn it in on time. If you have a problem with something, TAKE THE TIME TO ASK YOUR INSTRUCTOR FOR HELP!!

RESPECT THE LIVING SPACE OF OTHERS: Respect the feelings of other people and their right to be here. If there is respect for your fellow students and staff, our school will be productive and fun.

Note:       Throughout this handbook the term “Parent” refers to “Parent/Guardian”. Some information pertains to parents, so please ask them to read it.

This student handbook was adopted by the Warsaw CUSD 316 Board of Education at the regular Board meeting of 06/19/2013.

Warsaw CUSD #316 Board of Education

Scott Baumann        Quintin Jones

Jeff Harness            Steve Lucie

Matt Heisler            Tonya Thurman

Jason Jacquot

ATTENDANCE (PRESS 7:30)

Illinois Law requires that whoever has custody or control of any child between seven and seventeen years of age (unless the child has already graduated from high school) shall assure that the child attends school in the district in which s/he resides, during the entire time school is in session. Illinois law also requires that whoever has custody or control of a child who is enrolled in the school, regardless of the child’s age, shall assure that the child attends school during the entire time school is in session.

ABSENCE CLARIFICATION/READMITTANCE TO SCHOOL

State of Illinois dictates this accounting method for attendance: 300+ instructional minutes = full day attendance, 150 – 299 instructional minutes = half day attendance, anything less than 150 instructional minutes = zero day attendance.

On the day of a student’s absence, the parent is requested to call the school informing the school of the absence.  If the parent or guardian does not call the school, the school will contact the parent or guardian by use of the School Reach telephone system by 10:00 AM to notify the parent of the reported absence.

All excused absences require verification from the parent stating the reason for the absence and the days missed.  Parents may call, email or send a note with the student upon his/her return to school.

Telephone – (217)256-4281     Email – tracy.climer@warsawschool.com

TYPES OF ABSENCES

EXCUSED ABSENCES (PRESS 7:70, §2.20)

1. Illness.  Students are allowed 8 days/occurrences of personal illness per school year.  After the 8th parent excused absence, a doctor’s note will be required for the absence to be considered excused.

2. Observance of religious holiday

3. Family death

4. Family emergency  (principal contact required)

5. Medical and dental appointments (when notification of reason for absence is made by parent AND verified with written confirmation from the doctor/hospital/dentist).  Confirmation must be received by the office within 5 days of the appointment.  If confirmation is not received the absence will be marked as a personal illness day.

6. Court appearance. (when verified by note from court official).  Verification must be received by the office within 5 days of the court appearance.  If confirmation is not received the absence will be marked as unexcused.

7. School sponsored activity

8. Family Vacation/Trip.  Students must complete the Pre-Arranged Absence form and turn it into the office 2 days before the day(s) of absence.  Students are limited to 2 excused family vacations/trips per school year.

9. Deer/Turkey Hunting.  Students are allowed one excused day of hunting.  The student must provide the office a copy of his/her tags and complete the pre-arranged absence form two days prior to the day being gone.  In addition, the student must have a minimum 90% attendance rate and must be passing all classes that will be missed.

10. AEE or ISS

11. Absences approved by the administration

UNEXCUSED ABSENCES (PRESS 7:70, §2.40)

ALL OTHER ABSENCES will be considered UNEXCUSED.

Absences that may have the knowledge or approval of the parent, but not the school will be considered unexcused.

Examples of Unexcused Absences are:

Missed the School Bus

Family Trip/Vacation or a hunting day that was not pre-approved.

More than 8 days/occurrences of personal illness with no doctor’s note.

Car broke down.

Overslept.

College visit without pre-approval of the principal or guidance counselor.

Working.

This list is not all inclusive.  The administration has the authority to disapprove other absences deemed inappropriate.  Students who are unexcused from school will not be allowed to make up missed work.

TRUANCY (PRESS 7:70, §2.50)

Students will be considered truant (or skipping) when the student is absent without valid cause (unexcused). This includes all day truancy, partial days, single period or a part of a period. After a student has accumulated an unexcused absence he will be put on the ATTENDANCE WATCH LIST.  Any student truant for more than 5% of the last 180 school days will be referred to the Regional Office of Education Truancy Officer.  A parent/guardian who knowingly and willfully permits a child to be truant may be convicted of a Class C misdemeanor, which carries a maximum penalty of 30 days in jail and/or $1500 fine.

SIGN IN/SIGN OUT

Students returning to school during the school day from a partial day’s absence MUST report to the office and SIGN IN. Likewise, if it is necessary for a student to leave school before the end of the regular day, s/he must report to the office and SIGN OUT.  A parent must contact the school to verify the reason that the student needs to leave school.  If a student feels ill, parent contact is required before the student will be allowed to leave school.  In the event that a parent is not available, the emergency contact listed on the registration form may be contacted.  ADMINISTRATIVE PERMISSION IS REQUIRED BEFORE A STUDENT WILL BE ALLOWED TO SIGN OUT. Failure to sign in, sign out or follow procedure will result in an unexcused absence and disciplinary action.

MAKE-UP WORK (PRESS 7:70, §2.40)

UPON THE DAY OF HIS/HER RETURN, A STUDENT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY AND ALL ASSIGNMENTS AND/OR ANY RECITATIONS WHICH WERE ASSIGNED PREVIOUS TO THE ABSENCE AND DUE THE DAY OF THEIR ABSENCE IN CLASS. It is the student’s responsibility to make arrangements with teachers concerning work missed. If you have an excused absence, or pre-arranged absence, you will need to make arrangements with our teachers to cover/hand in work missed. OBTAINING ASSIGNMENTS AND TURNING IN WORK TAKE PRIORITY OVER ALL ELSE THAT HAPPENS DURING HOME ROOM. Failure to see the teacher or follow procedure will waive rights to full make-up. NO make-up privileges will be granted for unexcused absences and/or truancy.

TARDIES

Tardies to school – a student must report to the office for a pass to class after 8:30. If s/he reports after 8:50, s/he WILL BE CONSIDERED ABSENT. The first tardy each semester will be excused. On the second and third tardies, the student will be issued a detention to be served in the office at 8:00AM. On the fourth tardy, one day of ISS will be issued.

Tardies to class – (all except 1st) This form of tardiness will be defined by the individual classroom teacher. The office will not issue passes to class for tardies, other than 1st period.

OTHER FACTORS PERTAINING TO ATTENDANCE

PRE-ARRANGED ABSENCES (PRESS 7:70, §2.20)

Pre-arranged absences are absences that have been cleared with the office in advance.  Such absences may include college days, vacation or special events. All pre-arranged absence requests must be accompanied by a parental note and receive administrative permission. They must be arranged enough in advance to allow for assignments to be received, prepared and submitted in advance. Failure to work in advance, or to the teacher’s directions, will result in lost credit. IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE STUDENT TO HANDLE THESE MATTERS IN A TIMELY FASHION.

ATTENDANCE REGULATIONS FOR ATHLETICS, DANCES, ETC. (PRESS 6:190, PRESS 7:20-AP1)

1.All persons must pay to enter the building.

2. Students should stay in the gym while an activity is in progress.

3.  Do not loiter in the hallways.

4. Once a student leaves the building, s/he may not reenter (for ball games and dances).

5.  All guests must be pre-approved and be “age appropriate” (under 21 yrs old)

In conclusion, good attendance is necessary for high achievement in school and you should make it your responsibility to attend regularly and on time. The principal’s office will be giving careful attention to this matter.

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

To become informed of and adhere to reasonable rules and regulations established by local boards of education and implemented by school administrators and teachers.To respect the rights and individuality of other students and school administrators and teachers.To refrain from libelous, slanderous remarks and obscenity in verbal and written expression.To dress and groom in a manner that meets reasonable standards of health, safety and cleanliness.To be punctual and present in the regular or assigned school program to the best of one’s ability.To refrain from gross disobedience or misconduct or behaviour that materially and substantially disrupts the educational process.To maintain the best possible level of academic achievement.To respect the reasonable exercise or authority by school administrators and teachers in maintaining discipline in the school and at school sponsored activities.Cooperating with staff in investigation of disciplinary cases and volunteering information when the student has knowledge relating to an offense.

PROBLEM SOLVING PROCEDURES

As with any school system, problems will arise. Communication is a vital component in successful problem solving. Many times discussing the situation with a friend is all that is necessary. In other situations, further measures are needed to solve the problem. Following correct procedures can solve the problems faster. The suggestions below are offered for these situations. Use the order below. If the problem does not get resolved at the first source, contact the next source in line.

Academic Problems:

1.             Talk to the teacher in private. Also, discuss with a parent.

2.             Counselor

3.             Principal

4.             Superintendent

5.             Board of Education

Attendance Problems:

1.             Teacher

2.             Attendance Secretary/Counselor

3.             Principal

4.             Superintendent

Athletic/Activity/Hall/Lunch Room/Bus Problems:

1.             Coach/Sponsor/Area Supervisor/Bus Driver/Counselor

2.             If athletics – Athletic Director

3.             Principal

4.             Superintendent

5.             Board of Education

Personal Problems:

1.             Talk with your parent/parents

2.             Natural Helpers

3.             Trusted Teacher

4.             Counselor

5.             Social Worker/School Psychologist

6.             Principal

For Parents: When it becomes necessary to intervene to solve a student’s problem, the following steps may facilitate a solution:

1.             Be sure to get the facts. Try to see the whole picture.

2.             Contact first, the school personnel with whom your son or daughter is having the problem.

3.             It is usually best to include your son or daughter in conferences with the teachers, counselor, administration and other school personnel to help find the solution.

4.             Before you leave a conference, be sure you understand what is expected of you and your son or daughter and what the school staff will do.

5.             It is best to set a time to meet with the staff member.

6.             Parents must check in at the office upon arrival.

*SEARCH AND SIEZURE (PRESS 7:140)

RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

For the safety and supervision of students in the absence of parent(s)/guardians(s), to maintain discipline and order in school, and to provide for the health, safety and welfare of students and staff, school authorities ARE AUTHORIZED to conduct searches of students and their effects, as well as District property.

With the approval of the School Board, the Superintendent/principal may request the assistance of law enforcement officials for conducting reasonable searchers of students and school property for controlled substances/illegal drugs, including searches utilizing trained dogs. Searches conducted by authorized school personnel in conjunction with or at the behest of the law enforcement agencies shall be conducted in accordance with the standards applicable to such law enforcement agencies.

STUDENTS AND THEIR PERSONAL EFFECTS

Certified employees and school administrators may search a student and/or the student’s personal effects (e.g. purse, wallet, knapsack, book bag, lunch box, vehicle, etc.) when there are reasonable grounds for suspecting that the search will produce evidence the particular student has violated or is violating either the law or the District’s student conduct rules. The search itself must be conducted in a manner which is reasonably related to its objectives and not excessively intrusive in light of the age/sex of the student and the nature of the infraction.

When feasible, the search should be conducted as follows:

outside the view of others, including students; in the presence of a school administrator or adult witness; by a certified employee or administrator of the same sex.

Immediately following a search, a written report shall be made by the school authority who conducted the search. the written report shall be submitted to the building principal where appropriate, and forwarded to the superintendent. The parent(s)/guardian(s) of the student shall be notified of the search as soon as possible.

SCHOOL PROPERTY

School property, including, but not limited to desks, and lockers is owned and controlled by the District and may be searched by school authorities at any time. School authorities are authorized to conduct area-wide, general administrative inspections of school property (e.g. search of all school lockers) without notice or consent of the students and without a search warrant.

SEIZURE OF PROPERTY

If a search produces evidence that the student has violated or is violating either the law or District policies or rules, such evidence may be seized and impounded by school authorities, and disciplinary action may be taken. When appropriate, such evidence may be transferred to law enforcement authorities.

LEGAL REF:          T.L.O. v New Jersey, 105 S.CT. 733 (1985)

Cornfield v. Consolidated High School Dist. No. 230, 991 F.2nd 1316 (7th Cir. ’93)

105 ILCS 5/22 10a [IL. Rev. Stat., ch 122, 22.10a]

CROSS REF:          7.130, 7.140 (police interrogation), 7.190 (student discipline)

GENERAL INFORMATION

ACCIDENT REPORTS

Students must report any injuries immediately to their teacher. The teacher will fill out an accident report which will be sent to the office.

AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR (PRESS 7:20, PRESS 7:180, PRESS 7:190, §6.40)

Harassment is a course of conduct directed at a specific person(s) that causes substantial emotional distress in such a person and serves no legitimate purpose [18USCA 1514 (c)(1)]. Bullying is an abuse, not a conflict, and thus will be dealt with through discipline vs. conflict resolution. Using any form of aggressive behavior that does physical or psychological harm to someone else, and/or urging other students to engage in such conduct is strictly forbidden. Prohibited aggressive behavior includes, without limitation, the use of violence, force, noise, coercion, threats, intimidation, fear, bullying or other comparable conduct.

Students who believe they are victims of bullying or harassment or have witnessed such activities are encouraged to report the matter. Complaints will be kept confidential to the extent possible given the need to investigate. Students who make good faith complaints will not be disciplined.

ANNOUNCEMENT AND POSTERS (PRESS 7:310, §7.20)

Announcements will be sent to every classroom in the mornings. In an effort to reach every student, various teachers will read these to you during the course of the day. All teachers will have a copy of the announcements posted in their rooms in addition to a copy posted outside the principal’s office. All announcements will affect you and your school program. It is your responsibility to listen carefully and be certain you understand them. All posters and announcements must be approved by the high school principal. Announcements will be posted on the website daily.

AUTOMOBILE REGULATIONS (PRESS 7:140 S & S, §810, §4.20)

Students parking cars on the lot are to park in designated parking spaces only. Cars must not block driveways or entrance ways. Cars must display parking stickers or be in violation of parking guidelines. Also, all cars must be left in the parking area after arriving at school and are not to be removed until the end of the day, unless permission is given by the office. Students should lock their cars during the school day and should drive in a safe manner. Students who violate these regulations will lose their parking privileges. Students have no reasonable expectation of privacy in cars parked on school grounds.

BAD WEATHER DISMISSAL (PRESS 4:170 Safety, §1.90)

When snow or other emergency conditions force the cancellation of school, notice will be given as early as possible using the School Reach telephone system.  Cancellations will also be shared with local media outlets including WIUW (89.5FM) in Warsaw, WCAZ (990AM and 92.1FM) in Carthage, WTAD (930AM) in Quincy, KOKX (1310AM) in Keokuk, WGEM-TV and KHQA-TV in Quincy. If it should be necessary to send students home from school early due to emergency conditions, notice will be given using the School Reach telephone system and will also be shared with the same radio/TV stations. If emergency conditions necessitate early dismissal or cancellation of school, as a general rule all activities will be canceled.

BEHAVIOR INTERVENTIONS

When a student is deemed to be struggling academically and/or  socially, the Warsaw SAP Team may receive referrals. After their intervention, the Behavior Change Team from WCISEC may become involved. The Behavior Change Team may get involved directly, based on an administrative or parental referral.

CARE OF SCHOOL BUILDINGS (§6.10)

During the past few years, there have been improvements done to our school buildings. Warsaw Schools now have some of the finest facilities in the area. Please use trash containers for paper, etc. and keep the buildings clean. We hope you take pride in taking care of our school. Vandalism and defacing of property will not be permitted and will result with discipline.

CHEATING

Cheating takes many forms, including but not limited to; plagiarism, stealing answers, giving answers, letting someone submit your work as their own, submitting someone else’s work as you own (with or without permission), falsifying assignments etc. If you are determined to be cheating, you will receive zero credit for the assignment/test/etc., and will be put on warning that another cheating incident in that class will mean automatic removal from class with no credit.

CLEARING THE BUILDING   (§6.10)

School is a place for you to learn and participate in extracurricular activities. We encourage you to participate in as many activities as you prefer; however, if you are not involved in the activities taking place, you are to leave the school building. In general, you should be cleared from the school building by 4:00PM, unless you are participating in a school activity.

COMPUTER ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY (PRESS 6:235, §7.10)

All students who will use Dist. 316 computers must complete and submit the Computer Acceptable Use Policy every year.  Students will be given a policy upon registering.

CONDUCT AT ASSEMBLIES/EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

The administration will make an effort to have assemblies/extra-curricular activities from time to time. The purpose of these programs will be both for educational use and enjoyment. You will be expected to treat guests with respect and give them your full attention. If there is a problem in this area, your attendance at future assemblies/activities will be curtailed.

CORRIDOR PASSES

In general, students should not be in the corridors during class periods. When it is necessary, students will be issued a pass (via their Agenda or Assignment book) by a teacher or a member of the office staff. Any student in the hallways must have a pass.

DISABLED NOTIFICATION (PRESS 8:70, §1.110)

Individuals with disabilities should notify the office if they have a disability that will require special assistance or services and, if so, what services are required.

DRESS (PRESS 7:160, §6.20)

Students are expected to wear clothing in a neat, clean, and well fitting manner while on school property and/or in attendance at school sponsored activities. Students are to use discretion in their dress and are not permitted to wear apparel that causes a substantial disruption in the school environment. Student dress (including accessories) may not advertise, promote, or picture alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, drug paraphernalia, violent behavior or other inappropriate images. Student dress (including accessories) may not display lewd, vulgar, obscene, or offensive language or symbols, including gang symbols. Hats, coats, bandannas, sweat bands, and sun glasses may not be worn in the building during the school day. Hair styles, dress and accessories that pose a safety hazard are not permitted in the shop, lab, or during physical education. Clothing with holes, rips, tears or is otherwise poorly fitting and showing skin and/or undergarments may not be worn at school. The length of shorts or skirts must be appropriate for the school environment. Appropriate foot wear must be worn at all times. If there is any doubt about the dress and appearance, the building principal will make the final decision. Students whose dress causes a substantial disruption of the orderly process of school functions or endangers the health or safety of the student, other students, staff or others may be subject to discipline.

DRINKS

The school has water, milk, pop, juice and athletic drinks available for student consumption. Therefore, students need not AND MAY NOT bring drinks or drink containers into school. All drinks consumed in school must originate from in-house. Outside drinks and containers will be considered contraband and will be confiscated and disposed of promptly. Failure to adhere to this rule will be considered gross disobedience falling under the code of conduct.

FIELD TRIP  ELIGIBILITY (PRESS 6:240-AP, Field Trip Guidelines)

A student will need to be currently passing all classes to participate in activities such as field trips. Attendance and behavioral or safety concerns may also be a factor in determining eligibility. Eligibility will be figured on a weekly basis. Athletic eligibility is covered in the Athletic Handbook.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT (PRESS 7:10, PRESS 2:260, §1.50)

Warsaw High insures equal educational opportunities are offered to students regardless of race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion or handicap. Questions in reference to educational opportunities may be directed to the superintendent of schools (217-256-4282).

EMANCIPATED

An emancipated student is one who:

Has been a resident of the State of Illinois for at least one full year immediately proceeding the date in question.Is totally self-supporting. To determine if a student is self-supporting requires:

–          A statement from the parents that they provide none of the student’s support

–          Verification of employment or other means of financial support from the employer or supporting agency

–          Verification of rent payment

–          Verification from a school that the student is accepted to attend as a resident student on the grounds of being emancipated.

FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS (PRESS 4:140-AP Fines, Fees, Charges, §3.10)

Students who have financial obligations will be sent notifications of those obligations at the end of the semester (or sooner). Students who have questions about a particular obligation should check with the teacher, sponsor, coach or office. Obligations may be incurred for fund raisers, textbook damage, school equipment, library fines, facility damage and other reasons. A fee waiver does not exempt a student from charges for lost and damaged books, locks, materials, supplies and/or equipment.

FINAL EXAMINATIONS

All students grades 9-12 must take semester exams, except those 8th semester seniors who are receiving an A for the semester and/or anyone suspended out of school during exams.

FIRE/SAFETY  DRILLS (PRESS 4:170)

Safety drills will occur at times established by the school. Students are required to be silent and shall comply with the directives of school officials during emergency drills. DO NOT RETURN until the all-clear is sounded. Students intentionally causing a false alarm will be suspended.

GRADING POLICY (PRESS 6:280, §2.60)

Each teacher’s S.O.P. contains their grading policy for determining the quarter grade.  The semester grade will be calculated using the percentage of total points earned during the first and second quarter of the semester as well as the semester exam.  Quarter 1=40%, Quarter 2=40%, Semester Exam =20%.   The accum GPA will be determined using the 4 point scale (all As = 4, Bs=3, Cs=2, Ds=1 and all Fs = 0) and used for class ranking. Grading will be done on a quarterly basis. For questions regarding grades, please contact the teacher.

GRADUATION  (PRESS 6:280)

Graduation is a Board function and student input may be solicited. All graduation requirements and obligations must be met prior to going through graduation exercises.

LOST AND FOUND

Students who have either lost or found clothing or personal items should check the lost and found items in the principal’s office. Articles which have not been claimed after a reasonable length of time will be removed from school.

LOCKERS

Lockers are assigned for books, supplies and coats.

Do not leave money in your locker and do not bring valuable items to school such as radios, tapes, CDs, CD players, electronics, etc. If you need safekeeping for money, check it in the office.

Students should know and concern themselves only with knowing their own locker combination, not a neighbor’s or a friend’s. Only school locks are permitted on school lockers. Personal locks will be considered contraband and be removed.

A student may not move to another locker without consulting the office. All lockers are the property of the school. The school maintains the right to inspect lockers at any time, therefore the student should not expect privacy regarding items placed in his locker (Pr 7:140). Illegal substance found in lockers will be brought to the attention of legal authorities.

All contraband found in a student’s locker and all accompanying punishment will be attributed to the assigned student. KEEP YOUR LOCKER LOCKED!!

LEAVING THE SCHOOL BUILDING

Students may leave the building only after receiving permission through the principal’s office. Before a student can sign out, his/her parents must make a request for the student to be dismissed. For students to sign-out for any unusual reason, the parent must make the request in person, by phone or email.

If the principal feels an ill student should be sent home, the parent will be contacted. No student that is ill will be allowed to sign out unless a parent, emergency contact, or close relative has been contacted.

No student is to leave the school grounds unless permission has been granted through the principal’s office. Violation of this policy will result in parental notification and a punishment.

BREAKFAST AND LUNCH PROGRAMS (PRESS 4:130, §3.20 E-1, §6.50)

Breakfast and hot lunch are available to all students of Warsaw High. Lunch cards are used for both. If you qualify, you may receive free or reduced lunch/breakfast. You must fill out the forms and submit them to the office for qualification. You may do this anytime during the year. Students may pay for lunch daily from 8:00 – 8:25, in the designated location. All students are required to report to the cafeteria at their designated lunch time. Hot lunch regulations state that students eating hot lunch must take milk and all food served on their tray. Students are expected to display good manners, keep their area clean and obey the lunch room supervisors. Misbehavior in the lunchroom will call for disciplinary action.

LUNCH CARD/LUNCH CHARGE POLICY

In this instruction, the term “lunch card” refers to any and all forms of exchange including daily, weekly and monthly paper tickets, cards, coin, electronic transaction, or tokens. When handling instances of missing cards, etc., schools need not actually issue a replacement card, if appropriate meal arrangements, such as issuing a temporary card or deducting the student’s account electronically, are made. Students must have a valid lunch card to receive services.

– Students with no card must go to the back of the lunch line. No electronic transfers will occur until all valid card holders have been served.

Students can charge up to five (5) lunches, regardless of free/reduced status. After the fifth (5th) charge, students may be denied food services until credits are paid in full.

SENIOR LUNCH POLICY (§6.50)

Seniors will be permitted to eat and relax in the ’57 gym and auditorium lobbies, and the adjacent area outside the building. Sack lunches, pop, etc. will be permitted in these areas. We ask only that seniors clean up any messes that they have made. Seniors that eat hot lunch in the cafeteria will be permitted to leave the cafeteria when finished eating to join the rest of the senior class, at the Senior Café. No one will be permitted to sit in the library hallway during Sr. Lunch. Any violations of the above privilege will result in that/those person(s) report to the cafeteria.

NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT AND GRIEVANCE (PRESS 7:10, Press 2:260)

Warsaw High does not discriminate on the basis of color, race, national origin, sex and disability or other factors as applicable. All grievances should be directed to the discrimination coordinator (principal).

MEDICINE (PRESS 7:270, PRESS 7:270-E, PRESS 7:240–AP)

All medicines are subject to the following Board policy: “No school personnel shall administer to any student, nor shall any student possess or consume any prescription or non-prescription medication until a completed and signed School Medication Authorization Form is filed. This form shall be completed by the student’s parents and physician and shall be on file at the school building which the student attends. This Form shall be filed prior to dispensation of medication to a student and the Form shall specify the times at which the medication must be dispensed and the appropriate dosage.” (720.14E, 1988)

Students recovering from temporary illness or on permanent medication, who require medication during the school day, may bring medication to school following these guidelines:

– Students must be capable of administering their own medication

– All medicines are to be brought to school in appropriately labeled containers

– The name of the student and the names and phone numbers of the physician and pharmacy shall be indicated on the container.

– All medicines shall be stored in the principal’s office, accompanied by the appropriate form or the student may be considered in violation of the student code of conduct.

PROMOTION AND RETENTION (PRESS 6:280, §2.60)

A student’s achievement of the skills for the grade to which he is assigned and his readiness for work at the next grade will be assessed and evaluated before he is promoted.

HIGH SCHOOL REQUIREMENTS

A student must earn 7 credits to be considered a sophomore, 14 credits to be considered a Junior and 21 credits to be considered a Senior.

Honors

Honor roll is announced each nine-week period and semester’s end. Honors are figured as follows: High honor roll shall include any student with a 3.5 g.p.a. or higher for the grading period. Honor roll shall include any student with a g.p.a. between 3.0 and 3.4999 for the grading period.

Honor Societies

Students with accumulative g.p.a.s of 3.70 or higher (after 5 semesters) or 3.50 or higher (after 7 semesters) are eligible for inclusion in the Warsaw Academic Society and the Society for Academic Achievement. Induction takes place at the annual banquet. Students will be recognized at graduation as Honors Students.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION (PRESS 6:310)

All students are required to take Physical Education. There are some exceptions discussed in the Guidance Handbook.  Regular school clothes are not considered P.E. clothes. Students are expected to change into their P.E. clothes. The student will be withdrawn from P.E., and receive no credit for the semester, after three no-dresses in the semester. If a student has an injury restricting physical exercise, a doctor’s excuse must be on file in the office and a copy given to the teacher to waive PE activities.

PROPERTY DAMAGE (PRESS 7:160, 7:190-AP2)

Students are asked to cooperate with the custodians in helping to keep the building presentable at all times. If damage to the building occurs, the student(s) involved may have to pay if the damage is accidental. If the damage is voluntary and intentional, the student(s) will be held liable and may expect suspension, expulsion, or other punishments depending on the nature of the offense.

SEXTING  (PRESS 7:160, 7:190-AP2)

Sexting will be considered as pornography = Possession, distribution, and/or the attempt to obtain pornography is prohibited. Any student found in violation of this policy shall be subject to the board’s disciplinary penalties for misconduct and/or possible legal action.

STUDENT HEALTH REGULATIONS (PRESS 7:100, §5.10)

Students must have on file with the office; proof of immunization and dental exam. Failure to provide proof of immunization by the required state deadline (October 15) will be cause for exclusion from school (unexcused). Failure to provide proof of dental exam by May 15 of each year, will result with grade cards being withheld.

NOTES (PRESS 7:160, 7:190-AP2)

Presenting the office with a note that is misleading or has been forged or written by someone else is strictly forbidden.

OFFICE PROCEDURES

– If you need assistance from the office, come to the glass window in the office. The secretary will help you or answer any questions you may have. Please do not enter the office unless you are given permission.

– Students will not be allowed in the office to use the copy machine.

– If you need to see the guidance counselor, please knock on his door first, then check with the secretary if needed.

– The office phone should be used STRICTLY FOR EMERGENCIES and must be cleared with the secretary.

PROFANITY (General) (PRESS 7:160, 7:190-AP2)

Profanity or swearing has no place in the school setting. Other students and faculty members have no desire to listen to profanity in the hallways or classrooms. The following sequence will be followed if there is a violation in this area:

C                    First offense – parents will be informed and warned of the next step

C                    Second offense – ISS will be assigned (unless exceeds ISS limit)

SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS  (PRESS 6:120, §10.10)

It is the intent of the district to endure that students who are disabled with the definition of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 or the IDEA are identified, evaluated and provided with appropriate educational services. It is the intent of this school to ensure that students with disabilities are identified, evaluated and provided with appropriate educational services.

Counselors and the special education coordinator will be the first contact, if there is a concern.

STUDENT RECORDS (PRESS 7:340, §11.20)

In compliance with the Illinois Student Records Act, students and parents should be advised that Warsaw High keeps and maintains two types of student records, and complies with the public law commonly referred to as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 and the Illinois Rev. Stat. 1985. Copies of the full Board Policy are available for review in the office of the district superintendent.

The first record is the student permanent record. This record consists of basic identifying information and academic transcript, including grades, class rank, college entrance test scores, attendance, health records and other basic information. The permanent record shall be kept for sixty years after graduation or withdrawal.

The second record is the student temporary record. This record consists of all information not required to be in the student permanent record, including family background information, test scores, psychological evaluation, teacher anecdotal records and disciplinary information. The temporary record will be destroyed within one year or when it passes its time of usefulness.

TEXTBOOKS

It is the responsibility of the student to return his/her textbook in good condition at the end of the term. The student will be assessed for book damage.

TRANSPORTATION

The school will provide transportation when needed to all school-sponsored activities. Every student participating in these activities must go and return with the group unless other specific arrangements are made by the parents in person or in writing with the sponsor prior to the departure, or in person at the scene of the activity. As a general rule, students will only be allowed to ride home with a parent. All participating students will generally be expected to ride to the activity on the school bus.

VISITORS (PRESS 8:30, §1.40)

Confirmed visitation of classes is acceptable. Permission may be granted after an advanced request is made by the parent, teacher, or administrator. The advanced request must be made with at least one day’s notice, so all parties can be informed. Approved visitors must take a tag identifying themselves as a guest and place the tag in a clearly visible location. All visitors must sign out before leaving school. Visitors are expected to abide by all school rules during their time on school property. A visitor who fails to conduct him/herself in a manner that is appropriate will be asked to leave and may be subject to criminal penalties for trespass and/or disruptive behavior.

*** INSTRUCTIONS TO SCHOOL BUS RIDERS ***

(PRESS 4:110, PRESS 7:220. PRESS 4:170-AP3, PRESS 7:220-AP)

School bus riders, while in transit, are under the jurisdiction of the SCHOOL BUS DRIVER. It is recommended that all riders and parents of riders become familiar with the following regulations governing school bus riders. You may wish to post these instructions on your refrigerator.

Be on time at the designated school bus stop – help keep the bus on schedule.

Stay off the road at all times while waiting for the bus.

Be careful in approaching the place where the bus stops. Do not move toward the bus until the bus has been brought to a complete stop.

Do not leave your seat while the bus is in motion.

Be alert to a danger signal from the driver.

Remain in the bus in the event of a road emergency, until instructions are given by the driver.

Keep hands and head inside the bus at all times after entering and until leaving the bus. Do not throw anything out of the bus.

Remember that loud talking and laughing or unnecessary confusion diverts the driver’s attention and could result in a serious accident.

Be absolutely quiet when approaching a railroad crossing.

Treat bus equipment as you would valuable furniture in your own home. Never tamper with the bus or equipment.

Assist in keeping the bus safe and sanitary at all times.

Carry no animals on the bus.

Keep books, packages, coats, and all other objects out of the aisles.

Leave no books, lunches or other articles on the bus.

Be courteous to fellow pupils, and the bus driver. NO RADIOS, LASER POINTERS, ETC.

Help look after the safety and comfort of smaller children.

Do not ask the driver to stop at places other than the regular bus stop; he is not permitted to do this except by proper authorization from a school official.

Observe safety precautions at discharge points. Where it is necessary to cross the highway, proceed to a point at least 10 feet in front of the bus on the right shoulder of the highway where traffic may be observed in both directions. Then wait for a signal from the bus driver permitting you to cross.

Observe the same rules and regulations on other trips under school sponsorship as you observe between home and school. Respect the wishes of the chaperone appointed by the school.

In order for a student to ride a bus other than his assigned bus, the parents must send a signed note of permission and be approved by the building principal.

Students may be suspended from riding the school bus for up to 10 consecutive school days for engaging in gross disobedience or misconduct. If a student is suspended from riding the bus for gross disobedience or misconduct on a bus, the school board may suspend the student from riding the school bus for a period in excess of 10 days for safety reasons. The school’s regular suspension procedure shall be used to suspend a student’s privilege to ride a school bus.

Athletics and Extra-Curricular Activities

 Athletics and Extra-Curricular Activities Code of Conduct

 Purpose and Philosophy of Activities and Athletics

This is not intended to create a contractual relationship with students; rather, it is intended to describe the activities and athletics programs, current practices, procedures, rules and regulations (code of conduct).

 WHS maintains the belief that activities and athletics are integral and important parts of the total school curriculum. Through activities and athletics, participants can develop desirable learning habits, acquire knowledge that will correspond to situations that occur in later years, recognize their abilities to become leaders of their community, learn how to accept success or failure, and develop sound physical and mental habits. Because of these desirable outcomes, the school district recognizes its responsibility to provide students the opportunities to develop their skills and abilities through organized school-sponsored activities and athletics programs.

The activities and athletics programs are designed to provide the participants with opportunities to learn lifelong skills and reach personal goals through interaction and/or competition. It is important that each person in the activities and athletics department (both staff and students) strive for growth in their personal selves and for growth in their desires to achieve excellence through hard work and determination.

Participation in activities and athletics is a privilege, not a right.  At this level, playing time/participation is not guaranteed and is at the sole discretion of the head coach or activity sponsor.

Objectives of the Activities and Athletics Programs

To provide each participant an opportunity to develop innate physical skills and abilities.To develop within the participants a wholesome attitude and appreciation for activities and athletics in general.To foster within the participant a sense of self-pride and self-worth.To foster within the participant a sense of pride for the school and community.To provide an opportunity for the participant to develop leadership skills.To develop in each participant a sense of common purpose, goal and team effort.To develop in each participant an understanding of and an appreciation for good sportsmanship.To instruct the participant in the basic fundamentals of the activities and sports in which s/he is participating.To foster with the student a positive attitude toward his/her education and to provide assistance to the athlete who may be doing poorly in his/her school work.To strive for growth in the activities and athletics programs as demonstrated by increased participation of the student body and by continued support of the fans.

Chain of Command

Assistant coaches shall be responsible to the head coach.  The head coach shall be responsible to the Director of Athletics and Activities.  The Director of Athletics and Activities shall be responsible to the Building Principal.  Activity sponsors shall be responsible to the Building Principal.

Requirements for Participation

Participants must have their parents/guardians sign a permission slip in order to participate in each individual activity and/or sport.

In addition, a student-athlete must have the following fully executed documents on file with the Director of Athletics and Activities before the first participation in any athletic activity.

A current certificate of physical fitness issued by a licensed physician, an advanced practice nurse, or physician assistant (not a chiropractor).A permission slip to participate in the specific sport or activity signed by the student’s parent/guardian; andProof the student is covered by medical insurance; andA signed agreement by the student not to use any drugs on the IHSA’s most current banned drug classes list and an agreement to take part in random testing for these substances.A signed agreement by the student’s parent/guardian authorizing random performance-enhancing substance testing and recognizing the dangers of drug use.

Rules and Regulations

All student-athletes are subject to the rules and regulations regarding eligibility and conduct established by the IESA and IHSA.  They establish eligibility rules, practice regulations, establish championship series, and are responsible for the supervision of all athletic programs in the state.  In the case of a conflict between the IHSA and this Code of Conduct, the most stringent rule will be enforced.

Scholastic Eligibility

Selection of members or participants in extracurricular activities is at the discretion of the designated teachers, sponsors, and coaches.

All students are encouraged to maintain good grades. With this in mind, classroom teachers, will verify each student’s eligibility on a weekly basis. Course grades are based on quarter work.  Students must be passing all classes by noon on Friday in order to be eligible for the following week.  High school students must pass all semester courses in order to be eligible for the following semester.

The ineligibility period begins on Monday morning and continues until the following Monday morning. The student will not be allowed to participate in any extra-curricular performances/games, etc. during the ineligibility period. The student will be allowed to practice during weeks of ineligibility. The student will not be allowed to miss school to attend a contest during the period of ineligibility. After four (4) weeks (does not need to be consecutive) of ineligibility, the student will be dropped from the activity.  

Attendance

Attendance Expectations

In order to protect the health and safety of athletes, and protect the integrity of the activity or team, students shall be required to attend all regularly scheduled practices, meets, games, and events.  Failure to attend may result in discipline, including suspension or dismissal from the team.

Absence from School on Day of Activity

A student who is absent from school during any period of the day of an activity shall be ineligible for any activity on that day unless the absence has been approved in writing by the principal.  The principal may make exceptions, such as a pre-arranged medical absence or a death in the student’s family.

An athlete who is absent from school on a Friday before a Saturday activity may be withheld from Saturday activities at the sole discretion of the principal.  Participation will ordinarily be allowed on Saturday if the Friday absence is excused.  

If a student misses more than ten consecutive days of school (sickness of self or immediate family excluded), s/he shall be declared ineligible for the remainder of the semester.

In- and Out-of-School Suspension

A student serving an in- or out-of-school suspension will not be permitted to participate or attend an activity on that day. If a student’s ISS or OSS ends on a Friday, s/he may participate in a Saturday game. On the other hand, if the suspension bridges the weekend (ends Monday or Tuesday, etc. of the following week) s/he will not be eligible for any Saturday activities.

General Guidelines and Definitions:

Activity

“Activity” means a tryout, practice, game, event, contest, competition, performance, tournament, match, or recreation connected to the conduct of a sport or extracurricular activity, including school-sponsored weight training, summer league, camp, or open gym.

Participant

“Participant” refers to a boy or girl enrolled in grades 9-12 who is participating and/or intends to participate in an extra-curricular or interscholastic athletic activity sponsored by WHS or the West Hancock Titans, including, but not limited to:

Boys’ Baseball                            Boys’/Girls’ basketball                 Boys’/Girls’ Track                        Wrestling

Girls’ Volleyball                           Girls’ Softball                              Football                                     Drama

Student Council                          Band/Chorus (non-graded)            Academic Clubs                                                        

Environmental Club                     SFODAT                                    WYSE                                                                                                                                                                      

Practice Sessions and Meetings

All practice sessions and meetings shall be appropriately planned by the activities and coaching staff to ensure the safety of and maximize instructional value for the participants.

Sport

“Sport” means any interscholastic sport sponsored by WHS or the West Hancock Titans and governed by the rules of IESA or IHSA.

Sportsmanship and Appropriate Behavior

Activities and athletics coaches and sponsors shall personally exhibit good sportsmanship and appropriate behavior.  They will also require their athletes to exhibit good sportsmanship and appropriate behavior.

Profanity, fighting and unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated. Activities and athletics coaches will not use profane language and shall require their students to refrain from the use of profane language. Each individual coach will deal with violation of this rule. (Standard guidelines will be determined and reviewed by the principal, Director of Athletics and Activities, and coaches to be consistent from sport to sport). Depending on the severity of situation, discipline under the Activities and Athletics Code of Conduct could be warranted.

Equipment and Uniforms

Equipment Use and Return

Students shall be responsible for the care and maintenance of all equipment and material issued to them.  Each student issued equipment and materials shall return the equipment in good condition to the respective departments within one (1) calendar week of completion of the season or one (1) calendar week from the end of the student’s participation of that sport, whichever comes first.  If a student fails to return equipment or materials as required, or returns it in damaged condition, the student may be charged for replacement or repair, and/or disciplined with fines and/or other disciplinary measures as appropriate.         

Lockers are school property and are loaned to students for their temporary use. Lockers are subject to search by school officials at any time.

Uniform Purchase

As a general rule, students will be responsible for purchasing their own shoes, socks, personalized items of clothing, and other personal items. The school will provide uniforms and game equipment other than baseball/softball gloves.

Care and Maintenance of Equipment

Coaches and sponsors shall be ultimately responsible for the care and maintenance of athletic equipment and other school equipment used in their respective sport or activity.  

Insurance and Injuries

Insurance for Athletics

Before any student athlete shall be permitted to practice or compete in any athletic event, and before any athletic equipment is issued to the athlete, the athlete must provide proof of coverage for athletic injuries by a private insurance carrier and have a signed insurance waiver on file with the Director of Athletics and Activities.

Student Injury

No student is permitted to participate in an activity if the nature or extent of an injury to the student dictates that the s/he should be withheld from participation.  When doubt exists as the ability of the student to participate, competent medical advice shall be solicited.  

Report of Injury

Students shall promptly report all injuries and illnesses or medical conditions, regardless of severity, and whether or not caused by the activity or athletic competition to the person in charge of their activity or sport.

Medical Release to Return to Competition

When there is any question of a student’s medical fitness to practice/perform/compete, coaches, sponsors, or school officials may require the student to provide a release to participate, signed by a physician licensed to practice medicine, before allowing the student to engage in further athletic activity.  

Injuries and Emergencies

All injuries are to be reported to the coaches and/or sponsors as soon as possible. Staff members will complete an accident report for any injury when notified.  A hospital will not treat our students unless s/he is unconscious, parents are present, or we have the signed permission portion of our Emergency form.

Dress and Grooming

The coach/sponsor of each respective activity and/or sport may develop reasonable rules regulating the dress or grooming of the participants.  Team/Organizational uniforms and necessary equipment shall be required.  Other rules shall be limited to regulating forms of dress or grooming which present health or safety concerns for the athlete or other participants.

Travel and Transportation

All athletes shall travel to athletic events and return home from athletic events with the team on which the athlete competes by use of school approved means of transportation. A written waiver of this rule may be issued by a coach or administrator upon advance written request of an athlete’s parent or guardian and provided the parent or guardian appears and accepts custody of the athlete. In no case shall a waiver be issued unless the alternate means of transportation anticipated by the waiver will be provided by the parent. Oral requests or text messages shall not be honored and oral permissions shall not be valid.

Any student athlete found to be in violation of this policy shall be subject to discipline in accordance with the school district’s athletic discipline policies, rules, and regulations as provided herein.

Code of Conduct

This Code of Conduct applies to all students who are participating in school-sponsored activities that are neither part of an academic class nor otherwise carry credit or a grade.  This Code of Conduct will be enforced 365 days a year, 24 hours a day.

This Code does not contain a complete list of inappropriate behaviors for students in extracurricular athletic activities.  Violations will be treated cumulatively, with disciplinary penalties increasing with subsequent violations, and a student may be excluded from sports or activities while the school is conducting an investigation regarding that student’s conduct.  

The student shall not:

Violate the school rules and district policies on student discipline;Use a beverage containing alcohol (except for religious purposes);Use tobacco in any form;Use, possess, buy, sell, barter, or distribute any illegal substance (including mood-altering and performance enhancing drugs or chemicals) or paraphernalia;Use, possess, buy, sell, barter, or distribute any object that is or could be considered a weapon or any item that is a look alike weapon.  This prohibition does not prohibit legal use of weapons in cooking and in sports, such as archery, martial arts practice, target shooting, hunting, and skeet;Attend a party or other gathering and/or ride in a vehicle where alcoholic beverages and/or controlled substances are being consumed by minors;Act in an unsportsmanlike manner;Vandalize or steal;Haze or bully other students;Violate the written rules for the activity or sport;Behave in a manner that is detrimental to the good of the group or school;Be insubordinate or disrespectful toward the activity’s sponsors or team’s coaching staff;Falsify any information contained on any permit or permission form required by the activity or sport.

Hazing is any humiliating or dangerous activity expected of a student to belong to a team or group, regardless of his or her willingness to participate.  Bullying is any physical or verbal act or conduct that has or can be reasonably predicted to place a student in reasonable fear of harm; cause a detrimental effect on a student’s physical or mental health; interfere with a student’s academic performance; or interfere with a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from school activities.

Coaches and school officials will impose disciplinary measures appropriate to the offenses committed. The discipline imposed for any particular offense shall be at the sole and exclusive discretion of the coaching staff and school officials.

Due Process Procedures

Students who are accused of violating the Code of Conduct are entitled to the following due process:

The student should be advised of the disciplinary infraction with which he or she is being charged.The student shall be entitled to a hearing before an appropriate administrator.The student will be able to respond to any charges leveled against him or her.The student may provide any additional information he or she wishes for the administrator to consider.The administrator, with the help of other staff members if needed, may interview material witnesses or others with evidence concerning the case.If the administrator finds, after reviewing the evidence, that the violation occurred, he or she will impose sanctions on the student as follows: Sanctions for violations other than drug and alcohol will be based on the nature of the offense and the number of offenses, and may include suspension from all sports or activities for one of the time periods described below:

            i.        a specified period of time or percentage of events, competitions, or practices;

            ii.        the remainder of the season or for the next season; or

            iii.        the remainder of the student’s school career.

Sanctions for alcohol and other drug violations will be based on the following:

 First violation

Use, possession, buying, selling, bartering, or distributing:  A suspension of at least one third of the total number of performances, activities, or competitions or the remainder of the season, whichever is shorter. This penalty will be reduced if the student successfully completes a school-approved chemical awareness program.Attendance at a party or riding in a vehicle where alcoholic beverages and/or controlled substances are being consumed: a suspension of at least one sixth of the total number of performances, activities or competitions, or the remainder of the season, whichever is shorter.The student will be required to practice with the group, regardless of the violation (unless suspended or expelled from school).

Second violation

Use, possession, buying, selling, bartering, or distributing: A suspension of 12 weeks or 1 season, of performances, activities, or competitions during this period. To participate again in any activities, the student must successfully participate in and complete a school-approved alcohol and other drug abuse assessment and follow all recommendations from that assessment.Attendance at a party or riding in a vehicle where alcoholic beverages and/or controlled substances are being consumed: A suspension of one third of the season and all extracurricular group performances, activities, or competitions during this period.The student may be required to practice with the group (unless suspended or expelled from school).

Third violation

Use, possession, buying, selling, bartering, or distributing: A suspension from extracurricular activities for the remainder of the student’s school career.Attendance at a party or riding in a vehicle where alcoholic beverages and/or controlled substances are being consumed: A suspension of one calendar year from the date of the suspension, including all extracurricular activities during this period.

                The administrator will make a written report of his or her decision and rationale. The student may appeal the decision to the building principal.

All students remain subject to the district’s student discipline policy and/or the school’s student handbook and the disciplinary measures listed in them.

Drugs, Alcohol and Tobacco

Except with respect to prescription drugs used by the person for whom such drugs were prescribed in the manner intended by the prescribing medical doctor, the possession, use, distribution, purchase, or sale of any alcoholic beverage, drug, drug paraphernalia, controlled substance, look alike, tobacco or tobacco product, or any other substance which, when taken into the human body is intended to enhance performance or alter mood or mental state, including any item or substance which is represented by a student to be, or is believed by a student to be any of the foregoing, regardless of the true nature or appearance of the substance, is prohibited in school buildings, on school buses, and on all other school property or school related events at any time. This prohibition shall include all school sponsored or school related activities, whether held before or after school, evenings, or weekends, and shall additionally include a prohibition of use by a student athlete in any instance where the school can demonstrate a reasonable connection to the school program or school athletic program. For purposes of this procedure, students who are under the influence of prohibited substances shall be treated in the same manner as though they had prohibited substances in their possession.

Athletic Board

The Athletic Board shall have jurisdiction over the Code of Conduct of all West Hancock Athletic Cooperative sports.  This does not apply to junior high activities and athletics.

The members of the board will be the principal, an athletic director (or appropriate designee), and the head coach of the athlete in question.  It shall be the duty of the Athletic Board to meet upon notification of a violation of the Code of Conduct and act on each case as soon as possible.  The Athletic Director from the school where the possible violation occurred shall be responsible for calling a meeting of the Board.

Attendance at School-Sponsored Dances

Attendance at school-sponsored dances is a privilege.  Any school dances and other activities must be approved in advance by the school administration.  Unless otherwise approved, dances will start at 8:00 pm and finish at 11:00 pm.

Warsaw High School reserves the right to call the police to test attendees at a dance who are suspected of drinking alcoholic beverages or using other restricted substances.  Any attendees failing or refusing such a test will be asked to leave the dance.  Further consequences may also ensue.  

Only high school students may attend high school dances or other activities.  No Jr. High school students are allowed.  Students may not bring dates over the age of 20 to any dance.

Only students who attend Warsaw High School may attend school-sponsored dances, unless the principal or designee approves a student’s guest via the guest request form in advance of the event.  A guest must be “age appropriate,” defined as no more than age 20.

All school rules, including the school’s discipline code and dress code are in effect during school-sponsored dances. 

Students who violate the school’s discipline code will be required to leave the dance immediately and the student’s parent/guardian will be contacted. The school may also impose other discipline as outlined in the school’s discipline code.

Student Athlete Concussions and Head Injuries

Student athletes must comply with Illinois’ YouthSports Concussion Safety Act and all protocols, policies and bylaws of the Illinois High School Association before being allowed to participate in any athletic activity, including practice or competition.

A student who was removed from practice or competition because of a suspected concussion shall be allowed to return only after all statutory prerequisites are completed, including without limitation, the School District’s return-to-play and return-to-learn protocols.