It is the intent of the Hickman County Board of Education to provide a positive school climate for all participants (students, teachers, administrators, and parents/guardians) in the schooling process. Therefore, this code of conduct has been developed to insure consistent and equal treatment for all participants in an atmosphere which fosters open communications and fairness as outlined by constitutional due process. In addition, The Board of Education expects that sound, fair, and equitable judgment shall always be considered by students, teachers, administrators, and parents/guardians in applying the policies of this code.

Further, it is anticipated that this code of conduct will enable all students to develop their human potential to the fullest. Finally, students will be responsible for abiding by this code of conduct in school, at school-sponsored activities, and on school buses employed in the educational experience. In this regard, The Board of Education pledges its full support to all school employees responsible for implementing this Uniform Code of Conduct.

The Superintendent shall be responsible for overall implementation and supervision of the Board’s code of acceptable behavior and discipline, and each Principal shall be responsible for administration and implementation of the code within each school. The Principal shall apply the code uniformly and fairly to each student without partiality or discrimination.

The Principal of each school, or school council in schools with SBDM, shall set school policy concerning the selection and implementation of appropriate discipline and classroom management techniques necessary to carry out the code.

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STATEMENT OF DISCIPLINE PHILOSOPHY

The public schools of this nation have the responsibility, conferred on them by the state, to provide public education for children until they graduate or reach the age of 21. To discharge this function effectively and equally, school authorities and parents must insure an environment in each school which is conducive to the learning process. While there are many factors which affect the learning environment, perhaps the most pernicious is the problem that results from inappropriate conduct and lack of consistent and effective disciplinary response.

Current research and literature indicate a public concern over the ineffectiveness of disciplinary procedures in the schools. The Gallop Poll, in fact, has consistently rated discipline as one of the top concerns of parents. A renewed commitment to the establishment of consistent local discipline codes is seen as a way to deal with dropouts, lowered academic achievement, alienated youth and demoralized teachers.

Federal and state laws confer rights and freedoms to every citizen both in and out of school. At the same time every citizen has the responsibility to respect the identical rights of others. In the school environment these rights and responsibilities must be harmonious with the learning process. School authorities are thus allowed a broader range of powers in maintaining an orderly environment than is allowed enforcement authorities in society generally, provided they adhere to the requirements of due process and other constitutional standards.

Organizations, businesses and industries cannot operate successfully without procedures, goals, expectations and satisfied workers; neither can schools. Rules which establish discipline guidelines for students are necessary and basic to their growth and development. Thus it becomes the responsibility of local school districts to have a discipline code which reflects the community's standards and expectations for student behavior.

Schools must prepare students for their responsibilities as adults in a democratic society. To accomplish this goal, there must be respect and mutual trust between parent, teacher and student. The discipline code is the tool. Therefore, the discipline code should be consistent and reasonable and should strive to facilitate the development of students' self-control and self-discipline. In this regard, the student discipline code becomes an integral component of the education process and a symbol of the commitment of parents, students and administrators to the maintenance of an effective learning environment.

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The Student Discipline Code shall be reviewed annually by the local school administrators, local board of education members and SDBM members at each building level. Any revisions, additions and/or deletions (if needed and applicable) shall be made according to state guidelines/regulations.

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JUNIOR HIGH AND HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

On the first day of school each year, ALL students and school personnel shall be presented with a complete copy of the student Discipline Code. Students shall be requested to sign for the Discipline Code Plan to assure parents that a copy was given to the student for him/her and the parent(s) to study and review.

At the time each student received his/her copy, the principal and/or teachers shall go over the discipline code in its entirety for student understanding and/or questions.

Students who enroll after the school year begins will be given a copy of the Student Discipline Code. The plan will be explained to the student in the same manner as described above.

ELEMENTARY STUDENTS

On the first day of school each year, all students or their parents/guardians as well as all school personnel will be presented with a complete copy of the Student Discipline Code. Parents will be required to sign for the booklet as part of their registration procedure. It shall be the obligation of the parent to read the Discipline Code and to discuss the schools regulations and policies with their child as well as becoming familiar with them.

During the first week of school, each homeroom teacher will orient their students in a manner which is age/grade level appropriate to those parts of the Discipline Code which will affect their activities and relationships while under the supervision of the school.

Students who enroll after the school year begins will have a copy of the Discipline code given to their parents who will sign for the document and who will in turn be instructed to orient their children to the rules, regulations, and policies of the school.

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RIGHTS

A. Student Rights - Students have the right:

1. To an appropriate public education which meets the needs of the students
2. To be oriented on rules and regulations which pertain to everyday activities of school
3. To a safe environment for their person and property
4. To be a part of any school organization for which their qualifications make them eligible
5. To access of his or her student records and guarantee of confidentiality of a student's academic records outside of the school system, except upon written authorization to the student or his or her parents or guardians (Except as outlined in PL 93-438)
6. To freedom from abuse and threat by members of faculty and administration
7. To procedural due process concerning major disciplinary action
8. To academic grades based upon academic performance and not lowered due to discipline problems
9. To ask for assistance from teachers, guidance counselors and administrative personnel

B. Teachers Rights - Teachers have the right

1. To the support of co-workers, administrators and parents
2. To work in a positive school climate with minimum disruptions
3. To safety from physical and verbal abuse
4. To expect all assignments to be completed as requested
5. To take necessary action in emergencies; to protect their own person or property; to assist fellow teachers in emergencies
6. To be a part of policy committee and assist in the formulation of school policy

C. Principal or Designated Administrator's Rights

1. To expect the support of teachers, students, and parents in carrying out established board policy
2. To safety from physical and verbal abuse
3. To take necessary action in emergencies; to protect the safety and welfare of principal, teacher and student
4. To carry out board policy to the fullest degree
5. To suspend any student whose conduct disrupts the educational process
6. To provide the proper environment conducive to learning
7. To carry out due process in regard to expulsion

D. Parent or Guardian Rights

1. To send their child to a school with a positive climate for learning
2. To expect fair, firm and immediate reaction in dealing with class disruptions
3. To expect the school to maintain academic standards prescribed by Kentucky Department of Education
4. To examine their child's records at any time
5. To file grievances with the proper authority--These should follow chain-of-command in dealing with school personnel.

RESPONSIBILITIES

A. Student Responsibilities

1. To maintain acceptable conduct at all times
2. To exhibit neatness and cleanliness of personal dress and hygiene
3. To respect the rights of teachers, students and administrators
4. To practice self-control at all times
5. To show proper care of equipment, textbooks and facilities
6. To follow the rules and regulations set by the Board of Education
7. To show proper respect for the educational process
8. To be prompt in attendance to all classes
9. To strive to perform to the highest achievement level
10. To abstain from smoking
11. To observe safety rules on buses and other dangerous areas (i.e. Industrial Arts shop, Ag. Shop)
12. To refrain from truancy
13. To refrain from cheating in class as well as athletic contests
14. To refrain from disruptive behavior at all times
15. To be responsible for actions as well as verbal response

B. Teacher Responsibilities

1. To present the educational materials and experiences
2. To maintain effective classroom management
3. To be an example both by actions as well as speech
4. To assist in the discipline process
5. To evaluate the student's progress and keep the student and parent informed of this progress
6. To exemplify good grooming and personal hygiene
7. To keep accurate and up-to-date records
8. To care for the equipment and physical facilities
9. To demand respect as well as give proper respect to co-workers, students, and administrators
10. To follow the rules and regulations set down by local board
11. To follow the chain-of-command in dealing with grievances
12. To give academic grades based upon academic performance and not lowered due to discipline problems

C. Principal or Designated Administrator's Rights

1. To help create and maintain a positive climate for learning
2. To administer local board policy as well as state policy
3. To be an example by speech and actions
4. To promote good public relations with community
5. To promote school spirit and awareness
6. To be fair and consistent in dealing with students and teachers
7. To make students aware of policy dealing with normal school process
8. To implement and evaluate all aspects of the school process
9. To make the community aware of the code of conduct

D. Parent Responsibilities

1. To instill in their student the need for an education
2. To instill the sense of responsibility a student needs for success
3. To aid the student in understanding the discipline code of the school
4. To see that the student attends regularly and promptly
5. To support the efforts of all school personnel
6. To see that good grooming and personal hygiene is exhibited by student
7. To check on the progress a student is making in class
8. To instill respect for students, teachers, and administrators
9. To encourage the student to follow the policies set by the local school board
10. To help the student with a positive attitude about school

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ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS FOR PARTICIPATION

Any student, grades E-12, that makes an "F" for a nine-week grading period will not be allowed to participate in any extracurricular activities which are not an integral part of the instructional program pursuant to 705 KAR 4:010, Section 13, and which occur outside of normal school hours until the grade in the class failed is improved to passing during the next nine-week period. In no event shall the child be allowed to return to the extracurricular activity until two (2) weeks have passed after the failing grade is received. Grades will be averaged weekly to determine if the grade has been improved to passing, the student shall be allowed to return to the activities until the student makes another "F" for another nine-week grading period.

In the event that a student fails one (1) class or more per semester, the student will not be allowed to participate in any extracurricular activities the following semester unless eligibility is reinstated as a result of fulfillment of one of the following:

1. Any student receiving an "I" incomplete grade during the regular school year in English, math, social studies, or science may, upon the approval of the teacher and administrative personnel, enroll in a remedial summer program in Hickman County, provided the program is funded. Upon completion of the remedial program, the "I" incomplete, may be changed to a letter grade based on the work done during the regular course and the summer remedial course.
2. Eligibility may be restored for student finishing a 1^st semester class if after completion of 20 school days of the 2^nd semester a check of grades indicates that they are passing all courses in which they are enrolled. Suspension from extracurricular activities shall begin when report cards are made available to students.

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ALCOHOL OR DRUG USE

No pupil shall possess, use, be under the influence of, sell, or transfer any of the following on or about school property, at any location of a school-sponsored activity, or en route to or from school or a school-sponsored activity:

1. Alcoholic beverages;
2. Controlled drug substances and drug paraphernalia;
3. Substances that "look like" a controlled substance. In instances involving look-alike substances, there must be evidence of the student’s intent to pass off the item as a controlled substance.

In addition, students shall not possess prescription drugs for the purpose of sale or distribution.

Drugs Defined: Controlled substance means any substance or immediate precursor listed in Chapter 218A of the Kentucky Revised Statues or any other substance which may be added by the Kentucky Department of Health Services under regulations pursuant to KRS 218A.020.

Authorized Medication: Use of a drug authorized by and administered in accordance with a prescription from a physician or dentist shall not be considered in violation of this policy.

Penalty: Violation of this policy shall constitute reason for disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion from school and suspension or dismissal from athletic teams and/or other school-sponsored activities. In addition, when they have reasonable belief that a violation has taken place, Principals shall immediately report to law enforcement officials when an act has occurred on school property or at a school-sponsored function that involves student possession of a controlled substance on school property in violation of law.

Any student recommended for expulsion under this policy shall be suspended from school and all school-related activities until the expulsion hearing has been completed and a decision made by the Board of Education. The expulsion hearing shall be set within 3 days from the date of suspension and held within a reasonable time.

In the event that an infraction occurs near the end of a semester, the school can, at its discretion, allow the student to complete that semester and be expelled for the next consecutive semester.

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ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION CENTER & PROJECT TRIAD

The AEC is operated through a grant which includes the Carlisle, Ballard, and Hickman County School Systems. Carlisle County Schools operate the program which is located on Front Street in Bardwell.

The AEC serves students who have been assigned by their building principal. The program serves students who are ages 12 through 18 or in grades 6 through 12. The length of a student’s stay is determined by the AEC staff and the return approval of the referring school district.

Transportation is provided from the referring school to the AEC and back. Students who use regular transportation to their regular school will continue to do so. Meals are served at the center. Breakfast is 50 cents and lunch is $1.00. Students receiving free/reduced meals will continue to do so.

All policies and procedures for attending the AEC follow the established rules of conduct in student handbooks/discipline codes of each district plus the policies and procedures set up by the AEC.

The AEC will address: (1) academic skills, (2) life skills, and (3) behavior strategies. Students will receive individualized and small group instruction.

Behavior will be handled on a point management system. The students will work for behavior levels to earn privileges and work their way back to the referring school. Management options include: reprimands, loss of privileges, time-out, physical restraint, isolation, parent contacts, letters, conferences, and phone calls.

The staff at AEC will strive to motivate the student to: increase learning and life skills, improve self-concept, improve relationships with peers and adults, develop pre-employment skills, and encourage students to remain in school.

Parents are expected to work in cooperation with the AEC staff in effecting a positive behavior change for the student. Assignment folders will be sent home daily for parents to review. Parents are asked to make sure the AEC has an emergency phone number where a family member can be reached to assist in handling situations or in the event of an emergency.

Compulsory:  All Kentucky students between the ages of six and sixteen are required by law to attend school full time on a regular basis. Any parent of a student under sixteen years of age who is not in regular attendance in school can be subject to penalties outlined by state law.

Absenteeism: Students who are absent from school are required to report to the principal's office for an absence slip before being admitted to any class missed. Parents or guardians of high school students are required to call the principal's office in order to notify the school of the student's absence. Notes will be accepted by the elementary school and by the high school when phone service is not available. This call may be made on the day the student returns to school, the day of absence or before the absence. When a student sees a doctor or dentist, a note from the office is all that is needed. Parents who are required to call long-distance may call collect if so desired.

Truancy: Any pupil who as been absent from school without a valid excuse for three (3) days or more, is a truant. A pupil who has been reported as truant three (3) or more times is a habitual truant.

Excused absences

1. Illness of the pupil: Five (5) days per year shall be excused by a parent’s note or call. Any days over five (5) will be excused if covered by a doctor’s statement.
2. Death or severe illness in the pupil’s immediate family.
3. Participation in school-related activities approved by the principal
4. Court summons
5. Dental or doctor’s appointments
6. Driver’s test
7. Attendance at Kentucky State Fair: one day only
8. Post-secondary educational visitation as arranged in advance by the school.
9. Work or business for/with the parent/guardian: limited to three (3) days per year.
10. Observation of religious holidays or practices.
11. Other valid reasons as determined by the principal or superintendent

1. 1. Working for private business
2. Transportation (missed bus)
3. Overslept
4. Out of town
5. Business
6. Shopping
7. Other reasons as determined by the principal.

Procedures for absenteeism (Excused): After five days of absence per year, a student must present a doctor's statement verifying the student's absence from school for the days missed or provide evidence of circumstances beyond human control as the reason for absence to the satisfaction of the principal or assistant principal in order for the absence to be excused.

Students who need to obtain an admit slip from the office must do so either prior to the first bell each day, during the morning break, or during their lunch period. No absence slips will be issued after the first bell except in the case of a late bus or other problem beyond the control of the student.

In the event of an excused absence, the student has the right to make up any missed work or examinations. It is , however, the student's responsibility to ask for and begin any required make-up work upon returning to school. It is not the teacher's responsibility to see that the student makes up any work or test missed. Students should present their excused absence slip to all teachers and request make-up assignments.

The time given by the teacher to complete the required make-up work must be at least equal to the length of the student's absence. In the event of a missed exam, if the student was present at the time of the exam assignment, they may be required to take the exam on the day they return to school. However, if the student was not present at the time of the exam assignment, they must be given a period of time for preparation equal to the length of their absence

Procedures for Absenteeism (Unexcused) Elementary School: An elementary student whose absence from school is not excused by the principal’s office shall receive an unexcused absence slip from the office and the following steps shall be taken:

1. For the first unexcused absence, the student’s parents shall be notified of the consequences of further unexcused absences, and the student will be admitted to class, unexcused by the principal.
2. The teachers of each student in grades 4 - 6 with an unexcused absence are to record a grade of zero (0) for any missed work or tests taken on the date of the absence.
3. Further unexcused absences in E-Grade 6 will result in assignment to after-school detention. The second unexcused absence shall result in assignment for two (2) days, the third for five (5) days, and any further absence for ten (10) days.
4. Further unexcused absences will involve notification of the parent regarding Kentucky’s compulsory attendance laws by the DPP. The DPP shall inform the parent of the possible referral to and intervention by the District Court System.
5. Continuing unexcused absences may result in up to a three (3) day suspension. The principal of the school shall notify the parent in writing of the cause for the suspension.

Procedures for Absenteeism (Unexcused) High School: A secondary student whose absence from school is not excused by the principal's office shall receive an unexcused absence slip from the office and following steps shall be taken.

1. Teacher in each class being taken by the unexcused student are to record a grade of zero (0) for any missed work or tests taken on the date of the absence.
2. The parents of students with unexcused absences shall be notified and the student shall be admitted to class, unexcused by the principal.
3. For the first three days of unexcused absence, the student shall make up the time missed, hour for hour, by serving time in Saturday School and/or detention.
4. Further unexcused absences will involve notification of the parent regarding Kentucky’s compulsory attendance laws by the DPP. The DPP shall inform the parent of the possible referral to and intervention by the District Court System.
5. Continuing unexcused absences may result in up to a three (3) day suspension. The principal of the school shall notify the parent in writing of the cause for the suspension.

ASSAULT

Pupils: Any pupil who assaults, batters or abuses another pupil shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion.

School Personnel: Any pupil who assaults, batters or physically or verbally abuses a teacher or other school personnel shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action up to and including expulsion from school and/or legal action.

Removal of Students: School administrators, teachers, or other school personnel may immediately remove or cause to be removed threatening or violent students from a classroom setting or from the District’s transportation system pending any further disciplinary action that may occur. Threatening or violent behavior shall include, but not be limited to:

1. Verbal or written statements or gestures by students indicating intent to harm themselves , others or property.
2. Physical attach by students so as to intentionally inflict harm to themselves, others or property.

Removal of students from a bus shall be made in compliance with 702 KAR 5:080.

Report to Law Enforcement Agency: When they have reasonable belief that a violation has taken place, principals shall immediately report to law enforcement officials when an act has occurred on school property or at a school-sponsored function that involves assault resulting in serious physical injury, a sexual offense, kidnapping or each instance of assault involving the use of a weapon.

BUS SAFETY AND PRACTICE

The right of pupils to ride school buses is conditioned on their good behavior and observance of the following rules and regulations. Any pupil who violates any of these regulations should be reported to the school principal.

1. Good pupil conduct on the school bus is required in order that the driver may devote the major part of their time and attention to maneuvering the school bus through traffic.
2. Pupils riding the school buses are under the direct supervision of the bus driver and the driver shall direct the pupils in matters of conduct and safety.
3. Pupils shall obey the driver cheerfully and promptly.
4. Pupils shall occupy the space designated for them by the driver.
5. Pupils shall be on time and buses cannot wait for those who are not on time.
6. Pupils shall observe the following:

• Never stand in the road while waiting for the bus
• Clean their feet before entering the bus
• Avoid spitting on the floor of the bus
• Not throw waste paper or other rubbish on the floor of the bus
• Not board the bus when sick or when any members of their family has contagious disease
• Avoid unnecessary conversation with the driver
• Abstain from the use of tobacco and profane or indecent language
• Keep arms and head inside the bus at all times
• Do not leave the bus without the driver's consent, except at home or at school
• Respect person whom they pass on the routes--do not yell or make remarks to persons along the streets and road
• Report to the driver at once any damage to the bus
• Walk on the left side of the road facing the traffic

7. Pupils who must cross the road before entering or after leaving the bus should pass in front of the bus and not behind it. The driver should see that the way is clear before the child is permitted to cross the road.
8. Pupils shall not be permitted under any circumstances to bring anything on the bus that might frighten someone or distract the driver's attention. These would include the following: live, dead, stuffed or preserved animals, fowls, fish, snakes, insects and similar things. Any such items required for a class must be in a covered container.
9. Pupils shall not bring firearms or explosives on the school bus at any time.
10. Pupils shall not smoke on the bus at any time.
11. Pupils shall not eat on the bus at any time.
12. Pupils shall not be permitted to bring any item on the bus that might block the center aisle, stepwell, entrance door, emergency door, or any of the windows, or that would be dangerous in case of collision, or would present a fire hazard, or that would take up pupil seating space. Footballs, basketballs, volleyballs, baseballs, and softballs must be kept in the possession of the owner at all times and not tossed about inside the bus. Owners will be held responsible for items brought on the bus.
13. Should any pupil persist in violating any of these regulations, it shall be the duty of the driver to notify the principal.
14. Serious misconduct and/or repeated abuse of these regulations will result in referral to the principal's office. At that time the principal will:

• First Offense - Conference with student and send a letter to parents.
• Second Offense - Student will be suspended from the bus for 5 school days.
• Third Offense - Student will be suspended from the bus for 10 school days.
• Fourth Offense - Student will be brought before the Board for a bus expulsion hearing.

Items 1-4 are guidelines - serious acts of misconduct may result in additional disciplinary action an deemed necessary and appropriate.

Hickman County Schools will act in compliance with State Board of Education and Hickman County Board of Education, regulations and/or state law regarding the use of corporal punishment.

CRIMINAL VIOLATIONS

Students are accountable to their school in their role as students as well as to the law in their capacity as citizens. The criminal laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky and of the federal government apply to the conduct of all persons on school property. Violations will be dealt with according to these laws and local school board policy.

DEMONSTRATIONS

Student demonstrations or strikes or other disruptive activities that would distract from the planned instruction day will not be permitted in school or on school property.

Elementary Students: Detention will be instituted for a period of 45 minutes or until 3:45 in the afternoon. Their teachers or the principal may assign students detention.

Students are required to report to detention by 2:50. Students are not to leave school after students are dismissed for the day. Students must follow detention rules or additional measures will be taken. Students must furnish their own transportation home.

Students will be given checkmarks or have their cards pulled for offenses. Some examples of offenses that lead to detention are:

1. Bothering others...not keeping hand, feet and belongings to self
2. Talking at inappropriate times
3. Failure to be properly prepared for class...other than homework
4. Not staying in seat
5. Not listening to and following directions
6. Not cleaning area
7. Disobedience or disrespect
8. Improper lunchroom behavior

*The above list is not all inclusive but are examples of unacceptable behavior.

Alternative Room: The Alternative Room at the elementary school will be assigned for deliberate, disruptive behavior. Some examples of this type of behavior are:

1. Disrespect to teachers
2. Tormenting another student
3. Obscene language, notes, or gestures
4. Fighting
5. Talking back to the teacher/staff member
6. 3 detentions merit 1 day in the alternative room
7. 3 days in the alternative room will result in a 2 day suspension
8. 3 more days in the alternative room will result in a 4 day suspension
9. 3 more days in the alternative room will result in a 5 day suspension

Whenever a student is sent to the Alternative Room, he/she will be rated on a point system by the instructor. The point system will be a positive one whereby the student will earn points based on certain criteria. In order to return to the classroom the following day, the student will have to earn at least 45 points on a 50 point scale. If the student does not accumulate the required number of points, the instructor will document reasons on the appropriate form, sending one to the student’s teacher and one to the principal.

Criteria

Completion of work 10 points

Good attitude 10 points

*Staying on task 5 points

Being respectful to instructor 5 points

Good behavior 10 points

Following directions 10 points

*If a student is taking too long to complete his/her work, the instructor will document on his/her record as to how much work he/she has completed in a designated period of time (30 minutes, for example). Points then, can begin to decrease.

High School Students: Detention will be instituted for a period of 45 minutes beginning at 7:00 a.m. Students may be assigned to detention by the principal or assistant principal.

Students are required to report to detention by 7:00 a.m. each morning. If a student is late additional detention will be assigned. Students must bring class assignments in order to be admitted. The student is responsible for securing assignments from their teachers. Failure to complete assignments in a conscientious manner will result in additional time being assigned to detention.

Students must follow detention rules or additional measures will be taken. Students must furnish their own transportation. A list of students for detention will be posted in the office. This notification will be made one day prior to the detention date. Excessive detention may result in suspension.

Offenses that merit detention:

1. Tardy to class three times
2. Failure to check in or check out of the office
3. Skipping school (6 day detention)
4. Improper lunchroom behavior
5. Abuse of hall privileges
6. Smoking or use of any tobacco product
7. Unexcused absences

* The above list is not all inclusive, but are examples of unacceptable behavior.

DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY

Pupils shall be held responsible for damage to school property. Any pupil, organization, or group of pupils participating in activities who destroys, defaces, damages or removes school property shall be subject to disciplinary action and liability for the cost of restoring the property.

In addition, when they have reasonable belief that a violation has taken place, principals shall immediately report to law enforcement officials when an act has occurred on school property or at a school-sponsored function that involves damage to school property. For the purposes of determining when to make this report, damage to school property shall refer to instances involving: (1) intentional harm, and (2) damage beyond minor loss or breakage, excluding normal wear and tear.

DRESS CODE

In addition to educational responsibilities, the school system accepts the obligation of developing positive student attitudes toward personal hygiene and appropriate attire. Without such positive attitudes students will not be able to make the best use of their academic skills in the world of work and society in general.

We need and ask for the support of our parents in ensuring that students come to school properly groomed and dressed. Proper attire is defined as clothing that is clean, modest, which does not create a health or safety hazard, and which is not distracting or demeaning to other students in the classroom.

Hickman County Elementary:

The following will be considered inappropriate clothing on a regular school day:

• Skirts, skorts, or shorts more than 4 inches above the knee
• Tee shirts or tank tops with profane or vulgar language
• Clothing with symbols or slogans advertising or promoting drug, alcohol, or tobacco use or having sexual content
• Clothing with gang related signs or symbols
• Cut-off tops, tank tops, see-through tops, or shirts showing the midriff (stomach)
• Pants or shorts worn below the waist – no sagging
• Overalls without both buckles fastened
• Clothing with holes and/or tears that reveal undergarments
• Hats or caps worn in the cafeteria or classroom

Students who do not dress appropriately will be counseled and asked to change clothes. Continued violation of the dress code will result in disciplinary action.

Hickman County High School:

Clothing, jewelry or accessories advertising/containing references in writing or pictures to drugs, sex, alcohol, tobacco, and/or which contains foul or suggestive language/pictures etc. are not to be worn while attending school or school sponsored activities.

All students are to remove hats and other head covering upon entering the building, during the school day.

Jackets and coats, which are normally worn outdoors, are to be placed in lockers during the school day.

Dress should be appropriate for the learning process. The school administration reserves the right to make final judgment on the appropriateness of dress.

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A. Suspension - Before suspension, the following must occur:

1. Oral or written notice of the charges which constitute the cause for suspension
2. The evidence supporting the charges must be explained to the pupil if he/she denies the charges
3. The pupil must be given the opportunity to respond to the charges.

B. Expulsion – The Board may expel any pupil from the regular school setting for misconduct as defined by law. Provision of educational services will be required unless the Board determines, on the record and supported by clear and convincing evidence, that the expelled student poses a threat to the safety of other students or school staff and cannot be placed in a state-funded agency program. The Superintendent shall present to the Board for its approval options for provided educational services to expelled students.

Before expulsion, the following must occur:

1. A written statement setting forth the specific charges and grounds which if proven would justify expulsion under the law will be presented to the pupil.
2. The pupil and parents or guardians will be provided with the names of witnesses against the student (if any). If there are no witnesses, the student will be fully informed of the manner in which the alleged violation came to the attention of the Board. A hearing will be held with due notice no later than three (3) school days after suspension unless otherwise required by circumstances.
3. During the hearing, the pupil and his/her parents or guardians will be afforded the opportunity to present the Board with a defense to the charges by oral or written testimony, including the introduction of a reasonable number of witnesses on his/her own behalf.
4. Should the pupil and his/her parents or guardians desire, they may be accompanied by a lay advisor and represented by legal counsel. If the latter is desired, they must notify the Board of this intention so that the Board attorney may also be present.
5. The pupil will be given the Board's decision in writing.
6. The pupil is entitled to an expeditious handling of his/her case and prompt decisions after the hearing, consistent with the requirements of mature and careful reflections by the Board.
7. The decision of the Board is final, except that the pupil and his/her parents or guardians have recourse to the courts if the pupil is denied due process, or if the expulsion is believed to be for illegal or unconstitutional reasons.
8. If the pupil and parents or guardians fail to appear at the hearing scheduled, the Board will take whatever action it deems appropriate according to the charges.
9. If a pupil is expelled for a period less than the full school year, a conference should be held with the Board or its designees prior to re-admission.
10. During any period of suspension or expulsion, a student will be considered unexcused from classes and will not be allowed to make up work or tests which are missed. In addition, a student suspended or expelled from school may not attend any school-related activities during the period of suspension or expulsion.

A student expelled from another school district will not be enrolled in Hickman County Schools without a corresponding move to the district by the parent or legal guardian unless approval for enrollment is given by the Board of Education.

When disciplinary action involves student placed in special education programs or students who have been referred for possible special education placement and/or related services, Hickman County Schools shall adhere to the due process procedures outlined below:

Suspension of Special Education Students

The procedures for the suspension of special education students shall be commensurate with those outlined in the Hickman County Discipline Code. Principals have the authority to suspend students pursuant to the Kentucky Revised Statutes.

Expulsion of Special Education Students

Any special education student recommended for expulsion by the principal shall be granted the same due process rights and procedures as regular education students. In addition, the Admissions and Release Committee (ARC) shall convene prior to the due process hearing with the Hickman County Board of Education to determine whether the discipline problem is related to the student's handicapping condition. Also, the committee shall review the student's Individual Education Plan (IEP) and appropriateness of placement.

If the ARC concludes the discipline problem is not related to the student's handicapping condition, a written determination reflecting this conclusion shall be submitted to the Superintendent and Board of Education. The committee is limited to making the above written determination and it is not the role of the ARC to recommend expulsion. If the Hickman County Board of Education does expel a special education student, educational services shall not cease and an alternative education program must be provided.

If the ARC concludes the student's discipline problem is related to the student's handicapping condition, a written determination reflecting this conclusion shall be submitted to the Superintendent and Board of Education. The ARC shall consider the need for any possible change in the student's placement or Individual Education Plan which should result in more successful behavior management.

GANG PREVENTION

Presence of gangs and gang activities is a growing problem in some educational communities and a disruptive force where present. A "gang" is defined as any group perceived as a distinct group which prompts a disruptive response in the school or community.

The following rules act to prevent disruption and to prohibit gang activities by restricting those actions which foster such activities or which endanger even those students who do not intend to show gang membership or affiliation.

No student on school property or any school activity:

1. Shall wear, possess, distribute, or display any clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge, symbol, sign, drawing, graffiti, or other items which may be viewed as evidence of membership or affiliation with a gang
2. Shall commit any act, use any speech (either verbal or non-verbal) showing membership or affiliation in a gang----gestures, handkerchiefs, drawings, graffiti, etc.
3. Shall use any speech or commit any act promoting the interests of any gang or gang activity, including but not limited to:

• Soliciting others for membership
• Intimidating or threatening any person(s)
• Violating any other rules as stated in the handbook

Violation of the above stated gang prevention measures shall subject the student to suspension or expulsion.

Definition: Harassment/Discrimination is intimidation by threats of or actual physical violence; the creation, by whatever means, of a climate of hostility, or intimidation, or the use of language, conduct, or symbols in such manner as to be commonly understood to convey hatred, contempt, or prejudice or to have the effect of insulting or stigmatizing an individual.

Prohibition: Harassment/Discrimination due to an individual's race, color, national origin, age, religion, marital status, political beliefs, sex, or disability is prohibited.

Disciplinary Action: Students who engage in harassment/discrimination of an employee or another student on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, religion, marital status, political beliefs, sex, or disability shall be subject to disciplinary action including but not limited to suspension and expulsion.

1. Investigation of allegations of harassment/discrimination to include the submission of a written report of all findings of an investigation to be completed within three (3) school days of submission of the original written complaint
2. Establishment of measures to provide confidentiality in the complaint process
3. A process to identify and employ, within three (3) school days of the submission of the written investigative report, methods to correct and prevent reoccurrence of the harassment/discrimination
4. Annual dissemination of written policy to all staff and students and
5. Age-appropriate training during the first month of school to include an explanation of prohibited behavior

Prohibited Conduct: Conduct and/or actions prohibited under this policy include but are not limited to:

1. Unwanted touching, sexual name-calling, sexual jokes and spreading sexual rumors
2. Member of one gender in a class being subjected to sexual remarks of the other gender in the context of the classroom
3. Impeding the progress of a student in class by questioning the student's ability to do the required class work based on the gender of the student
4. Limiting students access to education tools, such as computers, based on the student's gender and
5. Teasing a student's subject choice or assignment based on the gender of the student

Appeal: Upon the completion of the investigation and correction of the conditions leading to the harassment/discrimination, any party may appeal any part of the findings and corrective actions to the Superintendent.

If a supervisor is an alleged party in the harassment/discrimination complaint, procedures shall also provide for addressing the complaint to a higher level of authority.

Failure by an employee, immediate supervisor, Principal, and/or Superintendent to initiate an investigation of alleged harassment/discrimination, to follow approved procedures, or to take corrective action shall be cause for disciplinary action.

Retaliation Prohibited: No one shall retaliate against an employee or student because she/he files a written grievance, assists or participates in an investigation, proceeding, or hearing regarding the charge of harassment/discrimination of an individual or because she/he has opposed language or conduct that violates this policy.

Upon the resolution of allegations, the Superintendent shall assure that employees and students are protected against retaliation.

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HOMEBOUND POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

General: Homebound instruction is a service provided by the Hickman County Board of Education to provide instruction to those students who are unable to attend school due to an illness or injury. Usually a student will be placed in homebound instruction if they have a prolonged illness or injury that will keep them out of school for an extended period of time. To have a student placed in homebound instruction or to ask any questions concerning this service you may contact the Hickman County Board of Education or the student’s Principal. You will be provided with the necessary forms to be completed by the parents and attending physician before homebound instruction can begin. The local board has the right to request a second medical opinion or the Board’s selection and at the Board’s expense before a student is placed on homebound.

1. You must obtain forms to be completed by parents and physician that will be given to the homebound teacher to be put on file. It must be an original. All applicable forms must be completed by both parent and physician before homebound instruction can be initiated. Upon completion and acceptance of forms, the district Placement Committee will be contacted by a homebound teacher to arrange instructional sessions.
2. It is the student’s responsibility to be available for schedule appointments. If it becomes necessary to cancel an appointment you must contact the homebound teacher and reschedule. The homebound teacher must see your child at least two (2) hours in one week. The homebound teacher can come more than two (2) hours a week if necessary.
3. The homebound student is responsible for turning in assignments and taking tests on dates scheduled by the regular teacher and homebound teacher. The regular teacher and homebound teacher will take into consideration the fact that the student may be behind when they sign up for homebound instruction.
4. It is the parent’s responsibility to contact the school to sign their child up for homebound instruction.

1. Contact the school and sign your child up for homebound instruction as soon as you know they are eligible. This will keep your child from getting so far behind in school.
2. When your doctor suggests your child should stay home for a week or more, ask him/her if arrangements need to be made to provide homebound instruction.
3. Make sure the student is prepared to do most of his/her work on his/her own. The homebound teacher will spend most of his/her time going over problems in your child’s homework and administering tests. As your child does his homework, have him write down questions they may have over a portion of the assignment they do not understand. This will help the homebound teacher use the time he/she has with your child more efficiently.
4. Remember, if your child is sick and should remain at home, it does not look good if they show up at after-school functions. The Placement Committee reserves the right to take a student off of homebound instruction if they do not appear to be sick or if the student is not doing the assignments given him.

1. The homebound teacher will contact the parents of the student for the initial appointment. The homebound teacher will then work with the student and parents to schedule appointments needed to keep the student current in his/her studies. The homebound teacher will contact the parents or student if he/she will be late or have to cancel an appointment.
2. The homebound teacher will be responsible for obtaining the students assignments and communicating with the regular teachers about the student’s progress or needs.
3. The homebound teacher will keep a current file on all homebound students and be responsible for the students minimum hours. The homebound teacher will notify the parent and school if the child is not scheduling enough hours per week (minimum of two hours per week).
4. The homebound teacher has the right and obligation to suggest to the school that a student be taken off of homebound tutoring because they are not performing.

LEAVING SCHOOL

No student may leave school for any reason without a call from his parent or guardian made to the principal’s office followed by permission from the office to leave school. All students MUST CHECK OUT OR IN with the office at the time of leaving or returning to school.

LOITERING

Being out of the classroom during class time is something which is to be avoided. While out of the classroom with a pass, the student should be conducting only the business which he/she was given the pass to accomplish. If the student is not in his/her assigned area, he/she will be considered to be loitering and will be assigned detention(s).

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MISBEHAVIOR AT THE END OF THE SCHOOL YEAR

Misbehavior and disrespect of any kind will not be tolerated at the end of the school year. Any misbehavior occurring on the school grounds or bus will be subject to disciplinary action by school officials during the summer or at the beginning of the next school year.

PAGING DEVICES AND CELLULAR TELEPHONES

A student in a Hickman County School shall not possess a paging device while on school property or while attending a school-sponsored or school-related activity on or off school property. A paging device means a telecommunications device that emits an audible signal, vibrates, displays a message, or otherwise summons or delivers a communication to the possessor.

A student in a Hickman County School shall not possess or use a cellular telephone during the regular school day.

Students in violation of this policy shall be reported to the building principal or Dean of Students who will assign appropriate discipline according to school policy (i.e parent conference, corporal punishment, Saturday school assignment, suspension up to 10 days or an expulsion hearing before the Board).

Paging devices confiscated by school personnel shall be forfeited to the school district and not returned to the student.

POLICE OFFICERS IN THE SCHOOL

School officials shall cooperate with law enforcement agencies in cases involving students (i.e., serving of subpoenas, juvenile petitions or warrants, or taking students into custody). As soon as possible, officials shall endeavor to notify the parents of students who are arrested.

When students are arrested at school, the Principal/designee shall make a written record of the identity of the officer making the arrest, the nature of the offense charged, the name of the issuing authority of any arrest warrant, and the place of custody.

Crimes Off School Property:

In the interests of the student’s welfare, the following requirements shall be followed when police officers ask to question or remove a student from the school whom they suspect of committing a crime off school property.

1. Parents/guardians shall be notified by school officials as soon as possible.
2. If the parent(s) come to the school or consent to permit the officer(s) to interview the student, a private place for the interview shall be provided.
3. If the parent(s) cannot come to the school and do not consent to the interview, the police should be advised to either bring a warrant, court order or juvenile petition or arrange to interview the student off the school grounds.
4. The student shall be informed by the police of his/her legal rights.
5. Parental notification/permission shall not be required if the student is an alleged victim of abuse by the parents.

Crimes On School Property:

Except in cases of emergencies involving threats to health and safety as determined by the Superintendent, when the District calls law enforcement officials to question students concerning crimes committed on school property, the Principal shall make an effort to notify their parent(s).

Saturday School shall provide an alternative to other disciplinary actions currently in use at Hickman County High School. Saturday assignments may be made by Building Level Administrators for any infraction of the Student Discipline Code deemed serious enough to warrant such action. Saturday School may be used as an alternative to out-of-school suspension but does not pre-empt the administration's authority to suspend when appropriate.

Time: Saturday Schools will be scheduled as needed during the school year--at least two days notice will be given upon scheduling. The time for Saturday School runs from 8:00 a.m. through 12:00 noon. Individual assignments may be for all or any portion of this time. More than one day may be assigned depending on the severity of the student's offense. (Students tardy will not be admitted, resulting in suspension.)

Procedure: Student must bring class assignments in order to be admitted. Students are responsible for securing assignments from their classroom teachers. Failure to complete class assignments in a conscientious manner will result in additional time being assigned or suspension. Students are expected to be actively involved with their assigned class work for the duration of the day.

A morning break will be coordinated by supervising teachers.

Multiple assignments are to be served consecutively.

Unexcused absences from Saturday School will result in suspension.

Examples of Offenses: Offenses which could result in a student being assigned to Saturday School include but are not limited to the following:

1. Unexcused Absences
2. Excessive Tardiness
3. Cutting or skipping class
4. Fighting
5. Insubordination
6. Class disruption
7. Incomplete daily assignments
8. Use of tobacco products
9. Repeated infraction of school rules
10. Profanity
11. Vandalism
12. Incitement of others to violence

Misbehavior: Student asked to leave because of misconduct during Saturday School will be suspended.

Examples of misconduct:

1. Begin unprepared to serve (no pencil, paper, books, or class assignments)
2. Sleeping
3. Talking
4. Other actions deemed inappropriate

Transportation: Transportation to and from Saturday School is the responsibility of the students and their parents.

1. Death in family
2. Illness verified by a doctor's excuse
3. Emergencies or serious illness in the family--at the discretion of the principal

* Work will not constitute a valid excuse.

Refusal to Serve: Any unexcused absence (no-show) or the refusal to serve as assigned will result in the student being suspended from school for three days. Saturday School will be rescheduled following suspension. Continued refusal to serve will result in recommendation to the Board for expulsion. This policy does not attempt to do away with suspensions as a viable alternative for discipline when appropriate. Violations such as profanity directed toward a teacher, attacking a teacher, insubordination willful disobedience, vulgarity, abusive language or other acts which disrupt the educational process or impose direct threats to the safety of others may still necessitate suspension or expulsion.

In a search and seizure situation, the following procedures shall be followed:

1. Lockers and desks are property of the school and are subject to the Board's regulation and supervision. Locker/desk inspections or searches are not carried out as a harassment technique but as a duty when the health, safety, or welfare of students is involved. Locks are also a property of the school and ARE NOT TO BE TAKEN HOME.
2. A student's person will only be searched when there is reasonable suspicion that the student is concealing evidence of an illegal act or school violation.
3. Illegal items (weapons, firearms, etc.) or other possessions reasonably determined by the proper school authorities to be a threat to the student's safety or security and others safety or security may be seized by school officials.
4. Items which may be used to disrupt or interfere with the educational process may be temporarily removed from the student's possession by a staff member. These items may be returned to the student by that staff member or through the office.
5. A general inspection of school properties such as lockers, desks, etc., may be conducted on a regular basis. During these inspections, items which are school property may be collected. (Example: overdue library books)
6. All items which have been seized will be turned over to proper authorities or returned to the true owner, depending on the situation. The student will have the opportunity to be present when a search of personal possessions is to be conducted unless: (1) the student is absent from school, or (2) school authorities decide that the student's presence could endanger the pupil's health and safety.

SEXUAL RELATIONS

Students are to refrain from any public display of affection for each other at school or school-related activities. This is to include hand-holding, embracing, kissing, etc. In addition, any student involved in any type of sexual activity at school or school-related activities may be, upon the recommendation of the principal, brought before the Board for an expulsion hearing.

SCHOOL-RELATED FUNCTIONS

All school discipline policies apply at school-related functions. This includes functions which occur off school grounds.

SMOKING

Smoking or use of tobacco products by students is prohibited on Hickman County School property.

Information Available: Student information shall be made available to the parent, guardian, or eligible student on request. Eligible students include those 18 years of age or older or those duly enrolled in a post-secondary school program. Parents, guardians, or eligible students shall be provided a copy of records on written request. Such copies shall be provided in a manner that protects the confidentiality of other students. Fees may be charged for copies of student records.

Hearing: The parent or eligible student shall be granted a hearing regarding the contents of the record on written request to the Superintendent. If the hearing results in a finding that the record is inaccurate or misleading in whole or in part or that information in the record violates the privacy or other rights of the student, it shall be duly amended. If the hearing finds no impropriety in the record, the parent or eligible student will be informed of the right to enter in the record a comment or exception to the written record.

Agencies That May Have Access: No individual or agency may have access to the record without the written consent of the parent or eligible student except the following as provided by law: Other school officials within the District who have been determined by the Superintendent or the Superintendent's designee to have a legitimate educational interest; Officials of another school or school District in which the student enrolls or plans to enroll; Authorized representatives of specific federal and state officials authorized by law; Persons authorized by the Superintendent or designee in connection with a student's application for or receipt of financial aid; Federal, state and local officials to whom reports are mandated by statute; Organizations conducting educational studies for a legitimate purpose, provided that confidentiality will be assured; Accrediting organizations in carrying out their functions; Compliance with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena; and, Appropriate parties in a health or safety emergency as determined by the Superintendent.

Annual Notice: Annual notice shall be provided to parents or eligible students of the types and locations of student records maintained by the Board, the titles of officials responsible for the records, rights concerning student directory information, and of the parents' and eligible students' rights to access of such records.

Student Directory Information: The Superintendent or the Superintendent's designee is authorized to release Board approved directory information. Approved directory information shall be: student names and addresses, telephone numbers, 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 most recent educational institution attended by the student. Any eligible student, parent, or guardian who does not wish to have directory information released shall notify the Superintendent in writing on or before September 30 of each school year.

Carrying, bringing, using, or possessing any dangerous or deadly weapon in any school building, on school grounds, in any school vehicle or at any school-sponsored activity is prohibited. Such weapons include but are not limited to any pistol, revolver, rifle, shotgun, air gun or spring gun; slingshot; bludgeon; booby trap device; brass knuckles or artificial knuckles of any kind; knives, mace, pepper spray or similar products; or any other object that is carried for the purpose of inflicting injury on another.

Employees of the District shall promptly make a report to the local police department, sheriff, or Kentucky State Police, by telephone or otherwise, if they know or have reasonable cause to believe that conduct has occurred which constitutes the carrying, possession, or use of a deadly weapon on the school premises or within one thousand (1000) feet of school premises, on a school bus, or at a school-sponsored or sanctioned event. Employees who receive information from a student or other person regarding conduct required to be reported shall report the conduct in the same manner as stated above.

Violation of this policy by students shall require that the Principal immediately make a report to the Superintendent, who shall determine if charges for expulsion from the District school should be filed.

Violators shall be reported to a law enforcement agency.

WILLFUL DEFIANCE OF AUTHORITY

The refusal of any student to comply with reasonable request of school personnel by refusing to recognize or obey school authority or the open resistance to and standing up against the school staff or administration is unacceptable. Furthermore, students who intentionally defy school personnel with the purpose of insulting or verbally abusing them, thus undermining the discipline and order of the school will be subject to the harshest of disciplinary measures which may include suspension or expulsion.

DISCIPLINE ALTERNATIVES FOR STUDENT MISCONDUCT

Discipline problems which are of a common or minor nature are handled by classroom teacher, who may use a variety of methods including the following:

1. Verbal warning
2. Individual conference
3. Notifying parents (telephone or letter)
4. Detention
5. Extra assignment
6. Referral to counselor
7. Temporary withdrawal of privileges
8. Isolation from other students
9. Corporal Punishment
10. Assignment to alternative classroom (HCES)

MAJOR VIOLATIONS

Grounds for suspension or expulsion are student misconduct or substantial disobedience. The following include examples of student misconduct or substantial disobedience, but are not limited to:

1. Engaging in conduct that disrupts or interferes with school purposes: For example-the use of violence, force, noise, coercion, threat, intimidation, fear, passive resistance, or other comparable conduct, or urging others to engage in such conduct
2. Trespassing, vandalizing school property, breaking and entering a school building or facility, attempting to set fire or intentionally damaging any school property
3. Causing or attempting to cause substantial damage to school property or stealing or attempting to steal school property or stealing or attempting to steal school property of substantial value or repeatedly damaging or stealing school property of small value
4. Intentionally causing or attempting to cause damage to valuable private property, stealing, or attempting to steal valuable private property, or repeatedly damaging or stealing private property
5. Attending school or a school-sponsored activity, with the odor of alcohol on breath, will be grounds for expulsion. BREATHALYZER TESTS COULD BE USED TO CONFIRM THE CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOL\
6. Repeatedly refusing to follow the directions of supervising school employees: engaging in acts of serious disrespect to school employees
7. Willfully truant from school in violation of building policy
8. The use of possession of tobacco is prohibited
9. The violation or repeated violation, of any rules, standards or policies which have been established by the Superintendent, and presented to the Board and/or Council; or established by the principal of a school, reviewed and approved by the Superintendent, and presented to the Board. The Board and/or Council may change any such rules, standards or policies in accordance with procedures which it has adopted
10. Engaging in immoral conduct.
11. Intentionally causing or attempting to cause physical injury or intentionally behaving in such a way as could reasonably cause physical injury to any person. Self-defense or reasonable belief that it was necessary to protect some other person does not, however, constitute a violation of this provision
12. Using force or the threat of force to take money or something of value from another person, engaging in blackmail, or using coercion to gain something of value or an advantage
13. Possessing handling, using transmitting or selling weapons, dangerous instruments or explosives
14. Knowingly possessing, handling, or transmitting a knife or any other object that can reasonably be considered a weapon
15. Knowingly possessing or using on school grounds during school hours an electronic paging device or a hand held portable telephone in a situation not related to a school purpose or an educational function
16. Knowingly possessing, using transmitting, or being under the influence of any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverage, or intoxicant of any kind
17. Knowingly using or taking a prescription drug that is not prescribed for that person or that exceeds the recommended dosage for the person to which it is prescribed or a patent drug by exceeding recommended dosage with the purpose of creating an intoxicated or irrational state or of causing physical injury, either to one self or to other persons. Knowingly transmitting or selling such prescription or patent drugs to aid a person violate this paragraph.
    Any violation of the above rule will result in a recommendation by the school administration that the student be expelled.
18. Possessing or providing to any person anything used or designed to be used primarily for the storage, processing, delivery or consumption of alcohol, marijuana, stimulants, intoxicants, narcotics, depressants or hallucinogens. Examples of things which are not to be possessed or provided to another person are: pipes, rolling papers, clips, stones and any other device believed to be, by school authorities, used for the storage, processing, delivery or consumption of the above mentioned drugs.
    Any student who is unsure if possession, use or providing another person with any particular medicine, substance or paraphernalia would violate the above rule should contact the building principal or his designee before possessing, using or providing the medication, substance or paraphernalia.
19. A person who knowingly or intentionally delivers any substance that he represents to be a controlled substance commits "dealing in a substance represented to be a controlled substance.
20. . Creating a disturbance by displaying or using a substance represented to be a controlled substance

The grounds for suspension or expulsion listed above apply when a student is:

1. Within a school facility
2. On school grounds immediately before, during, and immediately after school hours and at any other time when the school is being used by a school group
3. Off the school grounds at a school activity, function, or event
4. Traveling to or from school or a school activity, function, or event.

A major violation of the discipline policy may result in the suspension of the student for ten (10) days and a hearing may be conducted within the ten days by a hearing board consisting of the principal and his assistant. The student will receive a "0" for each day of suspension on each offense, and will not be able to make up the work missed for credit. A hearing is the examination of accounts of the misconduct and the taking of recommendations (in addition to the ten days suspensions) as to future disciplinary action by the hearing board. People in attendance at the hearing would include: the principal, the assistant principal, the student involved, and the student’s parents or legal guardians.

NOTE:

The accumulation of referrals and suspensions for major violations will accumulate for the entire year.

It will be recommended that a student be expelled when, in a semester he/she has been assigned any combination of twelve (12) Saturday Extension Days, in-school suspensions, or out-of school suspensions.

It will be recommended that a student be expelled for one calendar year when, while on school property, the student possesses, handles, uses, or transmits a firearm as defined in Title 18 section 921 of the United States Code.

A student may be suspended or expelled for engaging in unlawful activity on or off school grounds if the unlawful activity may reasonably be considered to be an interference with school purposes or an educational function, or the student’s removal is necessary to restore order or protect persons on school property. This includes any unlawful activity meeting the above criteria which takes place during weekends, holidays, other school breaks, and the summer period when a student may not be attending classes or other school functions.

When a group of two or more students cause or attempts to cause physical injury to another student these students will be recommended for expulsion.

Being an accomplice or otherwise a participant in misconduct may be a violation to the same extent as if a principal in the offense or violation.

ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PLAN NOTIFICATION

On October 22, 1986, President Reagan signed into law the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA, Public Law 99-519). The law required EPA to develop regulations which provide a comprehensive framework for addressing asbestos problems in public and private elementary and secondary schools. On October 30, 1987, EPA published the Asbestos-Rule requires all public and private elementary and secondary schools to inspect for friable and non-friable asbestos, develop asbestos management plans that address asbestos hazards in school buildings, and implement response actions in a timely fashion. This rule became effective December 14, 1987.

The Hickman County School System conducted a complete inspection of its facilities on August 1 and 2, 1988 and a follow-up inspection on May 23, 1991,and a 3 year re-inspection every three years, thereafter. The results of these inspections have been included in a management plan. This management plan is available in the administrative offices of this school system (and in the offices of each school) during normal business hours, without cost or restriction, for inspection by representatives of the EPA and the State, the public, including teachers, other school personnel and their representatives, and parents. The LEA may charge a reasonable cost to make copies of management plans. You, as a parent, are encouraged to examine the management plan that affects your children or you.

The purpose of the Federal and state regulations is to protect the health and well-being of all persons entering the building of this school system for any reason. This LEA takes very seriously the recommendations made in the management plan, which has been sent to the EPA for approval.

The person in the school system trained to oversee asbestos activities and ensure compliance is D. G. Whitlock. As required in the Rule, Mr. Whitlock is the single contact for the public to obtain information about asbestos-related activities in the schools. You may reach Mr. Whitlock at the Superintendent’s office (653-2341). Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

We are pleased to offer students in Hickman County Schools access to the district computer network for electronic mail and the Internet. To gain access to e-mail and the Internet, all students must obtain parental permission and must sign and return the attached form to their school’s office.

Access to e-mail and the Internet will enable students to explore thousands of libraries, databases, and bulletin boards while exchanging messages with Internet users throughout the world. Families should be warned that some materials accessible via the Internet may contain items that are illegal, defamatory, inaccurate or potentially offensive to some people. While our intent is to make Internet access available to further educational goals and objectives, students may find ways to access other materials as well. We believe that the benefits to students from access to the Internet, in the form of information resources and opportunities for collaboration, exceed any disadvantages. But ultimately, parents and guardians of students are responsible for setting and conveying the standards that their children should follow when using media and information sources. To that end, the Hickman County Schools support and respect each family’s right to decide whether or not to apply for access.

Rules and Regulations:

Students are responsible for good behavior on school computer networks just as they are in the classroom. Communications on the network are often public in nature. The network is provided for students to conduct research and communicate with others. Access to network services is given to students who agree to act in a responsible manner. Parent permission is required and access is a privilege – not a right.

Individual users of the district computer networks are responsible for their behavior and communications over those networks. It is presumed that users will comply with district standards and will honor the agreements they have signed. Beyond the clarification of such standards, the district is not responsible for restricting, monitoring or controlling the communications of individuals using the network.

Network storage areas will be treated like school lockers. Network administrators may review files and communications to maintain system integrity and insure that users are using the system responsibly. Users should not expect that files stored on district servers will always be private.

Within reason, access to information will be honored. During school hours, staff embers will attempt to guide students toward appropriate materials.

As outlined in school policy and procedures on students rights and responsibilities, the following are not permitted:

• Sending, accessing, or displaying offensive messages or pictures
• Gathering information for potentially illegal or damaging activities
• Using obscene language
• Harassing, insulting or attacking others
• Damaging computers, computer systems, or networks
• Violating copyright laws
• Using another’s password
• Trespassing in another’s folder, work, or files
• Intentionally wasting resources
• Using the network for commercial purposes.
• Revealing personal information or that of another student or staff member

Violations may result in loss of access as well as other disciplinary or legal action.

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