CLASS SCHEDULES: These are the main schedules used during the year. Others will be used if needed:

Regular Schedule
Block 1 - 8:20-9:04 / 9:08-9:52
Block 2 - 9:57 -11:25
S.S.P. - 11:35-12:00
Block 3/Lunch – 12:05-2:03
L1 12:00-12:30/C 12:35-2:03
C 12:05-12:35 /L2 12:35-1:05 /C 1:10-2:03
C 12:05-1:10 /L3 1:10-1:40 /C 1:45-2:03
Block 4 - 2:08-3:36
12:15 PM Dismissal Schedule
Block1 – 8:20-8:45/8:50-9:15
Block 2 – 9:20-10:15
Block 3 – 10:20-11:15
Block 4 – 11:20-12:15

Flex Schedule
Block 1 – 8:20-9:40
Block 2 – 9:45-11:05
S.S.P. – 11:15-11:40
Block 3/Lunch – 11:45-1:40
L1 11:45-12:15 /C 12:20-1:40
C 11:45-12:20 /L 12:20:12:50 /C 12:55- 11:40
C11:45-12:55 /L12:55-1:25 /C 1:30-1:40
Block 4 – 1:45-3:05

10:00 Start Schedule (inclement weather days)
Block 1 - 10:00-10:35 / 10:40-11:15
Block 2/Lunch
L1 11:15-11:45/C 11:50-12:55/ C - 11:20- 11:50
L2 11:50-12:15/C 12:15-12:55
C - 11:20-12:15/L3 12:15-12:55
Block 3 1:00-2:10
Block 4 2:15-2:50 / 2:55-3:30

COMPLETION OF ASSIGNED WORK: Students are expected to complete all work assigned them by teachers and to submit it at the time requested. On the first day of classes, teachers will explain to students the procedures for submitting assignments and consequences of not submitting assigned work. The deadline for any incomplete coursework to be submitted is one school week after the end of all terms. The decision to extend time to turn in fourth term coursework may under certain circumstances be at the discretion of the teacher(s) and administration. Work not submitted at that time will be assigned a grade of zero.
COMPULSORY EDUCATION: According to Nebraska Statue, students must attend Schuyler Central High School until the age of 18 unless written permission has been received from a parent and/or legal guardian not to attend.
COOPERATION WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES: SCHS shall cooperate with any lawful exercise of authority by any law enforcement agency or court. School officials shall ask that the law enforcement officer contact the parent/guardian before conferencing with a student if removal of the student from school grounds may be required. SCHS will comply with any lawful subpoena or order issued under proper authority of any court.

COOPERATION WITH SOCIAL SERVICE AGENCIES: School district employees shall cooperate with any legal agency investigating any alleged victim of child abuse or neglect. A school administrator or designee may be present if an interview is conducted by a Social Service Agency representative. The school district will comply with any lawful subpoena or order issued under proper authority of any court. Under no circumstance will permission be granted for removing a student from school unless the person making a request can prove to the Principal's satisfaction the following items: his/her identity, relationship to the student, and adequate justification for the action. In exceptional circumstances, and with the consent of the Superintendent or designee, a student may be removed from the school premises by a law enforcement agency or child protection agency, upon a written directive of such agency, certifying it has legal authority to remove the child from the school, or upon a written directive by a court exercising jurisdiction over the child.
COPY MACHINES: Copiers are available for general instructional use, and are not intended to substitute for typical research or note taking methods. These machines are not to be used without permission of school personnel. Students who wish to copy materials for use in class must have a teacher's note requesting the student be allowed to use the machine. A $.10 per page copying charge will be assessed for personal copies.
DISSEMINATION OF STUDENT DIRECTORY INFORMATION: The Family Educational Right to Privacy Act and certain state statutes authorize the disclosure of certain directory information to college recruiters, military representatives, and others requesting it. Schuyler Central High School considers directory information to include these items: name, address, e-mail address, photograph if applicable, dates of attendance, honor roll status if applicable, grade level, and the most recent educational agency or institution attended. Families have the right to refuse to permit the distribution of personally identifiable information as described above. If you prefer that SCHS not allow such information to be distributed for your student(s), please notify the Principal’s office in writing regarding what information is not to be shared about which student(s).
FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA): Notification of Rights Under “FERPA” for elementary and secondary schools.
The family educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. These rights are:
1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the School receives a request for access.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate.
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Schuyler Central High School to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605
FIRE/TORNADO DRILLS: from time to time it is necessary to practice various forms of emergency preparation dances. Two of the more common dances are for fire and tornado and are explained below. Others not explained below may be practiced periodically during the school year.
Fire Drills: The sound of an electric buzzer is the signal to vacate the building for practice or because of a fire. Pupils are to pass from their respective rooms and walk rapidly to the exit specified by the teacher without running or talking. Teachers will provide specific instructions for fire drills. These directions will also be posted near each room's doorway. Students must clear the building by at least fifty feet and may not return to the building until given instructions to so.
Tornado Drills: When the tornado-alarm rings (an air horn tone), all students are to follow the directions given by the teacher and posted in the classroom. There is to be no talking in order that necessary instructions can be heard. The all-clear signal will be given over the intercom.
GRADE LEVEL PROMOTION: Students will be promoted at the end of each school year regardless of credits earned. For students to be on track for graduation in (four) 4 years, students should follow the guide below.

GRADE LEVEL CREDITS EARNED
9th Grade 0-59
10th Grade 60-119
11th Grade 120-179
12th Grade 180-255
GRADING SYSTEM: Grades are evaluations of what students have learned, and are earned by students, not given by teachers. Grades become a part of permanent records available to institutions of higher learning, potential employers, and military services. Thus, it is important that the grades recorded on transcripts reflect the student's best efforts. Grades are assigned on the basis of the following criteria shown below or alternate criteria based on a student’s IEP or English language status. Schuyler Central High School’s grading scale is as follows:
“A” – 93-100
“B” – 85-92
“C” – 77-84
“D” – 70-76
“F” – 69 or below
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS: Schuyler Central High School students must complete fourteen (14) terms of attendance and a stated number of credits to graduate. A maximum of 15 non-academic credits may be applied toward graduation requirements. Each student must complete the following minimum course requirements to be eligible to participate in Commencement Exercises and graduate from Schuyler Central High School:
SUBJECT AREA CREDITS REQUIRED
English 40
Computer Literacy 10
Mathematics 30
Social Studies 30
Science 30
Physical Education/Health 10
Total Required Credits 150
Elective Credits Required for Graduation 105
Total Credits Required for Graduation 255
Note: All graduates of Schuyler Central High School must demonstrate high school reading competency.
Note: Students graduating from Schuyler Central High School are not required to participate in Commencement.
COUNSELING: The School Counselor is organized to help each student adjust to his/her present learning environment, enjoy educational opportunities that meet his/her interest, and aid the student in becoming self-directive. The School Counselor, with the cooperation of faculty members, conducts the work of this department. Any student may contact the counselor for aid or advice with problems he/she may face. Faculty members may also refer students to the School Counselor for aid and advice. Students should schedule time to meet with the School Counselor. Appointments should be scheduled during Access Time, or before or after school. Immediate attention will be given to emergency situations.
HONOR GRADUATES: Students graduating from SCHS with outstanding academic achievement will be recognized in one of three categories based on their cumulative grade point average:
• Honor Graduates with Highest Distinction: 4.0 cumulative GPA
• Honor Graduates with Distinction: 3.99 – 3.850 cumulative GPA
• Honor Graduates: 3.849 – 3.50 cumulative GPA
HONOR ROLL: Three honor rolls will be published following each grading period to recognize outstanding academic achievement by Schuyler Central High School students:
• “A” honor roll recognizes all who earn all grades of 93 or higher
• A-average honor roll recognizes all with a 92.5 or higher grade point average and no grade below 80
• B-average honor roll recognizes all with an 84.5 to 92.49 point average and no grade below 80
Pass/Fail classes, weights, and lifetimes sports classes are not counted in the honor roll calculations.
INTERNET SAFETY: It is the policy of Educational Service Unit 7 that access to the Internet provided by ESU 7 is expected to be used as an educational and/or work-related resource and that such access shall be made available subject to such rules and regulations as may be established, provided that no use shall be permitted which, in the judgment of the Board of Directors of ESU 7, is in any way prejudicial to the best interest of the unit or in conflict with the ESU 7 Program of Services. The ESU 7 Board of Directors reserves the right to refuse access to the Internet by ESU 7 to anyone when it deems it necessary in the public interest.
Definitions:
1. Access to the Internet-A computer shall be considered to have access to the Internet if such computer is equipped with a modem or is connected to a computer network that has access to the Internet.
2. Minor shall mean an individual who has not attained the age of 19.
3. SCS Students regardless of age are bound to the terms of this policy.
4. Obscene shall have the meaning given such term in section 1460 of title 18, United States Code.
5. Child pornography shall have the meaning given such term in section 2256 of title 18, United States Code.
6. Harmful to minors and students of SCS shall mean any picture, image, graphic image file, or other visual depiction that:
a. taken as a whole and with respect to minors and students of SCS, appeals to a prurient interest in nudity, sex, or excretion;
b. depicts, describes, or represents, in a patently offensive way with respect to what is suitable for minors and students of SCS, an actual or simulated sexual act or sexual contact, actual or simulated normal or perverted sexual acts, or a lewd exhibition of the genitals; and
c. taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value as to minors and students of SCS.
7. Hacking shall mean attempting to gain unauthorized access to computer and network systems.
8. Technology protection measure shall refer to a proxy server managed by ESU 7 that blocks and/or filters Internet access or other means by which access may be blocked and/or filtered.
9. Authorized staff member as used herein shall refer to an adult staff member appointed by the Schuyler Community Schools Technology Committee.
10. Technology Committee as used herein shall refer to a group of Schuyler Central High School staff including an Administrator, the Technology Coordinator, and one to five staff members appointed by the administrator and technology coordinator.
Access to Internet by minors and students of SCS: Minors and students of SCHS accessing Internet services provided by Schuyler Community Schools shall be subject to the following rules and regulations:
1. Minors and students of SCS shall not access material that is obscene, child pornography, harmful to minors and students of
SCS, or otherwise inappropriate for educational use.
2. Minors and students of SCS shall not use Schuyler Community Schools technology or Internet resources to engage in hacking or attempts to otherwise compromise any computer or network systems security.
3. Minors and students of SCS shall not engage in any illegal activities on the Internet.
4. Minors and SCS students should only use electronic mail, and other forms of direct electronic communications for purposes related to education within the context of a Schuyler Community Schools-related assignment activity.
5. Minors and SCS students shall not disclose personal identification information on the Internet.
Access to Internet by Adults: Adults accessing Internet services provided by Schuyler Community Schools shall be subject to the following rules and regulations:
1. Adults shall not access material that is obscene, child pornography, or otherwise inappropriate for training or work-related uses.
2. Adults shall not use Schuyler Community Schools technology resources to engage in unauthorized hacking or attempts to otherwise compromise any computer or network systems security.
3. Adults shall not engage in illegal activities on the Internet.
Technology Protection Measure: Schuyler Community Schools shall use a technology protection measure that blocks and/or filters Internet access to prevent access to Internet sites that are not in accordance with the policies of Schuyler Community Schools.
1. The technology protection measure that blocks and/or filters Internet access may be disabled by the technology coordinator or his/her appointed designee for bona fide research purposes with permission of the immediate supervisor of the staff member requesting said disabling or with the permission of the administrator of Schuyler Community Schools
2. The technology coordinator or designee may override the technology protection measure that blocks and/or filters Internet access for a minor to access a site for bona fide research or other lawful purposes during which time the minor will be monitored directly by the authorized staff member or his/her designee.
Policy Violations: Any violation of this policy may result in the loss of access to the Internet by Schuyler Community Schools and/or ESU 7. Additional disciplinary action may be determined in accordance with existing procedures and practices, both administrative and as stipulated in Schuyler Central High School and/or ESU 7 board policy, and including applicable law enforcement agencies when necessary.
Policy Challenge Procedure: An individual who has been granted access to the Internet by Schuyler Community Schools and desires to access an Internet site that is not compliant with this policy may challenge the enforcement of the policy according to the following provisions:
1. Internet site review requests should be directed to the Schuyler Community Schools Technology Committee in writing for consideration.
2. The Technology Committee will review the site within seven working days of submission of the request and, if deemed appropriate for educational or work-related purposes, may vote to unblock the site.
3. Schuyler Community School’s technology committee will regulate enforcement of the policy, including disciplinary actions, and shall forward to the administrator of Schuyler Community Schools any challenges to the severity of the applied discipline.
4. Challenges to the application or enforcement of Schuyler Community School’s Internet Safety Policy that cannot be resolved at the levels outlined in the preceding step will be handled in accordance with Schuyler Community Schools established grievance policies or at the Schuyler Community Schools administrator and/or board level for challenges presented in writing.
LEAVING CAMPUS DURING THE SCHOOL DAY: Students who drive to school are not permitted to drive their cars at any time during the school day without specific permission in advance from the Principal or Assistant Principal. The proper procedure for leaving school is to obtain prior, written permission from either the Principal's or Nurse's office. Any student who leaves school without following proper procedure will be counted absent (unexcused), will receive an office detention, and must meet with teachers to determine what was missed during the absence from class. The student is expected to request the proper form for documenting this conference from the office. If the student does not meet with the teachers or does not submit the paperwork documenting this conference s/he will be required to make up class time with the teacher(s) of the missed class(es). Should this makeup time not be served, the teacher is to assign a detention to that student.
LIBRARY: The Schuyler Central High School Library is considered a "quiet" area and all students are expected to study quietly to maintain a desirable atmosphere for study. Small group study may be done quietly and with permission of the library media specialist. The student should request a pass from the teacher or from the library media specialist to use the library during class time. Once a student is in the Library he/she is to remain there for the remainder of the period unless the teacher has requested that he/she return or is sent back by the library media specialist. The Library serves both students and faculty. Its collection consists of many different types of materials including periodicals, reference materials, nonfiction books, fiction, and computer-based resources. Students can use the computers in the library media center for research, both CD-ROM and Internet, word-processing, and to access the library card catalog. All technology designated to the Media Center may not be removed. Removal of designated items may result in disciplinary actions.
LOCKERS: All students will be assigned to a locker at the beginning of the school year, and students are expected to use the locker. In most cases there will be two students assigned to each locker. Each student is responsible for keeping that locker clean, neat, and orderly. The lockers may be used by the student but remain the property of the school, and therefore may be examined by the Principal or his representative when the need arises to do so. While students may decorate or personalize their locker, some items are not suitable for display in lockers. These items are: ads or references to tobacco, alcohol, or other drugs, pictures which are found to be offensive to school personnel or other students, and language or graphics which can be termed profanity, or are otherwise inappropriate. Care should be taken when decorating lockers to use materials that are not permanent in nature, as lockers will need to be cleaned at the end of the school year. Disciplinary consequences may be assigned students who damage a locker, store prohibited substances in it, or disable the lock mechanism.
LOST AND FOUND: Lost and found items are to be brought to and claimed from the office. Items not claimed at the end of the school year will be given to a charity organization.
LOST OR DAMAGED ITEMS: Students are to demonstrate respect for school district property and assist in its preservation for future use by others. Students may be assessed fines, charges, or fees for damage beyond normal wear to the materials needed in a course, for overdue school materials, or for misuse of school property. The charges shall not exceed the actual cost of the materials or equipment incurring damage.
LUNCH: The Schuyler Central High School federal hot lunch program has facilities that serve the entire student body. Student lunches cost $1.90 per meal. The cost for individual lunch items is announced on an annual basis. Deposits to student lunch accounts are to be made either before school or between 1st and 2nd blocks and will be accepted only in amounts of $1.00 or higher. Deposits will not be accepted during lunch periods. Students should carefully examine the account balance that appears on-screen each day after the bar code card is scanned. This information indicates the balance remaining prior to charges for the day’s meal. Students will not be allowed to charge any items to their lunch account that would cause the account to have a negative balance. Due to federal lunch program reimbursement regulations, a student may not purchase a lunch for another student. Students not presenting their bar code card will not be allowed to receive a meal. Bar code replacement cards are available in the superintendent’s office. Replacement cards are free until the third card is issued. To receive a third replacement card, students are charged $5.00 for that card and any card issued after that time.
Students are asked to cooperate with lunchroom personnel by eating in a responsible manner, consuming all lunch items in the lunchroom, returning trays, silverware, and disposable items to their proper location, and conducting themselves as young women and men at all times. Disruptive behaviors may result in disciplinary consequences. Students who wish to eat lunch at home may walk or be picked up by a parent or other family member approved in advance by the principal or assistant principal, and must have submitted appropriate paperwork to the office prior to doing so. After students have eaten or come back from eating at home, they should report to the east gym or stay outside the east entrance to the school. Students eating lunch off campus are not to bring food items back onto campus when they return. Suggestions for improving the school lunch program are to be presented to the nutrition staff or to members of the committee that meets with the Superintendent and nutrition staff.
Students are not allowed to purchase breakfast and lunch meals or ala carte items for other students. Violations will result in loss of ala carte privileges, etc.
Ala carte items are offered for purchase for breakfast and/or lunch. For example, students may purchase a second serving of a main entrée, 100% juices, water, snacks (containing 30% fat), fresh fruit, 16 ounces milks, and more. Students are required to purchase a reimbursable meal before purchasing ala carte items. There are a few exceptions to this policy. The following items can be purchased without purchasing a meal first. These include the following: milk (any size), water, Propel, 100% fruit juice (any size), and fresh fruit.
An example of a lunch menu that offers all food components is as follows:
Hamburger in a bun
French fries
Green beans
Milk
Students may take all menu items or any qualifying combination such as the following:
Hamburger, Bun, Milk, Green Beans
Hamburger, bun, green beans
Hamburger, bun French fries
Hamburger, green beans, milk, bun
As long as three different food components are chosen, a meal qualifies. Students will be asked to return to the line to get the required components for a meal.
In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.
To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (202)720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
LUNCH AND BREAKFAST GUIDELINES: Food will remain in the lunchroom for breakfast and lunch unless permission is given to take food out to a meeting etc.
MESSAGES TO STUDENTS: Routine notes and phone messages will be delivered to students as timing and staffing in the office permit. Legitimate emergency situations will be handled immediately if that information is provided to school personnel.
MID-TERM PROGRESS REPORTS: Progress reports will be mailed at the mid-point of each term to notify parents of class performance that is commendable, below a student's ability level, or unsatisfactory. A teacher may fail a student without sending a failure notice to the parents in such instances where the student's grade drops so rapidly that there is not time to effectively send one before a grading period ends. Teachers may also report exceptionally good student performance and improvement.
MID-TERM GRADUATES: Students who have reached Senior grade classification and have obtained 215 credits may, with parent/guardian approval, apply for mid-term graduation. Application for mid-term graduation shall be made to the Guidance Counselor on school-provided forms on or before the Wednesday preceding the November Board of Education meeting. All stated graduation requirements must be fulfilled in order to receive a Diploma from the District #123 Board of Education. All applications will be reviewed and applicants interviewed by a panel designated by the Principal. Mid-term graduates may receive their Diploma at the Board meeting in January or at Commencement in May. Mid-term graduates may not participate in 2nd half of the year school activities sanctioned by the Nebraska School Activities Association. Mid-term graduates in their fourth year of high school attendance may participate in SCHS events throughout the 2nd half of the school year provided they observe stated school rules and are in good standing with District 123. Mid-term graduates beyond their fourth year of high school attendance may not participate in SCHS events during the 2nd half of the school year. Exceptions will be made jointly between the student, parent/guardian, school, and Board of Education.
NEW STUDENT REGISTRATION: Students who have not previously registered for school in this district must have their parent or guardian supply a certified copy of the student's birth certificate or other reliable proof of the student's identity and age. If unable to provide a birth certificate, an affidavit explaining the inability to produce a certified copy of the birth certificate must be provided. This information must be provided within ten days or the matter will be referred to the local law enforcement agency for investigation.
A printed or typewritten form signed by a licensed physician indicating that a physical examination was administered on a specific date within the previous six months must be provided for a student from out of the State of Nebraska. As a substitute for evidence of a physical examination, an objection in writing to a physical examination may be submitted to the school by the parent or guardian. Immunization information is also required.
Any student who enrolls after the fifth day of a term and who was not enrolled at another school will need an attendance appeal approved by the attendance appeal committee to earn credit(s) for that term.
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY: Schuyler Central High School district number 123 does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, marital status, disability, or age in admission or access to, or treatment of employment, in its programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding complaints, grievance procedures or the application of these policies of nondiscrimination:
Robin Stevens, Superintendent, Schuyler Central High School
401 Adam Street Schuyler, NE 68661 402-352-3527
For questions regarding compliance, contact:
Nontraditional/Equity Programs Specialist, Career and Technical Education,
Nebraska Department of Education,
P.O. Box 94987, Lincoln,
NE 68509-4987,
Phone # 402-471-4823,
FAX 402-471-4565,
email rhastg@nde.state.ne.us
NOTIFICATION OF BAD WEATHER: At certain times of the year, it is necessary that school be delayed in starting or be canceled altogether. For closings and late starts, these stations will generally be notified by 6:30 a.m. KFAB and Channel 10 will be contacted as early as possible. Wait for this information to be presented by the media sources. Administrators need to make a number of phone calls, so please do not tie up their lines by calling to see if school will be in session. Parents are urged to use their own judgment whether it is safe for their children to go to school. Parents who do send students are welcome to have them call home once safely at school. The school will attempt to contact rural parents early in the day if parental verification of an absence has not occurred. On such days, the Superintendent will contact the following media sources, to which students and parents should listen:
KTTT 1510 am Columbus KLIR 101.1 fm Columbus KJSK 900 am Columbus
KFAB 1110 am Omaha KKOT 93.5 fm Columbus KZ 100 100 fm Columbus
KOLN Channel 10 Lincoln

NURSE: The services of a School Nurse are available to students who become ill or injured during the school day. Students wishing to see the Nurse should get a pass from the classroom teacher or the Principal's office. The teacher will notify the Principal's office of sickness or injury of a student at the earliest possible moment. All medication to be taken by students during the school day, including aspirin, is to be checked into the Nurse's office before school. This protects students from taking medicine at the wrong time and from over medication.
OPEN LUNCH (available to Seniors only): the Open Lunch Privilege Plan is to provide qualified members of the Senior class an opportunity to leave school during their lunch period to eat at an alternate location. Participation in Open Lunch is available to students who are classified as seniors, who submit a properly completed parental permission form, and who retain eligibility for participation in the Open Lunch program.
Students will lose open lunch privileges for a period of time to be determined by the administration if observed to be in violation of items described below:
1. Failure to maintain acceptable grades
2. Negative school lunch account balance
3. Involvement in any disciplinary incident during school or at any school activity
a. detention, excessive tardies, late assignments, etc.
b. serious disciplinary incidents may result in immediate, permanent suspension of open lunch
4. Inappropriate behavior during Open Lunch
a. observed use of time for "cruising"
b. failure to utilize school-provided parking areas
c. providing lunch for non-eligible student(s)
d. giving rides to underclassmen during lunch or during the school day
e. squealing tires, overly loud radio, etc. near school
f. receipt of traffic citation during Open Lunch
g. bringing off-campus food items onto campus or into the lunchroom
h. complaint about behavior by business community member
Other disciplinary incidents may result in penalty 3b for an individual student, a group of students, or the entire class depending on the particular circumstances of the incident.
Seniors who lose their senior privileges are to be in the lunchroom or check-in with the lunchroom supervisor before going to the media center or outside the east gym doors.
When students lose their senior privileges and have a significant reason not to be present during that week, they will be permitted to leave as long as the missed time is made up with the assistant principal.

Title III Parent Involvement Policy
Schuyler Central High School At the district level, it is the policy of Schuyler Central High School that parents of all participating children in Title III Programs have the opportunity to be involved in the joint development of the district plan and the district’s review process. The district provides coordination, technical assistance, and other necessary support in the planning and implementation of parent involvement activities. The district encourages parent involvement and supports the partnership between home/school/community by providing understandable information about standards and assessments; providing training and materials for parents to help their children and to involve other parents; educating school personnel about involving parents and the value of parent contribution.
It is the policy of Schuyler Central High School that:
1. This jointly developed; written Title III policy is distributed to all parents.
This policy will be included in the parent handbook.
2. An annual meeting is held for all parents.
An annual meeting will be held each year. Notification will be given in a letter mailed to parents.
3. Parents are given assistance in understanding the requirements of the Title III, content standards, performance standards, and assessments.
Assistance will be provided at the annual meeting, parent-teacher conferences, informational meetings, and in school publications.
4. Parents receive an explanation of the school’s performance profile, expected proficiency levels for students, and their student’s assessment results.
Individual reports will be given to parents at parent-teacher conferences.
5. Parents receive timely responses to all parent recommendations. All information is sent to parents in the language used in the home. Full opportunities are provided for all parents to participate in Title III activities.
Responses can be either verbal or written. An interpreter or translator will be used when necessary.
6. A jointly developed school/parent compact outlines how parents, the entire school staff, and students share the responsibility for improved student achievement and the means by which the school and parents continue to build and develop partnerships to help children achieve the state’s high standards.
All parents and staff were able to provide input into the development of the compact. The compact will be reviewed at the annual meeting. PARENT INVOLVEMENT POLICY: parents/guardians shall have access to review school materials including textbooks, tests, surveys, and any other curriculum and instructional materials used by the school. Parents/ guardians may attend and monitor courses, assemblies, counseling sessions, and other instructional activities unless such attendance would interfere with a legitimate student/school interest as determined by the Principal.
Parents/guardians may communicate with the school and ask that their child be excused from specific testing, classroom instruction, and other school experiences that the parent may find objectionable. Upon request, the school shall provide the parent with an appropriate form that may be used to express objections to instructional material or a school experience. The form shall seek information including, but not limited to, the specific school material or experience, the reason for the objection, and a proposed resolution of the objection that would be satisfactory to the parent and the school. Please refer to paragraph "Administrator Decision". Parents/guardians shall have full access to student records according to Nebraska State Statute 79-4,157 and the Federal Education Right to Privacy Act.
It shall be the policy of the district to notify parents of any standardized norm-referenced or criterion-referenced test or standardized tests such as but not limited to CAT V and to notify where a sample of the test might be observed and the date that the test will be administered. District 123 will only use testing methods, instruments, materials, and techniques that are generally recognized by educational professionals to be within sound educative standards or educationally appropriate. Please refer to paragraph "Administrator Decision".
It shall be the policy of the district to conduct student surveys judicially, with full consideration that certain parents may find certain items of a survey objectionable. Nebraska Department of Education Rule 10 outlines procedures required for evaluating school climate. Prior to any other school-sponsored survey being administered to students, it shall be the duty of the Principal to notify parents of the survey's purpose and the date the survey will be conducted. Prior written consent of parents would be required if students are to be surveyed about political affiliation, mental and psychological problems, sex behavior and attitudes, self-incriminating behavior, personal relationships with family members or others, and income. The school shall require a parental response indicating whether their student will or will not participate. Student initiated surveys for classes and school publications shall require administrative approval, but not prior notification to the home.
Administrator Decision: The Principal shall excuse the student from the activity considered to be objectionable by the parent. The Principal shall direct the appropriate personnel to make reasonable efforts to provide, when reasonable or practical to do so, alternate school activities or school experiences for the activity or school experience from which the student has been excused. Reduction of grade or loss of credit, or other detriment to the student as a result of having been excused from any school experience or school activity as a result of objections by the parent shall be prohibited.
PARKING: Parking space for students is located both east and west of the school building during school hours. The parking area along the street on the west side of the building is for Seniors only, as is the area north of the main entrance on the east side of the school. The area west of the building, but on the inside (by the building) is for faculty parking only. Grades 9-10-11 are to park in the lot west of the west gym. The areas south of the industrial technology and west gym are not considered student parking areas during the school day.
Parking on the street is prohibited. All vehicles driven by students are to be parked in the lots or stalls provided by the school. Cars and other vehicles not properly parked may create problems for emergency vehicles such as fire trucks and ambulances needing to gain quick access to areas of the building or surrounding homes. Therefore, improperly parked vehicles will have to be moved. If violations continue, a detention or traffic citation will be assigned. Students are not to be in the school parking lot during the noon hour or at any other time of the day unless permission has been granted. Students are not to park in assigned staff parking places.
PARENT/STUDENT/TITLE 1 COMPACT:
Parent/Caring Adult
I understand that my participation in my child’s education will help his/her achievement and attitude. I agree to carry out the following responsibilities:
- provide place, time, materials, and assistance for homework.
- show respect and support for child, teacher, and school.
- instill a positive attitude toward education.
- model like-long learning.
-open lines of communication between parent/school/student.
Student:
I know my education is important to me. It will help me become a better person. I agree to do the following
- show respect and pride for self, school, and others.
- attend school regularly.
- believe I can and will learn.
- accept responsibility for own behavior.
Teacher:
I understand the importance of the school experience to every student and my role as a teacher. I agree to carry out the following responsibilities:
- open lines of communication between teacher/student/parent.
- provide safe and stimulation environment conductive to learning.
- communicate expectations clearly.
- believe each student can learn.
- help each student reach full potential.
PART-TIME STUDENTS: A part-time student shall be any student who does not attend school the entire school day and school year. Students who have reached Senior grade classification and have obtained 215 credits may, with parent/guardian approval, request permission to attend school as a part-time student. Application for attending school as a part-time student shall be made to the School Counselor on school-provided forms. All applications will be reviewed, and applicants interviewed by a panel designated by the Principal. Part-time students will be expected to attend a minimum of two consecutive blocks and observe all stated school rules. Exceptions will be made jointly between the student, parent/guardian, school, and Board of Education. Part-time students not demonstrating satisfactory performance in coursework may be required to spend additional time in school beyond their scheduled classes. This time will be scheduled immediately before or immediately after classes in the student’s schedule and will be spent working to improve the level of academic performance in scheduled classes. Satisfactory performance is defined as meeting these criteria:
1. meeting academic eligibility requirements; and,
2. passing all courses required for graduation.
PASSES: As a general rule, students will be allowed up to five passes from each class per term. A pass form is located in this student handbook and must remain there to be used. The intent of these passes is to travel from location to location in the school for a specific purpose, and may not be shared with other students. Passes to the office for phone calls initiated by the student will come from the student’s five-per-term pass supply. A teacher may deny use of a pass by a student in the event of inappropriate behavior. When students leave the classroom for any reason, they need to use their passes in the handbook or have a pink pass from the teacher to be in the halls going to another destination unless they are accompanied by a staff member.
PERSONAL COMMUNICATION DEVICES: Students who have personal communication devices during school hours and cause disruptions will have the communication devices confiscated. All communication devices must be out of site except for times they are allowed as described. This includes radios, CD players, MP3 players, portables TVs, cellular phones, pagers, beepers or any other device. Student use of cellular phones and other personal communication devices will be permitted before school, during lunch and after school and not permitted during class time, assemblies, pep-rallies, passing time between classes, etc. The following consequences will take place if any communication device is visible and/or in use during prohibited times:
• First offense – The communication device will be confiscated and only returned to a parent or guardian.
• Second offense - The communication device will be confiscated and only returned to a parent or guardian.
• Third offense – The communication device will be confiscated and not returned until the end of the school year.
A cell phone used for cheating will be confiscated and not returned until the end of the school year. If there is an emergency, personal communication devices may be used by students when permission is given by the classroom teacher.
PUPILS RIGHTS AMENDMEDNTS: NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS UNDER THE PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS AMENDMENT – PPRA
PPRA affords parents certain rights regarding Schuyler Central High School conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes and certain physical exams. These include the right to the following:
A. Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas:
1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent
2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family
3. Sex behavior or attitudes
4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior
5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships
6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers
7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents
8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility
B. Receive notice of an opportunity to opt out of the survey.
C. Inspect, upon request and before administration of the survey.
These rights transfer from the parents to a student who is 18 years old or an emancipated minor under State law.
Parents who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20202-5001
REGISTRATION: Students will register for the current year in the preceding spring. Students are assigned classes that meet their needs and desires as indicated by their spring registration. New students register upon enrollment in Schuyler Central High School.
REGISTRATION CHANGES: Because students and parents choose courses in the spring, changes in student registration are not encouraged. However, there may be students who wish to change their registration. If a schedule change becomes necessary, please contact the Guidance Counselor. The proposed change must be approved by the Guidance Counselor or Principal and must be completed within three days of the beginning of the term. Careful consideration is necessary at registration time to insure that the student will benefit from the schedule of courses chosen. No change will be made without parent approval.
SCHOLARSHIPS: Many seniors are eligible for scholarships offered by colleges, universities, and other organizations. To obtain information about scholarships and other financial assistance, please contact the Guidance Counselor. Seniors should become aware of entrance requirements for colleges and process admission applications as early as possible.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY: Sexual harassment of any employee, certificated or support staff, or student by any individual under the jurisdiction of the Colfax County School District #123 is expressly prohibited as a violation of law and Board policy. Students are encouraged to report incidents of perceived sexual harassment to the administration. Persons determined to have engaged in sexual harassment shall be subject to disciplinary sanctions. Regarding students, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature shall constitute sexual harassment when:
1. Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual's enrollment in, participation in, or affiliation with a course, activity, or other school-sanctioned program.
2. Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as a basis for any decision which may affect the educational standing of an individual; or,
3. Such conduct has the purpose or effect to unreasonably interfere with an individual's educational performance or create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment.
STUDENT FEES AND FINES POLICY: The Board of Education of Schuyler Community Schools adopts the following student fees policy in accordance with the Public Elementary and Secondary Student Fee Authorization Act as amended by the 2003 Legislature. The District's general policy is to provide for the free instruction in school in accordance with the Nebraska Constitution and state and federal law. This generally means that the District's policy is to provide free instruction for courses which are required by state law or regulation and to provide the staff, facility, equipment, and materials necessary for such instruction, without charge or fee to the students. The District does provide activities, programs, and services to children that extend beyond the minimum level of constitutionally required free instruction. Students and their parents have historically contributed to the District's efforts to provide such activities, programs, and services. The District's general policy is to continue to encourage and, to the extent permitted by law, to require such student and parent contributions to enhance the educational program provided by the District. Accordingly, the District shall seek and accept voluntary contributions of funds, and the provision of materials and equipment by parents and other patrons in order to continue to provide a high quality education to its students.
(1) Authorized fees/requirements: Under the Public Elementary and Secondary Student Fee Authorization Act, the District is required to set forth in a policy its guidelines or policies for specific categories of student fees. This policy provides general guidelines subject to further interpretation or guidance by other Board Policies and Administrative Regulations that may be adopted from time to time. This Policy includes an Appendix I that provides further specific details regarding student fees and materials required by students for the 2007-08 school year. Parents, guardians, and students are encouraged to contact the Superintendent, Principals, or their teachers or activity coaches and sponsors, as applicable, for further specifics.
The Public Elementary and Secondary Student Fee Authorization Act expressly authorizes school districts to require and collect fees or other funds from or on behalf of students or require students to provide materials, specialized equipment or attire in the following categories:

1.Participation in extra curricular activities.
2. Admission and transportation fees for spectators at extracurricular activities.
3. Post-secondary education costs.
4. Transportation to and from school under certain conditions.
5. Copies of records and files.
6. Reimbursement for lost or damaged property.
7. Summer school and night school.
8. Before and after school programs and pre-Kindergarten programs.
9. Parking fees.
10. Breakfast and lunch programs in accordance with the federal requirements.

It is the intent of the Board of Education that no fees shall be charged to students, nor shall materials be required from students, for their participation in any school district sponsored course or activity, whether curricular or extracurricular, except as expressly permitted within this Policy and Appendix I. Nothing in this Policy shall prevent the school district and its various organizations and groups from accepting donations or from engaging in fund-raising activities that are conducted in accordance with District policies and regulations.
(2) Guidelines for non-specialized attire required for courses and activities. Students have the responsibility to furnish and wear non-specialized attire meeting general District grooming and attire guidelines, as well as guidelines established for the school buildings or programs attended by the students or in which the students participate. Students also have the responsibility to furnish and wear non-specialized attire reasonably related to the programs, courses and activities in which they participate where the required attire is specified in writing by the Superintendent or his/her designee. The District will provide or make available to students such safety equipment and attire as may be required by law, specifically including appropriate eye protective devices (safety glasses) for courses of instruction in vocational, technical, industrial arts, chemical or chemical-physical classes which involve exposure to hot molten metals or other molten material, milling, sawing, turning, shaping, cutting, grinding, or stamping of any solid material, heat treatment, tempering, or kiln firing of any metal or other materials, gas or electric arc welding or other forms of welding processes, repair or servicing of any vehicle, or caustic or explosive materials or for laboratory classes involving caustic or explosive materials, hot liquids or solids, injurious radiations, or other similar hazards. The Superintendent is directed to ensure that such equipment is available in the appropriate classes and areas of the school buildings; teachers are directed to instruct that students use the devices as required, and students have the responsibility to use the devices as instructed.
(3) Provisions for personal/consumable items, course materials, and related provisions.
(a) Extracurricular Activities. Students are required to provide personal or consumable items for participation in extracurricular activities and may be required to provide certain specialized materials and equipment. Such requirements are specifically described in Appendix I. Waivers for low income students may be provided for the provisions of certain materials and equipment in accordance with the waiver section of this Policy (Section 12).
(b) General Course Materials. Items necessary for students to benefit from courses will be made available by the District for the use of students during the school day. In general, this means that the District shall have the responsibility to furnish personal or consumable items for participation in the courses of study provided by the District. This includes the responsibility to furnish minor personal or consumable items including, but not limited to, pencils, paper, pens, erasers, and notebooks. In addition, equipment or supplies of a specialized nature for certain courses will be made available to students by the District. If circumstances warrant, the Superintendent or his/her designee may require refundable damage or loss deposits required for usage of highly expensive District property.
Students are encouraged, but not required to provide their own personal and consumable supplies, materials, and equipment. This allows the student to have exclusive access to such supplies, materials, and equipment for their own use after school hours and during study periods. Accordingly, lists of recommended class supplies which can be voluntarily provided by students will be published annually in the SCHS Student Handbook, and/or supplements to those handbooks or other notices. The lists may include refundable damage or loss deposits required for usage of certain District property.
(c) Course Project Materials. The District will furnish the supplies and materials necessary for course projects, such as projects in art or industrial technology classes, but upon completion, the project shall become the property of the District if it has more than minimal value. With the approval of the Superintendent or his/her designee, students may be allowed to keep projects that are specifically designated as having only minimal value. Students are permitted to and may be encouraged to supply materials for course projects and, in such cases,these course projects may be kept by the student upon completion. Generally, standard project materials will be made available by the District. If the student wishes to keep the project upon completion, he/she shall reimburse the District for the reasonable value of the standard materials. If a student wants to create a project other than the standard course project, or to use materials other than standard project materials, the student will be responsible for furnishing or paying the reasonable cost of any such materials for the project. Students shall not be academically penalized for using standard District materials and grading criteria for course projects shall be designed so that the highest possible grade is achievable using standard District materials.
(d) Music Course Equipment. Students may be required to furnish musical instruments for participation in optional music courses. Use of a musical instrument without charge is available under the District's fee waiver provision (Section 12). The District is not required to provide for the use of a particular type of musical instrument for any student.
(e) Graduation Ceremony. Participation in the graduation ceremony and in the class activities attendant to graduation (such as being part of the composite picture, special yearbook pages, etc.) is not required in order for students to receive their high school diploma. Students who choose to participate will be required to pay the cost (if any are required) of the items involved in the graduation ceremony and attendant class activities. These may include the rental of graduation robes, caps, tassels, class flowers, class gift, yearbook picture page, and class composite picture. A single Senior Class Graduation Assessment, may be assessed to those Seniors who wish to participate in graduation activities.
(f) Field Trips. The school district shall bear the cost of field trips that are part of the curriculum. These costs shall include registrations, transportation, and related costs. On school day curricular field trips, the District will provide students the opportunity to have a school-prepared lunch through the school lunch program at the usual costs and with the usual provisions for those qualified for free/reduced lunches.
District will accept contributions from parents or other patrons in order to help fund field trips that are curriculum-related. Students may be held responsible for the costs of field trips that are exclusively part of an extracurricular activity. Extracurricular field trips are those in which participation by the student is voluntary, the field trip is not part of the curriculum or an extension of the curriculum, and the field trip occurs outside of regular school hours and/or does not count toward school attendance. A waiver for low-income students for extracurricular field trip fees shall be available in accordance with the wavier section of this Policy (Section 11). Students may be required to bring their own food or money to purchase food on trips for extracurricular activities. The cost of food is not subject to a low income waiver.
(g) School Stores and Purchases. The Superintendent may authorize the creation of one or more school stores operated by the school Administration or school clubs and organizations to stock minor personal/ consumable items for voluntary purchase as a convenience to students. Such stores need not have a permanent physical presence and may consist of providing order forms for students to voluntarily purchase items from the school or other vendors. Students may not be required to purchase items from school stores or from any staff member. Students may be charged for the purchase of items such as yearbooks, class rings, spirit clothing, and similar items, but all such purchases shall be voluntary. Students are responsible for the cost of food, beverages, and personal or consumable items which they purchase from the District or at school, whether from a School Store, a vending machine, concession stand, booster club or parent group sale, a book order club, or the like.
(h) Lost/Damaged Materials. While the District will provide students with the use of facilities, equipment, materials and supplies, including books and personal/consumable school supplies, the students are responsible for the careful and appropriate use of such property. Students and their parents or guardian will be held responsible for damages to school property caused or aided by the student and will also be held responsible for the reasonable replacement cost of school property which is placed in the care of and lost by the student. Where students are provided school property of a significant value which may easily be unintentionally damaged, the instructor should give the parent advance notice of the student being given responsibility for the item and the parent may then direct that the student not be given the item.
(i) Fines and Penalties. The Superintendent or his/her designee may assess fines for the late return of materials, such as library books, or for violations of rules and regulations developed for the safe and efficient operation of the schools. No fines shall be levied without the express approval of the Superintendent or his/her designee. Students who fail to pay overdue student fees, fines, or penalties may be subject to administrative penalties including being withheld from participation in school activities. Students shall not be denied a diploma, transcript, or credit for course work completed for failure to pay fees, fines, or penalties.
(j) Voluntary Class Assessments. Each of the four secondary classes may assess its members for memorials and similar minor class activities. The payment of such an assessment shall be strictly voluntary.
(4) Guidelines for extracurricular activities: equipment or attire. The term "Extracurricular Activities" means student activities or organizations which are supervised or administered by the District, which do not count toward graduation or advancement between grades, and in which participation is not otherwise required by the District.
The District will generally furnish students with specialized equipment and attire for participation in extracurricular activities. Exceptions to this general statement are provided in Appendix I of this Policy. The District is not required to provide for the use of any particular type of equipment or attire. Required equipment or attire fitted for the student and which the student generally wears exclusively, such as dance squad, cheerleading, and music/dance activity (e.g. choir or show choir) uniforms and outfits, along with required T-shirts, jackets or similar attire for teams or organization members, may be required to be provided by the participating student. The cost of maintaining any equipment or attire, including uniforms, which the student purchases or uses exclusively, shall be the responsibility of the participating student. Equipment which is ordinarily exclusively used by an individual student participant throughout the year, such as golf clubs, softball gloves, and the like, are required to be provided by the student participant. Items for the personal medical use or enhancement of the student (braces, mouthpieces, and the like) are the responsibility of the student participant. The District will provide safety mouthpieces for athletes participating in high school football.
Students have the responsibility to furnish personal or consumable equipment or attire, including all non-specialized equipment or attire, such as athletic undergarments or non-specialized athletic shoes, for participation in extracurricular activities or for paying a reasonable usage cost for such equipment or attire.
For musical extracurricular activities, students may be required to provide specialized equipment, such as musical instruments, or specialized attire, or for paying a reasonable usage cost for such equipment or attire. A waiver of this requirement is available to low income students (Section 12 of this policy).
(5) Guidelines for extracurricular activities: fees for participation. Except as otherwise provided in Appendix I of this Policy, the District does not charge direct activity participation fees. Admission fees may be charged for extracurricular activities and events and extracurricular clubs and organizations may charge membership dues as specified in Appendix I.
(a) Admission Fees. Unless otherwise specified in Appendix I of this Policy, admission fees for students to SCS sponsored activities shall be charged. Admission fees to activities hosted by SCS on behalf of other sponsoring organizations, such as the Central Conference or Nebraska School Activities Association, shall be determined by the sponsoring organization. Admission fees to events that are designated as fund-raising activities for extracurricular clubs and organization.
Students in Grades 9-12 may voluntarily purchase a Schuyler Community Schools Activity Pass that provides admission to home games/matches directly sponsored by the District for a flat fee. Appendix I of this Policy shall specify the types of admission fees covered by the NBC Activity Card and outline such exceptions as may be necessary to accommodate the District's hosting of Conference and Nebraska Schools Activity Association (NSAA) events, and games which are hosted as club/organization fund-raising activities. The waiver procedure outlined in Section 12 of this Policy does not apply to admission fees.
(b) Club/Organization Dues. Extracurricular clubs and organization may, with permission of the Superintendent or his/her designee, charge membership dues. The maximum allowable dues amount for each club/organization is listed in Appendix I of this policy. The waiver procedure outlined in Section 12 applies to club dues.
(c) Fund-Raising Activities. Students who wish to participate in an extracurricular activity that is wholly or partially financed by organizational fund-raising may be required to take part in the organization's fund-raising activities a condition of participation in the extracurricular activity.
(d) Voluntary Team/Club/Organization Activities. From time to time, members of extracurricular teams, clubs, and organizations may choose to participate in voluntary social activities for members that are above and beyond the mission of the extracurricular activity. These social activities may include annual picnics, movies, pizza parties, and similar activities. Participation in such activities is voluntary and no member of a team, club or organization may be penalized for not participating. The cost of participating in voluntary social activities is the responsibility of the student and is not subject to the low income waiver provision.
(e) Voluntary Purchases. Participants on teams and in clubs and organizations may have the opportunity to purchase optional t-shirts, sweatshirts, jackets, and similar items through team, club or organization accounts. On some teams, players voluntarily purchase flowers for one Parents Night per season. Such purchases are completely voluntary, no team, club, or organization member may be required to make such purchases, and all costs are the responsibility of the student and are not subject to the low income waiver provision.
(f) Summer Activities. Members of teams, clubs, and organizations may have the opportunity to participate in summer camps, individual clinics, summer trips, and similar activities. These activities are not sponsored by the District and participation is voluntary. The cost of participating in summer activities is the responsibility of the student and is not subject to the low-income waiver provision.
(6) Post-secondary education costs. Students are responsible for postsecondary education costs. The phrase "postsecondary education costs" means tuition and other fees only associated with obtaining credit from a postsecondary education institution. For a course in which students receive high school credit and for which they may also receive postsecondary education credit, the course shall be offered without charge for tuition, transportation, books, or other fees, except tuition and other fees associated with obtaining credits from a postsecondary educational institution.
(7) Transportation costs. Students are responsible for any fees established for transportation services provided by the District to the extent permitted by federal and state laws and regulations.
(8) Copies of student files or records. The Superintendent or his/her designee may establish a schedule of fees representing a reasonable cost of reproduction for copies of a student's files or records for the parents or guardians of such student. Such fees shall not exceed ten cents per copied page. A parent, guardian, or student who requests copies of files or records shall be responsible for the cost of copies reproduced in accordance with such fee schedule. The imposition of a fee shall not be used to prevent parents of students from exercising their right to inspect and review the students' files or records and no fee shall be charged to search for or retrieve any student's files or records. Any fee schedule so established shall permit one copy of the requested records be provided for or on behalf of the student without charge and shall allow duplicate copies to be provided without charge to the extent required by federal or state laws or regulations.
(9) Participation in before-and-after-school services. Students are responsible for any fees established for participation in before-and-after-school services offered by the District, except to the extent such services are required to be provided without cost.
(10) Participation in summer school or night school. Students are responsible for fees required for participation in summer school or night school, including the optional non-credit summer Driver's Education course offered by the District. Students are also responsible for paying for correspondence courses that are voluntarily taken.
(11) Student meals. Students shall be responsible for the cost of items which they purchase from the District's lunch programs except to the extent that such students are eligible for free/reduced lunch through the United States Department of Agriculture's child nutrition programs. The cost of items to be sold to students shall be consistent with applicable federal and state laws and regulations. Students may be required to bring their own food or money to purchase food on trips for extracurricular activities. On school day curricular field trips, the District will provide students the opportunity to have a school-prepared lunch through the school lunch program at the usual costs and with the usual provisions for those qualified for free/reduced lunches. Students are responsible for the cost of other food and beverages that they purchase from the District or at school, whether from a School Store, a vending machine, concession stand, or similar outlet.
(12) Waiver procedures. It shall be the policy of the Board of Education to provide fee waivers upon proper application in accordance with the Public Elementary and Secondary Student Fee Authorization Act as amended. Students whose family's income qualifies for free or reduced-price lunches under the United States Department of Agriculture child nutrition programs will, upon proper application and documentation of qualification, be provided with a waiver of fees or provision of the necessary materials or equipment without charge for:
A. participation in extracurricular activities.
B. specialized equipment and attire required for participation in extracurricular activities;
C. the use of a musical instrument in optional music courses that are not extracurricular activities, and
D. any other required materials or fees required for participation in miscellaneous events and activities for which a waiver may be legally required.
Participation in the free or reduced-price lunch program is not required for purposes of this section. Students or their parents must request and have received approval for a fee waiver prior to participating in or attending the activity, and prior to the purchase of any materials, equipment, or attire for which a waiver is sought. The Superintendent or his/her designee shall devise such application forms as are necessary to implement this section.
(13) Distribution of this Policy. The Superintendent or his/her designee shall publish the District's student fee policy and the accompanying Appendix I in the SCS Student Handbooks or in an equivalent document such as an addendum or supplement to the Handbooks. The SCS Student Handbook or the equivalent document shall be provided to every student of the District or to every household in which at least one student resides at no cost.
(14) Student Fee Fund: The Board hereby establishes a Student Fee Fund. The Student Fee Fund shall be a separate school district fund not supported by tax revenue into which all money collected from students and subject to the Student Fee Fund requirements of state law shall be deposited and from which money shall be expended for the purposes for which it was collected from students. Funds subject to the Student Fee Fund consist of money collected from students for: (1) participation in extracurricular activities, (2) postsecondary education costs, and (3) summer school (including Driver's Education) and night school activities.
Annual Certification: On the14 day of JULY, 2003, the Schuyler Community Schools Board of Education held a public hearing at a meeting of the Board on a proposed student fee policy. Such public hearing followed a review of the amount of money collected from students pursuant to, and the use of waivers provided in, the student fee policy for the preceding school year. The foregoing student fee policy was adopted after such public hearing by a majority vote of the Board at an open public meeting in compliance with the public meeting laws.
STUDENT RECORDS: State laws govern the accumulation, maintenance, and disposal of student records. Schuyler Community Schools maintains records for each student enrolled at the school. The records are available to the individual students and their parents. If a student transfers to another school, the student's records are forwarded to the receiving school upon request.
Educational Records: The Family Educational Right to Privacy Act also provides that a school may disclose educational records, including disciplinary records, without parental consent, to a school in which the student seeks or intends to enroll.
All other persons are required to have permission from a parent or eligible student before access to the student record is permitted. A student 18 years of age or over is eligible to give consent for the release of records. Professional staff members of SCS are permitted to see student records without consent when working to improve a student's educational performance.
The following information is included in student records: Grades, standardized test scores, interest test reports, and registration materials. Such items as teacher comments, personal evaluation, and disciplinary actions are not a part of the permanent record.
After three continuous years of non-attendance, the school destroys all records regarding disciplinary action and will retain only the academic record, personal information, attendance data, and health record.
State laws further require the school to inform the student and parents of their right to challenge any items of information placed in the student record. Within one calendar year from the date that such material is placed on a student's record, the student, parents, or guardians shall have the opportunity for a hearing to challenge the content of the student's record.STUDYING FOR SUCCESS PROGRAM (SSP): SSP is a 25-minute block of time students will have to work on their academic commitments. This block of time will be between block 2 and block 3 during the school day except on 12:15 p.m. dismissal day and/or 10:00 a.m. starts. Students will need to have made prior arrangements to leave SSP classroom by having secured a pass from the respective teacher s/he needs to see for academic reasons.
TESTING: The Guidance Department will give test batteries to entire classes of students to measure achievement. Test results are utilized to help plan a program of studies best suited to each student. These test results become part of a student's permanent record and will be available for student and parent review. Test dates will be announced to those students who will take the tests.
TRANSCRIPTS AND PERMANENT RECORDS: Transcripts will be accepted from authorized schools, and forwarded to other schools when necessary. Transcripts will be sent free of charge to institutions of higher learning or to prospective employers. Any student wishing to inquire about personal records should contact the Guidance Counselor.
TRANSFER STUDENT ENROLLMENT, GRADE PLACEMENT, GRADUATION: The professional staff of District #123 reserves the right to determine grade level classification and programs based on standardized test results and other pertinent factors, and to accept or deny waiver of credits, course offerings, or graduation requirements for students transferring from non-approved and/or home schools. Grades earned on another school’s grading scale will be converted to the SCHS grading scale. “Weighted” grades from other schools will also be converted to the 4-point SCHS grading scale (A=A, B=B, etc.). Students will be considered enrolled in Colfax County District #123 when proper personal identification, academic, and health records have been filed with the school.
Credits can not be transferred to SCHS from an exempt (home) school or non-approved school (as defined by Rule 10). A student who enrolls in SCHS after having been schooled in an exempt (home) school or non-approved school will not be granted credits for work done in the exempt (home) school or non-approved school.
TRANSPORTATION REIMBURSEMENT: Schuyler Community Schools are not required and will not provide transportation/mileage payment to parents for regular education students’ grades 9-12. Please contact the superintendent’s office at 402-352-3527 if you have questions.
VISITORS: Visitors must report to the principals’ office when visiting Schuyler Central High School. ALL visitors need a visitor’s pass to be in our school building. Former students are welcome if coming to see a teacher or other employee. Former students are not allowed to visit students in the lunchroom or other locations during the school day.
WEEKLY GRADE REPORTS: Grades are submitted for all students most weeks of the school year. Parents of students with any failing grade will be notified in writing of the low grade and will be asked to provide assistance in helping to improve the level of performance. Students continuing to have excessive low grades may be subject to grade-improvement strategies such as time before or after school and suspension from participation in extracurricular activities, etc.

ATTENDANCE
Regular attendance at school is important so that all students may obtain maximum benefit and success from their education.
Students who enroll after the start of a term may be permitted to make up missed work. NOTE: Due to the nature of some courses or the amount of work to be made up, the teacher may deny permission for a student to make up missed work.
ABSENCE CLASSIFICATION: Parents may request that a student be excused from school, but administrative staff shall be responsible for classifying student absences from school. In situations where a student is observed to be absent for reasons other than what the parent describes or when the student’s account of the absence varies from that provided by the parent, school administration shall determine classification for such absences. Absences shall be classified by the Administration as one of these types:
Excused: absences for medical appointments, college visitations, family vacations, or to attend events when school is still in session will be classified as excused when properly verified.
School Activity: absences for participation in school activities. When a coach or sponsor takes a team or organization to an event, absences for students in that group will not be counted as absences from school.
Unexcused: absences not verified within a reasonable amount of time and absences without valid reasoning, leaving school without permission, and missing more than 30 minutes of a full block or 15 minutes of a split block. Unexcused absences shall result in a detention.
ABSENCE NOTIFICATION: Attendance information will be provided to parents/guardians each term at parent-teacher conference time or upon parent request.
ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS: In order for a student to participate in an activity on a given day or night, that student must be in school:
1. For an afternoon activity, the morning of that school day.
2. For an evening activity, the afternoon of that school day.
3. When the activity is curriculum related the student may miss only the class of the field trip if failing other classes.
ATTENDANCE SUSPENSION: Students who have missed school for 10 consecutive days without parental verification will be recommended for removal from school membership. Such students may re-enroll in school at the beginning of the next term.
ABSENCE VERIFICATION: Students who have absences need to have them verified in a timely manner to avoid having an unexcused absence. It is best to verify absences with a phone call or a note when the absence occurs. When verification is not received, students receive notes the day they return to school asking for verification. Letters are also sent home asking for verification by the Wednesday of the following week. When verification of an absence is not received within those parameters, the absence becomes unexcused. It is important for absences to be verified to avoid a detention for the unexcused absence.
All absences need to be verified by the Wednesday of the following week by 9:00 AM.
COMPLETION OF ASSIGNED WORK FOLLOWING AN ABSENCE: Work missed during an absence must be submitted according to a schedule developed by the teacher and student. The deadline for any incomplete coursework to be submitted is one school week after the end of the term. Work not submitted according to the appropriate schedule will be assigned a grade of zero.
COMPLETION OF ASSIGNED WORK FOLLOWING PREARRANGED ABSENCES: Students are responsible for contacting teachers, getting assignments before their prearranged absence occurs, and informing the office of the planned absence from school. The assignments for each class shall be due upon the student’s return to that class or at the time the teacher calls for the assignment to be submitted. Prearranged absences include all absences from class in which a student knows in advance s/he will be absent. The deadline for any incomplete coursework to be submitted is two school weeks after the end of the term. Work not submitted at that time will be assigned a grade of zero.
ACQUIRING ASSIGNMENTS WHILE SUSPENDED FROM SCHOOL: Students who are suspended from school must contact their teachers prior to returning to school to get assignments. Students need to make contact with their teachers after 3:36 p.m. These assignments must be handed in to the teacher when the student returns to class after any suspension unless different arrangements have been made between the student and the teacher. Failure to turn in assigned work to the teacher upon returning to class will result in zeros for all assigned work.
COMPLETION OF ASSIGNED WORK FOLLOWING ANY SUSPENSION FROM SCHOOL: Assigned work is to be handed in to the teacher when the student returns to class after any suspension unless different arrangements have been made between the student and the teacher. Failure to turn in assigned work to the teacher upon returning to class will result in zeros for all assigned work.
PERFECT ATTENDANCE: SCHS students who have no absences from school for any reason other than SCHS activities in which s/he is a participant will be recognized as having had perfect attendance for that school year.
TARDINESS: Students are to be in the assigned classroom when the bell rings, present a pass from the office or previous teacher, or present an acceptable explanation to the teacher, or they will be classified as tardy. The determination of whether a student is tardy to class or absent will be the student’s time of arrival at the classroom. For full-block classes this shall be missing 30 or more minutes, for split-block classes this shall be missing 15 or more minutes. Upon the third tardy in the term, a student shall be assigned a problem-solving conference. Detentions will result for all additional tardies during that term.
TRUANCY: Students legally obligated to attend school will be referred to the County Attorney in the event that they exceed a total of five excused and/or unexcused absences per term.
STUDENT CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINE
STUDENT PERFORMANCE GOALS: The goal of each student at Schuyler Central High School is to be successful academically and socially during their high school career. It is believed that the following goals will help every student to be successful. When students follow the student performance goals, they should not receive consequences of low or failing grades, problem solving conferences, detentions, and suspensions. These goals are as follows:
Arrive to class prepared
Use work time appropriately
Complete assigned tasks on time
Demonstrate respect for people and property
Respond appropriately to directives.
Student conduct on campus, in buildings, on buses, and at school-community activities should at all times be characteristic of young men and women who exhibit pride in themselves, their school, and their community.
The purpose of the Student Discipline Act, (statutory reference 79-254 to 79-294, is to assure the protection of all elementary and secondary school students' constitutional right to due process and fundamental fairness within the context of an orderly and effective educational process. The sanctions defined in the act shall be interpreted at all times in the light of the principles of free speech and assembly protected under the Constitutions of the United States of America and the State of Nebraska, and in recognition of the right of every student to public education.
Changes or additions made to the policies, rules, or regulations contained in this handbook, if any, will be announced to students in the bulletin on three consecutive days, and will be announced to parents in the next issue of the Warrior Signal or by special mailing prior to taking effect.
ALCOHOLIC LIQUOR, AND/OR DRUG POSSESSION POLICY: Any student who is found to be in possession of these substances shall receive an out of school suspension (OSS) from class attendance and/or activity participation for a period of three (3) days. The student will be expected to complete counseling from school personnel prior to returning to classes and complete three hours of school service work within one week of the suspension. This work will be arranged to occur at times other than during regular school hours. Further violations shall result in additional disciplinary consequences as determined by the administration.
ALCOHOLIC LIQUOR AND/OR DRUG OFFENSES BEYOND POSSESSION AND/OR CRIMINAL ACTIVITY: The use of alcoholic liquor (as defined by Nebraska Statute Section 79-267), controlled substances, or look-alike drug items, or paraphernalia, and criminal activity is not permitted on school property, in school-operated or school-sponsored vehicles, on school-sponsored trips, or at any time when students are under school supervision including school sponsored activities or events. Students will not be permitted to attend school or school-sponsored events when there is evidence of their having used or being under the influence of alcoholic liquor, controlled substances, and/or involved in criminal activity.
Suspicion of Use: Unusual or erratic behavior, slurred speech, or the odor of alcohol will be
considered adequate evidence of having used or being under the influence of alcoholic beverages
or controlled substances. Students who choose to participate in athletics are subject to any
additional regulations concerning the use of alcoholic beverages or controlled substances
included in the athletic training regulations.
Implied Consent and Zero Tolerance Policy: Students who attend an SCHS event and are under suspicion of using or being under the influence of alcoholic liquor, SCHS staff shall be empowered to detain that student and to contact law enforcement authorities to arrange for breath testing to confirm or deny that suspicion. A breath test reading that is above a reading of .002 shall be utilized as proof of use of alcoholic liquor or being under the influence of alcoholic liquor. Should a student refuse to submit to such testing, that refusal shall be accepted as admission by the student of use of alcoholic liquor or as being under the influence of alcohol, and the student shall then be subject to stated consequences of that behavior.
Criminal Activity: When school officials receive a report that a student was involved (whether charged or not) or convicted of an unlawful act, including any determination made by the juvenile/adult court, the student shall be contacted. This policy pertains to unlawful acts and juvenile/adult determinations that principally do not fall under the drug and alcohol policy and constitute a criminal violation (whether charged or not) or a juvenile/adult court determination/conviction of what would otherwise be a criminal act. The intent of this policy is concerned with offenses involving property damage, theft, personal injury, or lack of moral turpitude. Violations may include, but are not limited to violations such as theft, vandalism, and assault. Students that are in violation of criminal activity shall be subject to stated consequences of the behavior for school and activity participation.
First Offense: Any student who is determined to be in violation of the alcoholic liquor, and/or drug offenses (beyond possession) and/or criminal activity shall receive an out of school suspension (OSS) from class attendance and activity participation for a period of four (4) days. The student will be expected to complete counseling from school personnel prior to returning to classes and complete three hours of school service work within one week of the suspension. This work will be arranged to occur at times other than during regular school hours.
Second Offense: Any student who is determined to be in violation of the alcoholic liquor, and/or drug offenses (beyond possession) and/or criminal activity shall receive an out of school suspension (OSS) from class attendance and activity participation for a period of 19 days. The school administration shall have the option to reduce the number of days suspended from 19 to four (4) if the student and parents agree to have a diagnostic evaluation conducted by a school-approved treatment provider and that recommendations resulting from this evaluation are followed. The student will be expected to complete counseling from school personnel prior to returning to classes and complete three hours of school service work within one week of the suspension. This work will be arranged to occur at times other than during regular school hours.
Third Offense: Any student who is determined to be in violation of the alcoholic liquor, and/or drug offenses (beyond possession) and/or criminal activity shall receive and emergency exclusion from class attendance and activity participation for a period of five (5) days pending expulsion proceedings. There shall be no reduction option for the third offense.
ALCOHOL, TOBACCO, AND OTHER DRUGS DETECTION AND DETERRENT: It shall be the policy of Schuyler Central High School to employ such resources as determined necessary to deter and detect student use and/or possession of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs (ATOD) while on school campus. Use and/or possession of these substances by students shall be reported to local law enforcement and the County Attorney and shall subject the student to the consequences stated in school policy.
Deterrent and detection resources which may be used under this policy include the established “implied consent” policy as well as the use of drug detector dogs, breath testing, or other forms of testing. The basis for implied consent detection shall be established indicators as stated in policy (unusual or erratic behavior, slurred speech, or the odor of alcohol). The use of drug detector dogs shall be limited solely to the examination of lockers, locker rooms, and other areas of the school or school campus and not to students’ physical beings. In the event that examination of a student’s locker provides evidence of other forms of contraband (weapons, other legally prohibited items or substances, etc.) those items shall be reported to local law enforcement officers and the County Attorney and shall subject the student to the consequences stated in school policy. The implementation of other forms of testing shall be based on behaviors exhibited by the student. SCHS is not liable for expenses incurred through such testing.
ASSEMBLY CONDUCT: Programs may be presented for the student body. Students are expected to give the performers their full attention, courtesy, and be good hosts. Show your appreciation with courteous applause.
BOOK COVERS: SCHS invests a significant amount of money to provide textbooks to students. Such books are to be covered from the time they are provided by the teacher until the time they are returned to the teacher. Failure to properly cover books may result in problem solving conferences, detentions, or other appropriate disciplinary consequences.
CLASS CONDUCT EXPECTATIONS: For students to experience success in their high school experience, they are expected to show up on time, prepare for class by doing assignments on time, complete their own work, and to display appropriate conduct conducive to a safe and orderly environment for learning and teaching at Schuyler Central High School.
Classroom teachers and students are responsible for the safe and orderly environment of the classroom. Teachers are responsible to assist students in making more appropriate choices by conferencing with the students to do problem solving and may issue detentions when necessary.
Students demonstrating classroom behavior disruptive enough to merit being referred to the office will be assigned a consequence within the guidelines established for discipline. This may include a conference with the principal and/or assistant principal, in school suspension, short- or long-term suspension from school, or expulsion from school. Any teacher referring a student to the office will initiate phone or in-person contact with the parent in order to seek a permanent resolution to the student’s in-class behavior. Written documentation of the incident will also be sent to the parent/guardian and filed in the office.
CLASSROOM AND HALLWAY EXPECTATIONS: This is the conduct expected at all times in SCHS classrooms and hallways:
1. Enter only the classrooms to which you are assigned
2. Maintain appropriate indoor sound level
3. Walk without inconveniencing other traffic (i.e. no running, pushing/shoving, causing congestion, etc.)
4. Arrive in your classrooms before the tardy bell rings
5. Don’t block entrances to the school
DETENTION: All students are under the direct supervision of all school personnel while on school property or at any school-sponsored activity. A detention may be assigned to any student who exhibits undesirable patterns of behavior, attendance, promptness, for other disciplinary problems as explained on the first day of classes, or for any of the following inappropriate and/or unnecessary behaviors:
1. Disrespect to school employee(s) or school property
2. Leaving school without following proper procedure
3. Verified threats to another student
4. Extorting from another student
5. Inappropriate conduct in the hallway or at lunch
6. Snowball throwing
7. Use of profanity, swearing, or other disrespectful/demeaning language
8. Continued failure to submit assigned work
9. Other behaviors disruptive to the educational process such as lying, cheating, or plagiarizing
10. Improper use of pop machines
11. Gambling
12. Unsportsmanlike conduct
13. Parking in the wrong place or in the wrong direction/inappropriately
14. "Setting" or "jamming" lockers
15. Excessive tardies during one term
16. Violation of classroom and/or school rules
17. Appearance of the student’s name in specified sections of the substitute teacher’s report
18. Harassment/bullying of others
19. Insubordination
20. False reporting information
21. Gang related graffiti, and/or drawings of violent activities, etc.
22. Public view of gang tattoos
23. Not following a teacher’s directives
A detention is to be served for that staff member on the day it is assigned. Only the staff member giving the detention may excuse the student from the detention. If the student does not serve the detention according to the staff member’s guidelines, the student will receive a one-day in-school suspension and must make arrangements to serve the detention once the in-school suspension has taken place.
Session 1 Procedure: The first time a student accumulates a total of three (3) detentions from one staff member or a total of five (5) detentions from staff members during the school year, that student shall receive a suspension of two days. The Student Assistance Team may meet with the student and the parent(s)/guardian to develop additional plans for successful participation in school at the request of the parent/guardian or school personnel.
The second time a student accumulates a total three of (3) detentions from one staff member or a total of five (5) detentions from staff members during the school year, that student shall receive a suspension of three days. The Student Assistance Team may meet with the student and the parent(s)/guardian to develop additional plans for successful participation in school at the request of the parent/guardian or school personnel.
The third time a student accumulates a total of three (3) detentions from one staff member or a total of five (5) detentions from staff members during the school year, that student shall receive a suspension of four days. The Student Assistance Team may meet with the student and the parent(s)/guardian to develop additional plans for successful participation in school at the request of the parent/guardian or school personnel.
The fourth time a student accumulates a total three of (3) detentions from one staff member or a total of five (5) detentions from staff members during the school year, that student shall be recommended for a five day suspension from school as provided by Nebraska State Law. The administration will require that the Student Assistance Team meet with the student and the parent(s), /guardian, prior to the time of the student’s return to school to develop additional plans for successful participation in school. Should this Student Assistance Team meeting not take place, the student will have an in-school suspension until the meeting takes place.
The fifth time a student accumulates a total three of (3) detentions from one staff member or a total of five (5) detentions from staff members during the school year, that student shall be recommended for a long term suspension (six to 19 days) from school as provided by Nebraska State Law. The administration will require that the Student Assistance Team will meet with the student and the parent(s)/guardian, prior to the time of the student’s return to school to develop additional plans for successful participation in school. Should this Student Assistance Team meeting not take place, the student will have an in-school suspension until the meeting takes place.
The sixth time a student accumulates a total three of (3) detentions from one staff member or a total of five (5) detentions from staff members during the school year, that student shall be recommended for expulsion from school as provided by Nebraska State Law.
Session 2 Procedure: A limited number of detentions will carry over from session 1 to session 2. At the beginning of session 2, each student with two detentions from one teacher or four detentions from a combination of staff members will not be suspended before receiving two additional detentions. The length of the suspension shall be as previously described.
DRESS CODE: Educational research has shown that there is a direct correlation between the way a student dresses and his/her performance in the educational environment. Dressing for success is important. With this in mind, students and parents are expected to assume primary responsibility for proper grooming and dress for students attending school and school activities whether on or off campus. A student should be clean at all times and must observe safety rules set up for particular classes concerning dress and grooming.
Teams and special groups represent the student body and school in the eyes of the public. Coaches and sponsors of student groups may establish special dress and grooming regulations which students will be expected to follow if they wish to participate. These special dress and grooming regulations will comply with stated dress code policy. Students not in acceptable attire during school activities will not be allowed to attend or participate in that activity. Students are expected to wear attire that is in agreement with policy for all activities during the school day, when they practice, when they participate, and when they are observers of an event.
Any time attire worn to school interferes with the learning and teaching of students and staff, students will be referred to the principals’ office and may be asked to change or remove that attire. Unacceptable attire shall include clothing with pictures and/or words or symbols that may be construed as indecent or immoral and words, patterns, or symbols which refer to those used by gangs, alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs. Clothing which exposes undergarments or large areas of the body is not acceptable. When students exhibit clothing or personal hygiene that is not acceptable, arrangements will be made to correct the situation.
Students wearing any clothing such as tank tops, muscle shirts that are underwear, tops revealing too much cleavage, or short shorts or skirts will be referred to the assistant principals’ office. Tank tops that have one-inch straps are allowed. T-shirts that are cut out revealing the underarm area and the torso are not allowed. Caps, hats, and sunglasses are to be removed when entering the building and are to remain removed until exiting the building during the school day. Contact lenses that alter the appearance of the eyes and are distracting to the teacher are not allowed. Shoes or other acceptable footwear must be worn at all times.
Staff members who observe a student in inappropriate dress are to send the student to the office for administrative determination during the school day. Referrals for inappropriate attire at activities and events will be made to the activity directors with final referrals made to the assistant principal.
When a student’s attire challenges the intent of policy, a student and administrator/activity director conference will take place as applicable to the situation. Disciplinary action such as problem solving conferences and detentions will take place when students do not follow the dress code policy.
Exceptions to Policy: Students will be permitted to wear formal attire to formal dances and banquets.
Students will be allowed to wear caps and hats when attending sporting events (football, volleyball, cross country, softball, basketball, wrestling, soccer, golf, and track) and outdoor classroom activities provided they are appropriate and follow policy.
EMERGENCY COUNSELING/THERAPY: If it is determined that the nature of a suspension is a serious infraction, a student may be required to receive counseling/therapy prior to his/her return to Schuyler Central High School at the expense of the parent and/or guardian. At the completion of the counseling, a report from the counselor/therapist must be sent to the principal/assistant principal prior to the student returning to Schuyler Central High School.
FIREARMS AND WEAPONS: No person may bring, possess, handle, or transmit a firearm or weapon on school grounds, in a school-owned vehicle, or at a school activity or event off school grounds except as permitted by this policy. The term “firearm” is defined as any object that is designed to or may readily be converted to expel any projectile by the action of an explosive or frame or receiver of any such weapon.
Exceptions regarding firearms:
1. The issuance of firearms to or possession by members of the armed forces of the United States, active or reserve, National Guard of this state, or Reserve Officers Training Corps or peace officers or other duly authorized law enforcement officers when on duty or training; or,
2. Firearms which may lawfully be possessed by a person who is receiving instruction at the school under the immediate supervision of an adult instructor; or,
3. Firearms contained within a private vehicle operated by a non-student adult, which are not loaded and are encased or are in a locked firearm rack that is on a motor vehicle. The term “encased” shall mean enclosed in a case that is expressly made for the purpose of containing a firearm and that is completely zipped, snapped, buckled, tied, or otherwise fastened with no part of the firearm exposed.
Student Provisions: No student may possess, handle, or transmit any weapon while on school grounds or at any school activity or event off school grounds except as permitted by this policy. No visitor under the age of 18 may possess, handle, or transmit any weapon while on school grounds or at any school activity or event off school grounds except as permitted by this policy. The term “weapon” is defined as a firearm or any other object or material that is ordinarily or generally considered a weapon or look-alike (including BB guns, pellet guns, air guns, CO2 guns, bows, slingshots, or any other like item which can discharge any type of rock, BB, or other potentially dangerous projectile, or a knife). Exceptions for students:
1. The firearm or weapon has been brought to school grounds or to an activity or event off school grounds for some educational purpose; and;
2. The person bringing the firearm or weapon has requested and received the prior approval of both the instructor and the building principal to do so; and,
3. All arrangements to use and store the firearm or weapon safely while it is on school premises have been agreed to and carried out.
Consequences: Federal law requires that any student who brings a firearm, as that term is defined in 18 United States Code 921, to school be expelled from school for one calendar year. State law and this policy provide that any student who violates this policy by knowingly bringing, possessing, handling, or transmitting a firearm or weapon on school grounds, in a school-owned vehicle, or at a school activity or event off school grounds may be expelled, suspended on a long-term basis or manditorily reassigned. The superintendent of schools shall have the authority to modify the expulsion requirement on a case-by-case basis.
Confiscation of firearms: Administrative and teaching personnel are statutorily authorized, without a warrant, to confiscate any firearm possessed in violation of this policy. By statute, any firearm that is confiscated by school personnel shall be delivered to a peace officer as soon as practicable. Such firearms are subject to being destroyed by law enforcement authorities.
Report to law enforcement authorities: All school personnel are required to report any violation of this policy to a principal or the superintendent of schools. Pursuant to state and federal law, school personnel are required to report to law enforcement authorities when a student brings a firearm or weapon to school.
HARASSMENT/BULLYING: Harassment/bullying may be defined as any hostile or offensive act or expression by a person or group against another person or group, or incitement to commit such an act. Harassment/bullying of any kind is unacceptable at Schuyler Central High School. Harassment/bullying based on ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, or ability may take the form of or include behavior such as:
derogatory name calling practical jokes resulting in awkwardness or embarrassment
insults and/or racist jokes unwelcome remarks or innuendoes
taunting or ridicule of any individual or group exclusion because of one’s race
exclusion from normal conversation unfair allocation of work and responsibilities
racist graffiti or vandalism derogatory or offensive pictures and materials
production or distribution of hate literature verbal abuse, threats, and intimidation
physical attack gender or sexual preference or orientation
When an incident is reported which violates the intent of these expectations, the alleged behavior will be evaluated by considering the context of the particular circumstances including the nature, frequency, intensity, location, and duration of the questioned behavior. Although repeated incidents generally create a stronger claim of harassment/bullying, even a serious and yet isolated incident can be sufficient to warrant investigation. The person(s) investigating the alleged harassment/bullying shall make a record of the incident including the names of the parties involved and the efforts at resolution. All parties will be notified of the entire contents of the report. Every effort will be made to take steps to focus on correction and education of the parties involved. A full description of the response process is available in the Principal’s office.
LEAVING CAMPUS DURING THE SCHOOL DAY: Students who drive to school are not permitted to drive their cars at any time during the school day without specific permission in advance from the Principal or Assistant Principal. The proper procedure for leaving school is to obtain prior, written permission from either the Principal or Nurse's office. Any student who leaves school without following proper procedure will be counted absent (unexcused), will receive an office detention, and must meet with teachers to determine what was missed during the absence from class. The student is expected to request the proper form for documenting this conference from the office. If the student does not meet with the teachers or does not submit the paperwork documenting this conference s/he will be required to make up class time with the teacher(s) of the missed class(es). Should this makeup time not be served, the teacher is to assign a detention to that student.
MASS ACTIONS: Mass actions such as "skip day" are not permitted. If a mass action is or has taken place, all students without proper parent verification will be assigned unexcused absences for the time missed.
PERSONAL COMMUNICATION DEVICES: Students who have personal communication devices during school hours and cause disruptions will have the communication devices confiscated. All communication devices must be out of site except for times they are allowed as described. This includes radios, CD players, MP3 players, portables TVs, cellular phones, pagers, beepers or any other device. Student use of cellular phones and other personal communication devices will be permitted before school, during lunch and after school and not permitted during class time, assemblies, pep-rallies, passing time between classes, etc. The following consequences will take place if any communication device is visible and/or in use during prohibited times:
• First offense – The communication device will be confiscated and only returned to a parent or guardian.
• Second offense - The communication device will be confiscated and only returned to a parent or guardian.
• Third offense – The communication device will be confiscated and not returned until the end of the school year.
A cell phone used for cheating will be confiscated and not returned until the end of the school year. If there is an emergency, personal communication devices may be used by students when permission is given by the classroom teacher.PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION – (PDA): Excessive physical display of affection between students is not accep