OAKESDALE
SCHOOL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2007-2008
Oakesdale School Educational Team
Drug/Weapon Free School Policy
Students Rights and Responsibilities
Public Disclosure of Student Information
Curriculum and Graduation Requirements
Other Course and Credit Options
Steven A. Deal.................................... Superintendent
Karl Ostheller...................................... Principal
Ken Lindgren..................................... Athletic Director
Patty Mills........................................... Dean of Students
Gretchen Peringer............................... Business Manager
Penny Niles......................................... School Secretary/Registrar
Kevin Young....................................... Transportation Supervisor
Ken Niles............................................ Maintenance Supervisor
Sam Dvorak........................................ Custodian
Cheryle Brown.................................... Pre-School
Mara Handy....................................... Kindergarten
Bobbi Mackleit................................... 1st Grade
Sheri Roths......................................... 2nd/3rd Grade
Conny Crow........................................4th Grade
Tanya Shrope..................................... 5th Grade
Jason Reed..........................................6th Grade
Brenda McFarling............................... Special Services
Marv
Wigen........................................ Industrial Arts
Mara Handy........................................ Spanish
Brenda McFarling............................... Special Services
Carol Wichmann................................. Band/Choir/Math
Jason Reed.......................................... Social Sciences/English
Doug Hovde....................................... Mathematics/Science
Ron Sharp........................................... Science/Computer Technology
Patty Mills........................................... Art
Ken Lindgren..................................... Physical Education
Allen Johnson..................................... School Psychologist
Dennis Fritz........................................ Drug, Alcohol, & Behavioral Counselor
Lavonne Hall...................................... School Nurse
Marilyn Wigen.................................... Librarian/Technology
Linda Crooks...................................... Educational Assistant
Carla Wagner...................................... Educational Assistant
Sue Hooper......................................... Educational Assistant
Diane Hinkins..................................... Educational Assistant
Darlene Gardner................................. Head Cook
Sue Hooper......................................... Assistant Cook
Gerald Shahan.................................... Bus Driver
Sheri Schell......................................... Bus Driver
Sandy Couch...................................... Bus Driver
Don Monforton.................................. Bus Driver
Debbie Crossett................................... Bus Driver
Sue Hooper......................................... Bus Driver
¥ They expand educational opportunities for young people
¥ They provide assistance to teachers and staff
¥ They enrich the curriculum
¥ They involve all portions of the community in the educational process
Anyone whoÉ
¥ Is friendly, reliable, flexible, and enjoys young people
¥ Has time and willingness to spend
¥ Can work cooperatively with school staff
¥ Recognizes that well-educated young people are our greatest natural resource
¥ Feels obligated as a citizen to support and help the schools in their effort to educate
Opportunities are endlessÉ
¥ Lunch Volunteer- Join students for lunch and conversation
á Tutorial Assistance- Work with a student to complete homework
á Reading Assistance- Read with students needing support in reading skills
á Share a Skill- Share a talent, skill, or hobby with an individual student or a group
á Guest Speakers- Share your expertise or experience with a group or class
á Field Trips- Offer field trips to your place of business
á Classroom or Office Volunteers- Assist the classroom teacher or office staff
á Home Volunteer- Assist by telephoning or doing projects from home
¥ Any time that fits your schedule
HOW do I start?
¥ Contact our School Office (285-5296).
DRUG/
WEAPON FREE SCHOOL POLICY
It is the policy of Oakesdale School District, as well as state law, that our school is a drug free, weapon free, tobacco free campus. It is the intent of the law, and the policy, that no use of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or weapons are permitted on school grounds, at any time, including after school, evening, and weekend activities.
NOTE: The athletic fields and the school grounds of any district building are subject to enforcement of the laws. Adults as well as students are subject to enforcement according to the law. Students will be subject to consequences outlined in the discipline policy.
***
In accordance with RCW 28A.600.420, ÒAny student (elementary or secondary) who
is determined to have carried a firearm onto, or to have possessed a firearm on
public elementary or secondary school premises, public school provided
transportation, or areas of facilities while being used exclusively by public
schools, shall be expelled from school for not less than one year.Ó
High School
1st Period..................... 8:15 AM----- 9:04 AM
2nd Period.................... 9:07 AM----- 9:57 AM
3rd Period................... 10:00 AM---- 10:50 AM
4th Period................... 10:53 AM---- 11:43 AM
Lunch Break.............. 11:43 AM---- 12:21 PM
5th Period................... 12:21 PM------ 1:12 PM
6th Period..................... 1:15 PM------ 2:06 PM
7th Period..................... 2:09 PM------ 3:00 PM
LUNCH
SCHEDULE
Pre School Ð Kindergarten.........11:00................. 11:30
1st grade..................................... 11:20................. 12:10
2nd Ð 4th grade............................ 11:25................. 12:10
5th Ð 6th grade............................. 11:30................. 12:10
JH.............................................. 11:36................. 12:21
High School............................... As noted in the above schedule
STUDENT GROOMING AND DRESS - The primary responsibility for school dress and grooming rests with the parents of our students. The schoolÕs responsibility is not to permit dress and grooming which is disruptive to the educational processes or to the health, safety, or propriety of our students. Students are expected to dress appropriately at all school functions/ activities. As a general guide, the following parameters are to be followed:
1. Shoes must be worn at all times.
2. Hats, bandanas, and sunglasses are not acceptable in the buildings (concerts, plays, banquets, and graduation). Hats may be worn at athletic contests.
3. Students will be fully clothed from shoulder to mid-thigh with no skin exposed. (Skin tight clothing, spandex, leotards, cycling shorts, see-through or abbreviated blouses, halter tops, tank tops, short shorts, and clothing depicting or promoting alcohol, drugs, sex, tobacco, are not considered adequate clothing).
4. Skirts must be no higher than 4 inches above the knee. Skirts may be worn at fingertip length, however, shorts or spandex must be worn underneath. Skirts may not be any shorter than fingertip length.
5. Dress or appearance that violates the harassment policy or causes disruption of the educational process and the learning environment is not acceptable.
6. Shirts/Tops must be able to be tucked in and stay tucked in throughout normal activities. In addition, undergarments should be covered at all times.
7. Specialized clothing may be required for specific classes; i.e. Physical Education and Industrial/Vocational classes. Activity supervisors may have a special dress requirement. (ExamplesÑAn athletic team dress code, band or concert performance dress code, or field trip dress code.)
Students in violation of the above dress standards may be held out of class or sent home to change, or subject to other discipline. Tardiness or absence because of dress code violations will be unexcused. This dress code applies to students attending any school event including post-season tournaments.
The Associated Student Body is comprised of all JH & HS Oakesdale School Students. Student government is formulated through the Associated Student Body.
ASB cards are sold for $15.00. This card is mandatory for all students in grades 7 Ð 12. The card entitles the student to admission to all home athletic contests, and reduced admission to away contests and other home events such as dances, plays, etc. ASB cards must be shown prior to admittance to any school sponsored event.
The Student Council has a highly active role. Its purpose is not to govern the students, but to serve as a meeting place between the student body and the administration, where the students can assume as much of the responsibility of organizing their high school activities as they are able to handle. It is the place where problems or questions arising from either the students or the administration can be presented for discussion and consideration.
We, at Oakesdale Junior/Senior High School, believe it is an honor to be an Associated Student Body officer. Being in this high leadership role, it is our main concern that every individual set the highest of standards for themselves and lead by example for all students to follow. The following rules and regulations apply to each student who holds an office in the ASB, from president to representative, from election to election. This activity is not a part of the regular classroom and has no bearing on course credit. Participation in this activity is a privilege.
The following eligibility requirements must be met by students involved in the Oakesdale High School ASB: Members need to be good citizens, follow all school rules, and maintain at least a 2.0 G.P.A. If any violation of these rules occurs, members will be subject to disciplinary action and possible removal from the council.
A.S.B. OFFICERS (2007/2008)
PRESIDENT:................................................ Reid Wagner
VICE PRESIDENT:...................................... Drake Hinkins
SECRETARY:................................................ Heidi Renstrom
TREASURER:............................................... Jordyn Brown
ASSISTANT TREASURER:......................... TBD
CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Ð These activities include school sports and sporting events, cheerleading, drama, class and club functions and fund raisers, band/choir, dances, reward days, some field trips, some assemblies, and any other activity that is sponsored, or supported, by the ASB.
Please note, students on suspension or who are absent from school for one or more classes, and who are involved in a co-curricular activity in which they are scheduled to take part, will not be allowed to participate in that activity. Exceptions will be made for verified doctor or dental appointments or other cases prearranged through the administration. This policy affects all co-curricular activities and students involved in them (i.e. sports, drama, music, debate, cheerleading, etc.) Any activity involving in-school time or out-of-school time requires school attendance that day. Students must maintain a 2.0 GPA, have no ÒFÓs, and no more than 2 ÒDÓs during the previous and current semesters in order to be eligible to participate in athletics. Students must also be a member of the A.S.B. by paying the A.S.B. fee.
ASSEMBLIES - Assemblies are a scheduled part of the curriculum to be attended by all students, and as such are designated to be educational as well as entertaining experiences. They provide one of the few opportunities in school to learn formal audience behavior.
SCHOOL DANCES - Dances sponsored by Oakesdale/Tekoa/Rosalia schools are intended for the enjoyment of our students only. No one else will be admitted unless prior arrangements are made with the principal. Mixers will be from 9-12 P.M. unless otherwise designated. Formal and semi-formal dances will end at 12:00 midnight. Jr. High dances will be from 6:30-8:30P.M. unless otherwise designated. Once students enter the dance, they are not permitted to leave and return. Students exhibiting evidence of having consumed alcohol or drugs will be detained by the dance chaperone. Parents will need to be notified and asked to pick up their child. If parental notification is not possible, the police should be notified. Enforcement of dance regulations will be the responsibility of the organization sponsoring the dance. Dances will be identified as either a junior high dance or high school dance. Students will be allowed to only attend the dances for their particular age group.
REWARD DAY - Reward days are designed to give those students who maintain good grades, have no major discipline action, and are in regular attendance special recognition. These activities will vary from term to term.
Junior/Senior High School Students (grades 7-12): there will be one reward day for each semester and the criteria for participation is as follows, the student must:
1. Maintain a 2.0
or better grade point average.
2. Receive no FÕs
on their last report card (for the 1st semester) or on the 3rd
quarter report card and the 4th quarter, 5th week
progress report (for the 2nd semester.)
3. Not have had any
disciplinary action from the administration in the form of after-school detentions,
Saturday school, in-school or out-of-school suspensions.
4. Have less than 8
absences in each semester and less than 15 total absences for the year.
Elementary Students (grades 1-6) criteria may vary slightly by
classroom. There will be one reward day for each quarter and the criteria for
participation includes, the student must:
1. Maintain passing
grades in all subject areas for each quarterÕs end grades and the 5th
week progress report for 4th quarter.
2. Not have had any
disciplinary action from the administration in the form of after-school
detentions, Saturday school, in-school or out-of-school suspensions.
3. Have less than 4
absences in each quarter and less than 15 total absences for the year.
Written appeals for special exceptions need to be made to
the principal. A committee will be formed to examine the request and a decision
will be rendered within 3 school days from the date of the written appeal.
SOCIAL ACTIVITIES - School parties and other social
functions may be scheduled as follows: The faculty advisor of any group wishing
to plan a social function will obtain a request from the office. This will be
completed as indicated and returned to the principalÕs office for approval at
least one full week before the planned event. It is understood that the faculty
advisor of this group will be in attendance at the function and in complete
charge.
CLASS AND ORGANIZATION MEETINGS - Associated Student Body
election of officers will be held once yearly, during the spring semester. All
other class and organization elections will be held once yearly during the
first quarter by office notice. Each class will elect the following: president,
vice-president, secretary, treasurer, and two student council representatives.
At no time will meetings be held without the faculty advisor first requesting
such a meeting and in attendance at such a meeting. Meetings will be orderly
and conducted according to parliamentary rules. Activity period will be held
during the school day. If there are any organization meetings, they shall be
held on pre-scheduled days of the week.
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY MEMBERSHIP - To be eligible for
consideration as a member of the Oakesdale Chapter of the National Honor
Society #13883, the student must have an accumulated grade point average of
3.5. Those students who meet the G.P.A. standard will be evaluated by the high
school teaching staff using predefined criteria. (Copies of the steps can be
obtained by request from the NHS Advisor.)
SENIOR TRIP - Fund raising is the means which allows for the
Oakesdale seniors to go on a Òtrip.Ó Therefore, 80% of all fund raisers need to
be completed/raised by the February school board meeting to allow for
appropriate planning and accommodation arrangements.
The Senior Trip is limited to four days and three nights;
leaving no earlier than 6:00 a.m. and returning no later than 8:00 p.m.
In order to be able to travel to the destinations available
to our seniors, the class has to be involved in many money making projects to
raise the required money. Therefore, all students need to earn twenty-eight
(28) points through the various projects the class has worked on throughout
their four years in high school.
All students who are eligible to go on the senior trip at
the end of the year need to acquire the twenty-eight (28) points using the
following criteria; each activity the class is involved in during their four
years has a point value of one (1) point. A student has to earn a minimum of
five (5) points in a single year and a total of twenty-eight (28) points by the
end of their senior year in order to be eligible to go. This point system will
be prorated for those who have not attended Oakesdale all four years of their
high school career. This accounting shall be done by a class officer with the
advisorÕs assistance.
Pro-Rated Points Schedule: A student joins the class as a
senior, needs to earn 7 points; join as a junior, needs to earn 14 points; joins
as a sophomores, needs to earn 21 points by the completion of the senior year.
All freshmen need to earn 28 points.
Students may be denied the privilege of attending the senior
trip due to disciplinary causes. The senior trip is considered to be a school
activity. The five discretionary days allowed for seniors are to be school days
used for school activities. Seniors not going may be required to be in school.
Students at risk of not passing or having not completed and turned in all work
necessary to determine a passing grade are not eligible to go on the trip.
Because of the potential distance/length and supervision
requirements, a progressive discipline program has been implemented for the
Senior Trip. Students will receive points for disciplinary action which
resulted in either Saturday School or a Short-Term Suspension on a day for day
basis.
The student will receive 1 Discipline Point for each
Saturday School up to a maximum of 3 per year; 1 point per day for each
suspension - in or out of school. A four-year total cannot exceed 24
Disciplinary Points to be eligible to go on the Senior Trip. Transfer students
who are here less than 4 years will be pro-rated on a basis of six points per
year. Any student who receives a long term suspension or expulsion during
any of the four years will not be eligible to attend the senior trip. This includes transfer students and
their Disciplinary Record from other schools.
Saturday School = 1 point (a maximum of three points per
year)
Short Term Suspension = 1 point per suspension (a maximum of
six points per year)
Prorated by years at Oakesdale High School: 1 year Ð no more
than 6 Disciplinary Points; 2 years - 12 Disciplinary Points; 3 years - 18
Disciplinary Points; 4 years - 24 Disciplinary Points
Students who are able to go on the senior trip, toward the
end of the school year, are expected to follow all school rules, as well as the
additional rules and expectations that are covered at the senior parent/student
meeting. The meeting is held at the school, providing everyone involved with
the information about the trip. Failure to abide by the rules and expectations
on the trip will result in Òhouse arrestÓ (being confined to their hotel room,
under chaperone supervision). The parents of the student will be responsible
for the expense of returning their child back home. Other discipline the
student may receive is as follows:
1. Student will not
participate in graduation ceremonies
2. Receive 3 days
out-of-school suspension and/or in-school suspension
3.
Return
to school after the suspension to complete testing and checking out procedures
to fulfill their graduation requirements
STUDENT RIGHTS AND
RESPONSIBILITIES
No student shall be denied an
equal educational opportunity or be unlawfully discriminated against because of
national origin, race, religion, economic status, sex, pregnancy, marital
status, sexual orientation, previous arrest, previous incarceration, or a
physical, mental, or sensory handicap.
The student is responsible as a citizen to observe the laws of the United States, the State of Washington, and/or its subdivisions. In the school, the student shall respect the rights of others so that he/she does not interfere with their education. The teacher and the administrator are required by law to maintain a suitable environment for learning. Students who involve themselves in criminal or other improper acts on school property, off school property at school-supervised events, or off school property and which acts have a detrimental effect upon the maintenance and operation of the schools of the district are subject to prosecution under the law and/or disciplinary action by the school. The action taken insofar as possible shall be consistent with the level of misconduct.
COOPERATION WITH SCHOOL PERSONNEL - Students must obey the reasonable instruction of school district personnel. In addition, all persons must, upon request identify themselves to school personnel in school buildings, grounds, buses, bus stops, or school-sponsored events.
ATTENDANCE - Students shall be punctual and regular in attendance at scheduled classes unless officially released. Students who are so released shall report to the place designated by school officials. (See also attendance starting on page 13.)
LOITERING Ð in lavatories, parking lots, and designated off-limit areas is prohibited.
ACTIVITIES - Specific rules and expectations for athletic activities are contained in the Athletic Code. On games nights, student spectators are expected to stay in the gym. If they are found loitering in the halls they will be told to return to the gym. If they are found a second time they will be sent home. Band students must ride the band bus to and from all games unless they have prior permission from the band teacher.
OFF-CAMPUS EVENTS - Students at school-sponsored off-campus events shall be governed by school district rules and regulations. Failure to comply may result in loss of eligibility to attend school-sponsored off-campus events and may lead to other disciplinary actions.
PHYSICAL CONTACT - Physical contact such as kissing, petting, etc. is inappropriate when done in a public place, such as a school. Display of affection shall be limited to holding hands.
MOTOR VEHICLES - Oakesdale High School students are allowed to drive motor vehicles to and from school. They may also drive to and from home during lunch if they have a permission slip from their parent and it is approved by the principal. No other driving is permitted unless it is approved by the principal. No other student may be in your car at any time during the school day. To protect the driving privileges of responsible students, the principal has the responsibility of restricting the driving privileges of irresponsible drivers. Driving (and leaving campus) privileges may be removed for any period of time up to the remainder of the school term. The removal of freedom may result from having others in your car, speeding, reckless driving, or any careless use of the vehicle. Students may also receive any of the progressive steps in the discipline procedures. Permission slips to leave school grounds will be on file in the office for all students.
SELLING ITEMS AT SCHOOL - Only organizations authorized to sell may sell on school property or at school events.
STUDENT EXPRESSION - Freedom of expression, oral or written, may not be used to disrupt the educational process or interfere with the rights of others. Oral opinions shall not interfere with the freedom of others to express themselves. Written expressions must be signed by the author and approved by school authorities. The use of obscenities or personal attacks is prohibited.
Students who edit, publish or distribute handwritten, printed or duplicated matter along with their fellow students within the school must assume responsibility for the content of such publications. Libel, obscenity, vulgarity, and personal attacks are prohibited in all publications.
Students have the freedom to assemble peacefully. There is an appropriate time and place for expression of opinions and beliefs. Conducting demonstrations which interfere with the operation of the school or classroom is inappropriate and prohibited. All student meetings in school buildings or on school grounds may function only as part of the formal educational process or as authorized by the principal.
Commercial solicitation will not be allowed on school property unless expressly approved by the school administration.
CLOSED CAMPUS - 7th & 8th grade students are required to remain on the school grounds from time of arrival unless officially excused. OPEN CAMPUS - Students in grades 9-12 may go downtown during lunchtime or to their own home for lunch. (Drivers: see Motor Vehicles, page 10) Students are not allowed to go to the houses of people other than their family unless otherwise approved by the principal or designee. Closing campus is at the discretion of the administration.
LOCKERS - Upon entrance, each student is issued a locker and a lock upon request. Locker numbers are assigned by the office. Locks without prior approval may be cut off at student expense. Students are expected to keep belongings in their own lockers. Junior High students are not to use lockers in the High School area and High School students are not to use lockers in the Junior High area. The district will assume no responsibility for those students who choose not to utilize locks. Students need to keep their lockers clean with food items removed every day. Students are not allowed to change or add lockers without prior permission from the principal. Lockers, desks, and storage areas are the property of the school district. No right nor expectation of privacy exists for any student as to the use of any locker. When assigned a locker, desk, or storage area, a student shall be responsible for its proper care. A student may be subject to a fine for any willful damage to school property. Students are encouraged to keep their assigned lockers closed and locked. No student may use a locker, desk, or storage area as a depository for any substance or object which is prohibited by law or school rules or which poses a threat to the health, safety, or welfare of the occupants of the school building or the building itself. Any studentÕs locker, desk, or other storage area shall be subject to search if reasonable grounds exist to suspect that the search will yield evidence of the studentÕs violation of the law or school rules.
LOST AND FOUND - Students are urged to turn in all items found to the main office. The bulletin will not list lost and found information. Any clothing unclaimed by the time school is out in June may be given to Goodwill or other charitable organizations.
STUDENT VALUABLES/THEFT REPORTS - Students are cautioned not to bring large amounts of money, or expensive items to school, and if they wear glasses or watches, to keep track of them at all times. Students, not the school, are responsible for personal property.
Theft of personal property is a concern at the high school. A large percentage of the thefts occur in the hall lockers and P.E. lockers. To discourage thefts, please take the following precautions:
1. DonÕt disclose locker combination to anyone.
2. Double check the locker (hall & P.E.) every time itÕs used, to be sure it is locked.
3. Report theft or loss of property to the office.
4. Identify P.E. clothing with a laundry marking pen.
5. Locks on lockers, both P.E. and hall, will be required and utilized.
STUDENT RADIOS AND TAPES - Student radios, tapes, CDs, and DVDs are not to be played within the confines of Oakesdale School during instructional time. Students may listen to these devices before school, at lunch, and after school provided they utilize headphones and do not create a disruption of the educational process. The school will not be responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged players or recording medium. It is strongly recommended that students do not bring them to school. Prior approval is required to bring them on Reward Days. In Oakesdale Elementary School no personal toys, games, or athletic equipment should be brought from home without prior approval.
BEEPERS, PAGERS, CELLULAR PHONES - While on school property or while attending school-sponsored or school-related activities, students may possess and use personal telecommunication devices including but not limited to beepers, pagers, and cellular phones provided that such devices do not pose a threat to academic integrity, disrupt the learning environment, or violate the privacy rights of others. Telecommunication devices shall be turned on and operated only before and after the regular school day and during the studentÕs lunch break, unless an emergency situation exists that involves imminent physical danger or a school administrator authorizes the student to do otherwise. Students who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, including losing the privilege of bringing the device onto school property. In addition, an administrator may confiscate the device, which shall only be returned to the studentÕs parent/guardian. Students are responsible for devices they bring to school. The District shall not be responsible for loss, theft, or destruction of devices brought onto school property.
SEARCH OF STUDENTS, PERSONAL PROPERTY, AND LOCKERS - All students shall be free from unreasonable searches of their persons, clothing, and other personal property. However, a student is subject to search by school officials if reasonable grounds exist to suspect that the search will yield evidence of a studentÕs violation of the law or school rules governing student conduct. No student shall be subject to a strip search or body cavity search by school staff. School staff shall report a studentÕs suspicious activity to the principal, or designee, before a search is conducted.
Students are assigned lockers for storing and securing their books, school supplies, and personal effects. Any search of an individual studentÕs locker shall be conducted according to board policy governing personal searches. School staff shall report a studentÕs suspicious activity to the principal prior to initiating a search, except in emergency situations when the risk of harm to students or staff demands immediate action. Principals may search all lockers, desks, or storage areas without prior notice given to students and without reasonable suspicion that the search will yield evidence of any particular studentÕs violation of the law or school rules.
Administrative inspections, or health and welfare inspections, may be conducted at any time for the purpose of locating misplaced library books, textbooks, or other school property or to ensure that all lockers, desks, or storage areas are being kept clean and free from potential health or safety hazards. During a search of all student lockers, if the school official conducting the search discovers any container within the locker which may conceal contraband, the container may be searched according to district procedures governing searches of students and their property. A ÒcontainerÓ for the purpose of this policy may include, but is not limited to: an article of clothing, a handbag, purse, backpack, gym bag, or any other item in which contraband material may be concealed.
PREGNANT STUDENTS - Though a student shall not be excluded from attendance in the regular school program solely on the grounds of pregnancy, the district shall develop and make available, at the studentÕs option, alternative educational programs designed to benefit a pregnant studentÕs scholastic needs. A high school student who is about to become or is a teen parent may choose to attend any high school in the state without a tuition charge provided that he/she is accepted by the non-resident high school. A pregnant student may be required to produce a physicianÕs statement as to the condition of her health relative to her continued presence in the regular school program. If the statement indicates that the pregnant studentÕs health and physical well-being mandates her withdrawal from regular school attendance, the district shall require a suitable alternative educational program.
EIGHTEEN-YEAR-OLD STUDENTS - The state of Washington recognizes a student who has reached his or her eighteenth birthday as being responsible for his or her own actions. Prior to granting adult status to a student for all school related responsibilities, parent notification will be made by phone.
MARRIED STUDENTS - Married students shall have the same rights and responsibilities as unmarried students including the right to participate in any extracurricular activities on the same basis and subject to the same requirements as unmarried students.
It is the policy of the board of directors of the Oakesdale School District to establish and enforce the concept of prompt and regular attendance. Under the Washington State Compulsory Attendance Law, parents or guardians have the primary responsibility for helping their students in regular attendance, recognizing that classroom attendance and punctuality are essential. Please note that absences, either excused or unexcused, can have a detrimental effect on a studentÕs grades, and excessive absences may prevent a student from receiving credit in a class.
Briefly stated, the school cannot teach pupils who are not present. The entire process of education requires a regular continuity of instruction and student participation in order to reach the goal of maximum educational benefits for each individual. This is a well established principle of education which underlies and gives purpose to the requirement of compulsory schooling.
ABSENCES DEFINED
A. Excused are absences approved by both the parent and the school. Excused absences will be granted for illness, illness-related doctor appointments, family emergency, death in the family, school-sponsored activities, religious observances, short-term suspension, and any other absence authorized by the principal. We encourage routine doctor and dentist appointments be made outside of school hours.
B. Tardiness is defined as not being in the classroom and ready to begin class when the bell rings. A Tardy may be excused when accompanied with a note from another staff member. Students who arrive at school after 8:15AM will be marked as absent not tardy. Every three tardies will be considered as an unexcused absence. Excessive tardiness may result in disciplinary action which could include a Short-Term or Long-Term Suspension from school.
C. Unexcused are absences approved by the parent which are not approved by the school or for which parents provide no excuse. Unexcused absences may include failure to bring a note within 48 hours (2 days) for a legitimate absence. Absences for a reason other than those listed in ÒAÓ above will be considered unexcused.
Consequences
1. Failure to bring a note within 2 days will cause an unexcused absence to be regarded as truancy.
2. NO HOMEWORK AND/OR TESTS will be made up and the student receives an ÒfÓ for the day/s absence(s). Any unexcused absence will result in the loss of one (1) point toward the senior trip. Grades may be adversely affected by excused and unexcused absences (WAC 180-40-235).
3. Every 3 unexcused tardies will count as an unexcused absence.
4. When itÕs evident a student has repeated unexcused absences, a conference shall be held between the parent, student, and principal to consider what needs to be done to correct the attendance problem. If the attendance problem fails to be corrected, the student shall be declared habitually absent and the principal will automatically refer the problem to the proper authorities and file the BECCA BILL paperwork. The principal, or designee, will interview the student and his/her family and prescribe corrective action which may include suspension for the current semester or expulsion.
Truancy is the willful absence of a student from school without the consent of or the knowledge of the parent, guardian, or school authorities. Repeated truancy may be cause for disciplinary action, suspension, or expulsion. A student is truant if he or she:
1. Leaves school without checking out in the office;
2. Is absent without the knowledge and consent of a parent;
3. Is absent from class without permission; (from the teacher of that class or an administrator)
4. Obtains a pass to go to a certain place and does not report there;
5. Becomes ill and goes home or stays out of class without reporting to the office;
6. Has permission to walk home for lunch, becomes ill and remains there without having a parent call the school;
7. Comes to school but does not attend class;
8. Fails to attend a scheduled assembly;
9. Falsifies parental notification; or
10. Is absent from school after once arriving on campus without the knowledge and consent of the school.
Consequences
for Truancies and Unexcused absences
1st & 2nd offense per year Ð After School Detention/Saturday School: Time will be double the time gone and parent contact will be made.
3rd offense per year - In-school-suspension/Parent contact
4th offense per year - Short-term out-of-school suspension/Parent conference
5th offense per year - Long-term suspension up to 18 week
D. Pre-arranged absences that occur due to family need or show a clear educational benefit will be considered excused only if approved in advance by the teacher and the principal. Teachers have the right of refusal. Students will be required to receive their work prior to leaving and upon returning they need to turn in their work to receive credit.
For any absence planned in advance including, but not limited to doctorÕs appointment, family business, or school event, the students must get their assignments prior to the absence in order to receive credit for their work. Students must have a prearranged slip signed or initialed by each teacher PRIOR to the absence. All work needs to be turned in the first day back to school to receive full credit. If work is turned in on the day after it is due, the student will receive half of the credit for the work. If the work is received two (2) days after the due date, the student will receive a ÒzeroÓ for the work on that assignment. Work after this date will not be accepted.
E. Extended Absences are absences totaling two (2) or more days. For extended trips with immediate family, a student should prearrange with his or her teachers or Administration. Each teacher will decide if absences count towards maximum allowed for credit for their class. For extended illness-related absences, parent/student should make contact with the office by the 3rd day, prior to the school day, to request missed assignments.
Any absence or tardiness from a
class or from school, unless the school authorities are notified in advance and
approve such absence or tardiness, shall initially be deemed an ÒunexcusedÓ
absence.
The student shall have the burden of advising the school of the reason for such absence or tardiness. The school shall require from the parent/guardian such written verification as the school deems necessary to determine the reason for the absence or tardiness.
After 10 absences within the
school year, a conference will be scheduled between the parents and principal
to discuss absenteeism. The student and teachers may also be included in this
meeting.
After 15 absences within the
school year, a student will be required to have a written excuse from a doctor.
Failure to do this will result in an unexcused absence for each day the student
is absent.
This policy may be waived by the building principal if circumstances beyond the studentÕs control occur. An example is if a student has a long term illness, verified by a doctor, that prevents him/her from attending class.
State law requires 180 days for a full school year. Students need to be in attendance on the last day of school to go through the proper procedures to check out of all their classes, as well as the office and any other areas there were involved in. This day is included as one of the 180 required days. Any student who is gone due to an excused absence will be required to contact the office for a later, alternate checkout date. It is the responsibility of the parent and student to produce written verification upon request. If the school judges the reason as justifiable, the absence or tardiness may be considered Òexcused.Ó ÒUnexcusedÓ absences, non-attendance, and/or tardiness shall be cause for disciplinary action.
Following an absence, students
will check into the main office with a note from home or a suitable note from
the principal.
If a K-12 student misses five (5) classes (grades 7-12) or five days (grades K-6) in one quarter, the school will send a note home to the parent after the fifth day.
Checking In and Out - A student (grades 7-12) must sign in and/or out in the office when coming late or leaving early. This must be initialed by a central office employee (secretary or administrator) BEFORE either leaving the building or returning to class. A note from the parent, or himself/herself if 18, must be presented BEFORE checking in or out. Students may not otherwise check out unless phone approval is authorized in an emergency situation only. Failure to follow this procedure may result in an unexcused absence.
When a student is absent one day, the homework due from the day he/she was here is due upon return to school, and he/she has 2 days to get in the work from the day absent. If a student is absent more than one day, he/she has one day for each day absent plus one to get homework turned in. If more than 20% of the days in a grading period are missed for other than long-term illness or injury, it becomes impossible for school work to be made up and could result in a failing grade. Some classes such as PE or a class with a lab may require make up time for that activity.
Student Athletes that are gone 1 1/2 days or more due to illness may practice upon return to school, even if attending a half day. Students absent from school (half or full day) for an appointment may practice.
Student athletes who are absent from any of their scheduled classes on the day of a co-curricular activity in which they are scheduled to take part shall not be allowed to participate in that co-curricular activity. Exceptions will be made for verified doctor or dental appointments and for other absences where prior approval is obtained through an administrator.
EXTENDED ILLNESS OR HEALTH CONDITION - If a student is confined to home or hospital for an extended period, the school will arrange for the accomplishment of assignments at the place of confinement whenever practicable once notification is provided from a physician. If the student is unable to do his or her school work, or if there are major requirements of a particular course which cannot be accomplished outside of class, the student may be required to take an incomplete or withdraw from the class without penalty.
EXCUSED ABSENCE FOR CHRONIC HEALTH CONDITION - Students with a chronic health condition which interrupts regular attendance may qualify for placement in a limited attendance and participation program. The student and his/her parents or guardian shall apply to the principal or superintendent and a limited program shall be written following advice and recommendation of the studentÕs medical advisor. The recommended limited program shall be approved by the school principal. The staff shall be informed of the studentÕs needs, though the confidentiality of medical information shall be respected at the parentÕs request.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
PROGRESS REPORTS - will be sent out to parents by teachers for all students in grades 3-12 at the end of weeks 3, 5, 7 and 9 of each quarter (9th week = report card.) Parents and students are encouraged to contact their teachers for academic progress reports at any time. Students and parents should be fully aware that it is entirely possible to receive a failing grade even though no notice was sent. The progress reports are to serve several purposes:
1. They are to inform the student and his/her parents of marked improvement or reveal an outstanding achievement or accomplishment.
2. They are to inform parents of classroom work that is not satisfactory and to offer some suggestions for improvement.
3. Progress reports may be an invitation for a parent- teacher conference.
REPORT CARDS - will be issued at the end of each quarter. If a grade drops the teacher will contact the parent between the 6th week and the end of a quarter. At the end of each semester, a grade will be issued that covers the two previous quarters of class work. The semester grades are the grades transferred onto the studentÕs permanent school transcript.
PUBLIC DISCLOSURE OF STUDENT INFORMATION - Information regarding students may be routinely available for disclosure in the following areas:
¥ The studentÕs name, address and telephone number;