2009 – 2010 Student Handbook

“A community of learners; a climate of respect.”

Welcome to another year at Moorefield High School. Our school mission statement calls for us to become “a community of learners” within “a climate of respect.” This handbook plays a key role in creating that community and that climate, because it provides basic information we all need to function as a community, as well as the rules and policies, which undergird the respect we show each other.

For you and for our school to have a good year, each student must understand and follow the policies in this handbook. Several policies have changed since the last handbook, so all students need to study them carefully. Any policy changes made during the school year will be announced to students before they go into effect. Show your pride in Moorefield High School by knowing and obeying the rules, and by doing your part in respecting your fellow students, your teachers, and all the other staff in our building.

We are proud of what our students and our staff have accomplished. We challenge each of you to commit yourself to excellence in both academics and extracurricular activities, continuing this proud legacy and helping it grow.

It is important that parents and students review all the information in this handbook. Failure to know a rule cannot be accepted as an excuse for violating a rule.

HANDBOOK / HALL PASS USE

Students are required to have their handbooks with them at all times. Whenever a student wishes to leave the classroom, he/she must first have the teacher's permission; then the student must complete the hall pass (date/time/destination), and have the teacher initial the pass. Students should “budget” their hall passes, as they need to last the entire school year. If a student loses his or her handbook, the student MUST purchase a new one from the office.

YOUR STUDENT HANDBOOK CONTAINS EXCERPTS FROM STATE AND COUNTY BOARDS OF EDUCATION POLICIES. THESE POLICIES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE BY BOARD ACTION. COMPLETE POLICIES AND REVISIONS CAN BE FOUND ON THE RESPECTIVE WEB SITES AT:

WEST VIRGINIA BOARD OF EDUCATION: www.wvde.state.wv.us

HARDY COUNTY BOE: www.hardycountyschools.com

Policy manuals are also available in the office at Moorefield High School and the Hardy County School Board Office at 510 Ashby Street, Moorefield WV.

ATTENDANCE POLICY

We want all of our students to succeed. Regular school attendance correlates with success in the classroom, while poor attendance has a high correlation with failure. Daily attendance is vital for students to meet Moorefield High School's academic standards, since each day's learning builds on work that came before it. Poor attendance can also result in the loss of a driver's license or learner's permit, fewer opportunities for good jobs, and rejection by colleges. Moorefield High School enforces the compulsory school attendance law not only because it is our professional duty, but because we care about each of our students. Regular attendance for all students is encouraged and expected. It is the responsibility of parents to see that their sons and daughters attend school on a regular basis, arrive on time, and stay the full instructional day.

NOTE REQUIREMENT

When a student has been absent for any reason, a note from home is required on the day the student returns to school. A one-day grace period will be granted. Excuse notes will not be accepted after the one-day grace period has passed. An appointment card is NOT considered verification for a medical/dental excuse. The note MUST include: the student's full name, grade, date of absence, date of note, reason(s) for absence (Notes must state one of the reasons listed below to be counted as an excused absence, (example: the student was ill), and bear the signature of a parent or guardian.

The sections on “excused” and “unexcused” absences which follow are shortened, edited versions of county policy. For full attendance policy, see Hardy Co. File JDJ.

EXCUSED ABSENCES

1. Illness or injury of a student when verified by a health care provider's statement. Specific dates must be given. Notes for absences are due the day the student returns. If a student accumulates more than ten (10) absences for illness with a health care provider's note, the school shall require a letter of explanation from the health care provider.

2. Illness or injury of a student explained by a parent's written note specifying dates of illness/injury. The note is due when the student returns to school. After the tenth parental note excusing an absence because of illness/injury during a school year, the principal may require a note from a medical provider for any subsequent absences attributed to illness/injury.

3. Health care appointments that cannot be scheduled outside the school day, when the health care provider verifies the absence in writing.

4. Illness or hospitalization of the infant child of an enrolled student. Up to five (5) days can be excused for an absence to care for a student's child. The student must present a health care provider's statement to the principal or the principal's designee.

5. A death in the immediate family. Absences are excused for up to three (3) days resulting from a death in the immediate family.

6. Legal obligations. An absence is excused when it is caused by a court subpoena or with verification that the student is party to a court action.

7. Leaves of educational value. A student who anticipates an absence because of a family trip, participation in a non-school activity, etc., should contact the principal in advance of the absence to obtain permission to make up the work missed. The principal or designee shall make the determination as to whether an absence is excused or unexcused prior to the absence. The principal can excuse leaves of educational value when they meet these requirements:

a) Prior approval by the principal.

b) Prior submission and approval of the educational plan for the period the

student will be absent, detailing objectives and activities.

c) Leave not to exceed ten (10) school days; leaves of more than ten days

require approval by the Board of Education.

d) Completed work for educational plan submitted once the student returns.

8. School-approved off-campus curricular activities. A student who is a participant in a pre-approved off-campus school or school-related activity, (field trip, college visit, 4-H activity, athletic contest, etc.), is excused but is responsible to make up work missed. Prior approval from the principal and verification of attendance are required.

9. Observance of religious holidays.

UNEXCUSED ABSENCES

Absences not covered by the range of excuses listed above will be unexcused. Types of absences which are not excused include:

1. Illnesses not verified by a health care provider's statement or parent note, or absences for illness supported by parent notes in excess of school policy.

2. Days serving out of school suspension or expulsion.

3. Absences resulting from missing the bus or oversleeping.

4. Hunting or fishing.

Please be advised that 5 consecutive days of unexcused absences or a total of more than 10 unexcused absences are the basis for legal proceedings by the Attendance Director of Hardy County Schools.

SIGNING OUT

Any student, (including students 18 or older), leaving school must have permission from the principal, head teacher, or secretary in order to sign out. A student who brings a note from a parent/guardian must get the note approved in the morning before school starts. Either the principal or head teacher is in the cafeteria every day before school starts to approve notes. In lieu of a note, a parent/guardian may give verbal consent to the principal, head teacher, or secretary for a student to sign out. At no time is a student to sign out without receiving permission from the principal, head teacher, or secretary; this includes students 18 or older. Students desiring to sign out must have a valid reason for signing out from school. If the principal or his designee decides a student does not have a valid reason for signing out of school, the principal or his designee will deny the student's request.

Any student under 18 must have the permission of a parent or legal guardian to sign out. There are no exceptions. A student who signs out cannot return to school that day unless he/she has a doctor's excuse, notice of a legal proceeding, a death in the family, or similar justification for the absence. Students will not be permitted to return if they are simply eating lunch somewhere else, going to the bank, cashing a paycheck, picking up work clothes or a team uniform, getting a cup of coffee, etc. Plan ahead.

A student 18 or older may ask for permission to leave, and if it is granted, the same conditions apply as above: The student cannot return to school that day unless he/she has a doctor's excuse, notice of a legal proceeding, a death in the family, or similar justification for the absence. Students will not be permitted to return if they are simply eating lunch somewhere else, going to the bank, cashing a paycheck, picking up work clothes or a team uniform, getting a cup of coffee, etc. Again, plan ahead.

SIGNING IN

Students who arrive at school after the tardy bell must sign in at the office. Students who sign out of school and return the same day must sign in immediately upon their return. Failure to sign in will result in a detention.

TIMELINES TO MAKE UP SCHOOL WORK

Hardy County Schools allows a student one day to make up and submit school work for each day of absence. Parents/students have the responsibility to request assignments from school.

REVOCATION OF DRIVING PRIVILEGE

A license or instruction permit to operate a motor vehicle will be denied or revoked for any student under 18 who withdraws from school or has 10 consecutive or 15 total unexcused absences from the same class or classes during the school year.

TARDINESS

Tardy marks are kept on the basis of each grading period. The teacher will record the tardy. On the third tardy, you will receive a detention. You will also receive a detention for any time you are tardy the remainder of that grading period. Tardiness for first period class will be kept in the office. Students late for first period class MUST sign in the office. When a student signs in tardy between 8:38 and 9:30, the principal will keep a record of these tardies. On the third tardy for the grading period, the student will receive a detention. Each tardy for the remainder of the grading period will also result in an additional detention.

SKIPPING

Skipping class: A student who skips a class or part of a class while remaining on the school campus will serve an hour detention for each period or part of a period missed for the first offense. Any subsequent offenses will result in a day of in-school or out-of-school suspension.

Skipping school: Under Board of Education Policy, once a student has boarded the bus or entered on the school premises, the student must secure an excuse from the principal's office prior to his/her leaving any time before dismissal time (3:24 p.m.). Leaving school without proper authorization shall be punishable by being suspended for three (3) days (in-school) for each occurrence. Continual acts of this nature may be punishable by expulsion from school permanently. A teacher who wants students to participate in an activity that would cause them to be away from assigned classes shall inform the proper officials in order to prevent students from being penalized. However, it is the student's responsibility to make sure that he/she has received proper authorization before he/she leaves the school campus.

ACADEMICS

GRADING SCALE

The WV Board of Education put in place the following unified grading scale for all schools across the state, effective July 1, 2003. The grading scale for non-weighted grades is as follows:

A = 93-100

B = 85-92

C = 75-84

D = 65-74

F = 0-64

Only letter grades are recorded on a student's permanent records; class rank, average grades, and academic honors are calculated on the basis of a 4.0 point scale as modified by the policy on Honor Courses. (See Hardy County File JFAD.) The grades for each student shall be ranked, and each student shall be advised of his/her rank in grade twelve. The rank will be determined by the

cumulative grades of all courses recorded on the permanent record card in grades nine through twelve. A transfer student's rank will be based on courses taken in grades nine through twelve in all schools attended. To receive academic recognition, a student shall attend Hardy County Schools for a minimum of two consecutive semesters. Final class rankings for salutatorian and valedictorian will be determined at the end of the 5th six weeks grading period of the senior year.

EXAM POLICY

Exam Requirements

All students' in grades 9-12 shall be required to participate in a semester final evaluation. This shall be in one of the following formats (or a combination):

• In the core courses, (English, Math, Science, and History), a final exam shall be required. Such exam shall be comprehensive, teacher prepared, and focused on identified CSO'S.

• In other courses, the final evaluation option will be a comprehensive exam or end-of-semester project/demonstration. The teacher shall determine the format of final evaluation based upon the exam policy requirements. Proposals for the final exam/demonstration project shall be pre-submitted to the Principal for approval.

• A description of the final exam/evaluation(s) shall be communicated to students at the beginning of the semester and be included in the course description/syllabus. (Hardy Co. Policy IGB)

Exam Weight

The final exam/demonstration shall count 15% of the total course grade per semester. This shall be computed in the following manner:

Semester Average, 85%;

Exam, 15%;

Final Grade, 100%.

Exam Length

Sites shall determine a schedule that will permit the completion of exams over a 2 to 3 day span as appropriate. If teachers choose the demonstration/project option these may be scheduled as appropriate. The intent shall be that no student is scheduled for more that 3 exams/activities in any one school day. Students shall be scheduled for a full day of exams and/or regular class instruction each day. Exams or demonstrations shall be completed during the period as set by the Principal.

Exam Exemption

• No exemptions will be made for college level classes.

• No exemptions will be made for classes considered weighted by Hardy County School's policy.

All students in Hardy County Schools are required to take a comprehensive semester exam, demonstration, or project in each course.

Students who have attained a grade of C or higher in the course prior to the exam may be exempted from the exam if that student has three or fewer absences in that class.

Absence will be defined as not being in the class for at least 75% of the class period.

Each daily occurrence of not being in the class will count as an absence with the following exceptions per the Hardy County Schools attendance policy.

1. B1 and B2 Failure of the bus to run.

2. C1 and C2 Calamity, (Fire, flood, etc.).

3. X1 and X2 School approved extracurricular activity.

Each student will be required to take at least one exam in a class each semester. If the student has earned the exam exemption in each of his or her classes, then the student will choose the class in which he or she will take the exam.

Students who have earned the exam exemption will be give the option of taking the exam in order to raise their grade without the risk of lowering their grade with the following exception:

Little or No Effort Provision - If a student opts to take the exam and scores below 40%, that student will be assessed that grade because it will be determined that the student made little or no effort to prepare for the exam. This provision of the policy is consistent with the philosophy of Hardy County Schools that one purpose of comprehensive exams is to prepare students for comprehensive tests in college and the work force.

Students who are exempt from taking an exam will be provided an alternate activity by the school for that time. Parents who file an out-of-school environment plan may use this day for accepted alternate activities including but not limited to college visits, job shadowing, job training, and community service.

Exam Cancellation

With the implementation of these guidelines, final exams/demonstrations shall not be cancelled except under extraordinary circumstances. Cancelling of exams shall require the request of the school principal, approval of the superintendent, and affirmation of the board. Scheduling for administration shall be made as appropriate prior to the end of the course. Exams/attendance shall be scheduled to end on the last day of the course for the year.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

(Minimum of 26 credits required)

4 English, (English 9, 10, 11, 12)

4 Math, (2 must be Alg. I and higher)

3 Science, (Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry, and/or Physics)

4 Soc. Studies, (US Hist., World Hist., 20/21st Cent., Civics)

5 Career Major Concentration Courses

1 Phys Ed, (not Weightlifting)

1 Health

3 Recommended Electives, (related to major)

1 Fine Art

Note: College-bound students should take 2 yrs. of a foreign language, both Geometry and Algebra II, (at a minimum), and 2 lab sciences beyond CATS 9 & 10, (Chemistry, Physics, Advanced Anatomy, and Advanced Biology).

HONORS

Any student earning an overall grade point average, (GPA), of 3.0 in grades 9-12 in the regular academic program during a marking period shall be placed on the honor roll at Moorefield High School. Any student earning a GPA of at least 3.8 in the regular academic program during a marking period shall be placed on the “Superior Academic Achievement” list at Moorefield High School. A student's grade point average shall be computed according to the following scale: A = 4, B = 3, C = 2, D =1, and F=0. Students not in the regular academic program, (PMI, TMI, EMI, and LD subjects when grades are given by the special needs teacher), who achieved a 3.0 or more shall be identified as “Others Receiving Recognition.” It shall be the responsibility of the school's principal or his/her designee to determine which students are eligible for the honor roll and to have the list of students published in the local newspaper.

HONORS COURSES

The Honors Committee determines honors courses. This committee consists of the superintendent or his designee, the principal of Moorefield High School, the principal of East Hardy High School, and a teacher representative from each high school appointed by the superintendent. The committee shall meet at least annually or more often if requested by any of its members, to review, to add to, or to remove courses from the Honors category. The courses designated as Honors Courses shall be designated on each school's schedule as such, and participation will be at the option of the student.

Students shall be made aware of the extra demands of the Honors Program prior to enrolling in the classes. Students shall not be exempt from the semester examination in any course listed as an Honor Course under this policy. The courses shall carry the designated numerical grade equivalent based on the 4.0 system plus an additional 1.0 per credit, (A = 5, B = 4, C = 3, D = 2, F = 0).

Beginning with the 2009 – 2010 school year, AP classes are the only Honors classes being offered at Moorefield High School.

DROPPING/ADDING CLASSES

Students must withdraw from a first semester class by September 15 and from a second semester class by February 15. No student will be allowed to drop a class after these dates. All withdrawals require the permission of the principal, the teacher of the class being dropped, the teacher of the class being added, and a parent or guardian. Parents and guardians must give their consent by signing a completed Drop/Add Form.

HOMEWORK

Homework is an integral part of a student's education. Parents should stress the importance of completing homework assignments on time. Each homework violation will result in the student receiving a sting. Homework violations will be kept by the teacher on a six-week basis.

LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER

Students are encouraged to use the library for quiet study and reading, research, book selection, Accelerated Reader, computer research, and word processing. A quiet atmosphere, conducive to work and study, must be maintained.

• Individual students coming to the library from a class must have a gold MHS Library Pass filled out completely and signed by their teacher. This includes Driver's Ed assistants.

• Upon entering the library, students must sign in and leave their pass at the check out desk. Students may not leave and return to the library without permission.

• When they are ready to return to their classroom, students must sign out and have the librarian sign their pass and give the time they leave.

• Students do not need a pass before school, during their lunch, or when simply returning a book.

• Books are checked out for a period of two weeks. Books may be renewed, but the book must be present.

• Students must have a signed Acceptable Use Policy on file to use school computers.

• The purpose of school computers is to support education and learning. School computers are to be used for class work. Printing is restricted to what is necessary to support education and learning.

• The library is open from 8:00 a.m. to 3:40 p.m., except from 12:20-12:50 for Mrs. Hencke's lunch.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

GRADE POINT REQUIREMENT

In order for any student to participate in any extracurricular activity, the student must have a 2.0 or above grade point average for the previous semester. Examples of extracurricular activities include Student Council, athletics, class officers, Miss Moorefield Pageant, Homecoming Court, etc.

ATHLETICS

Moorefield High School offers 12 varsity sports and numerous junior varsity and 9th grade sports for students. Following are guidelines for student participation:

• The student must have earned an overall 2.0 semester grade point average the previous semester.

(WVSSAC requires that points for honor classes be deducted when determining this overall 2.0 GPA AND a student must pass at least 2 of 4 core classes.)

• The student and parent must sign a contract to participate in each sport.

(See Hardy County Policy JGE.)

• The student must have a yearly physical and provide a copy of his/her birth certificate.

• Moorefield High School does NOT provide athletic insurance; the student must provide proof he/she has insurance. School insurance can be purchased at very reasonable rates. Forms are available from the coach or in the office.

• It is the athlete's responsibility to obtain and make up assignments missed due to participation in athletic events.

SPORTSMANSHIP

Good sportsmanship and positive fan support at athletic events are expected and encouraged by MHS students. Poor sportsmanship will not be tolerated. Examples of poor sportsmanship include, but are not limited to: inappropriate language or gestures; harassment directed at any participant on the field, court, or stands; and encouraging other fans to display poor sportsmanship. Following is a list of punishments for violating this rule during the course of the school year.

• 1st offense: Conference with student and parent. Student is made

aware of consequences for violating this rule again.

• 2nd offense: Student is not allowed to attend any games as a

spectator during the season for which the rule is

violated. For example:

Fall season- no football, volleyball, or golf

Winter season- no boys' or girls' basketball

Spring season- no track, baseball, or softball

• 3rd offense: Student is not allowed to attend any sports as a

spectator for one calendar year.

* Students committing a second offense during a final or playoff game will

have this punishment extended to the following season. For example:

second offense occurs during final fall season game; therefore, the student

will not be allowed to attend any winter season games.

PARENTAL AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES

Parent-teacher conferences are scheduled four times a year. The schedule will be published and announced at school, and parents will be called by our School Messenger system. All parents are encouraged to attend these conferences to discuss any questions or problems, or simply to get more detailed information on the work of their son or daughter.

In addition to the four scheduled parent/teacher conference evenings, teachers are available on a daily basis during their planning period, given advance notice. During the remainder of the day, of course, teachers are in the classroom and cannot take class time to meet. You may call the office to schedule an appointment with the teacher, or arrangements can be worked out if you cannot come in during the teacher's planning time.

PARENTAL ACCESS TO INFORMATION

Parents have the right to request and receive information on the professional qualifications of their children's classroom teachers and paraprofessionals. If you desire this information, please submit a written request to the principal.

GUIDANCE COUNSELOR

The counselor is available to students and parents. Students may arrange to meet with the counselor. Parents may call or stop by the school to make an appointment to talk to the counselor. Do not hesitate to contact the counselor about any topic which is of concern to you. Topics for students could include school, friends, family, and career plans. Topics for parents could include your child's development, educational concerns, emotional difficulties, or changes in attitude or performance.

BREAKFAST AND LUNCH

Federal guidelines for free, reduced, and paid meals will be given to the students at the beginning of the year. The parent should notify the school of any changes in status. Both breakfast and lunch are served at Moorefield High School. Breakfast is served from approximately 7:55-8:20 a.m. Breakfast prices for students are: $0.80 and reduced breakfast is $0.30. Lunch prices for students are $1.30 and reduced lunch is $0.40.

The billing system in each school is as follows: (Hardy County File EDD)

• A bill is sent home with each child at the first of every month.

• Payment in full is due 10 days after received.

• All bills will be considered past due if not paid in full by the 20th of each month.

• A letter will be sent from the school to the parent when the bill is 30 days old.

• Any account declared delinquent will automatically lose the privilege of charging. Parents will be notified by mail that charge privileges have been suspended. The letter will include a list of alternatives for lunch: Parent must send cash daily, pay bill in full, or send a bag lunch.

• Sending a child to school without money for a meal or a bag lunch may be interpreted as child neglect by the authorities.

• Collection of delinquent accounts will be pursued through the Magistrate Court.

Students who desire to bring their lunch may do so. However, there are no facilities for keeping those lunches cold. Students may purchase milk for $0.20.

Civil Rights Statement for Child Nutrition Program: In accordance with Federal law and US Dept. of Agriculture, (USDA), policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, and retaliation. If you require information about this program, activity, or facility in a language other than English, contact the USDA agency responsible for the program or activity, or any USDA office.

To file a complaint alleging discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave. SW, Washington, DC, 20250-9410, or call toll free (866) 632-9992, (Voice). TDD users can contact the USDA through local relay or the Federal Relay at (800) 877-8339, (TDD), or (866) 377-8642, (relay voice users). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

SCHOOL INSURANCE

The Hardy County Board of Education provides parents with the opportunity to purchase accident and dental insurance for their children. Applications will be sent home for parental consideration. Premiums are to be sent directly to the appropriate company.

ARMED FORCES RECRUITER ACCESS TO STUDENTS AND STUDENT RECRUITING INFORMATION

Section 9528 of the No Child Left Behind Act stipulates that the school must provide, on a request made by military recruiters or an institution of higher education, access to secondary school students' names, addresses, and telephone listings. The information is automatically provided unless a student or the student's parent requests that the student's information not be released without prior written parental consent. Parents wishing to have this information withheld should notify the school in writing.

ATHLETIC BOOSTERS

The Athletic Boosters play a vital role in supporting Moorefield High School and Moorefield Middle School athletic programs. At the high school they have funded press box additions, built the field house, seeded and fertilized the football field, bought numerous loads of clay/sand mix for baseball and softball, helped purchase a new backstop for baseball and softball, and made many other contributions too numerous to mention. Their primary fund raising venue is concession stand sales at football games.

The Athletic Boosters meet the first Tuesday of each month, at 7 p.m. in the high school library. Membership is $5 per year, and new members are warmly welcomed. For more information, contact Raymond Carr, president, at 434-2208.

BAND BOOSTERS

The Band Boosters raise money to support band activities through a variety of fundraisers, including hoagie sales, calendar sales, Wolfgang candy sales, and Cow Chip Bingo. Money goes toward cleaning uniforms, purchasing instruments, and underwriting band trips.

Band Boosters meet the second Tuesday of each month, at 7 p.m., in the band room. They encourage interested parents to become involved. For more information, contact band director Sara Vetter at 530-6034.

BUSINESS PARTNERS

Our Business Partners provide key support for academic and extracurricular activities, including the Good Citizen Award, school planners, and incentives for WESTEST, Career Day, and the after-prom party, as well as providing a variety of other services and materials. Businesses which have partnered with Moorefield High School are American Woodmark Corporation, Pendleton Community Bank,

Pilgrim's Pride, and Wal-Mart. The Partnership meets monthly at 7:45 a.m. in Mrs. Charlotte Hill's room in the high school. For more information, contact Sheldon Arbaugh, president, at 538-7900.

STUDENT DISCIPLINE

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

(Hardy County Policy JDA)

Any violation of the Student Code of Conduct observed by school employees or by students must be reported to the school principal or his/her designee for appropriate action. The Student Code of Conduct, as adopted by the State Board of Education, requires the following of every student:

• Students shall behave in a manner that promotes a school environment that is nurturing, orderly, safe, and conducive to learning and personal-social development.

• Students will help create an atmosphere free from bullying, intimidation, and harassment.

• Students will demonstrate honesty and trustworthiness.

• Students will treat others with respect, deal peacefully with anger, use good manners, and be considerate of the feelings of others.

• Students will demonstrate responsibility, use self-control, and be self-disciplined.

• Students will demonstrate fairness, play by the rules, and will not take advantage of others.

• Students will demonstrate compassion and caring.

Students will demonstrate good citizenship by obeying laws and rules, respecting authority, and by cooperating with others.

*In addition to school disciplinary actions for violations of the Student Code of Conduct, any act which also violates state law will be subject to review and/or prosecution by law enforcement authorities.

GOOD CITIZEN AWARD

Moorefield High School and its American Woodmark business partner have joined together to promote learning and good citizenship through a monthly award for students who meet some or all of the following criteria:

• Show scholastic improvement.

• Maintain high scholastic improvement.

• Demonstrate outstanding leadership skills.

• Initiate, volunteer, and participate in school activities.

• Perform at the maximum of their potential.

• Improve attendance.

• Maintain perfect attendance.

• Maintain or improve a cooperative attitude toward teachers and fellow students.

Nominations are made by faculty members and voted upon by the entire faculty. Those honored receive a $50 savings bond and have their names engraved on a plaque mounted in the entranceway of the school.

RESPONSIBLE STUDENT PROGRAM

MISSION STATEMENT

We at Moorefield High School want to encourage our students to be responsible citizens who respect themselves, others, and the environment.

BEES

Better Educated Energetic Students is a program which teaches students to accept responsibility for their learning and behavior. The program is designed to instill in our students common courtesy, manners, respect for themselves and others, self-discipline, responsibility, and accountability.

CLASSROOM RULES

The Responsible Student Program has been developed to help our students become responsible students/citizens of our school and community. The purpose of this program is to teach the basic skills students need to be well organized and prepared for each period of every school day. It is our hope that these skills will become a part of students' school lives, as well as carry over into their futures as workers and citizens.

MHS BEES STANDARDS

1. Students are to be in their assigned seats when the tardy bell rings.

2. Students come to class prepared with their book(s), paper, and a writing instrument.

3. Students will bring completed homework to class daily.

4. Students are permitted food/drink in the commons area only.

5. Students will carry their assignment book with them at all times.

6. Students will use appropriate language and gestures at all times.

7. Students will use lockers before or after class only.

8. Students may carry books to and from school in book bags. At all other times, book bags must be kept in lockers.

9. Other (teacher directed).

“BEE Positive” Recognition

Staff award “BEE Positive” slips to students for a variety of behaviors that help create a positive environment in the school and classroom. Behaviors recognized include helpfulness; courtesy; showing responsibility; demonstrating a positive attitude; and showing significant improvement in academic performance, attendance, organizational skills, or promptness. Students who have received “BEE Positive” awards will be recognized on a weekly basis by having their names published in the paper, by having their names read with the announcements each Friday, and by being excused for lunch five minutes early that day.

VIOLATIONS OF STANDARDS (STINGS)

Students not following BEES standards are given a “sting.” The sting form must be filled out by the student and returned to the teacher. Failure to fill out a form properly and return it will result in a detention. Each set of five stings earns a week of lunch reteach. Stings are wiped clean at the semester, but any days of lunch reteach unserved at the end of the semester will be carried over to the following semester or school year.

TEACHER AUTHORITY

The authority of a teacher extends throughout the entire school. Students are expected to obey, to respect, and to cooperate with all teachers and staff at all times and in all sections of the building. We will not tolerate disrespect or verbal abuse directed toward any staff member by any student.

STUDENT CONDUCT SECTIONS I-IV

Rules contained in Sections I-IV are County and State Board of Education Policy. The consequences for violating these rules are set by Board Policy. The complete Hardy County Schools Policy Manual can be reviewed in the school office, school library, or at the Hardy County Board of Education office or on the county website.

SECTION I: STUDENT DRUG ABUSE

SUBSTANCE ABUSE – STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

(Excerpts from HARDY COUNT FILE JDD)

Alcohol and illegal drug use/abuse shall be prohibited by the Code of Student Conduct in Compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local requirements.

The Board will not tolerate the possession, distribution, or use of drugs or alcohol on Board property or at any school activity. This applies to any individual who is in or on school property, in a private vehicle on school property, in attendance at school, or at a school-sponsored activity.

PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES

It shall be against school policy for any student:

• To sell, supply, or give, or attempt to sell, supply or give to any persons any of the substances listed in this policy or other substances represented to create a narcotic or toxic effect.

• To possess, procure, or purchase; to attempt to possess, procure, or purchase; or to be under the influence of, (legal intoxication not required), or to use or consume, the substances listed in this policy or what is represented by or to the student to be any of the substances listed in this policy or what the student believes to be any of the substances in this policy or other substances represented to produce a narcotic or toxic effect.

PROHIBITED SUBSTANCES

Substances prohibited by this policy are:

• Alcohol or any alcoholic beverages, any abusable glue or aerosol paint, or any other chemical substance, including, but not limited to, lighter fluid and reproduction fluid for inhalation.

• Any controlled substance or dangerous drugs as defined by the Uniform

Controlled Substance Act; Schedules I-V, Schedules including, but not limited to, marijuana, any narcotic drug, any hallucinogen, any stimulant, or any depressant. Verified parent permission is required for possession or use of any prescription or non-prescription medicine.

• Any prescription or non-prescription drug, medicine, vitamin, or other chemicals, including, but not limited to, aspirin, other pain relievers, steroids, stimulants, diet pills, multiple or other types of vitamins, pep pills, “no doz” pills, cough medicines and syrups, cold medicines, laxatives, stomach or digestive remedies, depressants, and sleeping pills not taken and used in accordance with this policy. Verified parent permission is required for possession or use of any prescription or non-prescription medicine. (See Authorized Use of Drugs, p. 15.)

• Any other substance or substance represented to create a narcotic or toxic effect through its use or misuse, including but not limited to jimson weed or other natural substances.

PARAPHERNALIA

Any paraphernalia, tools, or items associated with the distribution and/or use of the prohibited substances referred to in this policy will also be prohibited.

PENALTIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR VIOLATION OF THIS POLICY: CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES, OR REPRESENTATIVES OF A SUBSTANCE AS BEING CONTROLLED, NARCOTIC OR TOXIC IN EFFECT.

FIRST OFFENSE

• The student shall be recommended for counseling.

• The student shall be given a minimum of three, (3), days of out-of-school suspension, will be separated from school facilities as soon as possible, and may be recommended for long-term suspension or expulsion.

• The principal, or his designee(s), shall notify legal authorities when the law has been violated.

• The student shall be suspended from participation in all school activities other than regular classes or curricular programs/events directly related to academic expectations for a period of at least 45 school days. These shall include: extracurricular athletic teams; and attendance at extracurricular activities, including athletic events, dances, presentations, clubs, etc.

WAIVER OPTION FOR FIRST OFFENSE

See Board policy JDD for conditions for obtaining a waiver.

REPEATED OFFENSES: Abuse of Controlled Substance

• The student shall be suspended from school until the case is considered by the superintendent.

• The principal shall notify legal authorities when the law has been violated.

• The principal shall recommend to the Superintendent that the student be expelled from all schools, all school grounds, and all school-sponsored activities.

AUTHORIZED USE OF DRUGS

(Prescription, over the counter)

Any student whose parent/guardian requests that he be allowed to take prescription or non-prescription medicines, drugs, or vitamins, will be allowed to do so with the written permission of the

parent/guardian. All substances authorized for use under this policy must be brought directly, upon arrival on school grounds, to the principal or his designee(s), and Administration of Medication to Students, Policy JLA, shall be followed.

PENALTIES AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR VIOLATION OF THIS POLICY: NON-CONTROLLEDS SUBSTANCES, PRESCRIPTION MEDICINES:

When a student has violated the provisions of this policy with regard to non-controlled substance/prescription medicines, latitude shall be granted to the principal with regard to the imposing of disciplinary actions. This shall be based upon clear evidence that the policy infraction was not intentionally illegal in nature or was not intended to represent a non-controlled substance as an illegal drug.

For the first offense, a letter will be sent informing the parent/guardian of the incident, the disciplinary action taken, and consequences of repeated violations.

For repeated offenses, a letter will be forwarded to the parent/guardian, as soon as possible after the incident, informing them that the student is suspended from school, school grounds, and all school-related activities. The suspension may be for up to ten (10) days.

TOBACCO CONTROL

(Excerpts from Hardy County File JDE)

The purpose of this policy is to prohibit the use or distribution of tobacco products in school buildings, on school grounds, in school-leased or owned vehicles, and at all school-affiliated functions in order to improve the health of West Virginia students and school personnel. Students under the age of 21 may not possess any tobacco product at any time.

Enforcement

Students found to be in possession of tobacco in violation of this policy shall:

• 1st offense: be issued a written warning; a copy shall be sent to the parents.

• 2nd offense: be suspended from school for one day.

• 3rd offense: be suspended for three days.

• 4th offense: be recommended for expulsion.

In addition to these penalties, students shall be required to clean up any mess resulting from their use of tobacco, and the principal shall notify police of all violations.

Students found using tobacco in violation of this policy shall:

• 1st offense: be suspended for one day.

• 2nd offense: be suspended for three days.

• 3rd offense: be recommended for expulsion.

In addition to these penalties, students shall be required to clean up any mess resulting from their use of tobacco, and the principal shall notify police of all violations.

*Note: The consequences listed in Section I are the minimum for each offense. Penalties could be more severe than those listed.

SECTION II: FIGHTING

Participating in fights, physical assaults, or encouraging or instigating such is not allowed. Fighting generally carries with it an automatic out-of-school suspension. In certain situations, the administration may determine that a student has done everything possible to avoid a fight. In those cases, the punishment may be lesser for those students. In situations where a student is injured, abused, etc., the administration may make the punishment more severe. Students in special education will also be given consideration to the degree of punishment. Students involved in fights will be responsible for any medical bills from injuries resulting from the fight/assault.

Consequences:

• 1st offense: 3 days out-of-school suspension, meet with school counselor.

• 2nd offense: 5 days out-of-school suspension and outside counseling

• 3rd offense: 10 days out-of-school suspension, recommendation for expulsion.

We will do our best to solve problems before they reach the point where a fight takes place. That decision, however, rests solely with the students involved.

Criminal Acts: Any action by a student which constitutes a crime, misdemeanor, or felony will be promptly reported to the state/county police department by the building principal.

*Note: The consequences listed in Section II are the minimum for each offense. Penalties could be more severe than those listed. Charges may be filed with local law enforcement.

SECTION III: SUSPENSION OFFENSES

(Excerpts from Hardy County Policy JEC)

For extreme and serious violations of school rules, the consequences may be out-of-school suspension, (OSS). Suspension shall be at the discretion of the principal. Students may be suspended from school by the principal for the following reasons:

1. Willful or gross misconduct or repeated disobedience to a teacher

• For immorality, for writing or using profane and obscene language or possessing obscene materials in or around school or at school sponsored activities.

• For Fighting. (See consequences listed in Section II)

• Any other violation determined to be equivalent to those listed above, specifically the following:

• Destruction of school property or the property of a student or staff member will not be tolerated. Student must make restitution.

6. Falsely set fire alarms are prohibited.

7. Failing to follow any direct order from any staff member.

8. Stealing is prohibited and will not be tolerated

Consequences:

• 1st offense: 1 day out-of-school suspension.

• 2nd offense: 3 days out-of-school suspension.

• 3rd offense: 5 days out-of-school suspension.

• 4th offense: 10 days out-of-school suspension and recommended for expulsion.

Bomb threats are prohibited and regulated by state law. First Offense - 10 days out-of school-suspension and recommendation for expulsion.

A student who is suspended from school may not:

• Participate in any portion of the school's program either class or after school activities.

• Ride on the school bus.

• Be on the school grounds at any time.

• The student will not be permitted to return to school until a satisfactory conference with the student, teacher, parent or guardian and administrator is held. At this conference, plans will be made for improved behavior on the part of the student. The student may return to school only with permission from the administration.

*Note: The consequences listed in Section III are the minimum for each offense. Penalties could be more severe than those listed. Charges may be filed with local law enforcement.

SECTION IV: DISCIPLINE STEPS

Students who receive 5 detentions during the school year, three or more days of suspension (in- or out-of-school), 20 or more stings, or who have 5 or more unexcused absences during the school year will not be allowed to attend or participate in any school function such as field trips, (organizations or classes), assemblies, judging competitions, or state athletic contests, etc. Students involved in athletic competition or band competition are exempt unless the student is suspended from school on the date of the scheduled event.

DISCIPLINE REFERRALS

The first, second, and third discipline referrals a student receives during a school year will result in one detention each; the fourth and fifth discipline referrals will result in two detentions each; the sixth, seventh, and eighth discipline referrals will result in three detentions each; the ninth and tenth discipline referrals will result in four detentions each. Discipline referrals beyond ten may result in a recommendation for expulsion. Students with IEPs will have detentions adjusted as appropriate.

After-school detentions will be served 3:24 – 4:24 p.m. on Wednesdays. Morning detentions will be served on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 7:25-8:25 a.m. Students serving either after school or morning detention will need to provide their own transportation. Detentions not served within a week of notification will result in an automatic in-school suspension. This will occur only once. Other detentions not served on time will result in out-of-school suspensions.

EXCLUSION, SUSPENSIONS, AND EXPULSIONS

Students who fail to comply with the Student Code of Conduct and/or other standards of conduct established by the Board or its agents may be excluded from a classroom or school bus in accordance with State Board Policy 18A-5-1, suspended from school or a school bus in accordance with Board Policy, or expelled from school in accordance with Board Policy.

DISCIPLINE CODE VIOLATIONS AND ACTIONS

The following include, but are not limited to, the major discipline violations of the Hardy County Board of Education, in compliance with the WV State Board Student Code of Conduct Policy, finds interfere with the education of students and an environment which is conducive to learning. The Board of Education will require compliance with federal and state special education discipline procedures relevant to the identified eligible special education students and/or 504 students.

LEVEL I VIOLATIONS:

• Anti-Social Conduct

A student will not orally, in writing, electronically or with photographs or drawings, direct profanity or insulting, obscene gestures toward another student that causes embarrassment, discomfort, or a reluctance to participate in school activities.

• Cheating/Academic Misconduct

A student will not plagiarize, cheat, gain unauthorized access to, or tamper with educational materials. The response to violations under this section may include academic sanctions in addition to other discipline.

• Disorderly Conduct

A student will not harass another student or other person or misbehave in a manner that causes disruption or obstruction of the education process. Disruption caused by talking, making noises, throwing objects, or otherwise distracting another person, constitutes disorderly conduct. Behavior is considered disorderly if a teacher is prevented from starting an activity or lesson, or has to stop instruction to address the disruption.

• Improper Operation of a Motor Vehicle (See HB page 33.)

A student will not engage in improper parking of a motor vehicle on school property.

• Inappropriate Displays of Affection (See HB page 31.)

Students will not engage in inappropriate displays of affection, such as kissing or embraces of an intimate nature.

• Inappropriate Dress and Grooming (See HB page 31.)

A student will not dress or groom in a manner that disrupts the educational process or is detrimental to the health, safety or welfare of others. A student will not dress in a manner that is distractive or indecent, to the extent that it interferes with the teaching and learning process, including wearing any apparel that displays or promotes any drug, alcohol, or tobacco related product that is prohibited in school buildings, on school grounds, in school-leased or owned vehicles, and at all school-affiliated functions.

• Leaving School Without Permission (See HB page 6.)

A student will not leave the school building, classroom, cafeteria, assigned area, or campus without permission from authorized school personnel.

• Possession of Inappropriate Personal Property (See HB pages 30 & 31.)

A student will not possess personal property that is prohibited by school rules or that is disruptive to teaching and learning.

• Tardiness (See HB page 7.)

A student will not fail to be in his/her place of instruction at the assigned time without a valid excuse.

• Technology Abuse

A student will not violate the terms of the Hardy County Board of Education Internet Acceptable-Use Policy and/or the West Virginia Board of Education Policy Safety and Acceptable Use of the Internet by Students and Educators Policy (2460)

• Tobacco (See HB page 19.)

In accordance with the Hardy County Board Of Education Tobacco Policy and the West Virginia State Board of Education Policy (2422.5A), a student will not smoke, use tobacco, or possess any substance containing tobacco in any building/area under the control of a county school system, including all activities or events sponsored by the county school district.

• Trespassing

A student will not enter upon the premises of the county school system property, other than to the location to which the student is assigned, without authorization from proper school authorities. If removed, suspended, or expelled from school, a student will not return to the school premises without permission of the proper school authorities.

• Truancy (See HB Attendance section, beginning on page 4.)

In accordance with the Hardy County Attendance Policy and the West Virginia Board of Education Attendance Policy (4110), a student will not fail to report to the school's assigned class or activity without prior permission, knowledge or excuse by the school or by the parent/guardian.

• School Conduct Bus Violations

Students are expected to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner so that the safety and well-being of all bus occupants are not comprised.

VIOLATIONS OF LEVEL 1 – SCHOOL ACTIONS:

School administrators and staff may use appropriate intervention strategies including, but not limited to, staff and student/parent conferences, support intervention and counseling programs, student programs for conflict resolution and peer mediation, and programs for anger management and violence prevention. Any of the following intervention strategies and disciplinary actions may be used as appropriate response to the violation:

• Administrator/student conference or reprimand

• Administrator and teacher-parent/guardian conference

• Referrals and conference to support staff or agencies

• Referral to a tobacco cessation program

• Daily/weekly progress reports

• Behavioral contracts

• Change in the student's class schedule

• School service assignment

• Confiscation of inappropriate item

• Restitution/restoration

• Before and/or after-school detention; lunch detention

• Denial of participation in class or school activities

• Immediate exclusion by teacher from one class period of the school day

• In-school suspension

• Out-of-school suspension for up to three (3) days for repetitive or severe degree of a Level I violation(s)

• Law enforcement notification for severe degrees of a Level I violation(s)

LEVEL II VIOLATIONS:

• Bullying/Harassment (See HB page 28.)

A student shall not bully/intimidate/harass another student.

• Failure to Serve Assigned Detention

A student will not fail to serve an assigned detention of which the student and/or parents/guardian have been notified.

• False Identification

A student will not use another person's identification or give false identification to any school official with intent to deceive school personnel or falsely obtain money or property.

• Forgery

A student will not sign the name of another person for the purpose of defrauding school personnel or the Board of Education.

• Fraud

A student will not deceive another or cause another to be deceived by false or misleading information in order to obtain anything of value.

• Gambling

A student will not engage in any game of chance or contest wherein money or other items of monetary value are awarded to the winner, except for those game and contests authorized as official school functions.

• Gang activity

A student will not, by use of violence, force, coercion, threat of violence, or gang activity, cause disruption of obstruction to the educational process. Gangs are defined as organized groups of students and/or adults who engage in activities that threaten the safety of the general populace, compromise the general community order, and/or interfere with the school district's education mission. Gang activity includes:

• Wearing or displaying any clothing, jewelry, colors, or insignia that intentionally identifies the students as a member of a gang, or otherwise symbolizes support of a gang.

• Using any word, phrase, written symbol, or gesture that intentionally identifies the student as a member of a gang, or otherwise symbolizes support of a gang.

• Gathering two or more persons for purposes of engaging in activities or discussions promoting gangs.

• Recruiting student(s) for gangs.

• Insubordination/Unruly Conduct

A student will not ignore or refuse to comply with directions or instructions given by school authorities. Refusing to open a book, write an assignment, work with another student, work in a group, take a test or do any other class- or school-related activity not listed herein, refusing to leave a hallway when requested by a school staff member, or running away from school staff when told to stop, all constitute insubordination/unruly conduct.

• Loitering

A student will not remain or linger on school property without a legitimate purpose and/or proper authority.

• Theft or Possession of Stolen Property

A student will not, without permission of the owner or custodian of the property, take property or have in his or her possession property valued less than $100.00 which does not belong to the student.

VIOLATIONS OF LEVEL II – SCHOOL ACTIONS

• Any Level I Action(s)

• Referral to School Counselor

• Referral to Alternative Education Program

• Out-of-School Suspension for up to ten (10) days

LEVEL III VIOLATIONS:

• Alcohol (See Substance Abuse section of HB page 17+.)

A student will not possess, distribute or be under the influence of alcohol in an educational facility, on school grounds, a school bus or at any school sponsored function.

• Defacing School Property

A student will not willfully cause damage to property of the school or others. Actions such as writing in school texts or library books, writing on desks or walls, carving into woodwork, desks, or tables and spray painting surfaces are examples of damages to school property.

• Disobeying a teacher in a willful manner.

A student will not willfully disobey a teacher.

• Hazing (See HB page 28.)

A student will not haze or conspire to engage in the hazing of another person.

• Profane Language

A student will not use profane language directed at a school employee or a student. Using profane language may include, but is not limited to, verbally, in writing, electronically, or with photographs or drawings, direct profanity or insulting obscene gestures toward any school employee or student.

• Theft

A student will not, without permission of the owner, take property or have in his or her possession, property valued at between $100.00 and $999.00.

• Improper or Negligent Operation of a Vehicle (See HB page 33.)

A student will not intentionally or recklessly operate a vehicle, on the grounds of any educational facility, parking lot, or at any school-sponsored activity, so as to endanger the safety, health or welfare of others.

• Marijuana (Simple Possession) (See HB page 17+.)

A student will not possess or be under the influence of marijuana in an educational facility, on school grounds, a school bus or at any school-sponsored function.

• Physical Altercation (See HB page 20.)

A student will not participate in a physical altercation with another person while under the authority of school personnel.

• Habitual Violation of School Rules or Policies

A student will not habitually or repeatedly violate school rules or policies.

• Possession of a Knife with a Blade under 3 1/2”

A student will not possess, use, display, or brandish any knife with a blade 3 ½ inches or less.

VIOLATIONS OF LEVEL III – SCHOOL ACTIONS

Any Level I or Level II actions.

• Suspension from school or bus.

• Principal may request recommendation for expulsion.

• Referral to the Law Enforcement Agency and/or the Legal System.

• Referral to the Mental Health Agencies, if appropriate.

• Referral to Department of Health and Human Resources, if appropriate.

LEVEL IV VIOLATIONS:

• Battery on a School Employee

A student will not commit a battery by unlawfully and intentionally making physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with the person of a school employee as outlined in WV Code 61-2-15(b).

• Felony

A student will not commit an act or engage in conduct that would constitute a felony under the laws of this state if committed by an adult. Such acts that would constitute a felony include, but are not limited to, arson, malicious wounding and unlawful wounding, bomb threat, information about a terrorist act, hoax terrorist act, burglary, robbery and grand larceny.

• Possession, Distribution, or Being under the Influence of a Controlled Substance (See HB page 17+.)

According to WV Code 18A-5-1a(b)(ii), a student will not possess, distribute or be under the influence of a controlled substance governed by the Uniformed Controlled Substances Act as described in WV Code 60A-1-101, et seq., on the premises of an educational facility, at a school-sponsored function or on a school bus.

• Possession of a Firearm or a Deadly Weapon

A student will not possess a firearm or deadly weapon on any school bus, or in or on any public or private primary or secondary education building, structure, facility or grounds thereof or at any school-sponsored function. As defined in W .V a Code 61-7-2, a "dangerous weapon" means any device intended to cause injury or bodily harm, any device used in a threatening manner that could cause injury or bodily harm, or any device that is primarily used for self-protection. Dangerous weapons include, but are not limited to, blackjack, gravity knife, knife, switchblade knife, nunchuka, metallic or false knuckles, pistol, or revolver. A dangerous weapon may also include the use of a legitimate tool, instrument, or equipment as a weapon including, but not limited to, pens, compasses, or combs, with the intent to harm another. A pocket knife with a blade of three and one-half inches or less shall not be included in the definition of knife as defined in WV Code 61-7-2 unless such a knife is knowingly used or intended to be used to produce serious bodily injury or death.

• Sale of a Narcotic Drug (See HB page 17+.)

A student will not sell a narcotic drug on the premises of an educational facility, at a school sponsored function, or on a school bus.

VIOLATIONS OF LEVEL IV – SCHOOL/COUNTY ACTIONS:

Level IV violations are those addressed in WV Code 18A-5-1a that require the mandatory suspension of the student by the principal, or from transportation to or from school on any bus, after an informal hearing pursuant to subsection (d) of WV Code 18A-5-1a.

-If a student has been suspended for committing an act or engaging in conduct that would constitute a felony, the principal may request that the student be expelled.

-If a student has been suspended for battery on a school employee, possession of a firearm or deadly weapon, or sale of a narcotic, the principal shall request that the student be expelled.

SEARCH AND SEIZURE

(Hardy County File JDG)

To maintain order and discipline in the schools and to protect the safety and welfare of students and school personnel, school authorities, (i.e., principal or his/her designee), may search a student, student lockers, or student automobiles under the circumstances outlined in Hardy County File JDG and may seize any item dangerous to the health and safety of students or school personnel, or disruptive of any lawful function, mission, or process of the school, or any item described as illegal in school rules. This shall include items determined to be dangerous weapons, (Policy JDF), or drugs, (Policy JDD), and identified in WV State Code.

ANTI –HAZING POLICY

(Excerpts from Hardy County File JDC)

This policy prohibits hazing in Hardy County Schools as a part of, or during, co-curricular activities, extracurricular activities, and/or any activity on school property, or any activity that is an extension of the school day/school program.

DEFINITION: Any act or situation which recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student; any act or situation which willfully destroys or removes public or private property for purpose of initiation, or admission into, or affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in any organization operating under the sanctions of the school; any act or situation that is of a brutal physical nature; any act or situation which adversely affects the mental health or dignity of the individual, including but not limited to performance of embarrassing and/or required stunts, wearing costumes, speaking in a harassing manner, interrogating new members, lineup, scavenger hunt, kidnapping, personal service, authority over new members, anything that tends to diminish the self-esteem or dignity, or categorizes the new member and/or members as a second-class citizen.

Discipline and Other Actions: Such actions may include, but are not limited to, counseling, warning, in- or out-of-school suspension, and/or expulsion.

BULLYING, HARASSMENT, AND INTIMIDATION

(Excerpts from Hardy County Board Policy GADA)

No person on any school property or attending any school-related activity or any education-sponsored event, whether in a building or upon other property used or operated by the Board, or in any other facility being used by the Board, shall engage in bullying, harassment, or intimidation. Persons found to have violated this prohibition shall be subject to the penalties in the section on Discipline and any other penalties prescribed by law.

Definition: Bullying, harassment, and/or intimidation is an intentional gesture, or any written, verbal or physical act, or threat that is sufficiently inappropriate, severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment, or that a reasonable person under the circumstances would know will have the effect of:

• Harming a student;

• Placing a student in reasonable fear or harm to his/her person:

• Damaging a student's property; or

• Placing a student in reasonable fear or damage to his/her property.

Any student who believes he or she has been the victim of any form of bullying, harassment, or intimidation, and any person with knowledge or reasonable belief of conduct which may constitute any form of bullying, harassment, or intimidation toward another student shall report the alleged acts immediately to the designated person (principal or the Director of Student Services).

Disciplinary Action: If the results of the investigation support disciplinary action, in matters where a student is the perpetrator, the principal shall determine the appropriate response and/or punishment after consulting with the Director of Student Services.

RACIAL, SEXUAL, RELIGIOUS/ETHNIC HARASSMENT AND VIOLENCE POLICY

(Excerpts taken from Hardy County Board Policy GAD)

It is the policy of the Hardy County Board of Education to maintain learning and working environment that is free from harassment or violence. The Board prohibits any form of racial, sexual, or religious/ethnic harassment or violence.

It is a violation of this policy for any student or employee of Hardy County Schools, or any member of the public, to harass a student or an employee at a school activity or on school property through conduct or communication of a racial, sexual, or religious/ethnic nature as defined by this policy.

The Hardy County school district will investigate all complaints, formal or informal, verbal or written, of harassment or violence, and will discipline any student or employee who harasses a student or employee of the school district.

Amorous relationships between staff members and students are prohibited.

Definitions (For complete definitions, see Hardy County File GAD.)

• Sexual Harassment: Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually motivated physical conduct, or communication of a sexual nature.

• Racial Harassment: Racial harassment consists of physical, verbal, or written conduct relating to an individual's race.

• Religious Harassment: Religious/ethnic harassment consists of physical, verbal, or written conduct which is related to an individual's religion or ethnic background.

• Sexual Violence: Sexual violence is a physical act of aggression or force of the threat thereof which involves touching of another's intimate parts or forcing a person to touch any person's intimate parts.

• Racial Violence: Racial violence is a physical act of aggression or assault upon another because of, or in a manner reasonably related to, race.

• Religious/Ethnic Violence: Religious/ethnic violence is a physical act of aggression or assault upon another because of, or in a manner reasonably related to, religion or ethnicity.

• Assault: an act done with intent to cause fear in another of immediate bodily harm or death; or the threat to do bodily harm to another with present ability to carry out the threat.

USE OF CELL PHONES / ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Purpose

 

In order to maintain an appropriate and effective school environment, communication/electronic devices shall not interfere with the daily educational process.

Definition

 

For the purpose of this policy, communication/electronic devices are defined as cell phones, pagers, laser pointer, electronic games, portable music players, (CD, DVD, MP3 players), cameras, camera phones, or any other electronic devices, (palm pilots, digital cameras, personal computers, iPods, etc.), that are designed to receive and/or send an electronic signal that has the potential to cause distractions from and/or interruptions in the learning and work environment.

Guidelines

 

Students attending Hardy County Schools will be prohibited from using and/or displaying all communication/electronic devices as defined in this policy during the instructional school day. For the purpose of this policy, the instructional school day is defined as when the student arrives at school or boards the school bus until the student is dismissed from school or is unloaded from the school bus.

Students involved with extracurricular activities/field trips before and after school must have chaperone permission for possession and use.

Parents/Guardians will be given a Verification of Understanding form of this policy to sign and return for each student. Failure to return this form does not relieve the student of the consequences of this policy.

Consequences for Violation of this Policy

 

First Offense – Device will be confiscated. Any device that is confiscated by the Administration will not be released to the student but shall only be released to the parent/guardian of the student.

Second Offense – The offending student will be considered insubordinate and will be subject to disciplinary action under the student code of conduct. The confiscated device will not be returned to the student or parent until the end of the school year.

Third Offense – Student will be disciplined for incorrigibility relative to the student code of conduct.

Exception(s) of this Policy

 

This policy does not prohibit any device that is used for medical purposes and is worn by the student because of a condition that requires it. The parent/guardian of any student requiring such a device shall provide the school with permission from the parent/guardian, as well as a signed statement from a licensed health care provider for the use of the device.

This policy does not prohibit county personnel from using electronic devices issued for the purpose of their work.

OTHER DEVICES

Possession of cigarette lighters, matches, noisemakers, laser pointers or other items which may be disruptive to school is forbidden.

• 1st offense: Confiscation of item and 1 detention

• 2nd offense: Confiscation of item and 1 day ISS

• 3rd offense: Confiscation of item and 1 OSS

• 4th offense: Confiscation of item and 3 days OSS

INAPPROPRIATE DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION

It is recognized and accepted that close relationships are a basic part of school social life. However, students are to refrain from the inappropriate display of romantic affection toward one another, such as hugging, kissing, or walking with arms around one another.

• 1st offense: Conference with principal

• 2nd offense: 1 detention

• 3rd offense: 1 day suspension

STUDENT DRESS

Students need to wear clothes to school that reflect the high expectations we have for all of our students. Clothing should be clean, free of rips and tears, and appropriate. Each student is responsible for adhering to the guidelines of proper dress. As a rule of thumb, if the student or parent is not sure clothing is suitable for school wear, then the student should wear something else. School attire that distracts from the operation of the school or of the classroom, creates a safety hazard, is indecent, or has any type of obscene or inappropriate picture or writing on it is not permitted.

Following is a list of prohibited clothing: 1) Shirts/tops/blouses/dresses that reveal cleavage and/or which expose chest, rib areas, stomach, or hips.

2) Tank tops, muscle shirts, spaghetti strap tops, bare midriffs, half-shirts, halters, backless tops, single-strap and single-sleeve blouses and shirts, see-through materials, and sun dresses, (unless a blouse is worn beneath the dress).

3) Shorts, dresses, or skirts whose bottom is higher than 4” above the crease at the back of the knee. (Biker shorts may be worn if shorts of adequate length are worn on the outside of the biker shorts.)

4) Clothing shall be worn in a manner that no part of the student's mid-section will be visible when he/she stands normally erect. Students must wear trousers, pants, slacks, skirts, or shorts, (any clothing that covers the area from the waistline down), at or above the top of the hips.

5) Students may not wear any garment that advertises or promotes tobacco, drug or alcohol use; advertises or promotes bars or taverns; and/or promotes violence. Also, no student may wear any garment that has obscene language and/or profanity, or sexually oriented messages, slogans, or images, whether explicit or implicit.

6) Prohibited jewelry will be confiscated. This includes:

-sharp or pointed studs on collars, necklaces, or bracelets

-representations of marijuana leaves or other drug products or

paraphernalia

-fishhooks and other open pins, hooks, or needles

-handcuffs or other items which are functionally or symbolically

used for restraint or to inflict pain, (example: handcuffs, whips,

dog collars, etc.)

7) Tattoos depicting or promoting tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, or other prohibited substances, or containing profanity or sexually-oriented images, must be kept covered at all times.

8) Hats are not to be worn inside the building.

Consequences for Violations of the Student Dress Policy

• 1st offense: Conference with the principal, head teacher, or guidance counselor. The student will be provided a change of clothes, (T-shirt), if available; if not available, student will call their parent or guardian asking for a change to be brought to school.

• 2nd offense: 1 day of in-school or out-of-school suspension. The student will be provided a change of clothes, if available; if not available, the student will call their parent or guardian asking for a change to be brought to school.

• 3rd offense: 3 days in-school or out-of-school suspension. The student will call for transportation home.

HALL RULES

• Walk at all times; no running or pushing.

• Talk to your neighbors quietly and eliminate unnecessary noise; no yelling or whistling to classmates.

• Keep to your right and follow established traffic patterns.

• Do not congregate around lockers.

OTHER RULES

1. Students are not to go to their lockers until the bell rings in the morning and until the bell rings for the next lunch or class at noontime.

2. Students are to be in the library, cafeteria, or gym in the morning, and not in the hallways. Permission may be obtained to go to a teacher for tutoring. In good weather, students may also be in the courtyard, provided there is a staff member on duty there.

3. At lunch time, students are to be in the library, cafeteria, or courtyard.

4. Food and drinks, except for water, are not allowed in any interior area of the school except the cafeteria.

5. Students are not to have their feet up on seats or desks, nor to sit or lie down on desktops, tables, or lab tables.

6. School copying machines are NOT to be used by students for their own personal copying; this includes ALL school work. The very act of transcribing notes, etc., by pen and paper contributes to a student's ability to learn the material. Personal materials found on the copier will be confiscated. If library materials need to be copied, all reasonable copying is done by the librarian at no cost to the student.

Failure to follow these rules will result in an automatic detention or action according to the discipline steps.

MISCELLANEOUS

PARKING PERMITS

Students are to purchase a school parking permit, ($10 per year), and sign a parking agreement before parking on school property. The agreement states that parking on school property is a privilege, not a right that can be revoked for violation of the terms of the permit. Terms include: display of the permit in rear window of vehicle; parking only in designated student parking areas; NO parking in visitor, staff, or handicapped parking; and compliance with the “Operation of a Motor Vehicle” policies listed below. Parking is on a first come, first serve basis.

OPERATION OF A MOTOR VEHICLE

Operation of a motor vehicle on Moorefield High School grounds is subject to the following requirements:

1. Observance of a 10 mph speed limit on school property.

2. The entrance at the south gate to the high school complex, (Monroe Street), is one-way from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day school is in session. No exit is permitted through the south gate during that time.

3. Students are prohibited from driving from one part of the campus to another during school hours; this explicitly forbids driving to the field house/weight room while school is in session.

Consequences:

• 1st offense: minimum of 1 detention

• 2nd offense: minimum of 1 day suspension and loss of parking privileges for the year

HALL PASS

Students are not to be in the halls during class times unless they have a Teacher/Office hall pass, a library pass, or their assignment book signed by their teacher. A hall pass is for one student only. Any student accompanying the student with the hall pass must have a note from the teacher. Protect yourself by not leaving the room without a Teacher/Office hall pass or signed assignment book.

LOCKERS

Each student is furnished with a locker. Students are not to change lockers without permission, nor are students to give other students their locker combination or share a locker. Students may only use lockers at the following times: before school, between classes, and after school. Students using lockers during class periods will be given a sting for each offense.

LOST AND FOUND

Lost and found items are kept in a box in the main office. Please turn any found items to this location and check there if you have lost something. After a reasonable time, unclaimed items will be discarded.

VALUABLES

Unfortunately, every school has students who will take another student's property. For that reason, you should not bring valuable or unneeded items to school. Do not leave items such as money, rings, and watches in your clothing unattended in the locker rooms.

CARE OF BUILDING

The privilege of attending Moorefield High School carries with it a responsibility to see that the building is taken care of and is properly maintained. We hope you will show pride in your school and yourself, and take the best possible care of the facility. Students defacing or damaging school property will be dealt with severely.

The administration and staff at Moorefield High School wish you a successful year.

Moorefield High School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle

inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies: Diane Tusing, Title IX Coordinator, Hardy County Schools, 510 Ashby Street, Moorefield, WV 26836. Phone 304-530-2348.

Moorefield High School • 401 North Main Street • Moorefield, WV 26836

Phone: 304-530-6034 • Fax: 304-530-7569

© 2009 MHS

 

 

 

Moorefield High School • 401 North Main Street • Moorefield, WV 26836

Phone: 304-530-6034 • Fax: 304-530-7569

© 2008 MHS

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