VAN BUREN HIGH SCHOOL

2005-2006 STUDENT HANDBOOK

INTRODUCTION

This student handbook provides information about rules, policies, academic requirements, and student responsibilities. Each student is responsible to become familiar with the information contained in this handbook. Explanations regarding the policies or suggestions about how policies might be improved should be directed through the Principal's office.

VISION STATEMENT

We believe that all children can learn and that we are responsible for providing the opportunity for each child to reach his or her full potential. By working actively with parents, children, and the community, we feel that we can promote the development of the total child - academically, socially, emotionally, and physically.

DISTRICT MISSION

The mission of the Van Buren R-1 School District is to provide the opportunity for the development of each child into an adult who can stand confidently, anticipate fully, learn continually, and develop pride in self, school and community.

EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY

As the primary agency responsible for the formal education of the youth of this community, the Van Buren R-1 School System recognizes that every aspect of the school program, whether it is curricular, extra-curricular, or a part of the supporting services of the school, contributes to the total educational experience of each student.

The mission of the Van Buren R-1 School District is to provide the opportunity for development of each child into an adult who can stand confidently, anticipate fully, learn continually, and develop pride in self, school and community.

The district's responsibility, therefore, is to facilitate the discovery and development of the unique potential of each student by: (1) providing qualified, instructional leadership with high expectations, (2) providing an orderly, positive school climate so that each student will have an opportunity to recognize him/herself as an individual able to make wise, rational choices, and (3) encouraging students to be sensitive to the needs, feelings, and capabilities of others.

The Van Buren R-1 District, in partnership with the parents and community, must strive continually to promote the highest standards of excellence by initiating an educational process that will continue throughout life.

Van Buren R-1 Board of Education Attendance Policy:

Absenteeism hampers educational achievement and is detrimental to vocational and academic success. Parents, students and teachers all share in the responsibility for encouraging regular attendance. It is difficult to teach someone who is not present. Thus, there is a close relationship between poor attendance and class failure. Also, employers hesitate to hire a student with poor attendance records. The following policy has been designed and adopted to provide a framework for ensuring responsible attendance by all students and to encourage students to stay in school by providing opportunity for recovery of lost credit.

1. Attendance must by checked by school personnel to determine the cause of absence. Causes of absence may be ascertained by telephone calls to parents or by home visits. IMPORTANT: Parents or guardians should telephone the school (323-4295) before 9:00 AM the morning of the absence. Written verification will be accepted from students who have no phone. If no contact has been received by 9:00 AM, parents may be contacted at home or work to verify the absence. Absentees with no parental verification may be considered truant.

2. In the event that a student is absent for the third (3rd) time from a class, the student and his/her parent or legal guardian, shall be notified of the student's total absences as of the date of the mailing. After the sixth (6th) day of absence from a class by a student, the student and his/her parent or legal guardian will be notified that the student will be assigned to summer school. With the notification, all credit for classes affected by the attendance violation will be withheld until completion of the summer school assignment.

3. Absences by a student of six (6) days or more in one semester per class shall cause the student to be notified of placement in summer school. For purposes of placement, the guidelines are as follows:

A. Total absences from six (6) to ten (10) days - two (2) consecutive weeks of summer school. Students may attend the entire summer school and earn credit.

B. Total absences over ten (10) days - four (4) consecutive weeks of summer school.

Core courses only. No credit may be earned for the summer school courses.

C. Total absences over fifteen (15) days - loss of credit for high school students - referral to promotion/retention committee for middle school students.

4. Students must attend all assigned summer school classes, maintain appropriate behavior, meet attendance requirements, and successfully pass each class offering. Any student, who does not properly complete the summer school assignment, will not be able to earn credit for the classes affected by attendance violations.

5. The school administration reserves the right to review continuous absences for medical reasons. Students whose illness necessitates an absence of ten (10) or more consecutive school days may have the option of applying for homebound instruction. This may be provided upon the request of the student or parent, approval of the student's physician, and approval of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

6. After notification of summer school assignment, the student or his/her parent or legal guardian may file an appeal in writing within five (5) school days of the date of the notice. Upon receipt of the appeal request, the principal will set a hearing date with the attendance appeals committee for the purpose of consideration of the student's appeal. The committee shall consist of the principal, school social worker/guidance counselor, two teachers, and two students (the principal will be an ex-officio member and will not vote). The student will be required to provide competent evidence to substantiate the appeal. The decision of the appeal committee may be appealed to the superintendent, and finally to the board of education.

7. Students who transfer from other schools will have absences transferred and applied to the attendance policy of Van Buren R-1 Schools. The appeals process will be the same for all students, including transfer students.

8. Continued abuse of the attendance policy after assignment to summer school or loss of credit may result in assignment to the Alternative School Program for the remainder of the semester. Students under the age of sixteen (16) may also be served with a notice of warning to meet with the 37th Judicial Circuit Juvenile Officer and a school representative. Absences occurring after that meeting may result in charges being filed by the Juvenile Office for non-compliance with the Missouri Compulsory Attendance Law 167.031 or referral to the Division of Family Services for educational neglect by way of the hotline.

9. Absences for school sponsored or sanctioned activities will be exempt.

10. Students are not allowed to participate in school activities without special approval from the principal if they are absent any part of the day of the activity. Parents or student must make an effort to receive the necessary approval from the principal as soon as the absence is known.

11. Students attending Poplar Bluff Vocational School or any other off-campus instruction will be held to the same attendance standards as students on the Van Buren campus.

Any student arriving at school after classes have started must obtain an admit slip from the office before reporting to class.

Adopted: July 29, 2003

Van Buren R-1 School District

ATTENDANCE APPEALS BOARD

Any high school student who loses credit due to a violation of the attendance policy may request a personal appearance before an Attendance Appeals Board. This board will be composed of principal, attendance officer, school social worker/guidance counselor, two teachers, and two students (the principal will be an ex-officio member and will not vote). This board will convene as requested. The appeals procedure is as follows:

1. Students must file written notice of intent to appeal within five school days of notification of their sixth absence.

2. Students are responsible for meeting with the Appeals Board at the designated time and providing all documentation necessary for a proper review. This would include notes from doctor, courts, or other agencies and may include notes and excuses on file in principal's office.

3. The student must appear in person and may be represented by an eligible guardian during the appeal.

4. The decision of the appeals committee may be appealed to the superintendent, and finally to the board of education.

PROCEDURE FOLLOWING AN ABSENCE

1. Bring note or other proper documentation from home.

2. Obtain admit slip from principal's office.

3. Ask all teachers to sign your admit slip.

4. Leave your admit slip with your 7th period teacher.

Upon return to school following an absence, the student will report to the office and obtain an admit slip which is to be signed by all teachers of classes from which you were absent.

You will need a dated note from and signed by your parent/guardian detailing your absence, giving reason and dates of absence(s). When possible, you should provide notes from doctor, dentist, court, or any agency that can attest to the reason for your absence. These notes will be filed and may be used later for review by the attendance appeals committee should you forfeit credit for inadequate attendance.

MAKE-UP WORK FOLLOWING AN ABSENCE

The school suggests that when it appears a student is going to be absent for three or more days, the parents contact the school office and explain what schoolwork the student is able to do. If needed, the office will arrange for homework assignments that may be picked up by the parents or sent home by another student. (For extended absence)

A. Student will be entitled to make up work upon request to the teacher. The request for "make-up work" must be made prior to or on the day the student returns to class -- not days or weeks later. It is the student's responsibility to make this request.

B. Maximum time allowed for completion of assignments will be the same as the number of days absent plus one additional day.

C. Students who are absent on a test day will take the test on the day they return to class only if the test had previously been announced. Otherwise, it may be delayed one class day.

D. Incomplete Grades -- In the event a student received an INCOMPLETE in a course at the end of the first semester, he/she must complete all work within a two-week period after the end of the semester; otherwise an "F" will be recorded on his permanent record card. At the end of the second semester, all work shall be completed by the time the final exams are finished. Cases of extended illness will be considered individually.

E. Students absent from school on school-sponsored trips should contact teachers to make arrangements for "make-up work" BEFORE the trip is taken.

LEAVING CAMPUS - EARLY DISMISSAL

This is a closed campus. You are not to leave the campus without proper authorization and signing out through the office. Visitors other than parents are not allowed.

Any student who finds it necessary to leave school between the time of his/her arrival in the morning and the close of school in the afternoon must report to the principal's office, obtain permission to leave and sign out. Confirmation from the parent by note or phone is required. NEVER LEAVE THE CAMPUS WITHOUT FIRST REPORTING TO THE PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE OBTAINING PERMISSION AND SIGNING OUT. Failure to follow this procedure, regardless, of the excuse presented after the absence, will be a punishable offense. Class periods missed will be made up in after school detention or Alternative School. Notes for early dismissals must be turned in to the office the first thing in the morning. You will then receive an Early Dismissal Slip for your teacher.

ABSENT DAY OF ACTIVITY

Students who are absent on the day of a social, athletic or other school - sponsored activity will not be allowed to participate (or attend) in that activity unless arrangements have been made beforehand with the principal's office. If you are too ill to come to school, you are too ill to participate in extra-curricular activities. Students absent from detention are also not allowed to attend extra-curricular activities.

ENROLLMENT REQUIREMENTS

Students may enroll in Van Buren High School as per provisions of Missouri School Laws and the Safe Schools Act.

Students will be enrolled in seven periods. A student will not be enrolled or re-enrolled if he/she is under suspension or expulsion from another school, is not a legal resident of the district, or has missed too much of a school term as to receive credit as per the Board of Education Policy.

Ninth grade students must enroll in at least six units of credit to include Science, Social Studies, Math, and English and P.E./Health.

Senior students are required to pass a total of five units of credit their senior year.

Any student not having adequate credits to graduate as a senior may return to school the following year and take only the courses needed to graduate (the five unit minimum for regular seniors is waived). The student will be under the graduation requirement for the year in which he or she actually graduates. The diploma will be issued only at regular Commencement.

A student who has not met the required number of credits to be classified as a 10th, 11th, or 12th grade student by the first day of that school year may not participate in that grade's activities, including senior trip. A senior needing to take independent study to graduate must do so in consultation with the counselor and principal.

GRADE CLASSIFICATION

A pupil achieves Freshman standing upon entrance to Van Buren R-1 High School, after satisfactorily completing eighth grade. A pupil advances to Sophomore standing after a year's attendance in a high school program and accumulation of five (5) credits. If a pupil has graduated from a junior high school which included 9th grade level, that student will be enrolled as a Sophomore. A pupil achieves Junior classification after two years' attendance and the accumulation of (10) credits. In order to be classified as a Senior there must be completion of three years' attendance and accumulation of sixteen (16) credits -- or sufficient credits to complete requirements with enrollment.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Graduation requirements for the Van Buren R-1 School District shall be a minimum of 23 units of credit completed during grades nine and above. (Note: A maximum of two credits may be earned from correspondence, summer school, and college courses)

Language Arts 3 units

Social Studies 3 units

Mathematics 2 units

Science 2 units

Fine Arts 1 unit

Practical Arts 1 unit

Physical Education and Health 1 unit

Electives 10 units

Total 23 units

Core area courses may be taken in summer school to meet a required credit only if that student has taken and failed the course during the regular school year. Otherwise, the course will count as an elective credit for the purposes of meeting graduation requirements.

COURSE SEQUENCING

9^th Grade: 10^th Grade:

World History/World Geography Government

Physical Science Biology

English I English II

Math Math

Physical Education/Health 3 Electives

2 Electives

11^th Grade: 12^th Grade:

American History 7 Electives

English III

5 Electives

COLLEGE PREPARATORY STUDIES CERTIFICATE

To be awarded a College Preparatory Studies Certificate by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Van Buren Schools, a student will:

1. Complete a rigorous high school program cooperatively planned by the school, the student, and the student's parents, which includes at least the following:

Subjects Unit

English/Language Arts 4*

Mathematics 3*

Science 2*

Social Studies 3*

Fine Arts 1*

Practical Arts 1

Physical Education 1

General Electives 6

Specified Core Electives 3

Specified Core Electives are units in Foreign Language and/or additional advanced courses from * areas and/or advanced vocational-technical courses and computer (two units of the same foreign language are strongly suggested).

Dual credit courses may count toward core curriculum requirements.

2. Earn at least an 8.25 grade point average (GPA) in the combined subject areas of English/Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. This GPA is to be determined at the end of the student's seventh semester of high school.

3. Score above the national average of the American College Test (ACT) or the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT).

STUDENT EVALUATION

Quarter grades will be given on achievements which could include daily work response, test scores, notebooks, class contribution, term papers, etc. and are an indication of how a student is doing at a certain time during the school year. A student's semester grade is an accumulation and combination of all grades throughout an 18-week period. Up to 10% of a course grade may result from daily quizzes and other incidental work used to evaluate how well students have mastered that day’s objectives. That work may not be made-up, making regular attendance even more important. A semester exam will be given in each class worth 10% to 20% of the semester grade unless otherwise approved by the principal. Summer school courses will count in a student’s GPA, college courses will not.

GRADING SCALE

100-96 = A Weighted Subjects: A 13

95-91 = A- (2 Grade Points) A- 12

90-88 = B+ B+ 11

87-84 = B Adv. Biology B 10

83-81 = B- Adv. Physical Sci. B- 9

80-78 = C+ English IV C+ 8

77-74 = C Math Analysis C 7

73-71 = C- Physics C- 6

70-68 = D+ Calc/Trig D+ 5

67-64 = D Foreign Language D 4

63-60 = D- D- 3

59-0 = F F 0

GRADE REPORT

Computer generated grade reports will be mailed to students/parents at Mid-Quarter and the end of each quarter/semester. Students with outstanding bills may have grades withheld until they have met their financial obligations.

Because of many factors, some students perform at a higher level than the average student does. In an effort to make the curriculum more meaningful and challenging, Van Buren School offers some courses for advanced credit. Advanced courses will require a higher quality of work and will offer thirteen (13) grade points for consideration toward the honor roll, Salutatorian, and Valedictorian. Regular courses offer eleven (11) grade points.

A - Excellent D - Inferior F * No Credit Attendance

B - Superior F - Failure Below Minimum

C - Average FW - Failure, Withdrew

HONOR ROLL

Students who earn grades that calculate to an 8.0 grade point average or above and have no grade lower than a C- shall be named to the Honor Roll.

SCHOLARS LIST

Students who earn grades that calculate to a 10.0 grade point average or above and have no grade lower than a B- shall be named to the Scholars List.

CLASS TRANSFER OR DROP

First 10 days of semester: No penalty for dropping a class during this period.

11th day through the end of the 1st or 3rd quarter: If the student is failing at the time of dropping, he/she will receive an F for the semester. If the student is passing at the time of dropping, he/she will not receive an F for the semester but will also not receive any credit for the class.

During the 2nd and 4th quarters: Dropping a class during the 2nd or 4th quarters will result in an F for the semester in that class.

Students dropping a class after the 10-day deadline will normally be transferred into study hall. If a study hall does not exist that period, then it is at the administration's discretion as to where the student will be placed. Transfers into a credit class after the 10-day deadline must have the recommendation of the teacher of that class and the approval of the administration.

Students may be dropped from a class by recommendation of the teacher/counselor and approval of the principal.

ACADEMIC BANQUET

An academic banquet sponsored by the Van Buren R-I Teachers’ Groups and the Van Buren R-I Board of Education will be held annually. This banquet will honor the top ten percent of the Van Buren R-I High School, based on enrollment at semester or third quarter, which ever is larger. This honor is for the current year only and is based on the students’ first semester and third quarter grades. The semester grade is used to reflect semester finals. Student standings are calculated by adding semester GPA twice, then adding the third quarter GPA to that number and dividing by three.

In order to qualify for this honor, students must be enrolled in a minimum number of core academic courses: Mathematics, Science, Communication Arts, Social Studies, and Foreign Languages

Seniors – 2
Juniors – 3
Sophomores – 4
Freshmen – 4

Advanced courses that are technical/practical/vocational in nature such as business/computer related courses, practical arts courses, fine arts courses and physical education courses do not qualify as core academic courses. Summer school and college courses do not count toward the minimum requirements. Non-graded courses taken for credit (Example: PLATO) do not count toward the minimum requirements.

Core, dual credit courses taken during the regular school day will count toward minimum requirements. Core, high school level courses taken for a grade, through alternative media during the regular school day (Example: ITV) will count toward minimum requirements.

Foreign exchange students and students transferring into the district after the first quarter are not eligible for the academic banquet.

The student with the highest GPA is named Student of the Year. An individual plaque is awarded to that student and a nameplate with that student’s name and year will be added to the Outstanding Student Plaque located in the Gymnasium complex. All other honorees will receive an academic patch and bar the first year they receive this honor. Subsequent years only a bar will be awarded.

Attendance at the Academic Banquet is limited to student honorees and their parents. Due to space limitations siblings and other family members are not included on the Academic Banquet guest list.

PROCEDURE FOR WITHDRAWING FROM VAN BUREN R-1 SCHOOL

Parents should notify the school prior to withdrawal of their child from school, either for transfer or other reasons. All books should be returned and any fees paid. Any deposit due will be refunded only if the student has followed the proper checkout procedure and cleared all records. Transcripts will not be sent until all bills are paid. Students must have parental permission to withdraw from school.

STUDENT OBLIGATIONS

All student obligations to the school must be taken care of before a student will receive grade reports. Such obligations include but are not limited to book fines, materials checked out to the student, shop bills, other financial obligations, and disciplinary obligations. Textbooks that are lost or damaged must also be paid for. If a student does not take care of these obligations, grades may not be recorded on permanent records or would be recorded as Incomplete. Senior students having an obligation to the school upon graduation will not receive a diploma or be eligible to have records/transcripts mailed to prospective employers or educational institutions until the obligations have been met. * Students who do not make arrangements to pay activity bills by the end of a school year may not be eligible to participate the following year until arrangements have been made.

SCHOOL SAFETY

The safety of the students and staff at Van Buren High School is of utmost importance to the education of the students. Students should report to a teacher, counselor, or principal any threats of violence as soon as the threat has been made. All threats involving weapons or the possibility of serious injury or death should be taken seriously and reported immediately.

REQUIREMENTS TO BE A CLASS OR CLUB OFFICER

Each class or club shall elect officers. The offices should include at least President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer. In order to qualify to hold a class or club office, the student shall:

1. Have made a "C" average or better the previous semester.

2. Maintain at least a "C" average each quarter he or she holds the office.

3. Be a good school citizen as determined by teachers, principal, and superintendent.

GUIDANCE

The counselor is available to assist in many areas that might concern students during their high school career. Such areas might include: (1) improve study habits (2) solve personal problems which interfere with school success; (3) provide information about individual abilities, achievements, and interests; (4) select an occupational area; (5) solve problems with fellow students or teachers; (6) plan the high school program; and (7) plan for additional training or job placement after high school.

All students are urged to visit the counseling center and make use of the educational information, career materials, and counseling services available. Appointments to see the counselor may be made in the guidance office before and after school, during study halls, or between classes. If the counselor is unavailable, sign the list in the counselor's office and return to class. Someone will come for you when the counselor can see you.

PE POLICY

The basic objective of physical education is participation by the students. Therefore, if student does not "dress out", he or she is not fulfilling a basic requirement of the course.

The dress policy is as follows:

If a student fails to dress out for a second time in a semester without a valid excuse, he or she will be assigned to detention study hall for one hour for each "no dress". Five or more no-dresses may result in failure for the semester and removal from class. Students are required to have "gym shoes" that are not the shoes they normally wear outside.

STUDENT APPEARANCE

A student's individual appearance is important. All students are expected to come to school clean and neat in appearance. If you are dressed properly, you will be more at ease and will be able to study more readily. Many of our visitors will judge our school and community by the appearance of the students as well as their conduct. Dress appropriately; avoid extremes. Final decision as to what is acceptable lies with the administration. The following items will be considered unacceptable for all students:

1. Headgear (hats, caps, bandannas, etc.) is not to be worn inside school buildings except on special days as designated.

2. Bare feet, altered (torn or cut) clothing, and any clothing that is a distraction to the educational process.

3. Patches or suggestive writing on clothing or hats having vulgar, sexual, drug or alcohol connotations.

4. Sunglasses are not to be worn in the school buildings.

5. Student midriffs (bellies and backs) may not be exposed at any time, whether the student is standing or sitting.

6. Open sided shirts or those that expose cleavage may not be worn.

7. Short shorts or short skirts may not be worn. (Short is defined as anything approximately less than half way to the knee).

All students are expected to follow the above guidelines. In addition, students who participate in athletics or other school activities are subject to their coach's or their sponsor's desire for grooming. Determinations as to what clothing is distracting and/or inappropriate shall be made by the building principal.

GRADUATION ATTIRE

The commencement exercise is a very important part of a Senior's passage into adulthood. Because of the importance and sanctity of the event, students will be expected to be properly attired. Tennis shoes, shorts, or T-shirts are not acceptable. Appropriate cap and gown are required and must be of the type selected by the class to be worn at that year’s commencement ceremony. The principal and/or sponsors have the right to prohibit a student from participating until properly attired.

PROM ATTIRE

The junior/senior prom is a formal affair and formal attire is required. Male students are to be dressed in suit and tie, female students in a dress. Any student who has difficulty meeting this dress code should inform the principal well in advance so accommodations can be made.

SENIOR PICTURES

Seniors wishing to have their picture in the yearbook and in the composite for the big picture in the hall must have their picture taken by the school's designated photographer at the designated time. This picture will be free and will be used solely for this purpose. Seniors may also purchase pictures at this time or they may purchase them elsewhere. There is a deadline that must be met with the yearbook company and with the photography company. After the deadline, it is not possible to be in the yearbook or in the composite.

SENIOR FUNDRAISING

The purpose of fundraising for seniors is to allow students to raise the necessary funds to pay for the cost of the senior trip. It is not intended to put unnecessary financial pressure on parents, businesses, and others in our community. With that in mind, students are given the opportunity to raise the cost of the senior trip plus spending money. Spending money shall be limited to $100.00 per student. Seniors, who wish to continue raising money after paying for their trip and raising $100.00 spending money, may contribute to other seniors.

PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION

As part of the responsibility of the school community, students are expected to exercise discretion in the public display of affection. The sensibilities of other individuals present must be given consideration. No physical contact beyond handholding is allowed.

RESPECT

As part of their responsibility to the school community students are expected to exercise discretion in their use of language. The sensibilities of other individuals present must be given consideration.

MEDICATIONS

Generally, students in grades 6-12 will be allowed to carry a day's dose of medication to self-medicate as needed. This medication should be carried in the original container and includes any over-the counter medication such as Tylenol or cough syrup.

It is the student’s responsibility to supply the necessary over-the-counter medication and self-medicate themselves. However, in emergency cases, the school nurse can give over-the-counter medications with parental permission.

The school does reserve the right to require a doctor's written prescription for any medication carried onto school grounds. The school also reserves the right to require that certain medications be stored and administered through the health office only.

LIBRARY SERVICES

The school library will be open each day from 8:30 A.M. to 3:05 P.M. Pupils may check out books before school, after school, during study hall, and at specific times designated by the classroom teacher. The library may or may not be open during lunchtime depending on the availability of supervision.

All books and other materials must be checked out at the central circulation desk. Students who leave the library with materials without checking them out will not be allowed future use of the library. Returns should be made to the library assistant on duty.

Students are encouraged to use the library to check out books, do research work, or study. Assistance with Info-Trac or other computer-based research may be obtained from the librarian on duty.

HALL PASSES

All students are required to have a hall pass anytime they are out of the classroom during normal instruction time. The pass is to be filled out completely and signed by the teacher. Passes are to be returned to the teacher. The principal to determine which students might be abusing the privilege may review these passes.

SCHOOL BUS RULES

Bus drivers are in full charge of the buses and you are expected to comply with their requests. Normal conversation is expected while on the bus. On field trips and trips to ball games, the teacher-sponsor will be in complete charge. Students who refuse to promptly obey the directions of the driver, or sponsor or willfully violate established bus rules might forfeit their privilege to ride the school bus.

Pupils must be on time; the bus cannot wait beyond its regular schedule for late students.

Pupils are not permitted to depart the bus until they arrive at their destination, except when written instructions from parents or office are received, they are to be initialed and returned to the administration.

Follow these bus rules:

1. The bus driver may assign seats.

2. Be courteous

3. No profanity

4. Do not eat or drink on the bus; Keep the bus clean.

5. Violence is prohibited.

6. Remain seated.

7. No smoking.

8. Keep your hands and head inside the bus.

9. Do not destroy property.

10. For your own safety, do not distract the driver through misbehavior.

MISBEHAVIOR ON THE BUS

Consequences are at the discretion of the principal depending on the circumstances, age, and maturity level and discipline history of the student. Students may be removed upon receiving their second discipline notice at the discretion of the building principal.

Violations of the student discipline code may call for specific penalties as per student handbook policies. Serious misbehavior on the bus may also be cause for punishment up to and including suspension or expulsion from school.

TRANSPORTATION FOR SCHOOL SPONSORED ACTIVITIES

Students will be required to use transportation provided by the school district to and from the designated activity. Exceptions to this require prior coordination through the sponsor and/or principal. This regulation is a safety precaution and should be considered a benefit to our students. All activity buses will have an adult sponsor and regular bus rules will be followed.

NUSIANCE ITEMS

Students are not to bring cell-phones, pagers, radios, tape players, electronic games, or other toys to school. These items will be collected by the teachers or principal and placed in the office until the principal releases them to the parent or student to be taken home. The principal will decide to whom the property is to be released.

CELL PHONES

Advances in cellular telephone technology have resulted in new problems being created by student possession of cell phones while at school. Due to their ability to photograph, cell phones can constitute an invasion of privacy. As a result the Missouri State High School Activities Association has banned cell phones from locker room areas during athletic events. Academic dishonesty has also become a factor as students are able to clandestinely communicate. Probably the most common misuse of cell phones is the same problem that parents have at home; students are talking on the phone when they should be doing other things. Every classroom in the Van Buren R-I School District is equipped with a telephone for emergency use. Student cell phones are prohibited at school.

GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP

All school personnel shall encourage and display good sportsmanship and require good sportsmanship of all students who represent the school in activities. Any student or spectator who refuses to conduct himself/herself in a reasonable manner at a school activity may, at the discretion of the Board of Education, be barred from further attending any other school activity for a period of one year. The Administration reserves the right to suspend students from attending athletic activities at both home and away events for infractions of misconduct.

VISITORS

All visitors to the building must check in through the principal's office. Parents are welcome to visit the school at any time. They are also requested to come to the principal's office upon entering the building. Prior arrangements should be made for conferences with teachers, etc. Visitation of classes by students or youth not enrolled at Van Buren is prohibited. The principal must approve any deviation from this policy.

PHONE CALLS

All calls for students will be placed through the principal's office. Any other use of school phones is prohibited and may result in disciplinary action. A student will only be called to take a telephone call in the event of an emergency. All other calls or messages will be taken by the secretary and forwarded to the student. There is a pay telephone located in the cafeteria for student use

WHO PAYS THE DOCTOR?

The school is in no way liable for medical expenses incurred from an accidental injury while in attendance during the regular school day or in attendance or participation in any school sponsored activity.

Parents may purchase insurance provided through the school as an aid in helping to reduce expenses that may occur. It is recommended that all students have either school provided insurance or adequate family insurance to cover medical expenses.

INSURANCE PROGRAM

Insurance is available to all members of the student body at a nominal cost. All students participating in athletics must be covered by insurance. This may be their own insurance policy or the insurance available to the student body.

ILLNESS OR ACCIDENT AT SCHOOL

A student who becomes ill at school is to inform his/her teacher who will have them report to the principal's office. All accidents are to be reported by the teacher or student. NO STUDENT IS TO LEAVE THE BUILDING WITHOUT FIRST REPORTING TO THE OFFICE. If a student is too ill to remain in school, the school nurse will contact the parent/guardian.

DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE COUNSELING

The unlawful possession and use of alcohol and other drugs is both wrong and harmful. Information about counseling and rehabilitation programs is available in the counselor's office.

DRIVING AND PARKING

Driving a car to school is a privilege. For this privilege the student must show a willingness to comply with all school regulations. Any disregard of parking regulations may result in disciplinary action. Students are to park in the parking lot in front of the school. The faculty lot is only to be used for overflow parking. Students are not to be sitting in their automobiles from arrival to departure, including during the lunch period. Violation of this can result in detention or loss of driving privileges. Student parking is available on campus and parking off-campus is allowed only when absolutely necessary. All vehicles are subject to search.

LUNCH AND CAFETERIA

There are two lunch shifts:

Middle School 11:08 - 11:29 High School 12:02 - 12:23

Students may either purchase their lunch in the cafeteria or bring a "sack lunch". DO NOT bring food or drink items into the main building or gymnasium. The school operates on a closed campus basis and students are not allowed to leave the campus for lunch.

Students are expected to practice the general rules of good table manners. Students misbehaving in or out of the cafeteria are subject to disciplinary action. No "line cutting" is allowed. Students are not to return to the main building during lunch without permission.

STUDENT VALUABLES -- USE OF LOCKERS

Students are cautioned not to bring large amounts of money, radios, cameras, etc., to school. Coats, gym clothes, shoes, etc. should be marked with pupil's name for identification. STUDENTS, NOT THE SCHOOL, ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR PERSONAL PROPERTY. If it is necessary to bring large amounts of money to school, it may be left in the principal's office during school day for safekeeping. During class or organizational sales campaigns, students are cautioned to take special care of their sales items and funds. Students should not leave valuables in their lockers.

Lockers will be assigned and students are NOT to use other lockers. If a pupil desires to use a lock, one key (or combination) must remain at the principal's office. The school reserves the right to inspect the contents of lockers at any time, and may remove any illicit items designed to obstruct the educational process or create discipline problems.

DO NOT LEAVE VALUABLES IN YOUR LOCKER!!!

REVIEW OF STUDENT RECORDS

An eligible student (18 years of age of older) or the parents/guardians will have access to the student's records under administrative supervision during those times the school is normally in session unless other arrangements have been made.

SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Students are encouraged to attend and support school activities, however students are not allowed to loiter on campus during those activities. Students attending basketball games are not allowed to leave and re-enter without receiving permission from the gate person or administrator in charge before leaving.

PROM

Prom night is a very big night for many high school students. In order for an event of this magnitude to be a success there must be some planning. A few simple guidelines are universal and apply every year:

1. Juniors must have their dues paid in order to attend the prom.

2. Middle school students are not allowed to attend.

3. Guests other than students at Van Buren High School must have the prior approval of the administration.

4. The prom is a formal affair and students will not be allowed to change into “more comfortable” clothing at any time during the prom.

5. When you leave the prom, you may not return.

Also, please be reminded that the prom is a school activity and all school rules do apply. Do not ruin your prom night by doing something inappropriate.

The Grand March gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your maturity and to show the public what you look like “all dressed up”. All students are encouraged to participate.

CLASS DUES

Class dues are set at the following levels:

Freshmen $ 5 per semester

Sophomores $10 per semester

Juniors $15 per semester

Seniors No Dues

STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Board of Education believes that students have rights, which should be recognized and respected. It also believes that every right carries with it certain responsibilities. Among these student rights and responsibilities are the following:

The right to attend free public schools; the responsibility to attend school regularly and to observe school policies, rules and regulations deemed essential for permitting others to learn at school.

The right to a quality education; the responsibility to put forth the best efforts during the educational process.

Civil rights -- Including the rights to equal educational opportunity and freedom from discrimination; the responsibility not to discriminate against others.

The right to free inquiry and expression; the responsibility to observe reasonable rules and regulations regarding these rights.

The right to privacy, which includes privacy in respect to the student's school records.

It is the Board's belief that, as part of the educational process, students should be made aware of their legal rights and of the legal authority of the Board to make and delegate authority to its staff and to make rules and regulations regarding the orderly operation of the district schools. If the policy guidelines adopted by the Board are to be successful, it must be understood that school officials and teachers have the authority to interpret and apply policy in a given situation. Students must obey any such interpretation, subject to an appeal.

We expect every staff member to be treated with respect and dignity just as the student should receive the respect of the staff. It is imperative that the teacher is in charge of the class, and anything less would lead to a poor educational opportunity for all. A show of disrespect toward a staff member or insubordination on the part of the student will not, under any circumstances, be tolerated. Staff is responsible for supervision of students anywhere on school property and at school sponsored activities.

As deemed necessary the building principal may call for a review of student violations by the Building Discipline Committee and ask for their recommendations with respect to corrective and punitive action.

STUDENT DISCIPLINE

The Student Code of Conduct is designed to foster student responsibility and respect for the rights of others, and to insure the orderly operation of district schools. No code can be expected to list each and every offense that may result in the use of disciplinary action. However, it is the purpose of the Code to list certain offenses that, if committed by a student, will result in the imposition of a specific penalty. Since no written code may cover all contingencies, building principals may vary from these written policies based on circumstances, age/maturity level, and past discipline history of students involved.

It is an established fact that good student control is needed for the learning process to occur. Anything that disrupts the classroom to the extent that learning cannot take place is a discipline problem. Gross misconduct will be handled immediately. In most discipline matters, the stipulated steps will be utilized; however, the administrator may progress to any step as the situation warrants.

Unusual situations not covered in the stated plan will be handled as deemed appropriate by the building principal, or referred to the superintendent of schools as the circumstance may warrant. In extraordinary circumstances where the minimum consequence is judged by the superintendent or designee to be manifestly unfair or not in the interest of the district, the superintendent or designee may reduce the consequences listed in this policy, as allowed by law.

Due Process

Section 167.171, RsMo. provides for the following rights:

1. The right to written notice of charges

2. If the charges are denied, the right to a written explanation of the facts supporting the charges.

3. The right to present the student's own version of the incident.

4. The right to a hearing before the Board if the suspension imposed is to last more than 10 days.

5. The right to reinstatement pending a Board hearing, unless, in judgement of the superintendent, the student's presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property or an on-going threat of disrupting the academic process.

PROCEDURES FOR STUDENTS CLAIMING DISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF RACE, SEX, CREED, COLOR, AGE, NATIONAL ORIGIN, OR HANDICAP.

The Van Buren School District R-1, in compliance with Title VI, Title IX, and Section 04, of the Education Amendments of 1972, has implemented the following procedure for students claiming discrimination on the basis of Race, Sex, Age, Creed, Color, National employment in its programs and activities.

Informal Procedures:

1. Verbal communications of alleged discrimination shall be made directly to the teacher or other school employee directly involved.

2. Unresolved complaints may be taken directly to the appropriate building administrator after a reasonable time.

3. Complaints not resolved in the informal stages may be presented as formal charges.

Formal Procedures:

1. Students, accompanied by parents, may present discrimination complaints in writing to the school principal. Students and parents or legal guardians must sign written complaints. Written complaints must include the following information: date of filing, description of alleged grievances, and the names of the school staff involved.

2. Upon receipt of formal complaint the Principal will:

a. Forward copies of the complaint to the Superintendent of schools.

b. Make a decision and notify the student, parents, and Superintendent of Schools of that decision no later than ten (10) days following the filling of the formal complaint.

3. Students and parents or legal guardian may appeal the decision of the building principal to the Superintendent of Schools. The parents and students may arrange a conference with the Superintendent of Schools at their earliest convenience. Parents and students may appear together and present their written report of the decision of the building Principal. Notification of the action taken by the Superintendent will be given in writing to the students, parents, and Principal within five (5) school days of this conference.

4. Students and parents may appeal the decision of the Superintendent of Schools to the Board of Education by notifying the Superintendent of Schools of their intent and by appearing before the Board of Education at the next regularly scheduled or special called meeting. The hearing before the Board of Education may be conducted in Executive Session upon the request of either the Board of Education or the complaining parents and students.

PROHIBITED CONDUCT

The following are descriptions of prohibited conduct as well as potential consequences for violation. These consequences are guidelines which may be modified by the principal on a case-by-case basis based on individual student’s age, maturity level, past history and attitude. In addition to the consequences specified here, school officials will notify law enforcement and document violations in the student’s discipline file pursuant to law and board policy.

1. ALCOHOL (See Board policies JFCH and JHCD)

a. Possession of or attendance under the influence of alcohol on school property or at school activities.

1st Offense: 5-7 days ASP, 16-24 school service hours.

2nd Offense: 10-180 days suspension

b. Sale, purchase, or distribution of alcohol.

1st Offense: 10-180 days suspension

2nd Offense: Expulsion

2. ARSON - Starting a fire or attempting to start a fire. Causing an explosion or attempting to cause an explosion with the intent to damage property or buildings.

1st Offense: 10-180 days suspension or expulsion Restitution

2nd Offense: Expulsion. Restitution

3. ASSAULT

a. Attempting to cause injury to another person; intentionally placing a person in reasonable apprehension of imminent physical injury. Physically injuring another person.

1st Offense: 1-3 days detention, 1-3 days ASP, 1-180 days suspension, or expulsion

2nd Offense: 1-5 days suspension, 3 days ASP, 10-180 days suspension or expulsion

Subsequent: 1-10 days ASP, 1-180 days suspension or expulsion

b. Attempting to kill or cause serious physical injury to another.

1st Offense: Expulsion

4. ATTENDING SCHOOL ACTIVITY ON THE DAY OF AN ABSENCE

Students who are absent on the day of a social, athletic, or other school-sponsored activity are not allowed to attend or participate in that activity unless prior arrangements have been made with the principal. This includes both "home" and "away" activities.

1st Offense: 1 day detention or 1 day ASP

2nd Offense: 2 days detention or 2 days ASP

3rd Offense: 1-5 days detention or 3 days ASP

5. AUTOMOBILE/VEHICLE MISUSE – Uncourteous or unsafe driving on or around school property, failure to follow directions given by school officials. Examples: (Spinning Tires, Speeding, Revving Engine, Driving on the Grass or Sidewalks, Load Stereos)

1^st Offense: 30 days of car keys in office during school hours. Suspension or revocation of parking privileges, detention, or 3 days ASP.

2^nd Offense: 60 days of keys in office during school hours. Suspension or revocation of parking privileges or 5 days ASP.

3^rd Offense: Revocation of parking privileges and/or 10 days ASP.

6. BRINGING NUISANCE ITEMS TO SCHOOL - Examples are: electronic games or stereos, pagers, laser pointers, water guns, whistles, etc.

All Offenses: Confiscation of item, not to be returned to the pupil

7. BULLYING – repeated and systematic intimidation, harassment and attacks on a student or multiple students perpetrated by individuals or groups. Bullying includes but is not limited to: physical violence, verbal taunts, name-calling and put-downs, threats, extortion or theft, damaging property, or exclusion from a peer group.

1st Offense: 1-3 days detention or 1-180 days out-of-school suspension

Subsequent: 1-180 days out-of-school suspension

8. BUS MISCONDUCT – Any offense committed by a student on transportation provided by or through the district shall be punished in the same manner as if the offense had been committed at the student’s assigned school. In addition, transportation privileges may be suspended or revoked.

9. CELL PHONES – Possession of cell phones, whether in use or not, on school property during the school day or in locker room areas at any time.

1^st Offense: Principal/Student conference. Confiscation of the cell phone to be returned to the student at the end of the day.

2^nd Offense: Confiscation of the cell phone to be returned only to a parent.

3^rd Offense: Confiscation of the cell phone to be returned only to a parent, 1-3 days ASP

10. CHEATING - This refers to copying answers on both tests and graded class work. Also refers to allowing someone access to one's work for the purpose of copying answers.

1st Offense: Office Referral and a "0" on the material

2nd Offense: 1 day ASP and a "0" on the material

3rd Offense: Loss of credit and/or 3 days ASP, and/or removal from class

11. CUTTING CLASS - Missing or leaving class without permission.

1st Offense: 1 day detention for each period missed or 1 day ASP

2nd Offense: 2 days detention for each period missed or 2 days ASP

3rd Offense: Make up missed time in detention or ASP plus assigned to 2 days ASP

12. DEFIANCE OF SCHOOL OFFICIALS - The refusal to comply with school personnel instructions will be classified as defiance. Cases that are deemed severe may result in immediate suspension from school or class. Any physical aggression toward a school employee will be grounds for expulsion.

1st Offense: 1 to 3 days detention or 2 days ASP

2nd Offense: up to 5 days detention or 3 days ASP

3rd Offense: 5 days ASP and parent conference.

13. DISRESPECT TOWARD SCHOOL OFFICIALS - Disrespect can be in many forms. Disrespect will include any gestures, actions, or speech that can be interpreted as degrading, demeaning, or a test of a school employee's authority. Disrespect may warrant expulsion from a teacher's class for the remainder of a given school term. Any physical aggression toward a school employee will be grounds for expulsion.

1st Offense: 1 to 3 days detention or 2 days ASP

2nd Offense: up to 5 days detention or 3 days ASP

3rd Offense: 5 days ASP and parent conference

14. DRESS CODE – The dress code for students is established for the purposes of maintaining order and decorum in the educational environment, avoiding disruptions in the classroom, promoting discipline and avoiding distractions of other pupils.

1st Offense: The student will be required to change into suitable clothes either provided by the school clothes closet or the student.

2nd Offense: The student will be required to change into suitable clothes either provided by the school clothes closet or the student. 1 Day Detention Detention.

3rd Offense: The student will be required to change into suitable clothes either provided by the school clothes closet or the student. 1-3 Days Detention and parent conference.

15. DRUGS (See Board policies JFCH and JHCD)

a. Possession, sale, purchase or distribution of any over-the-counter drug, herbal preparation or imitation drug or herbal preparation.

1^st Offense: 1-180 days suspension

Subsequent: 1-180 days suspension or expulsion

b. Possession of or attendance under the influence of or soon after consuming any unauthorized prescription drug, alcohol, narcotic substance, unauthorized inhalants, counterfeit drugs, imitation controlled substances or drug-related paraphernalia on school property or at school activities.

1st Offense: 10-180 days suspension

Subsequent: Expulsion

c. Sale, purchase or distribution of any prescription drug, alcohol, unauthorized inhalants, narcotic substance, counterfeit drugs, imitation controlled substances or drug related paraphernalia

1st Offense: Expulsion

UNLAWFUL DISTRIBUTION OF A CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE, ON OR WITHIN TWO-THOUSAND (2,000) FEET OF THE PROPERTY COMPRISING ANY PUBLIC OR PRIVATE SCHOOL IN THE STATE OF MISSOURI, IS A CLASS "A" FELONY PUNISHABLE BY IMPRISONMENT OF NOT LESS THAN TEN (10) YEARS WITHOUT PROBATION OR PAROLE. (MO. STATUTE 195.214)

16. ENDANGERING THE HEALTH OR WELFARE OF ANOTHER STUDENT This refers to a mischievous action that would or could harm another student. Examples are tripping, pushing, throwing items, etc.

1st Offense: 1 to 3 days detention or 1 day ASP

2nd Offense: up to 5 days detention or 3 days ASP

3rd Offense: Up to 10 days ASP, 1-180 days suspension, or expulsion, and possible documentation in student's discipline record*

17. EXTORTION – Threatening or intimidating any person for the purpose of obtaining money or anything of value.

1^st Offense: Detention, ASP, 1-10 days suspension

Subsequent: 1-180 days suspension or expulsion

18. FAILURE TO MEET CONDITIONS OF SUSPENSION – Coming within 1,000 feet of any public school in the district while on suspension for an offense that requires reporting to law enforcement or for an act of school violence or drug related activity defined by the district as a serious violation of the district’s discipline policy.

1^st Offense: Verbal warning, detention, 1-180 days suspension or expulsion.

Subsequent: Verbal warning, detention, 1-180 days suspension or expulsion.

19. FALSE ALARM - Deliberate false alarm that might endanger lives.

1st Offense: 5 days ASP, Restitution

2nd Offense: 10 days ASP, 10-180 days suspension, or expulsion, Restitution

26. SEXUAL HARASSMENT

a. Use of verbal, written, or symbolic language that is sexually harassing.

1st Offense: 3 days detention, 3 days ASP, 1-180 days suspension, or expulsion

2nd Offense: 5 days ASP, 1-180 days suspension, or expulsion

b. Physical contact that is sexually harassing.

1st Offense: 5 days ASP, 1-180 days suspension, or expulsion

2nd Offense: 10-180 days suspension or expulsion

27. TARDIES - Any student who arrives to an assigned class after the tardy bell rings.

1st Offense: Student warned and record kept by teacher

2nd Offense: Assigned to 1 day detention. For each accumulation of 2 tardies in a class a student is to be assigned 1 day detention

28. TECHNOLOGY MISCONDUCT – Attempting, regardless of success, to gain unauthorized access to a technology system or information; to use district technology to connect to other systems in evasion of the physical limitations of the remote system; to copy district files without authorization; to interfere with the ability of others to utilize district technology; to secure a higher level of privilege without authorization; to introduce computer “viruses,” hacking tools or other disruptive/destructive programs onto or using district technology; or to evade or disable a filtering/blocking device.

1^st Offense: Restitution. Loss of user privileges, detention, 1-180 days suspension

Subsequent: Restitution. Loss of user privileges. 1-180 days suspension or expulsion.

29. THEFT – Theft, attempted theft or knowing possession of stolen property

1st Offense: 2 days ASP, and return or restitution

2nd Offense: 5 days ASP. Parent/Principal conference, and return or restitution

3rd Offense: 1-180 days suspension, or expulsion and return or restitution

30. THREATS OR VERBAL ASSAULT – Verbal, written, pictorial or symbolic language or gestures that create a reasonable fear of physical injury or property damage.

1^st Offense: Detention, 1-180 days suspension or expulsion

Subsequent: 1-180 days suspension or expulsion

31. TOBACCO - Use or possession of any tobacco products on school grounds, school transportation, or at any school activity. All offenses result in confiscation.

1st Offense: 2 days detention or 1 day ASP

2nd Offense: 4 days detention or 2 days ASP

3rd Offense: 3 days ASP

DETENTION POLICY

1. Detention Study Hall will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:10 to 4:10 P.M. unless the administration advises differently.

2. Detention Study Hall is an extension of the regular school day and all school policies apply; tardy, truancy, etc.

3. A student assigned to detention is to arrive at the detention classroom on time with a writing utensil and paper. Students are to bring homework and/or reading assignments to be completed in detention. Failure to attend detention correctly can be cause for re-assignment for an additional day.

4. Students absent from detention, unexcused will be assigned one day of alternative school to be served the following day. All excused absences from detention must be made by the building principal in advance. To miss detention without making proper arrangements, just as for any other absence, is considered truancy. Excessive unexcused absences from detention may be handled with long-term assignment to the alternative school program.

Flagrant violations may be referred to the Superintendent and/or the Board of Education for possible suspension or expulsion.

5. Students accumulating 5 detentions during a quarter will be assigned to alternative school according to the following guidelines:

1st Offense: 2 days alternative school

2nd Offense: 5 days alternative school

3rd Offense: 10 days alternative school & parent conference

Flagrant violations may be referred to the Superintendent and/or the Board of Education for possible long-term assignment to alternative school, suspension, or expulsion.

6. Students will not be assigned to detention on the same day, as the infraction occurs in order to allow them overnight to make arrangements for transportation. When a student is assigned to detention, the student will sign a copy of the detention slip with the date the student is to serve the detention clearly marked. A follow-up copy will be mailed home to the parent, however, it is the STUDENT'S responsibility to notify his/her parent and arrange for his/her own transportation.

Middle School ZAP Policy

Zeros Aren’t Permitted (ZAP) is a program designed to increase expectations of students who habitually, or occasionally, fail to get assignments completed on time. It is first and foremost an expectation of a higher scholastic standard for all students. ZAP, which involves the entire staff, clearly emphasizes the belief that assignments/projects are important and must be completed. This program will direct students to utilize their abilities to acquire self-discipline/work habits that will serve them well in an educational setting and hopefully in the future when they enter the workplace. When the belief is expressed and maintained that a student can and will be successful, it follows that the student will meet the expectations. They will take pride in completing assignment and doing it to the best of their ability. Students will hopefully adopt the same value, which translates to success in all areas.

ZAP Procedure

When a student fails to turn in an assignment in a timely manner the teacher will complete a ZAP form to be signed by the teacher, student, and parent stating that the student will turn in the work for partial credit. If a student fails to complete the work in a timely manner the teacher will forward a copy of the ZAP form to the principal. Upon accumulation of two ZAP forms per quarter, the principal will assign the student a minimum of one day in the Alternative School Program. The student will remain in ASP until these assignments and all other daily work are completed. Additional days of ASP will be assigned for each additional ZAP form the principal receives during the remainder of the quarter.

PUBLIC NOTICE

All public schools are required to provide a free and appropriate public education to all students, including those attending private/parochial schools, beginning on the child's third birthday through age twenty (20), regardless of the child's disability. Disabilities include: learning disabilities, mental retardation, behavior disorders/emotional disturbance, speech disorders (voice, fluency, or articulation), language disorders, visually impaired, hearing impaired, physically/other health impaired, multi-handicapped, deaf/blind, autism, early childhood special education, and traumatic brain injury.

The District has developed a Local Compliance Plan for implementation of Special Education and this Plan is available for public review during regular school hours on days school is in session in the Office of the Superintendent of Schools.

Public schools in the State of Missouri are required to conduct an annual census of all children with disabilities or suspected disabilities from birth through age twenty (20) who reside in the District or whose parent/legal guardian resides in the District. This Census is compiled as of May 1 each year. This information is treated as confidential and submitted to the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Information to be collected includes: name of each child, parent/legal guardian's disability or suspected disability. Should the District fail to submit an annual census, the State Board of Education may withhold state aid until the census is submitted. If you have a child with a disability or know of a child with a disability who is not attending the public school, please contact your school district.

ASBESTOS HAZARD EMERGENCY RESPONSE ACT

In compliance with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA), an inspection of our school buildings for asbestos-containing building materials was conducted in 1988. The inspection findings and management plans have been on file in the school administrative offices since that time. The EPA requires us to perform reinspections of the asbestos materials every three years. Our most recent inspection indicated that all asbestos materials in this school are in good condition. We will continue to monitor the condition of the asbestos-containing materials and take appropriate actions when recommended by our accredited asbestos management planner and as required by law.

Public Law 107-110

“No Child Left Behind”

Our district is required to inform you of certain information that you, according to the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (Public Law 107-110) have the right to know.

Upon Your request, our district is required to provide to you in a timely manner, the following information:

Whether the teacher has met state qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction.
Whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which state qualification or licensing criteria have been waived.
Whether your child is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications.
What baccalaureate degree major the teacher has and any other graduate certification or degree held by the teacher, and in the field of discipline of the certification.

In addition to the information that parents may request, districts must provide each individual parent:

Information on the achievement level of the parent’s child in each of the state academic assessments under this part; and
Timely notice that the parent’s child has been assigned, or has been taught for four or more consecutive weeks by, a teacher who is not highly qualified.

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age “eligible students” certain rights with respect to the student’s educational records.

These rights are:

The right to inspect and review the student’s educational records within 45 days of the day the school receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The school official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the principal, clearly identify the record they want changed and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the school decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the parent will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and inform them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s educational records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the school as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel): a person serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the school has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review the record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the school discloses educational records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.

The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the school to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA are the Family Policy Compliance U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20202-4605.

The district has determined to following information regarding the district’s students is not harmful or an invasion of privacy, and therefore will release this information without first obtaining parental consent. If a parent, guardian, or person acting as a student’s parent or guardian in the absence of the parent or guardian, or the student (if 18 or older), does not want the district to release the information listed below, they must notify the district in writing within 10 days of receiving this handbook of the information they do not want released.

The following information may be released without obtaining parental consent:

Students name, parent’s name, address, telephone number, electronic mail address, date and place of birth, grade level major field of study, enrollment status, participation in officially recognized activities and sports including audiovisual or photographic records of the openly visible activities thereof, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees honors and awards received, most recent previous school attended and photograph including photographs of regular school activities that do not disclose specific academic information about the child and/or would no be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy.

DISTRICT MISSION

VAN BUREN R-1 BOARD OF EDUCATION

PROM ATTIRE

RESPECT

PROM

CLASS DUES

Middle School ZAP Policy

ZAP Procedure

PUBLIC NOTICE

ASBESTOS HAZARD EMERGENCY RESPONSE ACT

Public Law 107-110

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT