West Branch, Iowa

“Home of the West Branch Bears”

 

Equal Education Policy	Grades
Faculty and Staff	Expectations for behavior
Purpose Statement	Student Driving/Parking
Attendance	Guidance Counseling
Graduation Requirements	School Records

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EQUAL EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY POLICY

It is the policy of the West Branch Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, creed, color, sex, religion, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or physical disability in its educational programs, activities, or employment policies as required by Title VI and VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, Title IX of the 1972 Education Amendments, the Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and P.L. 94-142

It is also the policy of this district that the curriculum content and instructional materials utilized reflect the cultural and racial diversity present in the United States and the variety of careers, roles and life styles open to women as well as men in our society. One of the objectives of the total curriculum and teaching strategies is to reduce stereotyping and to eliminate bias on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity, religion and physical disability. The curriculum should foster respect and appreciation for the cultural diversity found in our country and awareness of the rights, duties, and responsibilities of each individual as a member of multicultural, nonsexist society.

Responsibility for this policy rests with the Superintendent as the Educational Equity Coordinator and Title IX Compliance Officer for the district. He is responsible to promote and encourage progress in meeting school policy 602.1. Students, parents of the students, and employees of the district have the right to file a formal complaint alleging noncompliance with this policy. All complaints should follow the guidelines established in the grievance procedure outlined in Board policy 602. 1A. All questions and complaints shall be referred to Mr. Artist in the central office. Mr. Artist's phone number is 643-7213.

 

 

FACULTY AND STAFF

Ron Atkinson……………………………………………………Study Hall Supervisor

Lynette Bertolino……..………………………………………………………...Science

Linda Black …………………………………….…………………………….Resource

Bill Brendlinger……………………………….…………………………Social Studies

Doug Cummings……………………………...………...……..Technology Coordinator

Debra Dorzweiler………………………………………….…………Teacher Librarian

Kathy Ellingson…………………………………………………………………….Math

Ruth Ann Farmer .………. .……………………………………………………….Office

Traci Fryauf……………………………………………………….........................Nurse

Pam Harnack………………………………………………………….....................Office

Steve Hennesy…………………………….………………………..Principal/Leadership

Theresa Jarvis...….………………………………………………………………….Cook

Ashley Jogerst……………………………………………………….Instrumental Music

Jill Jones…………………………………………………………….. .. ………..Resource

Rose Judge…………………………………………………………. .………………...Art

Kelli Kennon ………………………………………………………..English/Journalism

Bev Kessler……………………………………………………………..Classroom Aide

Brad Kinsinger……………………………………………………………….Agriculture

Rebecca Knapp……………………………………………………………...Business Ed

Nick Martin…………………………………………………………. ……….Custodian

Molly McCarthy-Hill……………………………………………………English/Drama

Diana Moreno-Witt………………………………………………………………Spanish

Janeen Miller……………………………………………………………English/Speech

Kate Milster …………………………………………………………. ………..Guidance

Butch Pedersen ………………………………………………...PE/Learning Strategies

Lynnette Poula……………………………………………………………PE/Health/AD

Chris Reed…………………………………………………………………...Vocal Music

Randy Robertson……………………………………………………….Industrial Tech

Val Schroeder …………………………………………………………………Custodian

Colleen Sheely…………………………………………..……Family & Consumer Sci

Jan Stout……………………………………………………………………………..Cook

Jessica Taylor……………………………………………………………………..Science

Shawn Voigt……………………………………………………………….Social Studies

Bob Wagner…………………………………………………………………………..SCI

Ethan Wiechmann……………………………………………………......................Math

 

 

High School Values/Behavioral Expectations

We expect all members of the school community—staff, students, parents, visitors—to behave in a socially responsible manner, to be open-minded and tolerant of others, to conduct themselves appropriately, to take ownership for their learning, and to treat each other with respect and courtesy so that all feel safe within the school environment. The learning environment must be one which promotes essential learning and develops traits such as leadership/teamwork, problem solving, communication skills, democratic principles, service to others, personal wellness, and environmental and career awareness.

 

Our Purpose Statement

As a staff we are committed to providing relevant instruction, modeling effective teaching practices and creating a powerful high school learning experience. Each student will be challenged to perform at high levels, think critically, and make informed decisions. We will take willing students at their present skill level and move them as far as possible in basic academic skills and performance competencies. Every graduate will be prepared for life-long learning, economic independence and productive citizenship.

 

ATTENDANCE

Iowa law specifies that students attend school until the age of 16.
# 1 indicator for student success and improvement is good attendance.

Building Practice:

Two types of absence are recorded in the office: excused and unexcused .

•  Excused
Absences include illness or medical release time, funerals, family emergencies, legal responsibilities, and other absences approved by the principal. Students should be aware of each instructor's requirements for make-up work. Whenever a student arrives at school after a partial absence, he/she must check into the office for a pass to go to class. Medical absences can be made up within the normal classroom guidelines for make up. Parents are to call the high school office (643-7216) between 7:30 and 8:30 A.M. on the day of the absence.
Pre-approved absences are a special category of excused absences. They include all school-sponsored field trips and such non-school absences as college/career visits, family vacations, weddings and other foreseen absences approved by the principal. To be approved for these students must have each of their teachers initial a privileged absence form and make-up work in compliance with teacher wishes. If a student is not in good standing in the class the teacher may not approve the request. The result may be a low or failing grade. The absence form is to be picked up and returned to the office.

Classroom practice : When a student is absent for any reason the teacher decides whether missed work is to be done with the teacher or independently . However , absences that result in missed performances, group presentations, speakers, labs, field trips or other non-paper pencil work may have the natural consequences of the missed learning or assessment opportunity. Alternative assessments are to be worked out in a timely fashion between the student and teacher. These are handled on a case by case basis.

•  Unexcused absences occur when school authorities do not know where students are during normal school hours. If a student misses more than 5 minutes of class, it is considered an absence, and affects that student's eligibility to participate in activities that day. Skipping an assigned class and leaving school without having permission to sign out are two examples. Work and time must be made up. A student who misses more than 2 hours of school time w/o a medical or legal appointment will be ineligible for after school participation.
Students who are unexcused are TRUANT. All truancies will result in the following basic penalty: Until work and time are made up, the student is ineligible to participate in extra curricular activities, assemblies, field trips and commons study hall. Time will be made up before or after school with the teacher (or in the office if arranged by the teacher and principal). Until work and time are made up, study halls will be in the structured study hall setting and PART will be revoked. On the second instance of truancy the student will be referred to the student assistance team and a conference with parents will be arranged. This group will help the student establish a plan for correcting the truancy habit. Juniors and Seniors who previously qualified for PART may have it revoked for up to 4 weeks.

Subsequent truancies may cause all privileges to be revoked. Any student who is unexcused to the same class five times in a single grading period may be removed from the course with an ‘F' and placed on restriction in structured study hall.

When a student misses a day of school for illness and does not have a parent note or call to the office within 48 hours of the absence, then it becomes an unexcused absence.

Letter of notification: When a student misses more than 5 class periods during any semester, a letter will be sent to his/her household. Parents/guardians should contact the high school when the letter is received to review attendance policies.

Tardies: Students are expected to be on time for all classes. Late arrivals in the classroom are discourteous and disrespectful to both teacher and other students since it disrupts instruction. Habitual lateness demonstrates a lack of preparedness for the workplace and as such is a serious deficiency.

•  Any student who is tardy to class less than five minutes without a pass from the office or another teacher will be subject to consequences as determined by the classroom teacher.

•  Any student who is more than five minutes late to class without a pass from the office or another teacher will be referred to the office for further consequences.

 

Activities

West Branch High School provides many opportunities for participation in educational activities. Many of these activities involve the student as a representative of the school through athletics, drama, music or speech. Each activity will have specific requirements or standards as determined by the sponsors, teachers, administrators, school board and/or state associations. Some of the frequently referred to requirements are:

1. The student must have a doctor's certificate of fitness before participating in athletics.

2. Students must pass the minimum number of courses each quarter to be eligible the following quarter for activity participation. Students should read the Activity Handbook for details.

3. Student participation is subject to the student code of conduct and rules of eligibility as outlined in the Activity Handbook.

•  Students must attend school all day to participate in any school activity, unless special permission has been given by the principal according to attendance guidelines.

Assemblies---ALL STUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO ATTEND THESE ACTIVITIES .

 

P.A.R.T. CONTRACTS

PART (Parent Approved Release Time) is a privilege available only to seniors and juniors who have earned it. They do so by consistently meeting the expectations for self-discipline. They are in good academic standing and follow the guidelines established in this student handbook. Teachers have in-put as to whether a student should be allowed the privilege of Parent Approved Release Time. If a student is failing a required class or consistently exhibits behavior that is unacceptable, teachers may request they lose their privileges. PART students are responsible to follow the same rules as all other students whenever they are in the building.

note: PART forms are available in the high school office. Students should listen for announcements as to when they can be picked up.

 

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS-CREDITS

Credits/Carnegie Units –Students typically earn credits toward graduation based on the Carnegie Unit (120 hours of instruction = 1 Unit or 2 Credits). In a semester structure such as the one at West Branch High School these credits accumulate until the student becomes eligible for a West Branch diploma—52 for 2007 and 2008 graduates; 58 for 2009 and later graduates.

Required Credits for Classes of 2008:

English 8 credits -- English 9, 10, 11, Speech, Voc Eng or Eng 12

Social Studies 7 credits -- Global History, American History, Government, and Economics

Mathematics 5 credits

Science 4 credits – 9 th grade science and biology

PE 2 credits -- 9 th and 10 th grade, 11/12 PE pass/fail

Health 2 credits – 9 th and 10 th grade

Electives 24 credits

TOTAL 52 credits

 

Required Credits for Class of 2009 and later:

English 8 credits -- English 9, 10, 11, Speech, Eng 12 or Voc Eng

Social Studies 7 credits -- Global History, American History, Government, and Economics

Mathematics 6 credits

Science 6 credits – 9 th Science, Biology, plus two credits

PE 2 credits -- 9 th and 10 th grade, 11/12 PE pass/fail

Health 2 credits – 9 th and 10 th grade

Electives 27 credits

TOTAL 58 credits

 

A typical credit load for a regular full-time student at West Branch would be:

Grades 9/10 register for 16 credits counting PE/Health

Grade 11 register for 14 credits plus PE

Grade 12 register for 12 credits plus PE

Transfer Students

If the school you transferred from did not require the same number of credits as West Branch for graduation, class loads will be adjusted to reflect West Branch diploma requirements. This will be based on the completed coursework accepted at time of transfer. Regular education students are allowed only three units of credit to be transferred from the Kirkwood High School Program.

 

ADVANCED CREDIT OPTIONS

Honors classes —Physics, FST and Elementary Functions. Students should list honors and the appropriate course name on their request sheet. Contracts will be filled out at the beginning of each semester. Once contracts are finalized, the student is committed for the entire semester. Honors courses completed by the student will be designated as such on their permanent records.

Advanced Placement – Students seeking additional challenges may register for on-line Advanced Placement Courses in many areas; WBHS offers Advanced Placement registration for student English 11, 12; Chem 2 and Economics. Students should meet with the class instructor before signing up. Advanced Placement testing takes place each spring.

Shared Student Status – Senior students may attend classes at West Branch while also attending classes at a Junior College or University. The combined course load between the two schools must be equivalent to full time status and have the prior approval of the High School principal. Health Careers is an example of a course taught in West Branch where student also receive Kirkwood credit.

Post Secondary Enrollment Options Act – Juniors, Seniors and identified TAG students in grades 9 and 10 may also be eligible for this program under certain conditions. A qualified student may enroll in an approved post secondary institution and have up to $250.00 paid for by the West Branch School District . See the High School principal for more information.

 

EARLY GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS  

 

 

GRADES

Grades are to reflect the following characteristics:

•  Knowledge of the subject matter and the ability to apply it correctly.

•  Demonstrated quality on selected performance criteria.

•  Competency on locally established standards and benchmarks.

•  Individual learning goals as established by IEP or 504 Plan.

•  Other factors consistent with school board policy that are deemed important by the classroom professional.

 

Grades are reported every 9 weeks, and midterms are sent out as needed between grade periods. In addition, as a service to parents and students, the district provides information on a secure web-site that allows individuals to track their progress. Parents or students having questions regarding grade reports should contact the specific teacher for more detailed information.

 

Grade Averages-- In most classes students receive grade points for letter grades A-D, with A earning a 4, B earning a 3, etc. A failing grade receives no points. These grade points are averaged by credits so that a student who earned 16 credits of A in his first semester would have a 4 point average. A cumulative grade point average is maintained for each student by dividing total credits into total points. Thus a student at the end of her senior year with 52 total credits and 200 points has a cumulative grade point average of 3.846.

Exceptions to this general grading system include classes taken pass/fail, honors courses and 11/12 grade PE.

Transcripts of student's courses and grades are maintained in the office.

Teachers are the professionals entrusted with the responsibility of assigning appropriate grades to student work. Whether a student is allowed extra credit or is allowed to retake tests is the prerogative of the instructor. Students who have questions about their grade should discuss the matter with the teacher first. However, unanswered questions or disputes between teacher and student about grading may be referred to the principal if necessary for problem solving.

Cheating is not accepted at WBHS. It is inherently dishonest and a violation of academic trust. Faculty members are required to report instances of cheating to parents and the principal. Students are to receive no credit for tests or other work on which they have cheated. In addition, students are cautioned that plagiarizing the work of others is illegal.

 

Any junior or senior who receives an F for a nine-week grade in a class needed for graduation will be placed in structured study hall until the midterm grade is ‘C' or better. A teacher may assign a junior or senior to structured study hall for a temporary period of time whenever the teacher feels the student is not making satisfactory progress in class. The teacher may also release the student from structured study hall if the student is making satisfactory progress in class.

 

Pass/Fail Option

Are there elective courses you are interested in taking but they look very difficult? Have you thought about Pass-Fail? Remember you are required to take a minimum of four subjects for a letter grade. Anything beyond that can be taken pass-fail with the teacher and principal's approval. Pick up pass/fail forms in the office. This option applies at any time during the first five weeks or until midterm reports are completed.

 

National Honor Society

The purpose of the West Branch High School Chapter of National Honor Society is to create enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate the desire to render service, to promote leadership and to promote character development in students. Juniors and seniors with a grade point average of 3.6 or above who have attended WBHS for at least one semester and agree to participate in NHS activities are eligible for nomination. Criteria for membership, including definitions of character, leadership and service may be obtained from the office

Faculty members appointed by the high school principal will be on the selection council. It will meet at least once a year to review all input in order to select, to dismiss, or to warn members of possible dismissal. Chapter members will annually review policies and procedures and revise as necessary.

Each year all members will be responsible for paying $5.00 chapter dues. All senior members and honorary members will be required to purchase their tassel and honor cord for graduation.

Academic Letter

A chenille letter “WB” with the word “academic” inscribed on the front is awarded to any junior student who earns 200 points. Each semester ‘A' is worth four points; each ‘B' worth 3 points. Students earn 10 points each semester for receiving no grade below

‘C', and 5 more points for having no suspensions and fewer than 3 detentions. Any senior who has maintained a 3.3 GPA and has a record of good citizenship will also qualify. A scholastic pin is awarded to each student who carries a cumulative grade point average of 3.8 or above for at least six semesters.

Silver Service Cords

Students provide 100 hours of their time, which indicate significant community volunteer service, to earn a cord at high school graduation. Students are encouraged to average about 25 hours of service per year. Opportunities are available in the Guidance Office. Accrued hours are documented, tracked and tabulated in the Guidance Office. All hours for seniors must be turned in prior to Awards Night on an announced deadline. Final Decision for which hours are counted is the responsibility of the high school principal after consulting with the counselor, supervisor and student.

 

Documentation

•  Hour sheets must be filled out signed and documented by a supervisor and maintained in the Guidance Office. If additional hours are listed, they must be stapled to the sheet.

•  Parents should NOT sign as documentation unless previously arranged.

 

What Counts:

•  Any service performed in Iowa City or West Branch communities as listed on the opportunities sheet

•  Volunteer work at church, scouting or 4H

•  Special events on school premises sponsored by local charities or businesses such as blood drives, Toys for Tots, etc. with previous approval from principal.

•  Any staff supervised voluntary service for which academic credit is not earned or when performed as a member of school activities such as National Honor Society, cheerleading, dance, drama, tech crew, band, choir, sports, scorekeeping, FFA, speech, student council if SUCH SERVICE IS ARRANGED BETWEEN THE SUPERVISOR AND THE PRINCIPAL BY WRITTEN AGREEMENT.

.

What does NOT count :

•  Court-ordered community service hours

•  Practicums/internships/job shadows

•  Any work done for credit at school

•  Any work done for school activities for which the student may earn a letter, ribbon, medal, certificate, or any other award for a class, activity, club or team.

•  Work not performed and/or recorded in the current school year.

•  Unsupervised/Undocumented work. Work for relatives such as babysitting.

•  Work such as leaf raking done for individuals unless done through an established group (church, scouting, etc.)

 

Expectations for Behavior and Discipline Procedures

Take care of yourself.

Take care of others.

Take care of this place.

(These are the basic guidelines for West Branch High School . If everyone here followed them we wouldn't need rules.)

 

Uniform Classroom Ground Rules for Learning

 

•  Be on time.

•  Be on task.

•  Listen to directions.

•  Use appropriate language.

•  Consume food and drink in the commons.

 

School is to be conducted in an environment that supports scholarship, academic achievement, good citizenship, responsible social development and personal growth and success. West Branch High School students and all other members of the school community are expected to demonstrate respect for others and for legitimate authority. This includes complying with established board policy, administrative and school rules and the reasonable requests of faculty and staff. Courtesy and good sportsmanship will be exhibited during all athletic events, concerts, performances, field trips and other activities, as well as toward guests in our school.

On those rare occasions when a student behaves in a fashion that is contrary to expectations for good conduct he/she will be corrected, and face appropriate consequences. These will be determined by the severity of the infraction.

All faculty and staff are responsible for helping students to acquire the self-discipline necessary for accomplishment in our school. Classroom instructors and study hall supervisors may assign detention, restriction and other penalties. Behavioral reports will be issued in each case and sent to the office. Disruptive behavior that necessitates a student's removal from a class will result in a conference with the principal.

When a student is assigned a detention by a high school staff member he/she is responsible to serve it as stipulated. Parents will be informed. The teacher may supervise his/her own detentions. Failure to complete this responsibility will result in suspension from classes.

Administrative staff may assign suspensions, arrange parent conferences, specify ineligibility, withdraw students from class and request other penalties from the school board.

Suspensions will usually be of the in-school variety. However, space and supervision for in-schools is limited and when unavailable students will be sent home. Serious disruption, threats and dangerous behavior will result in out-of-school suspensions, and law enforcement will be notified.

If a student shows over time that he or she is unwilling to comply with the reasonable expectations of faculty and staff or is unable to abide by the policies established by the school board and administration, then stronger disciplinary consequences will follow. Any threat to the safety and well being of other members of the school community will also result in stronger disciplinary action. This may include suspension, removal from classes as well as referral to local law enforcement . Parents will be notified whenever students are referred to the office for discipline. The administration will insure that students receive due process.

Illegal substances

Possession or use of tobacco, alcohol or other illegal substances on school grounds or at school events will result in suspension from classes from one to three days. Student may also be barred from attending activities as spectators for a period of time. Local law enforcement may be notified and students may be referred to outside substance abuse counseling. Students who participate in extra-curricular activities will also have a period of ineligibility as described in the activity handbook.

Offensive language

Penalties will range from detention to suspension depending upon circumstances and number of infractions. A student who habitually uses offensive language may be removed from the regular student population and be subject to behavioral evaluation.

 

Student Appearance

In general students are at liberty to exercise responsible self-expression in their appearance and attire. However, students should dress in a manner that is appropriate for attending public school and within the social norms for decency. What is appropriate for the beach, a dance or dating may not be for the classroom.

 

Dress Guidelines for West Branch High School---

•  For safety purposes shoes must be worn.

•  Clothes or body decoration that display profane, obscene, lewd or vulgar comments are prohibited.

•  Clothing or body decoration that others find to be harassing, demeaning, degrading, intimidating, insulting, etc. may result in harassment charges being filed.

•  Clothing that advertises prohibited substances is not to be worn.

•  Hats are not to be worn inside the building while classes are scheduled from 8:25 until 3:15 . (Students who do not abide by this rule will have their hats removed and given to the principal.)

•  Spaghetti straps or strapless tops must be covered by another garment.

•  Under garments or body parts they are expected to cover---must be.

•  No exposed midriffs/belly buttons/chests/backs/upper thighs/buttocks.

 

Students found to be in violation of these norms and school restrictions may be sent home to change or turn offensive clothing items inside out. Teachers may assign detention as they would for offensive language. Habitual offenders may be suspended by the administration. Perpetrators of harassment are also subject to charges being filed with local law enforcement.

 

Students who participate in extra-curricular activities should be aware that state sanctioning organizations impose additional restrictions on attire and appearance.

 

Disruption, insubordination

 

Students who refuse to follow the reasonable directives of faculty and staff and/or students who willfully disrupt the learning of others may be removed from class until such time as they are prepared to resume their proper role in the classroom. Repeated offenses in these areas will result in penalties to include detention, restriction, suspension and placement in an alternative education setting.

Defacing/vandalizing school or employee property.

 

The student will be responsible for repairing or paying for the repair of all school property or employee property damaged willfully or through neglect. When damage is extensive enough in the judgement of the high school principal or superintendent charges will be filed with local law enforcement. Students who participate in school sponsored activities will also have a period of ineligibility as described in the activity handbook.

 

Threats, abuse, bullying, harassment and fighting

 

Any action or communication (written or spoken) which is determined to be threatening or bullying/harassing, or any physical or verbal activity which constitutes an attack on another member of the school community or provides reasonable cause for them to feel unsafe at school will result in disciplinary action. Penalties will range from detention to suspension or a recommendation for expulsion, depending upon severity of the infraction and other factors considered significant by the building principal or superintendent. Students who participate in a school-sponsored activity will have a period of ineligibility as described in the activity handbook. (See board policy in appendix)

 

Weapons

Possession or use of any dangerous weapon or object used as a weapon will result in a 3- to-ten day out-of-school suspension. An expulsion hearing may also result. Possession of a firearm as defined in board policy will result in recommendation to the school board for an expulsion hearing. Students who participate in a school-sponsored activity will have a period of ineligibility as described in the activity handbook. (See board policy in appendix)

 

Sportsmanship

Athletics and other activities are a fundamental part of the high school experience. We want to insure that the support given to athletes and other performers is positive. Those students and others who attend high school events are expected to demonstrate good spectator behaviors.

 

Student spectators should use cheers that encourage, not disparage players, coaches, referees and other fans. Banners and noisemakers are prohibited at conference and state events. Students are expected to watch the event not loiter in the commons. Those who violate these provisions may be removed from the contest. They may also be subject to other penalties as deemed appropriate by the principal.

 

Repeated violations

Students who habitually violate any of these rules may be referred for placement in an alternative educational setting or removal from school.

 

Due Process

The student will be given a chance to explain his/her side of the story. If a student believes he/she has been unjustly treated he/she has the right to question the action. During this appeal period the punishment will be postponed except in circumstances where the safety of others is in question.

•  Set up a time to meet with the faculty member/principal outside of regular class time. At this point a student/teacher/principal meeting will take place to gather information. If the matter is not resolved at this point, the principal will then determine the fairness of the punishment, uphold, reverse or amend it as necessary.

•  If the student feels the action is unjust or improper after this stage, he/she should contact the Superintendent. This should be done immediately and in writing. The superintendent will review the circumstances with the student, parents, principal and teacher and if the matter is not resolved uphold, reverse or amend the punishment.

 

Breath Analyzer

The purpose of the breath analyzer is to assist the principal to determine whether an individual has consumed alcohol. An individual will be tested only when there is reason for cause. The following rules will apply to the use of the breath analyzer.

 

•  When the administrator has reason to believe that an individual or group of individuals has been consuming alcohol.

•  In addition to the principal, a second adult is to be present at the time the breath analyzer is used.

•  A person who has been requested to take the test and subsequently refuses to do so, shall be considered in violation of the school's alcohol policy.

•  A fifteen (15) minute period shall pass before the test is administered. If positive, a second test will be administered fifteen (15) minutes later.

•  An individual with a positive reading on the breath analyzer shall be subject to school discipline policies as found in the Student Handbook. At this time, an attempt will be made to contact a parent.

•  Student will also be referred to the Student Assistance Team (SAT).

 

Child Abuse

Instances of child abuse are reported each year. In order for you to be aware of the legal definitions and your rights the following information is listed.

“Child” means any person under the age of 18.

“Abuse” means harm or threatened harm occurring through:

a) Any non-accidental physical injury suffered by a child as the result of acts or omissions of a person responsible for the care of the child.

b) The commission of any sexual offense with or to a child as a result of the acts or omissions of the person responsible for the care of the child.

c) The failure on the part of the person responsible for the care of a child to provide for adequate food, shelter, clothing, or other care necessary for the child's health and welfare when financially able to do so or when offered assistance to do so.

 

Children have many rights established by law. If you suspect “child abuse” of any manner or have questions about this law, contact a teacher, the counselor or the principal. They are trained to help.

Lockers

Lockers are the property of the school district and are checked out to students as a convenience and to assist them in protecting their property. Keep lockers locked and report any vandalism. It is each student's responsibility to properly maintain the locker checked out to him/her.

The student's locker and its contents may be searched when a school authority has reasonable suspicion that the locker contains illegal or contraband items. Such searches should he conducted in the presence of another adult witness, when feasible. (See board policy on searches in appendix.) Never store valuable items or large amounts of money in school lockers.

 

Visitors

Students may have a guest during regular school hours. Permission is granted by the principal at least one day in advance. All visitors must report to the attendance office when they enter the school building. From time to time the student council, FFA or other school organization may sponsor group visits. These will be approved at least one week in advance between the advisor and the principal.

 

Telephone, Cell Phones, and listening devices

Classroom phones are reserved for staff members, who may authorize their use in emergencies. Office phones should be used when students are requesting permission or excuses from parents or guardians that school personnel must respond to. Cell phones are discouraged and must be turned off during class time from 8:20 until 3:15 each day, except during the student's lunch period. Students are not to use personal listening devices in classrooms or study halls unless the instructor has requested permission from the principal for students to do so. Unauthorized use of a cell phone or personal listening device will result in a classroom penalty and be reported to the office.

School Cancellations

When it is necessary to cancel or dismiss school due to weather or other causes notice will be broadcast over local radio and television stations. School patrons are asked to tune into radio KCRG, WMT, KXIC and KRNA and TV stations in Iowa City and Cedar Rapids for weather and other emergency bulletins. Due to limited number of school phone lines, students are asked not to phone the school for weather related information.

 

BUSES, STUDENT DRIVING, PARKING

Buses

 

School buses have right of way at all times.

 

When riding the school bus, you are under the jurisdiction of the driver of that bus, whose job is to transport you safely to and from school . Bus drivers cannot divide their attention between driving and disciplining students. Behavior that distracts the bus driver's attention may cause you to lose the privilege of riding the school bus. Persons who need to contact a bus driver should call 643-5325 in order to leave a message. School buses operate on CB channel #4. Non-riders must have a note for the bus driver if they wish to ride a bus.

 

Student Parking

Certain areas have been clearly marked as parking areas for staff and visitors. In addition, motorcycle, disabled and emergency vehicle parking have also been designated. Students' cars are to be parked only in undesignated parking areas. Any student parked in an area designated for staff, visitors, motorcycles, emergency equipment or the disabled without prior approval of the principal may lose their parking privilege. Students who take up more than one parking space may also lose their campus parking privilege.

 

Permission to drive a car onto school property is contingent upon the practice of safe driving habits. Those who drive recklessly or endanger others will have their parking privileges revoked.

 

Cars may be moved during the school day only if the student is leaving on PART or if the student has special permission from the high school principal. Loitering in the cars or in the parking lot is not allowed at any time.

 

The interior of a student's automobile on the school premises may be searched if a school authority has reasonable suspicion to believe that illegal, unauthorized, or contraband items are contained inside (see board policy in appendix).

Permits

 

Students who have completed driver education, participate in a school-sponsored activity but do not have driver's license may request a school permit. This permit allows the student to drive to and from school on the most “direct and accessible” route from home. Students must report to the nearest Iowa Driver Licensing station with a parent to obtain the necessary forms. Then the student and parent schedule a meeting with Mr. Hennesy to go over school board provisions.

 

GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING

The counselor is available from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. during each school day and at other times by appointment. You are welcome to drop in to the counselor's office at any time you are free. Counselors are trained to listen when you need someone to talk to. They are also trained to help. They can provide information about the following things: personal problems, jobs, grades, careers, post high school education and training, financial aid and decision making.

 

SCHOOL RECORDS

Parents, or students 18 years of age or older, shall have the opportunity to review the contents of the student's school records. This will afford an opportunity to correct or delete inaccurate, misleading or otherwise inappropriate data contained in the records.

Any person wishing to challenge the contents of a student's records shall submit a written application to the appropriate building principal. Grades may be challenged only on the basis of accuracy of recording. They may not be challenged on the basis of evaluation of student performance.

Within 10 days, or at a time mutually agreed upon, an informal meeting shall be held to discuss the facts and merits of the challenge. The building principal shall render a written decision about the challenge as soon as possible, but in no case more than five school days after the meeting.

Should the person challenging the records be dissatisfied with the decision of the building principal, he/she may request a meeting with the superintendent of schools within ten days after receipt of the principal's decision. This meeting will be scheduled at a mutually agreed upon time. The superintendent and the person challenging the record will review all facts of the case. The superintendent shall sustain, notify, or over-rule the decision of the principal, in writing, within five school days after the meeting. (See board policy in appendix)

HOME ROOM/Study Hall/Learning Strategies

 

LOST AND FOUND

 

Articles found by students are to be turned in to the office. Students who miss items are responsible for claiming them each semester. Unclaimed items will be donated to charities periodically. Bringing expensive possessions to school is discouraged.

LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER

The Library Media Center has materials to help you complete your assignments and projects, and materials on subjects you have studied in class and would like to know more about. It also has materials for browsing and enjoyment, such as magazines, newspapers, books and videotapes. The media specialist and aide are here to help you. Ask them for help any time you need it.

The Library Media Center is a learning center, not a social center - a quiet learning atmosphere must be maintained. Students who detract from this atmosphere will be asked to leave. In addition, cutting through the Library Media Center from one hallway to the other is discouraged. Detentions will be assigned to students who do this.

There will be no daily overdue fines. If books, magazines or other media materials are not returned within a reasonable amount of time, you will be expected to pay for them. You will also be expected to pay for all lost or damaged materials. Current magazines are only to be used in the Library Media Center . Past issues may be checked out overnight.

Reference books (encyclopedias, dictionaries, etc.) are to be used in the Library Media Center or checked out for overnight only, and returned before school the next day.

DO NOT cut articles or pictures from books or magazines. Take them to the office for photocopying. If you need magazines for clipping, ask the Library Media Center staff.

RETURN ALL BOOKS AND OTHER MATERIALS PROMPTLY. Others may be waiting for them.

Books may be borrowed for a two week period and may be renewed for two weeks longer if no one else has requested that book.

If a book you need is not available, the media specialist may be able to get it for you from another source. Ask his/her help. If you know of a book or other materials which you would like the Library Media Center to get, talk to the library media staff.

 

FIRE/EVACUATION DRILL

 

WARNING……FIRE ALARM SIGNAL

•  Rooms 15, 16, 17, 18 and 19 leave by the northwest exit.

•  Office, Rooms 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 20, auditorium and commons leave by the north exit.

•  Rooms 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 and 29 leave by the southwest exit.

•  Room 36, gym, wrestling and locker rooms leave by the south exit.

•  Rooms 31, 32, 33 and 34 leave by the east exit.

•  Shop areas leave by the shop exit.

7. The teacher is the last to leave the classroom. See that all persons you are responsible for are standing at least 30 feet from the building. Remain there quietly until the “all clear” signal is sounded or further instructions are given. Take roll and report to the principal. Account for all students.

8. TEACHERS: POSTERS ARE REQUIRED IN EACH CLASSROOM

INDICATING THE METHOD OF EXIT FOR FIRE ALARMS.

DISASTER DRILL

 

WARNING………Intercom Signal

•  Persons in the office and rooms 10, 11, 12, and 13 go to the west wall of Room 10.

•  Persons in Room 14, 15, 23 and 24 go to the teachers workroom.

•  Persons in Rooms 18, 19, 26, 27, 28 and 29 go to the north-south hall between the Library Media Center and the math-social studies area. Stay back at least 10 feet from either east-west hallway.

•  Persons in the Commons (study hall) and rooms 16, 17, 20, and 25 go to the rest-rooms (girls to the girls restroom, boys to the boys restroom).

•  Persons in Rooms 31 and 33 go to the practice rooms in room 31.

•  Persons in the locker room stay in the west locker room.

•  Persons in the gym and wrestling area and Rooms 35 and 36 go to the west locker rooms. (boys in boys, girls in girls).

•  Persons in Rooms 32 and 34 go to the west locker room through the shop (boys in boys, girls in girls).

9. If the town siren would sound when are going to the bus or when you are on the bus, report immediately and directly to the rest-rooms in the commons.

Other Emergency Procedures are detailed in the West Branch CSD “Emergency Response Procedures” located in every classroom.

( School Sponsored trips )

 

WEST BRANCH COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

PERMISSION - WAIVER OF LIABILITY

 

I , the undersigned, parent/guardian of ________________________________________

consent to the participation of my child in the educational trip to ___________________________________on __________________________________

and do release the West Branch Community School District , the officers and employees, when exercising due care from any liability for injury suffered by the named student in transit to and from and at such activity.

________________ _______________________________________________________

Date Signature of Parent/Guardian

 

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

FIELD TRIP PERMISSION SLIP

 

_________________________________________________ has completed the assigned make up work for the listed classes which gives him/her permission to attend

__________________________________________________ on ___________________

Date

 

Take this sheet to each instructor of your classes and have it signed after you have turned in all materials and completed all work.

 

Class: Signature:

____________________________________________________ __________________

____________________________________________________ __________________ ____________________________________________________ __________________ ____________________________________________________ __________________ ____________________________________________________ __________________ ____________________________________________________ __________________ ____________________________________________________ __________________ ____________________________________________________ __________________ ____________________________________________________ __________________ ____________________________________________________ __________________ ____________________________________________________ __________________ ____________________________________________________ __________________ ____________________________________________________ __________________

PLEASE RETURN TO:

___________________________________________________ _ Sponsor

 

H onors S tudy H all/ P arent A pproved R elease T ime :

 

Honors study halls are held in the commons area. Juniors and seniors who are on track to graduate, who have one mod of study hall and who meet all behavioral expectations qualify. Any faculty member or the student's parent/guardian may have the student placed in a structured study hall when they feel it would be in the student's or the school's best interest. A behavioral referral form will be filled out listing the reason the student has lost the privilege and the duration of the new placement in supervised study hall.

 

Parent Approved Release Time –During honor study hall, any senior student of the West Branch High School who has made the normal progression toward completion of the graduation requirements, met the expectations for self-discipline and who has no unexcused absences or suspensions is eligible to apply for the privilege of release time.

 

When parent approval forms are returned to the school and a parent phone call has been made to Pam Harnack, activating the privilege, then that student may leave the school building during his or her study halls without going through the normal check out procedures. PART student may stay in the building to work with teachers or use the Library Media Center , but are not free to wander the building or grounds. Those who violate any of the terms of the PART agreement will be returned to study hall. PART can be withdrawn by the parent or school at any time if the student:

•  Is suspended.

•  Is responsible for any action that interferes with the rights or property of other students, staff, school district or community.

•  Needs structured study halls in order to be academically successful.

•  Fails to conduct him/herself appropriately in school

 

Junior students with study halls before their first class, after their last class and during lunch or with 80 minutes of study hall during the day, who qualify under the conditions listed above will be allowed to apply for PART after ITED tests and homecoming activities are completed in the fall.

 

I am prepared to accept these responsibilities and privileges that Parent Approved Release Time carries.

___________________________________________ Student Signature

 

I, as a parent, am willing for my son/daughter to participate in the Parent Approved Release Time program. I realize that during such time he/she may or may not be in the school building. I also realize that this agreement will be in effect only so long as the above terms are satisfied. I, therefore, accept responsibility for my son/daughter during such times as listed below, and release the school from any responsibility.

___________________________________________________ Parent Signature

 

List below the times your son/daughter is eligible for PART. Please use the current semester schedule followed by your student to make the correct time request. If you approve of the time, it is necessary to call the high school office in person at your earliest convenience and return the signed forms.

 

Semester 1 P.A.R.T Semester 2 P.A.R.T

Odd even odd even

 

Mod 1 ______ ______ Mod 1 _____ ______

Mod 2_______ ______ Mod 2 _____ ______

Mod 3 ______ _______ Mod 3 _____ ______

Mod 4 ______ _______ Mod 4 _____ ______

Mod 5 ______ _______ Mod 5 _____ ______