2013-2014 student planner w e s t g e n e s e e

W HIGH SCHOOL
E
S
T
G
E
N
s
t
a
E W ildc
S
E 2013-2014
E STUDENT PLANNER
he
ft
Home o
WEST GENESEE
ALMA MATER
All hail the blue and gold our alma Mater; We will be true to thee forevermore. Mem’ries of youth, of carefree life surround thee, Mem’ries of happiness within your walls. We’ll always cherish friendships made within thee, Our alma Mater, West Genesee. The West Genesee Central School District hereby advises students, parents, employees and the general public that it offers employment and educational opportunities, including voca‐ tional education opportunities, without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, disability or sexual orientation. Inquiries regarding this nondiscrimination policy and the grievance procedures may be directed to: Title IX Coordinator (sex discrimination) Brian D. Kesel, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction District Office 300 Sanderson Drive Camillus, NY 13031 (315)487‐4564 Section 504 Coordinator (disability discrimination) Debra Miller, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources District Office 300 Sanderson Drive Camillus, NY 13031 (315)487‐4698 MY SCHEDULE
FIRST SEMESTER PERIOD SUBJECT TEACHER ROOM 1 2 3 4 5 5/6 6/7 7/8 8/9 9 10 11 7 SECOND SEMESTER PERIOD 2 ROOM 1 2 3 4 5 5/6 6/7 7/8 8/9 9 10 11 7 TEACHER SUBJECT TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I. SCHOOL BUILDING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5‐7 A. Class/Bell Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 B. Building Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 C. Bulletins & Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 D. School Closing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 E. Cafeteria/Dining Rooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 F. Emergency Drills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 G. Locks and Lockers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 H. Loitering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 I. Restrooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 J. Staying After School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 PART II. EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8‐20 A. Academic Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 B. Grading System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 C. Grade Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 D. Graduation Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 E. Ranking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 F. Schedule Change Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 G. Study Hall Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 H. Examinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 I. Homework . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 J. Physical Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 K. Athletic Code of Conduct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 L. Marching Band Code of Conduct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 M. Co‐Curricular Student Eligibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 N. Student Volunteer Policy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 O. Summer School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 P. Field Trips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Q. Textbooks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 R Distribution of Written, Audio, Visual or Software Materials . . . . . . . . 18 S. Withdrawal Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 T. Policy on Plagiarism. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 U. Technology Code of Conduct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 3 TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART III. SCHOOL SERVICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21‐27 A. Counseling Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 B. Academic Support Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 C. Conflict Mediation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 D. Health and Safety Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 E. Library Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 F. Transportation Services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 PART IV. POLICIES AND PROCEDURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28‐48 A. Code of Conduct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 B. Student Policies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 C. West Genesee and the Law . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 D. Attendance Policies & Procedures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 1. Class Attendance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 2. Daily Attendance (absent from school, class) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 3. Tardy/Late to School, Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 4. Early Dismissal Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 5. School Work Requests during Student Absence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 E. Student Conduct & Responsibilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 F. Types of Disciplinary Action . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 G. Disciplinary Policies & Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 H. Appeal of Disciplinary Action. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 I. Communication Channels for Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 J. Standards for Dress/Appearance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 K. Student Identification Cards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 L. Lost and Found . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 M. Student Expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 N. Student Parking / Exit & Entering / Drop Off ‐ Pick Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 O. Student Valuables. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 P. Telephone Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Q. Visitors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 PART V. SCHOOL ACTIVITIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49‐51 A. Class and Organization Funds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 B. Dances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 C. Student Recognition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 D. Publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 E. National Honor Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 4 PART 1 – SCHOOL BUILDING
A. Building Class Schedule Warning Bell 7:20 Period 1 7:25‐8:11 Period 2 8:15‐8:56 Period 3 9:00‐9:41 Period 4 9:45‐10:26 Period 5 Lunch 10:30‐11:00 Period 5/6 10:30‐11:11 Period 6/7 11:04‐11:45 Period 7 Lunch 11:15‐11:45 Period 7/8 11:15‐11:56 Period 8/9 11:49‐12:30 Period 9 Lunch 12:00‐12:30 Period 10 12:34‐1:15 Period 11 1:19‐2:00 Interaction Time 2:04‐2:40 Lunch 5th Period Warning Bell 7:20 Period 1 7:25‐8:11 Period 2 8:15‐8:56 Period 3 9:00‐9:41 Period 4 9:45‐10:26 Period 5 Lunch 10:30‐11:00 Period 6/7 11:04‐11:45 Period 8/9 11:49‐12:30 12:34‐1:15 Period10 Period 11 1:19‐2:00 Interaction time 2:04‐2:40 Lunch 7th Period Warning Bell 7:20 Period 1 7:25‐8:11 Period 2 8:15‐8:56 Period 3 9:00‐9:41 Period 4 9:45‐10:26 Period 5/6 10:30‐11:11 Period 7 Lunch 11:15‐11:45 Period 8/9 11:49‐12:30 Period 10 12:34‐1:15 Period 11 1:19‐2:00 Interaction Time 2:04‐2:40 Lunch 9th Period Warning Bell 7:20 Period 1 7:25‐8:11 Period 2 8:15‐8:56 Period 3 9:00‐9:41 Period 4 9:45‐10:26 Period 5/6 10:30‐11:11 Period 7/8 11:15‐11:56 Period 9 Lunch 12:00‐12:30 Period 10 12:34‐1:15 Period 11 1:19‐2:00 Interaction Time 2:04‐2:40 1 Hour Delay Warning Bell 8:20 Period 1 8:25‐9:04 Period 2 9:08‐9:41 Period 3 9:45‐10:18 Period 4 10:22‐10:56 Period 5 11:00‐11:30 Period 5/6 11:00‐11:34 Period 6/7 11:34‐12:08 Period 7 Lunch 11:38‐12:08 Period 7/8 11:38‐12:12 Period 8/9 12:12‐12:46 Period 9 Lunch 12:16‐12:46 Period 10 12:50‐1:23 Period 11 1:27‐2:00 Interaction Time 2:04‐2:40 2 Hour Delay Warning Bell 9:20 Period 1 9:25‐9:56 Period 2 10:00‐10:26 Period 3 10:30‐10:56 Period 4 11:00‐11:26 Period 5 11:30‐12:00 Period 5/ 6 11:30‐11:56 Period 6/7 12:04‐12:30 Period 7 Lunch 12:00‐12:30 Period 7/8 12:00‐12:26 Period 8/9 12:34‐1:00 Period 9 Lunch 12:30‐1:00 Period 10 1:04‐1:30 Period 11 1:34‐2:00 Interaction Time 2:04‐2:40 5 B. BUILDING USE Aside from the regular school day, West Genesee High School is used for adult education classes, community meetings, dances, sporting events, plays, and concerts. Building request forms are available in the Principal’s Office. Requests to use the building for activities should be given to the high school principal’s secretary. C. BULLETINS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS Notices of school‐wide activities are announced during the homeroom pe‐ riod through the public address system. They are also posted within the building and they can be viewed on the WGCSD website. Club notices and school related information are placed in selected areas within the building. All Announcements or postings must be pre‐approved by an appointed administrator or staff mem‐ ber. D. SCHOOL CLOSING In the event of severe weather or for other emergency reasons, West Gen‐ esee may be closed or have its starting time delayed. In such events, announce‐ ments are made over various radio stations between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. WSYR and WHEN are usually the first to be called. Please do not call the high school as there is no answering service until approximately 7:15 a.m. E. CAFETERIA ‐ DINING ROOMS A healthy school lunch program is offered to the students at West Genesee High School. To encourage good nutrition, a well‐balanced lunch with various choices is available at a reasonable price. Students may select from a menu which offers pizza, deli sandwiches, or salads every day. Other main courses are offered as scheduled. In addition, many a la carte items are on the daily menu. In order that the West Genesee dining rooms be clean and attractive, it is impor‐ tant that the following rules be observed: 1. Tables must be left clean with chairs in place. 2. Seat no more than eight people per table/one person per chair. 3. All trays, utensils, and litter must be returned to the dishwashing area. 4. All litter must be placed in the proper waste receptacle; please recycle as appropriate. 5. Food and drink is not to be taken from the dining rooms. 6. Students must await their turn in the various serving lines without pushing, shoving or running. 7. Students must respect the authority of the dining room supervisors. 8. Students who do not abide by the above rules are assigned consequences ap‐ propriate to their infraction by the dining room supervisors or administrators. F. EMERGENCY DRILLS Emergency drills are required by law and are an important safety precau‐ tion. When the alarm is sounded the building must be cleared promptly. Students should follow teacher instructions to the proper building exit as posted in each classroom. Students must move 300 feet from the building and meet with their teachers for attendance purposes. This prevents congestion from developing around the exit doors and allows emergency vehicles to enter the grounds safely. 6 G. LOCKS AND LOCKERS Lockers are the property of West Genesee and are on loan to students dur‐ ing the school year. Only West Genesee approved locks are permitted on gym lockers. All others are removed without notification. When there is reasonable suspicion, lockers may be searched to insure the health, safety, and welfare of all students and staff. Periodic inspections also may be made by the homeroom teacher or the administration to insure that lockers are kept clean and in safe condition. Students must place their books and outer garments in the hall lock‐ ers. Visits to hall lockers in the classroom areas while classes are in session are to be avoided. Students are responsible for all items in their school and PE lockers. Stu‐ dents are prohibited from sharing lockers or locker combinations. Students must make sure that the locker is locked each time it is closed and that the dial has been rotated from the last number of his/her combination. Students should report any locker problems promptly to the secretary in the Main Office. NOTE: Students are cautioned not to bring large amounts of money, camer‐ as, or other valuables to school. If students wear watches or glasses, they must keep track of them at all times. Students, not West Genesee High School, are responsible for their own personal property. H. LOITERING Students are not to loiter about the building after their daily programs are completed. Students must have a valid reason for staying in the building when school is not in session. Students who are loitering after 2:00 p.m. are not per‐ mitted to use school transportation to go home, and are subject to disciplinary action. I. RESTROOMS Students may use the restrooms before and after school, between class pe‐ riods, at the beginning or end of the lunch periods, or if they have been excused from a class with a pass. Students are expected to keep lavatories clean. Loiter‐ ing, smoking, eating, littering, damaging the facilities in any way, or sharing stalls with other people for any reason is not tolerated. If students are feeling ill, they are to report to the nurses’ office; they are not to remain in the restroom. J. STAYING AFTER SCHOOL In order to promote and maintain a safe school environment, students stay‐ ing after school for Interaction Time (2:00 p.m. – 2:40 p.m.) or for co‐curricular activities must report directly to and remain with a teacher, coach, director, co curricular study hall or club advisor. Interaction time is specifically intended for work with teachers in their classrooms. Upon completion of their participation in Interaction Time or their co‐curricular activity, students should exit the building or report to the designated area for transportation. Students leaving the build‐ ing after 2:00 p.m. and planning to return for co‐curricular activities may not re‐enter the building until the scheduled time of the activity. Students not staying after school for any school function must exit the building at 2:00 p.m. and are not permitted to loiter on school property. 7 PART II: THE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
A full‐time student must carry at least 6 classes each semester of the school year plus physical education (6 classes which includes Resource). All courses must be taken and passed in sequence. Failure in a sequential course means that the course must be passed in summer school or repeated the follow‐ ing school year. Students at West Genesee High School may not be registered for sequential courses simultaneously in any subject area unless the course being repeated fulfills the student’s graduation requirement. Any exception to this policy must be approved by the Academic Dean. (e.g., Taking English 9 and English 10 in the same school year is not allowed.) A. ACADEMIC PROGRAM It is highly recommended that each student elect a challenging academic program that allows flexibility upon graduation. Such a program prepares each student for college entrance, vocational training, the military, or workplace. Vari‐ ous electives can be added to the academic program which tailors each program to the individual student. The recommended core academic program includes: Four years of English Four years of Social Studies Four years of Mathematics Four years of Science Three years of L.O.T.E. (Language other than English) B. GRADING SYSTEM Range 1‐100 90+ High Honors 85‐89 Honors 65 Passing The final grade for a whole year course is computed by average of: First Quarter Grade ‐ 20% Second Quarter Grade ‐ 20% Third Quarter Grade ‐ 20% Fourth Quarter Grade ‐ 20% Final Examination or Regents Examination ‐ 20% The final grade for a one‐semester course is computed by average of: First Quarter Grade 40% Second Quarter Grade 40% Final Examination or Regents 20% *In a course which does not have a final examination, the final average would be calculated by averaging the 2 quarter grades equally. 8 Weighting is given to selected college level courses for class rank purposes only. Transcripts show un‐weighted and weighted grades.. C. GRADE REPORTING The 5 and 10 week interim and grade reports are mailed home. D. GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS In order to graduate from high school, a student must meet all the require‐ ments set forth by New York State, including the passing of all Regents Exami‐ nations or Competency Tests, and requirements of the West Genesee School District. Students must earn a minimum of 22 units of credit including physical education. New York State Requirements (Minimum passing score of 65% required) Subject *Regents w/ Advanced Designation (**Honors)
Credit Examination Requirements Credit
English 4 Social Studies 4 Mathematics 3 Science 3 Art or Music 1 0.5 ***3 2 Health LOTE Phys. Ed. Electives 1.5 Total Credits ELA
4
ELA
U.S. History Global History 3 Mathematics • Integrated Algebra • Geometry • Algebra 2 & Trig.
2 Sciences • Living Environment
• Physical Setting 4 U.S. History Global History 1 Mathematics • Integrated Algebra • Geometry • Algebra 2 &Trig. 1 Science • Living Environment • Physical Setting 3 3 1
0.5 Level III Regional Exam. 1
2 3.5
Required: 22 Regents Diploma (**Honors) Examination Requirements 22
*Students who first entered grade nine in September 2009 and thereafter, who complete all course work and testing requirements for the Regents diploma with advanced designation and who pass three commencement level Regents exami‐ nations in mathematics and/or three commencement level Regents examinations in science, with a score of 85 or better, will earn an annotation on the diploma that denotes mastery in mathematics and/or science, as applicable. 9 **Honors Diplomas: The words “with Honors” may by added to the endorse‐ ment of a Regents diploma with Advanced Designation or to a Regents Diploma if a student has earned an accumulative average of at least 90% on the examina‐ tions indicated. ***Under certain circumstances, students may substitute five credits in Career and Technology Education (CTE) and/or Occupational Education, Art or Music classes to waive the LOTE sequence requirement. While a minimum of 1.0 LOTE credit is required to graduate, continuing with a Language other than English is strongly recommended for college bound students. Note: In individual cases, a Local Diploma may be available. Fine Art Requirement: New York State requires that all students complete 1.0 Fine Arts credit for graduation. Students may select this credit from the follow‐ ing courses: Dance, Studio in Art, Design and Drawing for Production or a music performance course. Physical Education Requirement: All students must earn a 0.5 credit in physical education during each year of high school for a total of 2.0 credits. This course is a New York State requirement and must be completed for graduation from West Genesee High School. Career and Technical Education Endorsement: Students have an opportunity to earn a CTE seal of endorsement on their diploma through the State Education Department. To qualify, students must complete a 5.0 credit series of approved courses in one of the following areas: Business Computer Applications, Computer Technology, Engineering Technology or Finance. See department entries for ad‐ ditional information. Non‐diploma Exiting Credentials: May be awarded to a Special Education student who meets the requirements and objectives as outlined in his/her IEP and whose disability precludes them from earning a Regents or Local diploma. A student who earns a Credential may continue to attend school to work towards a high school diploma until age 21. Seniors who are eligible to complete all requirements for graduation by August may participate in the June ceremony. January graduates are invited to attend commencement the following June. 10 Early Graduates Early graduates must contact their counselors before September 1st in the academic year in which they plan to graduate to devise a plan to complete graduation requirements. This plan must allow the student to complete all the graduation requirements listed in the West Genesee scheduling guide. The Odyssey Program The Odyssey Program offers students recognition for meeting criteria in six areas: successfully completing eight (8) college level courses; earning four (4) credits in supplemental courses; participating in an Introduction to Philosophy experience; fulfilling community service hours; and, completing a project with a panel presentation. Seniors who fulfill these requirements receive special recog‐ nition on Awards Night and at Graduation. 11 E. RANKING Seniors are ranked for college admission purposes at the end of 6 semesters of study and again at the end of 7 semesters of study. Class ranks are reported numerically, with 1 being the highest. Freshmen, sophomores, and juniors re‐ ceive transcripts and are ranked at the end of the school year. 1. Grading System Numeric grades are issued on a 0‐100 scale for each course. Satisfactory (S) or Unsatisfactory (U) are issued for sections of Learning Centera and Resource, along with any Special Education students working toward a Certificate. Grading is as follows: A. If a student repeats a course that he or she has already passed (in order to raise the grade) both grades are used to compute the student’s over‐ all GPA. B. If a student fails a course and repeats the course, both the failing grade and the passing grade are used. If a student fails a course more than once, no more than two failing grades are to be used in computing the average. C. If a student retakes a Regents examination, the higher score is published on the transcript and averaged. 2. Weighting Weighting is given to selected college preparatory courses. Computing for a weighted grade is done by taking the actual grade and multiplying by 1.10. Advanced Placement (AP): Biology Physics Statistics Language and Composition Literature and Composition United States History World History Music Theory SUNY Oswego Advanced Spanish IV and V Advanced French IV and V Advanced Electives: Advanced Chemistry Mathematical Analysis Meteorology Robotics: Engineering Science Physiology/Anatomy PC Hardware and Software Home and Small Business Networking Syracuse University Project Advance (SUPA): Economics Psychology Public Affairs Sociology English Onondaga Community College (OCC): Pre‐Calculus Calculus Composition Literature Financial Accounting Contemporary Business Principals of Information Systems College Computer Aided Design: Mechanical College Computer Aided Design: Architectural Astronomy Advanced Photography Business Law L.I.F.E. (PE) Cazenovia College Principals of Marketing Principals of Business Management 12 SUNY College of Environmental Science & Forestry The Global Environment F. SCHEDULE CHANGE PROCEDURE 1. Schedule change requests are ONLY APPROVED for the following reasons: A. Computer error B. Incorrect course level C. Course omitted ‐ i.e., drop SH/add course D. Changes resulting from pass/fail in summer school; or pass/ fail previous school year E. For “ADD” courses and program change within a subject area, i.e., level change. These changes must be made by: 16 days ‐ full year course 8 days ‐ 1st semester course 8 days ‐ 2nd semester course 2. A student may request a teacher change ONLY if the student previously had that teacher. 3. Schedule change requests will be DENIED for the following reasons: A. Teacher change B. Period change C. Request to be in another class with friends G. STUDY HALL GUIDELINES Students are assigned to an academic study hall when they are not sched‐ uled to any other classes. There is no unscheduled or free time. Each student is required to attend all assigned study halls. All students are expected to bring academic work to study hall as this allows for an atmosphere in which assign‐ ments and studying can be undertaken by all students. Upon approval, students have the following options available during study halls: 1. Attend study hall‐required of all students at start of school year. 2. Get a pre‐signed pass. 3. Do volunteer work as approved by an administrator. 4. Attend special programs as announced during the year. 5. Go to labs or classrooms for extra help; a pre‐signed pass is necessary for this option. 6. Tutor another student. H. EXAMINATIONS Teachers may administer class tests at their discretion during the school year. Definite dates and times are provided for Local and Regents final examina‐ tions. Students who are absent and fail to take required final examination(s) without a valid excuse receive a “zero” as a grade for that examination. 13 I. HOMEWORK Homework is a necessary part of the curriculum and is considered to be a vital supplement to the learning process. Reasonable amounts of homework, suited to the ages and abilities of the pupils, are assigned regularly at every grade level. Homework provides necessary practice of skills, enriches and en‐ larges upon classroom experiences, and utilizes school resources. In addition, carefully planned assignments foster responsibility, help students work indepen‐ dently and acquire the development of time management skills. Homework also provides an opportunity for the teacher, parent and child to work as a team in the learning process. J. PHYSICAL EDUCATION Physical Education is required for all pupils by New York State Education Law and the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education. Students must successfully complete eight semesters of Physical Education to receive a West Genesee High School Diploma. Physical Education is graded numerically and is included in the overall GPA. Credit is based on class preparation (change of clothes, sneakers, socks), participation, fitness, and cognitive assessment. Excessive unexcused absences, being unprepared, and low participation may result in a failing grade. Medical Excuse: Only students presenting a written excuse from a physician, school nurse, or parent may be excused from attendance and participation in Physical Education. Excuses from parents and the school nurse are valid for one week, after which a physician’s excuse is required, if a medical excuse has not been presented. Refusal to change clothes for class is considered as non‐participation and is marked as such. Only a medical doctor’s excuse will be accepted. This must be presented to the nurse who will issue a medical excuse to the Physical Education teacher. All excuses are filed in the nurses’ office and must be updated each year. A student is not eligible to participate in intramural, interscholastic activities, or dance classes during the period of the medical excuse. A release from the doctor is required prior to re‐entry into Physical Education class. Students with medical excuses for a minimum of one week are required to enroll in the Academic Sportfolio Program or develop written critiques of Physical Education/Athletic articles. Each student completes one Sportfolio topic or critique per week. At the end of the marking period the weekly grades are averaged into the Physical Education grade. This may also include homebound students. The selection of the Sportfolio or critique is at the discretion of the teachers. 14 K. ATHLETIC CODE OF CONDUCT A firm and fair policy of enforcement is necessary to uphold the regulations and standards of the athletic department. The community, school administrators, and coaching staff feel strongly that high standards of conduct and citizenship are essential in maintaining a sound program of athletics. All athletes shall abide by a code of ethics which will earn them the honor and respect that participation and competition provide through the interscholastic athletic program. Acts of unacceptable conduct, such as, but not limited to: theft, vandalism, hazing, disrespect, immorality, insubordination, or violations of law, tarnish the integrity of everyone associated with the athletic programs and will not be tolerated. Violation of this athletic code will result in a restriction from participation, a suspension for a period of time, or a loss of eligibility based on the severity of the infraction. Based on the severity of the infraction of the Code of Conduct, the Athletic Director may convene a meeting with the coach involved, the Athletic Director, and the Principal to meet and determine the penalty according to the degree of the infraction. Training Regulations: 1) Each coach may specify definite rest programs and hours when team members must be in their homes. Any adjustments must be approved by the coach of the sport. 2) The use of alcoholic beverages, drugs, and tobacco are considered health hazards and detrimental to an athlete’s physical and mental well being. Such use will result in the student being dropped from the team for the remainder of that sport season including sectional and state meets. 3) Attendance at practice is essential to develop the greater degree of skill. All requests to be excused from practice sessions must be submitted to the coach before the practice for which the request is made. 4) Athletes absent from school may not practice or play the day such absence occurs. Exceptions to this rule can be made only by the school principal or designee. Frequent or excessive tardiness may result in the same penalty. 5) If an athlete arrives to school after 8:30 a.m., is absent or leaves school without producing a medical excuse from a physician’s office, the student will not participate in that day’s practice or game. Exceptions to this rule must be approved by the Principal or Athletic Director. 6) Individual coaches may also make specific guidelines and regulations relating to their sport. Enforcement Date: First official day of practice, as designated by Section III through final athletic contest of the season. (West Genesee Board of Education Policy #5280‐E, 3/15/04) 15 L. MARCHING BAND CODE OF CONDUCT A firm and fair policy of enforcement is necessary to uphold the regulations and standards of the band program. The community, school administrators, and staff feel strongly that high standards of conduct and citizenship are essential to maintaining a sound program. All band members shall abide by a code of ethics that will earn them the honor and respect that participation and competition provide through New York State Field Band Conference activities. Acts of unacceptable conduct, such as, but not limited to, theft, vandalism, hazing, disrespect, immorality, insubordination, or violations of law, tarnish the integrity of everyone associated with the band and will not be tolerated. Violation of this band code will result in either restriction from participation, a suspension for a period of time, or a loss of eligibility depending on the severity of the infraction. The Fine Arts Director may convene a meeting of the Band Director, the Fine Arts Director and Principal to determine the appropriate penalty. Marching Band Regulations: 1) The use of alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs and tobacco are considered health hazards and are detrimental to any member’s physical and mental well‐being. Such use will result in the student being dropped from the band for the remainder of the season including local, regional, state, and national championship competitions. 2) Attendance at practice is essential to develop the necessary skills for success. All requests to be excused from rehearsal sessions must be submitted to the Director before the practice for which the request is made. 3) Band members absent from school may not rehearse or play the day such absence occurs. Exceptions to this rule can be made only by the school principal or designee. Frequent or excessive tardiness may result in the same penalty. Enforcement Date: First day of Summer Band Rehearsal through final marching band performing event of the season. (West Genesee Board of Education Policy #5280.1, 3/15/04) M. CO‐CURRICULAR and EXTRA‐CURRICULAR PROGRAMS ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY The West Genesee Central School District appreciates the benefits which may accrue through voluntary participation in school sponsored co‐curricular student activities. For the purposes of this policy the term “school sponsored co‐curricu‐ lar student activities” shall include interscholastic athletics, marching band, and drama activities, for which advisors/coaches are approved by the Board of Educa‐ tion. Academic standards of eligibility for participation in school sponsored co‐cur‐ ricular student activities at West Genesee High School are established as follows: 1. Beginning of Fall Activities: Use 4th quarter marking period (Summer School may be used during the appeal process only.) • Vertical average of 70% or more • Cannot be failing 2 or more subjects 16 2. Beginning of Winter Activities: Use 1st quarter marking period** • Vertical average of 70% or more • Cannot be failing 2 or more subjects 3. Beginning of Spring Activities: Use 2nd quarter marking period** • Vertical average of 70% or more • Cannot be failing 2 or more subjects **Seniors in the current school year who are failing courses required for gradua‐ tion will be considered ineligible. 4. Appeal Process: A. A committee to review appeals related to eligibility will be created for each case. Appeals should be directed to the District Director (Athletics/Fine Arts) who will convene the committee. The committee will review the facts, call witnesses, and make a recommendation to the High School Principal. The committee may consist of: • Student’s guidance counselor • District Director or appropriate advisor • Faculty representative B. The eligibility of any student may be appealed to the committee within 10 school days of notice of in‐eligibility. C. The eligibility of any student, who fails to meet the eligibility requirements above, as indicated on a five week report, will be reviewed by the committee. (West Genesee Board of Education Policy #5290.1, pending Board approval) If a student arrives to school after 8:30 a.m., is absent or leaves school with‐ out producing a medical excuse from a physician’s office, the student will not par‐ ticipate in that day’s practice or game. Exceptions to this rule must be approved by the Director, Advisor and/or Principal. Participation also includes adhering to conduct that does not compromise the health, safety, or welfare of self or oth‐ ers. Guidelines within the Student Code of Conduct apply. Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action, including possible dismissal. N. STUDENT VOLUNTEER POLICY A student can earn 1/2 credit per semester for each 120 hours of volunteer service he/she fulfills. This credit is granted upon receipt of a statement from the student’s supervisor attesting to the fact that 120 volunteer hours were completed. Forms to document volunteer service are available in the Guidance Office. O. SUMMER SCHOOL Summer school is designed to assist students in earning credit for courses in which they were enrolled and did not pass during the regular school year. Certain courses may also be offered for students to take on a first‐time basis, for example, health. 17 Students must have the approval of their respective school counselors before registering for summer school. Applications for summer school are accepted only during the official registration period. No mail‐in registrations are accepted. If a student misses more than 3 days, the student is dropped from the class. Students may, under special circumstances, take retake Regents examinations in summer school without attending the classes. These retake requests are approved on an individual basis through the Guidance and/or Principal’s Offices. Students may, with the approval of the Principal or the School Counselor, take a course in another school district. Class schedules for summer school are published before school ends in June each year. P. FIELD TRIPS Various classes and clubs/activity groups take field trips throughout the school year. These trips are under the direct supervision of a faculty member with the approval of the principal. Only students enrolled/participating in the respective course/activity may attend the field trip. Transportation is provided by the school, based upon school district regulations. Students are expected to dress and conduct themselves appropriately to the situation. All students are required to return to the school on their assigned buses, unless other arrange‐ ments have been approved by the building Principal. Q. TEXTBOOKS West Genesee furnishes textbooks to students. Reasonable wear to textbooks is expected as a result of daily use by students. Unreasonable damage to textbooks or loss of textbooks results in restitution by the student. The exception to this applies to some college level courses where students are required to purchase their own reading materials. It is important that this very major investment be properly cared for by the students. Students are personally responsible for all textbooks assigned to them. Each student is provided with a locker where personal property may be stored (see G, page 7, Locks & Lockers). R. DISTRIBUTION OF WRITTEN, AUDIO, VISUAL OR SOFTWARE MATERIALS West Genesee, because of community expectations and standards, is obligated to maintain guidelines for the general distribution of written, audio, visual and software materials within the building or on school property. The guidelines are based upon standards of obscenity, libel and the necessity for effective operation of the educational program. Any unauthorized distribution of materials may be confiscated. Recognizing students’ rights for freedom of expression, the following guidelines are established at West Genesee High School. 1. Official school materials relating to the school club and activity program are approved by advisors and distributed through official channels. 2. Students desiring to distribute materials of any other nature must receive the approval of the building Principal with requests being submitted 24 hours in advance of desired time of distribution. 18 3. Material considered inappropriate in any nature or materials that propose a disruption to the operation of the school due to content or distribution will not be approved. 4. Materials to be distributed are limited to the time period immediately prior to and/or after the completion of the official school day unless approved by the Principal. 5. Distribution of materials will be limited to areas designated by the Principal. 6. Students requesting to distribute materials assume responsibility for appropriate distribution (e.g., set up, clean up, etc.) of materials. 7. Students in violation of the respective guidelines are subject to disciplinary action and/or being reported to local authorities. S. WITHDRAWAL PROCEDURE A student can withdraw from West Genesee High School at the end of the school year in which the student turns 16. The student must make necessary arrangements with his/her School Counselor. A student withdrawing from West Genesee is not eligible to participate in any school activity or examination otherwise reserved for full‐time students. Re‐ entry to West Genesee cannot occur until the student meets with the Principal. The re‐admission process is covered by appropriate educational state law. T. POLICY ON PLAGIARISM It is the position of the administration and faculty of West Genesee High School that students accept responsibility for presenting papers that are repre‐ sentative of their own ability and efforts. Plagiarism is viewed as intellectually dishonest and an extremely serious offense. 1. Definition‐ Plagiarism is defined as passing off ideas or words of another as one’s own. Including the submission of another student’s work as one’s own or submission of direct quotes, paraphrases or ideas from any sources, including the Internet, that are not properly acknowledged by a written reference in the paper itself. 2. Procedure‐ Suspected cases of plagiarism are referred to the de‐ partment chairperson. The teacher and the chairperson mutually determine whether or not the paper is plagiarized. In cases where there is no department chairperson, the paper is referred to the Academic Dean. The teacher and the Academic Dean mutually determine whether or not the paper is plagiarized. A plagiarized paper receives a zero. If two students are knowingly involved, both receive zeroes on those papers. 19 U. TECHNOLOGY CODE OF CONDUCT Instructional Technology Code of Conduct Access to District technology resources is a privilege made available to staff, board of education, and students. All users should respect and protect the rights of every other user. They shall act in a responsible, ethical, and legal manner, considering the United States, New York State and local laws, the missions and purposes of other networks used via the Internet and the following Code of Conduct. All users must avoid the following inappropriate uses of the District’s technology resources: 1. Using resources for financial gain or profit 2. Degrading or disrupting equipment, software, or system performance 3. Using resources to interfere with the proper operation of any computer, or destroy data 4. Using information obtained through network and computer resources without giving proper credit to the source (plagiarism) 5. Intentionally interfering with the work of others 6. Using resources in any manner that violates Board Policy, federal, state, or local law, including unauthorized copying or transmission of software 7. Gaining unauthorized access to systems and networks 8. Invading the privacy of individuals 9. Using an account owned by another user, or allowing another user to use your account 10. Posting personal communications without the original author’s consent 11. Posting anonymous messages 12. Initiating or forwarding “chain” letters 13. Downloading, storing, printing, or distributing files or messages that are profane, obscene, threatening, or that use language that offends or tends to degrade others 14. Downloading, storing, printing, or distributing files or messages that contain information considered dangerous to the public at large. (West Genesee Board of Education Policy # 4510.3, 3/15/04) Students found to be in violation of the District Technology Code of Conduct are subject to disciplinary consequences and loss of computer privileges. 20 PART III: SCHOOL SERVICES
A. COUNSELING SERVICES Counseling and student services are available for each student at West Gen‐ esee High School. Students wishing to meet with their school counselor should contact the secretary in the Counseling Office to make an appointment. Stu‐ dents are always seen immediately if a crisis arises. School counselors are avail‐ able during the school day for assistance. Conversations with a counselor are considered confidential, as long as the health, safety or well being of a student is not in jeopardy. 1. Visiting the Counseling Office: The following include some of the typi‐ cal reasons for visiting your school counselor: A. discuss social and/or personal concerns, i.e.; conflicts with other stu‐ dents, teachers, or parents B. academic planning and advisement C. college and career planning D. course selection and scheduling 2. Programs: Students decide on their programs of study during the period from January to approximately March for the next school year. Program revisions are considered and require parent, counselor and administrative ap‐ proval. 3. Family Connection from NAVIANCE: A guidance planning and advising website for students and parents. Counselors present programs using NA‐ VIANCE each year to all grade levels. NAVIANCE provides access to: • Dynamic on‐line college search and comparison tools • Multimedia college profiles • Local scholarship and aid opportunities • Career planning activities and career searches • Resume of student accomplishments • News updates from the Guidance Office, School Counselors, and the Career Center • Personality and learning style inventories • SAT & ACT Method test preparation All students receive their access code upon entering High School. Once enrolled as a NAVIANCE user ‐ students and their families log onto NAVIANCE through the West Genesee website: www.westgenesee.org by going to: High School ‐ Quicklinks to Counseling and Student Services ‐ NAVIANCE. 4. Counselor Assignments: Each counselor has students from all four grade levels. Counselors are located in the Counseling Office. They can be reached by telephoning 487‐4672. 21 Mrs. Erin Paris 9th grade A – Ch 10th grade A ‐ Cn 11th grade A – Cl 12th grade A‐Coo Ms. Mary Clancy 9th grade Ci – Gd 10th grade Co – Ga 11th grade Cm – Gr 12th grade Cop – Gd Mr. Mark Grier 9th grade Ge ‐ Ke 10th grade Gb ‐ Ka 11th grade Gs‐L 12th grade Ge – Kn Mrs. Crystal Best 9th grade Kf – Mon 10th grade Kb ‐ Mo 11th grade M‐Pel 12th grade Ko ‐ Nd Mrs. Lauren Navarra 9th grade Moo ‐ Sch 10th grade Mp – Sa 11th grade Pem – Sm 12th grade Ne – Scn Mrs. Beverly Hannah 9th grade Sci ‐ Z 10th grade Sb ‐ Z 11th grade Sn ‐ Z 12th grade Sco ‐ Z Ms. Lisa Dwyer Select Students A ‐ Z Mrs. Paula Brillo Dir. of Counseling Services 5. Parent Conferences: Parents may schedule conferences with teachers, counselors or administrators by telephoning one of the following numbers: Office Phone Main Office 487‐4601 Guidance 487‐4672 Administrator Dr. Barry Copeland, Principal Mr. Michael Caraccio, Academic Dean Mr. Michael McGrath, Assistant Principal (A‐K) Mr. Peter Blake, Assistant Principal (L‐Z) Mrs. Paula Brillo, Director of Counseling Services Mr. William Davern, Director of Fine Arts Mr. Michael Burns, Director of Athletics Phone 487‐4592 487‐4581 487‐4673 487‐4673 487‐4672 487‐4612 487‐4560 6. Transcripts: Transcripts needed for school transfer, military use, scholar‐ ships and college applications or for possible employment information may be requested from the registrar in the Guidance Office. It is the student’s responsi‐ bility to give the registrar a reasonable amount of time so that deadlines can be met with a minimum amount of difficulty. Official transcripts with a school seal and an official signature are sent directly to colleges, scholarship programs, the military or employers. Unofficial transcripts may be requested by students and/ or parents at any time. 7. Test Dates: The Counseling Office maintains a file of application forms and literature on the various college entrance testing programs. Questions regarding testing should be directed to your school counselor. High School Code 331175 22 Test Center (West Genesee) 33‐288 Test Dates PLAN PSAT ACT SAT I & II 2013‐2014 11/16/13 10/16/13 4/12/14 10/5/13 & 5/03/14 B. ACADEMIC SUPPORT SERVICES West Genesee recognizes that high academic expectations for all students, calls for accessible academic support. In addition to the after‐school support provided by classroom teachers during Interaction Time, two programs have been developed to provide additional assistance to students in need. 1. The Learning Center The Learning Center at West Genesee High School provides students with extra help in the form of remediation activities, skill‐building strategies, and tu‐ torial sessions. These services are designed to enhance the instruction provided by the classroom teacher. Through Learning Center services, a substantial num‐ ber of capable learners become more successful in school, take more challeng‐ ing courses of study, and successfully earn Regents diplomas. Students receive services in the Learning Center on an every‐other‐day ba‐ sis. The frequency depends on the student’s individual needs and daily schedule. Students may receive help during a scheduled period(s), study hall, or before or after school; students are not removed from classroom time for Learning Center assistance. For additional information, students should contact their respective school counselors. 2. The Pro‐School Program This program offers a home‐base setting in the school for students at risk of academic failure because of social/emotional concerns. Evidence of possible fail‐ ure such as poor attendance, repeated discipline referrals, weak social/emotion‐ al coping skills, low or failing grades are considered when students are referred to the program. Teachers, counselors, administrators, parents, and students are all involved in the admission process and planning for the level of participation. Students may be involved in any combination of regular classes, Pro‐School aca‐ demic classes and Pro‐School study halls. Services include: counseling (individual and group), individualized instruction and tutoring, and study skills assessment and development. Further information is available from the program coordina‐ tor‐counselor, administrators or school counselors. 3. Interaction Time Interaction Time is offered Tuesday through Friday and provides an opportunity for students to meet with their teachers individually or in small groups for academic help. Teachers follow the schedule they have posted on their door for Interaction Time. 23 Students must report to their teacher(s) immediately upon completion of last period, and are not permitted to loiter in the building during or after Interac‐ tion Time. Teachers issue late bus passes to their students staying for Interac‐ tion Time as needed. Regular Bus Routes
Bus Schedule 2:00
Interaction Bus Route
2:45
4. Examination Preparation Review Sessions Review sessions are offered prior to examinations in January, June, and August. 5. Weekly Reports Students who are experiencing serious difficulty with their studies may obtain special weekly reports by requesting them from the Counseling Office. C. CONFLICT MEDIATION Mediation has proven to be a highly effective technique in empowering participants to settle disputes in a peaceful and proactive manner. Trained mediators are neutral parties who work to guide the disputants in reaching mutually agreeable solutions to their problems. Forms to request mediation are available in the Assistant Principals’ Office. Administrators, teachers, parents or students themselves can request mediation and participation is voluntary. D. HEALTH AND SAFETY SERVICES Every school child is required by State Education Law to have a health appraisal in grades K, 2, 4, 7, and 10. The examination should be conducted by the family physician. If that is not possible to arrange, an appraisal can be done by the school physician. Each pupil’s vision and hearing screenings should be included in this exam. However, if not done during this exam, they will be evaluated by the school nurse. BMI’s and percentiles are to be calculated by physicians only, according to New York State Law. All new entrants must present an up to date physical within thirty (30) days of their start date, and up to date immunizations within fourteen (14) days of start date. Physicals need to include all of the above information. All students engaged in interscholastic sports or applying for working papers are examined by the school physician or their family physician. The nurses keep a health record for each child from the time the child enters kindergarten until graduation from high school and notify parents whenever a child is found to have a problem in any of the areas tested. Responsibility for Students’ Health The students’ health is primarily the responsibility of the parent. If medical care is necessary, every effort should be made to obtain health care outside of school hours. 24 1. Accidents All personal injury accidents in the school building, on the school grounds, or at any athletic event sponsored by the school, must be reported immediately to the person in charge and to the school health office. In the event of an ac‐ cident or illness, school personnel are permitted to give limited emergency care only. Parents are responsible for any additional care that might be necessary. In case a parent cannot be reached, the nurse consults the emergency card, filled out by the parent, for an alternative person to call. 2. Illness in School Students becoming ill during the school day should request a pass from the classroom teacher to visit the nurse or report personally between classes. The nurse then determines whether the student should return to class, rest in the health office, or be sent home. Students must not leave the building because of illness without first going through the nurses’ office. The nurse contacts the parent for permission to send the ill student home. Students failing to follow procedures for leaving school due to illness are subject to disciplinary consequences. 3. In‐School Medications All prescription and over‐the‐counter medications must be left in the nurses’ office. If it is necessary for a student to receive any medication during the school day, the following information should be sent by the family physician with the medication, along with written permission from the parents: A. Amount of medication to be given at one time B. Time or times of day medication is to be given C. Period of time the medicine is to be taken D. Failure to comply will result in disciplinary consequences. 4. Insurance West Genesee School District carries liability insurance which covers stu‐ dents only while on West Genesee School property. This policy is secondary to any insurance coverage provided by the home policy. The policy contains an “immediate medical” provision which covers medical care for an injury within 24 hours of the time the injury occurred; in other words, first‐aid care. The injury must be reported to the school health office. This policy does not cover later medical care except in cases where liability can be proven. NOTE: Injuries received while participating in physical education activities, interscholastic sports and intramural programs are covered under the NYSHSAAP. These injuries are not subject to the 24‐hour limitation. 5. Filing Claims Report the accident to the staff member in charge and to the school health office as soon as possible. File your claim form as soon as possible. Failure to do so might jeopardize your claim. It is your responsibility to see that the form is properly filed. 25 6. Special Health Problems Students with health problems are to report to the school nurse at the beginning of the school year, or whenever such a problem arises. Special prob‐ lems include but are not limited to: vision, diabetes, epilepsy, rheumatic fever, allergies, recent surgery, asthma, medication or anything else that might limit students’ participation in school. 7. Work Permits A student under 18 years of age must obtain working papers to accept employment. The law also has certain requirements regarding the type of work a minor may do, and the hours and conditions under which he/she may work. Applications may be obtained at the health office. * A physical examination within the last twelve months is required for work‐ ing papers. E. LIBRARY SERVICES Students are provided with library resources to give them the opportunity to extend their knowledge and learning experiences. Materials are purchased and services provided, taking curriculum needs, individual interests, abilities and opportunities for independent study into consideration. 1. Library Procedure A. Students must return borrowed materials on time. B. Students should maintain a studious atmosphere; refrain from disturbing others. If assistance is needed locating, gathering, or using materials or equipment, students should ask a librarian for help. 2. Missing or Lost Materials A. Library materials are common property shared by all students. B. Lost items must be paid for by the student. 3. The Library Provides A. A three‐week loan period for books with renewal privilege B. Overnight loan for movies C. Before and after‐school hours D. Computer access 26 F. TRANSPORTATION SERVICES The following rules are provided as tips for safe school bus riding: 1. Leave home early enough to arrive at your bus stop on time. 2. Wait for your bus in a safe place‐well off the roadway. 3. Enter your bus in an orderly manner and take your seat. 4. Follow the instructions of your school bus driver. 5. Remain in your seat while your bus is in motion. 6. Keep your head and arms inside the bus at all times. 7. Keep aisles clear at all times. 8. Remain quiet and orderly; inappropriate behavior and foul language is not permitted. 9. Be courteous to your school bus driver and fellow passengers. 10. Be alert to traffic when leaving the bus. 11. Smoking is not permitted on school buses at any time. Bus Procedure: Buses are provided daily at the regular dismissal time at 2:00 p.m. and daily at 2:45 p.m.. All students who remain after school must secure a bus pass from the staff member with whom they stayed. Those without appropriately signed bus passes are not allowed on the late bus. 27 PART IV: POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
A. WEST GENESEE CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT CODE OF CONDUCT SUMMARY West Genesee Central School District is committed to providing a safe and orderly learning environment where students may receive, and West Genesee personnel may deliver quality educational services without disruption or interference. Responsible behavior by students, West Genesee personnel, parents and visitors is essential to achieving this goal. West Genesee has a long‐standing set of expectations for conduct on school property and at its functions. These expectations are based on the principles of civility, mutual respect, citizenship, character, tolerance, honesty, integrity, and the belief in the educational goals of the organization. Unless otherwise indicated, this Code applies to all students, school personnel, parents and other visitors when on West Genesee property or attending a West Genesee function. This Code is in compliance with Board of Education Policies and individual Student Handbooks. A complete version of the Code of Conduct is available at each school. 1. Student Dress Code: A. Student’s dress, grooming and appearance shall: Be safe, appropriate and not disrupt or interfere with the educational process. B. Recognize appropriateness of garments as outlined in the building level handbook. 2. Prohibited Student Conduct: Students may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspen‐ sion from West Genesee programs when they: A. Engage in conduct that is disorderly. B. Engage in conduct that is insubordinate. C. Engage in conduct that is disruptive. D. Engage in conduct that is violent. E. Engage in any conduct that endangers the safety, morals, health or wel‐ fare of others. F. Engage in misconduct while on a school bus. G. Engage in, or assist any other person(s), in any form of academic miscon‐ duct. 3. Disciplinary Procedures: Disciplinary action, when necessary, will be firm, fair and consistent so as to be the most effective in managing student behavior. In determining the appro‐ priate disciplinary action, school personnel authorized to impose disciplinary penalties may consider the following: 28 A. The student’s age. B. The nature of the offense and the circumstances which led to the of‐ fense. C. The student’s prior disciplinary record. D. The effectiveness of other forms of discipline. E. Information from parents, teachers and/or others, as appropriate. F. Other extenuating circumstances. Discipline may be progressive and is dependent upon the nature of the incident. This means that a student’s subsequent violations will usually result in a more severe consequence than the first violation. If the conduct of a student is related to a disability or suspected disability, the student may be referred to the Committee on Special Education and disci‐ pline, if warranted, shall be administered consistent with the separate require‐ ments of this Code of Conduct for disciplining students with a disability. 4. Penalties: A. Verbal warning B. Written warning C. Written notification to parent D. Detention E. Suspension from social, co‐curricular, or extracurricular activities (refer to applicable codes) F. Suspension of parking permit G. Suspension of other privileges H. In‐school suspension I. Removal from class by teacher J. Short‐term (five days or less) suspension from school K. Long‐term (more than five days) suspension from school L. Permanent suspension from school B. STUDENT POLICIES West Genesee High School has developed guidelines for the actions and activities of the members of its in‐school community. The size of the school, its philosophy and goals, its organization, and its community determine the extent and the content of the guidelines. Rules provide both rights and responsibilities. As members of the West Genesee community, students have full protection for both their rights and activities, and the right of appeal for any violation of rights. 29 C. WEST GENESEE AND THE LAW 1. Civil Rights ‐ West Genesee recognizes all federal, state, and local laws. Interpretations of laws are available on request from the Principal’s Of‐ fice. 2. Enforcement ‐ Any unlawful act taking place on West Genesee property or at any school sponsored activity makes the student subject to the penalties which the law may prescribe. D. ATTENDANCE POLICIES & PROCEDURES Attendance in school is critical for students’ academic success. Students must be in school and on time when school is in session. Students must follow attendance procedures for leaving the building. According to the law, schools operate under the concept of in loco parentis, meaning the school is responsible for students and their safety for the duration of the school day. Compulsory Education Law The Compulsory Education Law requires the regular school attendance of all children between 6 and 16 years of age. The law requires students to remain in attendance until the last day of the school year in which they become 16 years of age. A parent/guardian is responsible for a student conforming to all attendance regulations and procedures. Repeated violation of attendance rules will be considered insubordinate behavior and the student will be subject to disciplinary measures. All absences and tardiness are considered unexcused until the student brings a note to school following the absence(s) or tardy(s). Under the Compulsory Education Law, it is required that, in addition to a phone contact, written documentation or the absence(s) or excessively absent or tardy without a verifiable explanation can be charged with educational neglect. 1. Class Attendance – Grades Nine through Twelve A. Rationale: We believe that regular class attendance is an important compo‐ nent of a student’s educational program because it fosters continuity of instruc‐ tion, active classroom participation, and interaction between students and teachers. B. Purpose: According to the Commissioner’s Regulation 104.1, schools must maintain records of student attendance to ensure maintenance of and adequate records verifying the attendance of all children at instruction in accordance with Education Law, Section 3205: to account for the whereabouts of children throughout each school day; and to ensure sufficient pupil attendance at all scheduled periods of actual instruction or supervised study activities to permit pupils to succeed at meeting State Learning Standards. C. Objectives: Required class attendance will assist students in: 30 • Raising academic standards as well as improving standardized test scores. • Improving communication and study skills. • Developing responsibility and self discipline for personal and academic growth. Required class attendance will assist the teachers and administrators in: • Developing a constructive and meaningful rapport with students for a more personalized learning experience. • Promoting continuity of learning in the classroom. Required class attendance will assist the community in: • Establishing a greater communication link between home and school. • Setting high standards in order to promote an academic atmosphere and to emphasize the seriousness of education. D. Attendance I. There is no differentiation of absences for attendance policy purposes. II. An absence from class is defined as entering a class late by twenty (20) minutes or more or missing the entire class. III. A student is considered in attendance if that student is: • Physically present in the classroom. • Working under the direction of the classroom teacher and outside of the classroom. • Receiving homebound instruction. • Attending a required curricular activity (such as music lessons or field trip) during a scheduled class period. E. Communication The following practices are in place for communicating expectations and absences: • The teacher includes expectations for student attendance and makeup work guidelines in opening day handouts and on Open House materials. • Daily, period by period electronic attendance must be recorded in our Student Management System for inclusion on the 5 and 10 week reports. • The teacher records comment(s) on 5 and 10 week reports as needed (265, 261, 271). • The teacher contacts the parent when a student’s absences are exces‐ sive (7 absences in a marking period or a significant increase in absenc‐ es). • A letter of warning sent to parent from Assistant Principal’s office at the request of the teacher and AFTER the teacher has previously contacted parent (the teacher determines if and when a letter should be sent and contacts AP accordingly). • The Assistant Principal holds a parent conference upon the request of the teacher (AFTER the teacher has contacted the parent and a letter has been sent). 31 F. Makeup Work The following practices are in place regarding makeup work for students who are legally excused: • The student meets with the teacher for assigned work upon return to class after an absence and the teacher assigns due date(s). The work is due on the date specified. If the student is absent on the due date, the work is to be submitted on the day that the student returns to school. OR The teacher completes Homework Request form and includes due dates for work assigned; work is due on the date(s) specified or, if the student is still absent, the work is to be submitted on the day that the student returns to school. • ALL make up work must be completed by one week prior to the 5 week and 10 week reporting periods. Work received during the last week of a respective marking period can be included in the report card grade at the teacher’s discretion or a grade change can be made after the report card has been processed. • NO INCOMPLETE grades will be given. Students will receive grades based on the work that has been assigned for the marking period. A grade of zero will be issued for any assignment that has not been submitted within the grading period. (West Genesee Board of Education Policy #5160.1, 11/17/10) 2. Daily Attendance ‐ Absent from school: (See also page 44) A. Parents or guardians must notify the attendance office if their child is going to be late to or absent from school. The attendance office can be reached 24 hours per day at: 487‐4670 (A‐K) ‐or‐ 487‐4588 (L‐Z). B. Upon return to school after an absence, students are required to bring an excuse or affidavit stating their name, reason for absence and dates absent from school, signed by their parent or guardian. Failure to do so results in disci‐ plinary action. (See also page 44) C. This excuse is to be presented to the first period teacher the first day back from an absence. The teacher keeps these excuses on file. The affidavit or excuse is a document which must be filed for three years and can be admitted in court as evidence of attendance. D. Excused absences and tardies include: • sickness • court appearance • approved college visits • sickness or death in family • approved educational activities • religious observance • remedial health treatment • attendance at organized clinics • quarantine • approved cooperative work programs 32 E. Unexcused absences include two types: truancy and unlawful deten‐ tion. Truancy is a student’s absence for part or all of the school day without the consent of a parent or guardian. Unlawful detention occurs when a student is absent from school with the knowledge and consent, stated or implied, of his or her parent or guardian for other than excused reasons. (See also page 44) Such reasons as the following come under unexcused absences: “visiting,” “away,” “work,” “went hunting,” “needed at home,” “overslept,” “breakfast,” “lunch,” “skip days,” etc. Students who leave school for an unexcused reason are subject to disciplinary action F. All students who are absent from class or study hall and whose names do not appear on the daily absent lists are to be questioned the next day. Should the student have clearly skipped class, the initial effort to resolve the problem is to be made by the teacher before it is referred. 1st cut ‐ Teacher assigned consequences • Teacher assigned consequence • contact with parent(s) • formal documentation 2nd cut ‐ Future infractions documented and referred for possible progres‐ sive administrative action G. Music lessons are arranged according to a rotating schedule, so that no pupil misses the same class each week. Weekly lessons are required of all string, band, and vocal major ensemble members and are weighted as 50% of students’ quarterly grades. Students should notify the teacher whose class they miss for the lesson in advance. The names of students scheduled for lessons will be dis‐ tributed electronically at the beginning of each week. 1. Students should notify the teacher whose class they miss for the lesson in advance. 2. Students are responsible for all class work and homework missed as a result of the lesson. 3. Where a unit test has been scheduled or other major class activity, students can reschedule a music lesson. 4. The lesson teacher must be notified by the student before the lesson is missed. 5. Missed lessons must be rescheduled within the same quarter or a failing grade will be given for that lesson. 3. Tardy to School, Tardy to Class (See also page 45) Tardy to School: When a student is legally tardy to school, the student must submit a written excuse (see pink slips provided in opening day packet) to the attendance office from a parent or guardian as to the reason for the tardiness. Unexcused late arrivals to school are subject to disciplinary action. An unexcused late arrival becomes a truancy 20 minutes after the instructional day begins. Tardy to Class: Students tardy to a class (i.e., 20 minutes or more) without a pass are subject to disciplinary action. 33 4. Early Dismissal When a student needs to leave school early for an excused reason, he/she must present a note from a parent to the Attendance Office prior to 7:20 a.m. on the day the early dismissal is requested. Students driving off campus are di‐ rected to the Assistant Principals’ Office for parent confirmation of the dismissal. Student drivers excused during school hours are NOT allowed to transport other students. Students who have an early dismissal are to leave school property and may not use school transportation to go home unless they have returned for classes or Interaction Time at the end of the day. Students must not leave the building because of illness without going through the nurses’ office. Students becoming ill during the school day should request a pass from the classroom teacher to visit the nurse or report there directly if between classes. The nurse then determines whether the student should return to class, rest in the health office, or be sent home with parent verification. 5. School Work Requests During Student Absence School work requests to teachers can be made when a student will be absent for more than two days. Requests should be made to the Assistant Principals’ Office at 487‐4551 before 8:00 a.m. for pick up on the same day. If a student has prior knowledge that he/she will be absent from school, it is the responsibility of the student to request school work from the appropriate teach‐ ers. Work may be picked up in the Counseling Office between 2:30 – 5:00 p.m. E. STUDENT CONDUCT AND RESPONSIBILITIES Students at West Genesee High School are expected to accept and carry out their responsibilities both in and out of the classroom. They are expected to respect the people around them, and contribute to the positive, productive atmosphere of the school. In turn, they can be assured that the staff and admin‐ istration of West Genesee High School enable each student to work toward his or her goals and develop intellectually, socially, and physically during his or her years in high school. 1. Expectations Students at WGHS are expected to follow these guidelines for conduct and ethics: A. Know and obey the rules, as written in the Student Handbook. B. Respect authority. C. Care for personal possessions and respect the property of others. D. Observe good safety habits to protect themselves and others. E. Help to keep the school buildings and grounds clean. F. Show consideration for the feelings, opinions and abilities of others. G. Accept responsibility for their own actions. H. Develop habits of honesty, truthfulness, and kindness. I. Cooperate with all staff and students at West Genesee. J. Participate in school activities. K. Be proud of the accomplishments of West Genesee students. L. Report any information to staff that may compromise the health safety or welfare of others during school hours or events. 34 2. Regulations for Student Behavior Students must observe the following regulations: A. Students shall attend school and classes regularly and on time. (See Sec‐ tion B on attendance for specific instructions.) B. Students are to conform to all rules of conduct related to all school activities on or off school grounds. C. Students must obtain passes from a staff member when moving about the building during the school day. D. Students are not to be found in unauthorized areas including but not limited to: locker rooms (other than assigned Physical Education class time), closets, elevators, faculty and or staff rooms, etc. 3. Punishable Offenses The following is a list of punishable offenses as defined by law or by West Genesee High School regulations. These offenses include, but are not limited to, the following: A. Engaging in conduct that endangers the safety, morals, health, welfare, or property of self or others. B. Use of obscene language or possession/distribution of obscene litera‐ ture. C. Use of defamatory remarks regarding race, gender, religion, sexual ori‐ entation, or ethnicity etc.. D. Immoral conduct. E. Theft, or in possession of stolen property, Extortion. F. Failure to comply with a reasonable request or directive (e.g. search, reporting). G. Gambling and/or card playing. H. Fighting. I. Cheating. J. Vandalism. K. Sale, distribution, possession, use, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. L. Possession of drug paraphernalia, alcoholic containers. M. Sale, distribution, possession, or use of weapons or facsimiles, or explo‐ sives (including but not limited to firecrackers, fireworks, smoke bombs or lighters) on school property. N. Harassment and/or assault on a staff member or student. O. Threats, direct or implied, that compromise the safety of others and/or the operation of the school. P. Being tardy to class, or cutting class (not attending class(es), leaving the school building or property without prior permission and an excused reason. Q. Reckless driving on school property. R. Loitering on school premises. S. Throwing of objects including but not limited to: snowballs, food, writ‐ ing utensils, etc. 35 T. Unregistered or inappropriate parking in unauthorized areas during the regular school day. U. Displays of affection involving physical contact. V. Smoking, or possession/use of tobacco products in the building, on school grounds, or at school events. W. Entering or being in any unauthorized area of the school. X. Forging notes or passes from parents or staff members. Y. Swearing or using socially unacceptable language. Z. Wearing clothing that promotes the acceptance or use of drugs, tobac‐ co, or alcohol products, or that may be considered offensive to others. AA. Wearing accessory items (e.g. chains, necklaces, rings) that could be used as weapons. BB. Wearing hats and outerwear during the school day in the building, as well as related accessories that may interfere with maintaining health, safety, and/or welfare (e.g., facial/eye coverings, make‐up, etc.). CC. Use of electronic devices including, but not limited to: cell phones, headphones, photo/video equipment, CD players, pagers, IPODS, or MP3 players during the school day upon entering the building. Cell phones are not to be visible, turned on or used during the school day upon entering the building. Students needing to call home on a cell phone between 2:00 and 2:40 pm are permitted to use them only in the two main lobbies outside the Main Office and the Library. DD. Possession or use/lighting of matches or lighters, etc., in school or on school property. EE. Provoking, bullying, intimidating, harassing, menacing, or any behavior that incites or is intended to incite another person into a confrontation. FF. Use of skateboards or in‐line skates on school property. GG. Tampering with any safety equipment, including but not limited to fire extinguishers, alarms, AED Units, etc., or misuse of other school equip‐ ment, technology, or property. HH. Unauthorized printing, copying, promoting, distributing, posting, ac‐ cessing, or downloading audio, video, messages, images, electronic sites, or other information. II. Unauthorized possession or use of open containers/liquids within the building. JJ. Failure to follow procedures for leaving the building due to illness (see Health and Safety Services p. 24). KK. Sharing bathroom stalls, lockers, etc. LL. Unauthorized bringing in of food of any kind from ‘outside’ vendors, home, etc. (e.g. for breakfast, for lunch, classroom, etc.), as well as tak‐ ing food or drink out of the cafeteria. MM. Intimidation, menacing, harassment, bullying includes, but not limited to, any behavior that has or would have the effect of unreasonably and substantially interfering with a student’s educational performance, op‐ portunities or benefits, or mental, emotional and/or physical well‐being; or reasonably causes or would reasonably be expected to cause a stu‐ dent to fear for or abuse based on a person’s actual or perceived race, 36 color, weight, ethnic group, religion, gender, sexual orientation. (West Genesee Board of Education Policy #0115, 3/7/12) NN. Opening doors for others to enter the building without authorization. OO. Entering the building through an unauthorized entry. F. TYPES OF DISCIPLINARY ACTION The goal of the disciplinary program at West Genesee is to effect positive change in students’ behavior. It is an attempt to modify behaviors from unac‐ ceptable to acceptable levels. Consequently, there are several forms of action that result from inappropriate behavior or from violating school rules, regula‐ tions or policies. These actions include, but are not limited to, the following: 1. Student Conference May include teacher, counselor, administrator, parent. 2. Parent Conference May include teacher, counselor, administrator, student. 3. After School Detention This is held immediately after school. The student is obligated to attend as scheduled. If absent or excused on the day of a scheduled detention, the date of the detention is automatically changed to the next detention date. If a student cannot attend detention as scheduled, he or she must make arrangements to be excused IN ADVANCE with the assistant principal. • If a student is late to after school detention, it will be considered a cut and result in further consequences. 4. Restricted Pass Privileges Students are not allowed to move about the building unescorted for a desig‐ nated period of time. 5. Suspended Parking Privileges Students are not allowed to park on school grounds for a designated period of time (30 school days, one semester, or remainder of year). 6. Mediation Is an alternative within the disciplinary function. This program provides an opportunity for students to settle disputes with the help of trained adult and/or student mediators. Students who are having difficulties can self‐refer for media‐ tion or be asked to participate by an administrator or teacher. This confidential and voluntary program allows students an opportunity to resolve their differ‐ ences without involvement in the standard disciplinary process. 7. In‐School Suspension The student is directed to the In‐School Suspension Room for part or all of the school day. Arrangements are made for the student to obtain class work, but the student is not allowed to attend classes from which he/she has been suspended. The In‐School Suspension Room is supervised by a certified teacher. It is an area of absolute quiet and restricted study. If a student is removed from ISS for any reason it may result in an out of school suspension. 8. Saturday Detention Saturday detention extends from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Parents are notified when Saturday detention is assigned. 37 9. Activity Suspension The student is suspended from attendance at or participation in West Gen‐ esee sponsored activities. The student is not suspended from class or from the building. 10. Out‐of‐School Suspension The student is suspended from the building and all classes for a definite period of time – maximum of five days. This period of time may be extended by the superintendent. A parent conference is normally necessary for re‐admit‐ tance to school. A student suspended from school may not appear or loiter on school property or at any school‐sponsored event at or away from school. It is the suspended student’s responsibility to make up all work missed during the suspension period. The student is to make arrangements with individual teach‐ ers for class work assignments, etc. Parents are to assume complete responsibil‐ ity for the student during the period of suspension. 11. Parking Privileges Revoked Students may have their parking permits revoked for discipline, behavioral or academic reasons. 12. Principal’s Meeting A Principal’s Meeting may be held for instances of serious or chronic behav‐ ior to review the status of the student. 13. Probation This gives a student a specified length of time in which to prove that he or she follows various school regulations. 14. Superintendent’s Hearing Following a Superintendent’s Hearing, the superintendent may take what‐ ever action deemed appropriate. The student may be suspended out of school for the balance of the semester, or the school year. Parents are notified by the district office. 15. Long Term Suspension The student may be suspended out of school for the balance of the semes‐ ter, or the school year, subject to superintendent’s decision. Parent notified. G. DISCIPLINARY POLICIES AND PROCEDURES The following is intended to serve as a guideline to students and parents. Its purpose is to make students and parents aware of the consequences of certain actions. This list is not intended to be restrictive or all‐inclusive. 1. Student Disruptions and Graduation Ceremony Participation Maintaining an environment that is safe and healthy throughout the entire school year is of the highest priority. Students involved individually or collec‐ tively in conduct that compromises the health, safety, or welfare of others, in particular year‐end disruptions, are subject to consequences. This may include a five‐day principal’s suspension and Superintendent’s Hearing with extended suspension which could continue into the next school year. If the student’s com‐ mencement exercise occurs during the suspension, the senior may be denied the privilege of participating in the graduation ceremony. 38 2. Student Searches and Interrogations The Board of Education is committed to ensuring an atmosphere on West Genesee property and at West Genesee functions that is safe and orderly. To achieve this kind of environment, any school official authorized to impose a disciplinary penalty on a student may question a student about an alleged viola‐ tion of law or the district code of conduct. Students are not entitled to any sort of Miranda‐type warning before being questioned by West Genesee official, nor are West Genesee official required to contact a student’s parents before ques‐ tioning the student. In addition, the Board authorizes West Genesee nurses, principals, program supervisors, and teachers to conduct searches of students and their belongings if the authorized West Genesee official has reasonable suspicion to believe that the search will result in evidence that the student violated the law or the district code of conduct (Board of Education Policy # 5330 & 5330‐R). An authorized West Genesee official may conduct a search of a student’s belongings that is minimally intrusive, such as touching the outside of a book bag, without reasonable suspicion, so long as the West Genesee official has a legitimate reason for the very limited search. An authorized West Genesee official may search a student or the student’s belongings based upon information received from a reliable informant. Individuals, other than the West Genesee employees, will be considered reliable informants if they have previously supplied information that was accurate and verified, they make an admission against their own interest, they provide the same information that is received independently from other sources, or they appear to be credible and the information they are communicating relates to an immediate threat to safety. West Genesee employees will be considered reliable informants unless they are known to have previously supplied information that they knew was not accurate. Before searching a student or the student’s belongings, (i.e. backpacks, purses, belongings etc.) the authorized West Genesee official should attempt to get the student to admit that he or she possesses physical evidence they violated the law or the district code, or get the student to voluntarily consent to the search. Searches will be limited to the extent necessary to locate the evidence sought. Whenever practicable, searches will be conducted in the privacy of admin‐ istrative offices and students will be present when their possessions are being searched. 39 3. Student Bullying The West Genesee Central School District condemns and strictly prohibits all forms of harassment, hazing, and bullying, including cyberbullying, on school grounds, school buses, and at all school‐sponsored activities, programs, and events including those that take place at locations outside the district but that materially and substantially disrupt the educational process of the school envi‐ ronment or impinge on the rights of others (West Genesee Board of Education Policy #0115, 3/7/12). Students who have been bullied, parents whose children have been bullied, or other students who observe bullying behavior are encour‐ aged to make a verbal and/or written complaint to a school staff member; all complaints are handled in accordance with the regulations and procedures of this policy. 4. Student Lockers, Desks and other School Storage Places The rules in this code of conduct regarding searches of students and their belongings do not apply to student lockers, desks and other school storage places. Students have no reasonable expectation of privacy with respect to these places and West Genesee officials retain complete control over them. This means that student lockers, desks and other West Genesee storage places may be subject to search at any time by West Genesee officials, without prior notice to students and without their consent 5. Drug and Alcohol Procedure The use and unlawful possession of illicit drugs and/or alcohol by students of the District is wrong, harmful, and inconsistent with the District’s primary mission of educating students. The Board of Education is committed to the pre‐ vention of alcohol and illicit drug use/abuse. Throughout this policy, the phrase “alcohol, illicit drugs, and other substances” shall include, but not be limited to, the following substances: alcohol, inhalants, marijuana, cocaine, LSD, PCP, amphetamines, heroin, steroids, look‐alikes, and those substances commonly re‐ ferred to as “designer drugs.” (West Genesee Board of Education Policy #5312.1, 3/15/04). Sale, distribution, possession, use or being under the influence of illegal drugs (including alcohol) on school property or at a supervised school function at other locations shall result in the following: A. NOTIFICATION OF PARENT OR GUARDIAN B. SUSPENSION for 5‐DAYS C. NOTIFICATION OF POLICE DEPARTMENT YOUTH OFFICER D. SUPERINTENDENT’S HEARING Please Note: All over‐the‐counter and prescription medications should be left at the nurses’ office. Violations are subject to disciplinary action. Failure to comply with this policy will result in disciplinary consequences. Possession of drug paraphernalia, alcoholic containers, etc. is also subject to suspension and Superintendent’s Hearing. 40 6. Disruptive Behavior in the Classroom/Study Hall A. CLASS DISRUPTION 1. A teacher may assign a student to ISS for disruptive behavior in class. Teachers may assign a student to ISS for their classroom period only. 2. Students assigned to ISS for one period must report directly to ISS with sufficient work for the remainder of the period. 3. Chronic and/or severe disruptive behavior will result in further disci‐ plinary action and/or intervention. Possible intervention strategies to modify chronic disruptive behavior may include: • Parent conference • Out‐of‐school suspension • Additional in‐school suspension • Referral to social worker • Referral to guidance • Referral to school psychologist • Detention (after school or Saturday) • Behavior modification plan developed by teacher and student GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR: In School Suspension (ISS) 1. Students are to report to the supervising teacher immediately at the begin‐ ning of first period when assigned for a full day and bring his/her assign‐ ments for each class. 2. Parents are notified of the suspension. 3. Failure to report directly to ISS will result in further disciplinary action. 4. If a student is absent on the day of the assigned suspension, the day(s) are automatically advanced to the next school day(s). The student is expected to report without further notification. 5. Students in ISS are expected to follow all Student Handbook rules during their suspension (i.e. no talking, sleeping, card playing, snacking, listening to music). 6. Students are not permitted to leave the room without the supervisor’s permission. 7. Only students assigned to ISS are permitted in the room. 8. Students may be assigned to ISS by administrators at their discretion. 9. Students must bring and complete school work in ISS. 7. Cafeteria Behavior Expectations: Students are expected to: A. Arrive at the cafeteria within the four‐minute passing time. B. Dispose of their trash and return trays and utensils after eating. C. Not throw anything. D. Seat no more than eight people per table/one person per chair. E. Treat one another with respect at all times. F. Comply with all requests from supervisors including not taking food or drink from the cafeteria. G. Provide pre‐signed passes to leave the lunchroom. 41 Consequences for unacceptable behavior include but are not limited to: • Clean up lunchroom • Lunch detention • Removal from cafeteria • Notification of parents NOTE: Throwing anything will result in appropriate disciplinary action. 8. Insubordination Insubordination is the failure to abide by the rules as they appear in the Student Handbook, or failure to respond to a directive from a staff member. Insubordination may result in conferences, detention, and/or a form of suspen‐ sion, depending on the severity of the incident. 9. Fighting Fighting will result in a 5 days of Out‐of‐School Suspension with a Principal’s meeting. 10. Provocation Behavior that incites or is intended to incite another student into a con‐ frontation is subject to administrative action. Consequences include but are not limited to two days of ISS, up to five days of OSS. 11. Loitering – School Property and Adjacent Areas West Genesee High School operates as a closed campus. This means that students are expected to stay within the school premises from the time they arrive until dismissal. Any students found loitering in areas adjacent to or on school property during regular school hours are truant and subject to disciplin‐ ary action. Students who are loitering after 2:00 p.m. are not permitted to use school transportation to go home. 12. Prohibited Items A. WEAPONS West Genesee Board of Education Policy States: No student shall knowingly have in his or her possession upon any school premises any rifle, shotgun, pistol, revolver, other firearm, explosives, dangerous chemicals, or any object which is not necessary for school activities which could be used as a weapon. (West Genesee Board of Education Policy #5312.2, 3/15/04) Procedure for Suspicion of Weapons or Facsimiles 1. Notify an administrator immediately. 2. The administrator will investigate the situation. 3. Immediate notification of parents/guardian is made by an administrator. 4. If a weapon or facsimile is found, a 5 day out of school suspension is as‐ signed. 42 5. The Camillus Police/Youth officer is notified by administration when a stu‐ dent is found to be in possession of a weapon. 6. When a student is found to be in possession of a weapon or facsimile, a Superintendent’s Hearing is conducted. B. OTHER PROHIBITED ITEMS The following list of items are prohibited at West Genesee High School and at all school functions. In cases where the articles are forbidden by state law, vio‐ lators may be subject to suspension from school, as well as legal prosecution: 1. Smoke bombs, firecrackers or other explosive devices at any time. 2. Dogs, cats or other pets or animals without the express permission of a school administrator. 3. Drug paraphernalia. 4. Articles which interfere with school operations. C. ELECTRONIC DEVICES Use of electronic devices including, but not limited to cell phone, head‐ phones, photo/video equipment, CD players, pagers, IPODS, or MP3 players dur‐ ing the school day upon entering the building. Cell phones are not to be visible, turned on or used during the school day upon entering the building. Students needing to call home on a cell phone between 2:00 and 2:40 pm are permitted to use them only in the two main lobbies immediately outside the Main Office and the Library. Consequences: 1st offense… Device is confiscated, Parent/Legal guardian must pick‐up. 2nd offense…Device is confiscated, Parent/Legal guardian must pick‐up and a Saturday detention is assigned. 3rd offense…Device is confiscated, Parent/Legal guardian must pick‐up, 2‐5 days out of school suspension is assigned. Note: Failure to turn over the device to any staff member upon request will result in: 1st offense… 1 day of out of school suspension. 2nd offense… 2 days of out of school suspension. 3rd offense… 2 – 5 days of out of school suspension. 43 13. Anti‐Tobacco Procedure The possession or use of tobacco or tobacco products is not allowed in the school building or on school grounds. For violations, the student is referred to an administrator and paraphernalia is confiscated and parents are notified by phone and letter. Students are in violation of the tobacco usage procedure if they are found: A. Smoking B. In possession of (“holding”) lighters, matches, etc., or lighted smoking material C. In the process of lighting smoking material D. Warning smokers of the impending arrival of a staff member, or being in the company of smokers (e.g., sharing bathroom stalls) E. In possession or use of tobacco products Consequences: 1st offense...Two days of out of school suspension, 60 days of restricted pass privileges. 2nd offense...Three days of out of school suspension, 60 days of restricted pass privileges or the remainder of the school year. 3rd offense...five days of out of school suspension, restricted pass privileges for the remainder of the year, a Principal’s meeting. 14. Staff Abuse A. Verbal Abuse of a Staff member Consequences: 1st offense...up to 5 days of out of school suspension 2nd offense...up to 5 days of out of school suspension and Principal’s Meeting 3rd offense...5 days of out of school suspension and Superintendent’s Hearing B. Physical Abuse of a Staff member (i.e. any physical contact) Consequences: 1st offense...5 days of out of school suspension, Principal’s meeting/ Superintendent’s Hearing 2nd offense...5 days of out of school suspension, Superintendent’s Hearing 15. Cutting Class/Study Hall, Tardy to Class/Study Hall/School (see pg. 32) A. Cutting: A student who is absent (i.e., 20 minutes or more) for any part or all of a school day without an approved excuse is considered TRUANT. This is an unexcused absence. Multiple offenses disrupt the operation of the build‐ ing. Consequences: 1st offense...teacher assigned consequence with parent contact and formal disci‐ plinary documentation 2nd offense...4 hour Saturday detention, parent notification (note: also used for multiple combined and/or repeated cuts) 3rd offense...1 full day in‐school suspension, parent notification Multiple offenses...Up to five days suspension and may include a Principal’s Meeting 44 B. Tardy/Late (class, school): A student entering a class without a pass after the period begins is tardy/late. Three tardies result in a teacher‐assigned detention with formal disciplinary documenta‐tion and parent contact. Students late to class four or more times without excuse are subject to progressive ad‐ ministrative discipline. Students tardy/late to school four or more times are also subject to administrative disciplinary action. 16. Sexual Harassment It is the policy of the West Genesee Central School District that sexual ha‐ rassment of students and employees is prohibited. For purposes of this policy, sexual harassment means unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Any student who be‐ lieves that he or she has been subjected to sexual harassment, or any adult who has knowledge that such harassment may have occurred, should immediately report the matter to the building principal, who shall promptly investigate the complaint. All complaints shall be handled confidentially. (West Genesee Board of Education Policy #9010.2, 3/15/04) Students in violation of the sexual harass‐ ment policy are subject to disciplinary consequences. 17. Bus Conduct Student violations may be subject to denial of bus privileges as indicated: Consequences: 1st offense...Bus Conduct Report: Warning 2nd offense...Bus Conduct Report: Denial of bus privileges for up to five school days. 3rd offense...Bus Conduct Report: Denial of bus privileges for balance of the school year. The above may be waived and privileges denied immediately or other con‐ sequences assigned as needed. 18. Tampering with Safety Devices Any student who pulls an alarm, activates an AED Unit, etc., or falsely re‐ ports an incident, is reported to local authorities and is assigned a 5‐day suspen‐ sion and a Superintendent’s hearing. 19. Vandalism Defacing, damaging or destroying school property or supplies; students who do so or who repeatedly damage or lose school supplies may be required to repair or to replace them at their own expense. Students may be subject to disciplinary action, based on the incident, up to and including out of school suspension and possible attendance at a Superintendent’s Hearing. 45 H. APPEAL OF DISCIPLINARY ACTION West Genesee students may request an appeal of the initial decision when disciplinary action has been taken by an assistant principal or designee. Any student and/or parent may appeal by writing a letter to the school principal with the reason for the request for an appeal clearly stated. All evidence pertinent to the case, including witnesses, may be presented as part of the appeal. I. COMMUNICATION CHANNELS FOR STUDENTS West Genesee students have the right and responsibility to express their individual or group concerns pertaining to the operation of the school. Channels available for student use include the following: 1. Concerns may be referred to class officers, class senate members, stu‐ dent council representatives, administrators, teachers or school coun‐ selors. These are, when necessary, referred to the principal. 2. Any student or group of students can request a meeting with an admin‐ istrator. A faculty member of the student’s choice may also attend the meeting. J. STANDARDS FOR DRESS/APPEARANCE Students’ dress and appearance at West Genesee High School must meet the requirements set by the New York State Commissioner of Education, Project SAVE legislation, and as outlined in the West Genesee student handbook: 1. Student clothing or accessories must not constitute either a health or safety hazard to the student or to other students. Examples include but are not limited to chains and spiked accessories. 2. Student clothing and accessories must not interfere with the learning/teaching process or be inappropriate in nature. 3. Student clothing and accessories must not promote the sale or use of drug, alcohol, or tobacco products. 4. Hats and coats are not permitted to be worn within the building during the school day. All types of head covering are prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to: caps, visors, hoods, scarves, etc. Religious attire is exempt. 5. Clothing that contains vulgar, lewd, obscene, libelous, or denigrating items is also not allowed. 6. Brief and/or revealing clothing is not appropriate for wear in school and is not allowed. Examples include, but are not limited to: tube tops, halter‐tops, plunging neck lines (both front and back), see‐ through garments, and midriff‐revealing clothing. Underwear is to be completely covered by outer clothing. Students attending school wearing inappropriate clothing are required to cover or change the offensive garment. The administration reserves the right to review/revise the above standards regarding clothing/accessories believed to be negative in our educational setting. Consequences for violations are as‐ signed, including, but not limited to, corrective action and parent notification. 46 K. STUDENT IDENTIFICATION CARDS An identification card is issued free of charge to each new students early in the school year. They are required for attendance at some co‐curricular activities and for signing out books and materials from the library. Replacements are avail‐ able in the library for a $1.00 fee. L. LOST AND FOUND If you find a lost article, you are required to take it to the Main Office. The owner may claim an item by identification of the article. At the end of each ten weeks, unclaimed items may be turned over to a local charitable group. M. STUDENT EXPENSES All students are to have their own paper, pencils and other day‐to‐day sup‐ plies. In addition, students are required to purchase certain items as required by the department as an expense for a particular course. This might include supplies for art and technology classes, calculators, review books and paperback books for class use. N. STUDENT PARKING, ENTERING/EXITING SCHOOL GROUNDS, DROP OFF/PICK‐ UP Arrangements have been made for students to park in a designated area; however, these arrangements are subject to change during the school year. Ve‐ hicles must be registered at the Assistant Principals’ Office. The registration form and student/parent parking agreement must both be read, signed and returned to the Assistant Principals’ Office to receive a parking pass. Parking passes must be visibly displayed on the rear view mirror at all times. Parking permits may not be transferred between students. Approved student drivers are assigned a designated parking space and required to park in the student lot only. Students must utilize their assigned space continuously on a daily basis or the pass will be rescinded. Students are not permitted to park in the staff lots during the school day or during testing periods. Students are cautioned not to park on neighboring school property. Vehicles found in violation of these guidelines may be subject to towing without warning and at the owner’s expense. Students driving off of school grounds without an approved excuse are truant and subject to disciplinary action and loss of parking privileges (partial or full). Student drivers excused during school hours are NOT allowed to transport other students. Student drivers, along with parent drop off/pick up, must use the Hinsdale Road access when entering/exiting. Use of the north service drive next to the Auditorium is not permitted. Reckless driving, including excessive speed, is prohibited. The speed limit on school grounds is 10 m.p.h. Students who violate the responsibilities associated with driving/park‐ ing are subject to disciplinary action and/or loss of parking privileges for part of (30 days first offense, 60 days second offense) or the entire (severe and/or repeated offenses) school year. 47 O. STUDENT VALUABLES Students are cautioned not to bring large amounts of money, cameras, or other valuables to school. If students wear watches or glasses, they must keep track of them at all times. Students, not West Genesee High School, are respon‐ sible for their own personal property. Student CELL PHONES, RADIOS, RECORDERS, PAGERS, IPODS and MP3 play‐ ers, etc. are not permitted at West Genesee as they are disruptive to the teach‐ ing and learning environment and are subject to being lost or stolen. If found, they are turned in to the Main Office. P. TELEPHONES Main Office 487‐4601 Administrative Offices: 487‐4592 Dr. Barry Copeland, Principal 487‐4581 Mr. Michael Caraccio, Academic Dean 487‐4673 Mr. Michael McGrath, Assistant Principal (A‐K) 487‐4673 Mr. Peter Blake, Assistant Principal (L‐Z) 487‐4672 Mrs. Paula Brillo, Director of Counseling Service
487‐4612 Mr. William Davern, Director of Fine Arts 487‐4560 Mr. Michael Burns, Director of Athletics Guidance Office 487‐4672 Registrar’s Office 487‐4646 Nurses’ Office 487‐4607 Attendance Office (A‐K) 487‐4670 (L‐Z) 487‐4588 The office telephones are for school business and may be used by a student with the permission of the secretary or administrator. Messages and deliver‐ ies from home should be left in the main office. Every effort is made to deliver messages; however, as the school is large and students may be in many places within the building, the office cannot assume responsibility for the delivery of messages or packages. Public telephones are available for student use. Students should limit their calls to three minutes. Q. VISITORS School procedure is to accept only those invited visitors with a legitimate purpose at school. Visitors must sign in and show a valid photo I.D. at the desk outside the Main Office and obtain a Visitor Pass. The respective destination will then be contacted for an escort. Students will be contacted and sent to the ap‐ propriate location for situations when the parent/guardian requires contact with their child. When exiting the building, visitors must return their Visitor Pass to the desk attendant outside the Main Office and sign out. Unregistered visitors/ guests are prohibited from being on school grounds. • Visiting the High School by students or friends from other area schools is not permitted. • Recent graduates are not permitted to visit until after 2:40 p.m. 48 PART V: SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
In addition to the wide variety of sports programs, both intramural and interscholastic, that are offered at West Genesee High School, there are many other clubs and activities. Each year the Drama Club presents one or more dra‐ matic productions. The annual musical is produced by the Fine Arts Department. Any student may try out for parts or work on other aspects of these productions. There are co‐curricular music groups, student publications, and clubs for stu‐ dents with special interests or hobbies. Students are urged to become part of these activities. Meetings are announced via the meeting board, during morning announcements and the WG Website. If students would like to start a new club, they should talk to a teacher, school counselor, or an assistant principal. Examples of Student Organizations include: Academic Decathlon Model UN Math League ECOS Ski Club Newspaper, “The Wild Times” Honor Society R2 (Respect & Responsibility) Magazine, “Into the Mind’s Eye” Drama Club SADD Mock Trial Foreign Language Clubs Student Government Yearbook, Genesean Outdoor Club A. CLASS AND ORGANIZATION FUNDS All class, organization and activity funds are to be deposited with the District treasurer’s office. They are properly credited and receipts are given. Any school group wishing to make a purchase must have the approval of its advisor, who verifies that funds are available in the group account. Requests must also be signed by the principal. When making purchases, the amount should be charged to the class or organization, not West Genesee High School. Bills are paid by check. The person making the purchase should sign the bill. Bills are not honored unless accompanied by a copy of the purchase requisition provided for this. Individual class and organization treasurers are responsible for keeping accurate records of all deposits and expenditures. B. DANCES The sponsoring club or class should make all necessary arrangements for the dance through and with the approval of the faculty advisor and the Principal’s Office. 1. Admission: Only WGHS students are admitted to our dances. For the junior prom and senior ball, a guest pass must be issued in advance from the Assistant Principal’s Office. No middle school students are to be in attendance. 49 2. Dress: Dress must be appropriate as determined in the Student Hand‐ book, as well as to the Administrator(s) in charge. Shoes are required at all times. 3. Rules: All regulations pertaining to student conduct while in school are in effect for the dance. Inappropriate dance movements are prohibited, such as but not limited to grinding, moshing, etc. 4. Leaving: Once admitted to a dance, if a student elects to leave, he or she is not to be readmitted. No one may be admitted to the dance one hour or less before the end of the dance. 5. Loitering: Anyone who leaves the building during a dance is to leave the school grounds immediately. Anyone loitering is subject to disciplinary action. 6. Hours: Dances are to terminate promptly at the announced hour, and the student’s ride home should be at school at that time. C. STUDENT RECOGNITION 1. Honors Reception Members of the senior class who have distinguished themselves by attaining any combination of High Honor Roll or Honor Roll at least 12 of the 14 times available to them between November of their freshman year and January of their senior year, are honored at this prestigious event. 2. 3 X 3 Breakfasts During May students in grades 9, 10, and 11 and their parents are recognized for achieving High Honor Roll status for all three marking periods this year. 3. Senior Athlete Awards Banquet The Senior Athlete Awards Banquet has been an annual affair for many years at West Genesee. The criteria, established in April, 1983, by the coaching staff for senior awards and invitations to the banquet are as follows: the senior athlete must win at least three Varsity letters during his or her years of participation, and the student must win at least one of the letters during the senior year. Each senior is honored with a plaque. 4. Music and Dance Awards Reception The annual Music and Dance Banquet is held every year in June. All music and dance students and their families are invited to attend. The event allows students, staff, families and administration to gather for a dessert reception and to celebrate another successful year. Awards are presented to individual students for outstanding accomplishments. D. PUBLICATIONS West Genesee High School has three student publications. They are: 1. The newspaper, The Wild Times, is published at various times throughout the year as planned by its editorial board. All students are invited to submit articles to the newspaper. 2. The literary magazine, Into the Mind’s Eye, is also published at various times during the year. All students are invited to submit poetry, short stories or artwork for consideration to the editorial staff. 50 3. The yearbook, Genesean, is distributed at the end of the school year. All students are encouraged to submit photographs for consideration. All publications are under the advisor‐ship of a staff member, but are stu‐ dent publications with all the rights of publication as established by the laws and courts of the United States. If you are interested in working on any of these publications, see the advisor or student editor(s). E. NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY INDUCTION Juniors and Seniors are eligible for consideration for induction into the West Genesee Scientia Chapter of the National Honor Society each spring and fall, respectively. To be considered for induction, Juniors must have an overall 88 average at the end of two years and one semester of their Junior year. Seniors must have an overall 88 average at the end of three years for fall induction and an additional semester for spring induction. Academically eligible Juniors and Seniors are sent a letter notifying them of their scholarship achievement and inviting them to attend an informational meeting about the selection format. The candidates for induction are invited to complete a National Honor Society Information Packet. This packet contains forms concerning the students’ co‐curricular activities, community activities/service, work experience, recognition, and awards. Eligible students are asked to complete the forms, write an essay, and submit recommendation forms by the specified deadline. The West Genesee National Honor Society Faculty Council utilizes staff input in making membership selection decisions. The Faculty Council looks for potential members who exhibit positive character, demonstrate leadership, participate in school or community service activities and maintain academic excellence. To be considered for acceptance into the National Honor Society, students must have evidence of volunteerism or service to school/community. Students need this requirement accomplished by March of their junior year to be eligible for spring induction. Candidates for induction are notified in writing as to whether or not they have been accepted as members into the Scientia Chapter of the National Honor Society. Induction takes place during a formal ceremony either in the Fall or Spring. Current members of the West Genesee Scientia Chapter of the National Honor Society are evaluated each marking period by the West Genesee staff and Faculty Council. Members who do not continue to demonstrate excellence in academics, leadership, service and character may face dismissal from our chapter of the National Honor Society. Honor Society members must abide by a code of ethics which continues to earn them the honor and respect of the West Genesee community. Acts of unacceptable conduct, such as, but not limited to, theft, vandalism, hazing, disrespect, immorality, insubordination, cheating on an exam, intentional plagiarism, violations of law, and violating the school’s drug and/or alcohol policy tarnish the integrity of our chapter’s membership and are not tolerated. 51 Members may receive an informal warning, a formal written warning, and/ or a formal letter of dismissal from the Scientia Chapter of the National Honor Society based on the seriousness and/or frequency of their infractions. Failure to maintain an overall 85 average each subsequent marking period, or failure to participate in required Honor Society service activities may also warrant dismissal from the National Honor Society. Any appeal of a dismissal must be made to the High School Principal. Notes: 52 Contacts: Name: Address: Phone: Email: Name: Address: Phone: Email: Name: Address: Phone: Email: Name: Address: Phone: Email: Name: Address: Phone: Email: 53