Board of Education

 

 

Marty Choqette                                             President

 

Diana Nordstrom

 

Rob Copple

 

Cathy Wilt

 

Roxie Ullrich

 

Jill Sponder                                                      Secretary/Treasurer

 

 

 

Administration

 

 

Kirk Ahrends                                                   Superintendent

 

Steve Lemke                                                    Secondary Principal

                                                           

Matt Drees                                                       Elementary Principal

 

Todd Greder                                                    Athletic Director

 

 

 

Contents

2009-2010

 

Activities Sponsors .............................................................................................................. Page 3

Welcome................................................................................................................................. Page 5

Calendar................................................................................................................................. Page 6

Mission Statement................................................................................................................ Page 7

K-12 Comprehensive Counseling and Guidance Program............................................ Page 8

Attendance Polices-Excused and Unexcused Absences ............................................... Pages 9

Closed Campus...................................................................................................................... Page 11

High School 10-Day Absence Policy & Tardy/Truancy Policies ............................ ...Page 12

Notices – Snow Cap.............................................................................................................. Page 14

Student Conduct/Behavior ................................................................................................. Page 15

Classroom Discipline Policy ................................................................................................ Page 16

Harassment & Bullying - Initiation - Detentions and Suspensions............................... Page 18

Extracurricular Eligibility and Good Conduct Code ......................................................... Page 19

Alcohol, Tobacco, or Look Alike Substances .................................................................. Page 21

Possession of Weapons....................................................................................................... Page 22

Personal Property at School - Cell Phone Policies and Study Hall Rules...................... Page 23

Dress Code ............................................................................................................................. Page 24

Activity Pass .......................................................................................................................... Page 26

School Activities.................................................................................................................... Page 27

Students Leaving for Work.................................................................................................. Page 30

Student Assistant Program - Student of the Month ........................................................ Page 31

National Honor Society ........................................................................................................ Page 33

Student Services ................................................................................................................... Page 34

Counseling .............................................................................................................................. Page 35

Lockers and Lunch ................................................................................................................ Page 36

Health Services – Medication Policies and Procedures  ................................................ Page 37

Immunization Records - Communicable Diseases Chart  ................................................ Page 39

Emergency Data...................................................................................................................... Page 40

Academics – Graduation Requirements ............................................................................. Page 41

Grades - Report Cards – Academic Honors  ..................................................................... Page 42

Miscellaneous Information (Student & Parent Rights) .................................................. Page 45

Student Fee Waiver ............................................................................................................... Page 49

 

 

Activities Sponsors

 

Athletic Director   .............................................................................. Todd Greder  

Quiz Bowl   ....................................................................................... Dan Witten

Future Problem Solving  ..................................................................... Cass Burkhart

National Honor Society   .................................................................... Cass Burkhart

High School Student Council   ............................................................. Tom Gerking

Yearbook Sponsor   ........................................................................... Jerry Donahue

School Newspaper ............................................................................. Jerry Donahue

Senior Class Sponsor   ........................................................................ Steve Tower

Junior Class Sponsor   ........................................................................ Tom Gerking

FFA  ................................................................................................. Dan Witten

Drama............................................................................................... John Wagner

Speech .............................................................................................. Jerry Donahue

Drill Team  ........................................................................................ Carol Hobbs

7-12 Instrumental Music    .................................................................. Amanda Flater

6-12 Vocal Music   ............................................................................. Tom Gerking

Rebelaires   ........................................................................................ Tom Gerking

5-8 Instrumental Music and 7-12 Vocal Accompanist............................. Lori Linder

K-5 Vocal Music   .............................................................................. Amanda Flater

High School Cheerleading..................................................................... FB: Jill Kerr; BB: Carol

                                                                                                                     Hobbs; Wrestling: Stacey Mead

Junior High Cheerleading ................................................................,,,,.. BB: Carol Hobbs;                  

                                                                                                                     Wrestling: Rita Harrison  

Junior High Student Council   ............................................................... Tom Gerking

Co-Ed Cross Country .......................................................................... Sheryl Book

High School Head Volleyball   .............................................................  Sylvia Berg

High School Assistant Volleyball  ......................................................... Rich Lamoureux

Junior High Head Volleyball   .............................................................. Jill Kerr

Junior High Assistant Volleyball   ........................................................ Shauna Yockey

High School Head Football   ................................................................ Don Jorgensen

High School Football Assistants ........................................................... Todd Greder, Paul Kerns,  

                                                                                                                     LeRoy Towne

Junior High Head Football   ................................................................. Cass Burkhart 

Junior High Assistant Football   .........................................................

High School Head Wrestling  ............................................................... Dan Thompson

High School Assistant Wrestling  ......................................................... Todd Greder

Junior High Head Wrestling   .............................................................. Jack Harrison

Junior High Assistant Wrestling  ......................................................... Kerry Kaufman

High School Girls’ Head Basketball   .................................................. Heather Hensley

High School Girls’ Assistant Basketball   ............................................. Sheryl Book

Junior High Girls’ Head Basketball   ................................................... Jim Mendenhall

Junior High Girls’ Assistant Basketball   .............................................. Niki Jones

High School Boys’ Head Basketball   .................................................. Cass Burkhart

High School Boys’ Assistant Basketball   ............................................ Brian Hobbs

Junior High Boys’ Head Basketball   ................................................... Dan Witten

Junior High Boys’ Assistant Basketball   ...........................................

High School Head Boys’ Golf   ........................................................... Steve Tower

High School Head Girls’ Golf .............................................................. Scott Willmott

High School Girls’ Track   ................................................................... Sheryl Book

High School Assistant Girls’ Track   .................................................... Sheryl Book

Junior High Girls’ Track   .................................................................... Rich Lucas

Junior High Assistant Girls’ Track   ..................................................... Jill Muenchrath

High School Head Boys’ Track   ......................................................... Kerry Kaufman

High School Assistant Boys' Track ...................................................... Todd Greder

Junior High Head Boys’ Track   .......................................................... Dan Witten

Junior High Assistant Boys’ Track   .................................................... Kerry Kaufman

High School Head Softball   ................................................................ Dan Thompson

High School Assistant Softball   .......................................................... Mark Ouellette

High School Head Baseball   .............................................................  Paul Kerns

High School Assistant Baseball  .........................................................

 

WELCOME TO WESTWOOD

 

Welcome to the 2009-2010 school year at Westwood Community School.  The administration, Board of Education, teachers, and support staff share a commitment to educational excellence for every child at Westwood.

            Working together with all of you, we can build upon this meaningful commitment of support for our students in this new school year.  We hope this handbook will give you information that will help you understand the procedures, policies, and goals, which are necessary for orderly function of the school.  With this thought in mind, we expect all students to be thoroughly familiar with the contents of this handbook.

            All decisions at Westwood Community School reflect the needs of students.  Parents, board members, teachers, and administration must always answer the question, “What is best for the students?”  This will assure quality education.

 

Invitation To Parents

 

            Parents are welcome at school and should feel free to ask for a conference with teachers, principal, or counselor at any time.

            Parents, we also want to invite you to visit your child’s classroom.  You are welcome, but we would like you to abide by the following procedures so that your visit will be most beneficial and cause the least disruption to the classroom:

 

1.  Please send a note to the teacher or call the day before you wish to visit. 

 

2.  Leave small children at home.

 

3.  At the time of your visit, stop in the office first and inform the secretary that you are in the building and where you will be visiting.

 

4.  Use the visit as a time to observe your child.  Plan an outside-of-class time conference if you wish to discuss your student’s progress.

 

5.  Plan your visit for no more than 30 to 45 minutes.  Remember that students do sometimes behave differently in front of visitors.

 

6.  Your visit will mean a lot to your child just to know that you care enough to see him/her in the school setting.

 

7.  Visits are discouraged the first and last two weeks of the school year.

 

8.  Guests of students other than parents are not allowed to visit classrooms because of the legal liabilities and responsibilities involved.  Office staff will immediately direct visitors, and vendors who enter the school building to the appropriate room after signing in as a guest.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Mission Statement

 

            The mission of the Westwood Community School District is to provide the environment and curriculum necessary to allow each student to achieve his/her fullest potential.

 

 

Philosophy of The Westwood Community Schools

 

            The purpose of the Westwood Community School is to provide opportunities for each person to become a secure, self-reliant individual who recognizes the significance of his/her own life ability to contribute to the lives of others.  Personalized programs must be developed which identify and accommodate the person’s abilities, interests, needs, and creative potential.  The dignity, worth, and uniqueness of each individual and his/her heritage will be preserved.

 

            In the practical application of this philosophy, opportunities shall be provided for each individual to:

 

  1.  Develop physical, mental and emotional health.

  2.  Develop a positive set of values and responsibility for personal behavior.

  3.  Develop respect for other’s rights, opinions, property, and values.

  4.  Develop the ability to communicate ideas and feelings.

  5.  Develop awareness of self-worth and promote participation in family and society.

  6.  Develop skills for effective participation in society and in the democratic process.

  7.  Develop ability to use leisure time effectively.

  8.  Develop foundations and motivation for continued life long learning.

  9.  Develop awareness, understanding, sensitivity, and respect of the environment.

10.  Develop capabilities to function in the real world.

 

 

 

Westwood Outcomes

 

1.      Students should be able to communicate effectively (read, write, speak, listen)

2.      Students should be able to apply technology competently.

3.      Students should be able to utilize problem solving and decision-making skills.

4.      Students should be able to exhibit good citizenship by acting responsibly for the public good.

5.      Students should be able to work together in a group.

6.      Students should be self-directed learners.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

K-12 Comprehensive Counseling and Guidance Program

 

            The Mission of the Westwood Community School’s Guidance Department is to promote excellence for all students in the areas of academic, career, and personal/social development.  Development will be achieved through a K-12 comprehensive counseling and guidance program.

            The Westwood School District is staffed with a K-8 and 9-12 counselor who are graduate degreed professionals trained in school counseling and guidance.  Westwood’s comprehensive counseling and guidance program is comprised of four major components.

 

PROGRAM COMPONENTS: The guidance program components organize the work of counselors into direct and indirect activities and services.  They include the direct counselor services of guidance curriculum, individual planning and responsive services, and the indirect services of system support.

 

1.   GUIDANCE CURRICULUM: Includes structured developmental experiences presented systematically through classroom and large group activities, kindergarten through grade 8.  The curriculum emphasizes decision-making, self-understanding, career exploration and preparation, and the improvement of study skills.

2.   INDIVIDUAL PLANNING: Includes counseling activities to assist all students to plan, monitor, and manage their own learning as well as their personal and career development.  Individual student education/career plans are developed no later than eighth grade in collaboration with parents/guardians.  Individual planning emphasizes test interpretation, advisement, and the identification of short and long term goals.

3.   RESPONSIVE SERVICES: Includes counseling, consultation, and referral activities to meet the immediate needs and concerns of students.  Responsive services include personal counseling, crisis counseling, agency referral, consultation with parents, teachers, and other professionals, support groups, and problem solving.

4.   SYSTEM SUPPORT: Includes guidance management activities that maintain and enhance the total guidance program.  Responsibilities in this component include staff and community relations, program evaluation, research projects, committee work, and professional development.

 

Within the areas of counseling and guidance responsibility, the counselor enters into professional relationships with three segments of the school community: students, school staff members, and parents/guardians.  Consistent with the rights of the individual and the obligations of the counselor as a professional, the counseling relationship and resulting information is considered confidential.  When appropriate, counselors will be responsible for explaining the ramifications of and exceptions to this confidentiality.  All records and discussions of personal issues will be handled in a confidential manner.

 

 

HUMAN GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT:

 

            The Human Growth and Development curriculum is available for perusal by parents prior to classes beginning.  Parents who object to having their child or children exposed to this curriculum may request that they be excused from that particular course work.

 

 

 

 

Attendance Policy

 

            Each school district is required by law to keep careful records of student attendance and must also determine if each absence is excused or unexcused.  Attendance records are submitted to the state each spring.  Westwood School parents and staff can be proud of the attendance habits they teach the children.

            To help us maintain accurate records and to ensure your student’s absence will be properly excused, please call school when your student will be absent or send a written note.  Excused school absences include, but are not limited to, those items listed below under excused absences and those arranged and approved by the school principal.

            A student coming to school late should report to the office before going to his/her classroom; a parent note or call is also necessary.  A student is considered tardy if he/she arrives after 8:40 a.m.  After arriving at school, students are not permitted to leave school without written permission from the parent or the parent personally picking the student up from school.  Parents (or anyone else designated by the parent) will need to “sign out” their child in a log in the office listing the child’s name, time they were picked up, and by whom.

            Students are expected to attend school regularly.  They are expected to attend all of their classes unless they become ill or are attending a school-related activity or field trip. Notification will be sent home when a student has missed ten or more days of school in a semester.

            In accordance with state law, all students between six and 16 years of age must attend school full time until the end of the term, quarter, or semester in which they become 16 years of age, unless they have a legal excuse. Local school boards have discretionary authority to determine what constitutes a sufficient cause for absence from school.  In general, excused absences are granted but not limited to the following reasons, and the administration reserves the right to either grant or deny excuses.

 

 

A.        EXCUSED ABSENCES

 

Student illness notification must be submitted by parent/guardian regarding the illness.  The school may request the parent or guardian to obtain a written statement from a licensed physician, dentist, chiropractor, or optometrist, regarding the health of the student.

Family emergency: Examples include death in the family, funerals, serious illness in the family, immediate health problems.  Notification must be submitted by parent/guardian regarding family emergencies.

Religious holidays and observances: Notification must be submitted by parent/guardian regarding such holidays.

Scheduled appointments with a licensed physician, dentist, chiropractor, optometrist, or psychologist.  Please send verification of such visits.

Absences related to response to subpoena or participation in a legal proceeding.

College visits for juniors and seniors.

School sponsored activities.

 

 

B.         UNEXCUSED ABSENCES

 

Absences not listed under excused absences may be considered unexcused. No parental notification, either prior to or returning from an absence, will result in an unexcused absence.   NOTE:  While parents have the right to determine whether or not a student will miss school, SCHOOL OFFICIALS HAVE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF DETERMINING IF THE ABSENCE WILL BE EXCUSED OR UNEXCUSED.  Absences which are unexcused, are those which have not been properly excused by the parent AND the school.  Students may receive a zero for work missed because of unexcused absences.

 

 

C.        NOTIFICATION AFTER TEN (10) ABSENCES

 

            When any Westwood student goes beyond ten days of absence during a semester, parents will receive written notice.  Special needs students will be referred to their staffing teams or school nurse to determine whether or not absences are related to a disability.

 

 

D.        ANTICIPATED ABSENCES

 

            If a student/parent knows in advance of an upcoming absence, the parent or guardian should send a note or call the school as soon as possible before the absence indicating the days/times and reasons for absences (if a phone call is made, no follow-up note is necessary).  This will give the student time to make up work before the absence from school.  All students must clear their classes before an absence whether school related or not or zeros may be given.  Students should give their teachers at least three days notice of an absence whenever feasible.

 

 

E.         AFTER AN ABSENCE

 

            When a student returns to school, the student MUST have a note from home or a phone call if that had not previously been done.  It is important that the school maintain accurate records.  The note will be placed in the student’s attendance file.  If no parental note or telephone call is received within 48 hours, the absence will be considered unexcused.

 

 

F.         LEAVING SCHOOL DURING THE DAY

 

            Prior to a student leaving during the day, parents must telephone the office if a student is supposed to leave school during any period of the day on short-notice, stating the time the student is to leave and the reason for leaving.

Notes:   *Parents should not go to the classroom to pick up their student but should pick them up in the office, or else the student will be sent out to meet the parents once they arrive.

                        *If the principal feels it is necessary to verify an excuse given for an absence, he/she may take appropriate steps to do so.

 

 

G.        ABSENCES AND HEALTH

 

            If your student will be absent from school, please call the school office before 8:30 a.m.  If he/she has a contagious disease, notify the Woodbury County Health Dept. in Sioux City, Iowa.

            In the event that a student becomes ill at school, every effort will be made to contact the parent or the emergency contact person so that the parent or designated contact person can arrange transportation and care of the child.  Home or with an alternate care provider is the best place for an ill child.        

If a student should be the unfortunate host of a virus or cold, we encourage you to keep him/her home until fully recovered.  If your child needs to avoid recess or P.E. for a time, a note should be sent daily or a medical excuse from a doctor to keep him/her from participating in P.E.  We discourage the practice of allowing students to avoid recess or P.E. for more than a day or two unless required by a physician.

 

 

H.        COLLEGE VISITS (JUNIORS & SENIORS)

 

            Students are urged to visit colleges during vacations or teacher workdays.  Those who wish to visit a college on other days must first check with the office to secure an admit.  The admit must be signed by the teachers and the counselor before leaving, turned in, and a parent must send a note to the school prior to the visit.  College visits must go through the counselor’s office in order to be excused.  Juniors are limited to one or two visits.

 

 

I.          EXCUSED ABSENCES AND MAKEUP WORK

 

Students with excused absences will be allowed to make up work.  Students are generally allowed the number of days absent to make up work, but this determination will be made by the teacher.  Students may have to make up a test immediately upon returning if they have not missed any significant review or if their absence was unexcused.  Also, projects or other assignments whose deadlines had been set sometime previously may still have the same due dates even if a student had a short-term absence.  It is the student’s responsibility to obtain the makeup work and to have it completed on time.  Makeup work that is not completed or turned in on time may not receive credit.

 

Note:  While some absences may be excused, please note that they will still be counted as absences.  Also, they still fall under the 10-day policy except for the exceptions noted earlier under Section A (doctors’ notes, funerals, school-related activities, and suspensions).

 

 

J.         LATE TO SCHOOL (7-12 graders)

 

            Students are not allowed to skip 1^st or 8^th period study halls (or other study halls during the day) just because they don’t have classes scheduled.  Westwood does not have a part-time program except at its alternative school.  Students are expected to be on campus from 8:30 until 3:30 unless they are off campus for post-secondary option classes or participating in the school-to-work program and have been cleared to leave by the coordinators of those programs.  Students who are late to school will be given detentions for the third tardy and each one thereafter just as is the case with students late to class.  Students skipping other study halls will be considered truant. An exception would be for seniors who earn open campus, to be determined on an individual basis by the principal.

 

 

            *Students living on their own, or married, may write their own excuses but they must be legitimate to be considered excused.

            *The above policies apply to individual classes as well as to part-day absences.

            *A half-day absence is given for absences beyond two periods and a full day’s absence is counted beyond four periods.

 

High School 10-DAY ABSENCE POLICY

*Please note that the 10-day policy regarding credit applies to high school only.

 

            When a student has accumulated six or more absences from any class during a semester, written notification to the parent or guardian will be sent.  At this time the head of the household is encouraged to contact the teacher(s) or principal to arrange a conference to discuss any concerns regarding the terms of the attendance policy.  (Special needs students will be referred to their staffing teams.)

            A student in grades 9-12 shall be required to attend each class a minimum of 88.5% of the days during a semester (80 of 90 days in most cases) in order to receive graduation credit for that class.  Failure to meet this minimum may result in no credit for the course work.

            This means that a high school student who misses more than 10 days in a semester won’t receive credit for that particular class.  For those classes that meet on other than a daily basis, students will be required to be present and to participate 88.5% of the time for each unit or activity involved (physical education would be an example). 

            An absence will start only upon a student’s first registered day in class.

            Absences which are due solely to medical/dental appointments, illness, or hospitalization will not be counted in the ten (10) day limit if parents provide the school with a written doctor’s/dentist’s excuse or appointment card/schedule, etc., which lists the specific dates in question.  Other absences that will not count in the ten (10) day limit include approved school activities, suspensions, or funerals.  Parents should make the principal aware of any special circumstances (such as frequent orthodontist appointments, allergy shots, etc., in advance).

            Unless otherwise indicated, students who miss class due to requests from administrators and counselors fall within the approved school activities category. 

Note:  All other absences will fall within the 10-day policy.  While parents may excuse their children from school, those students still must meet the requirement of being in classes for 80 of 90 days each semester if they are to earn their credits.

   

 

NOTIFICATION AFTER TEN (10) ABSENCES

 

            When students go beyond 10 days of absence in any class during a semester, they will receive written notification of their status.  Special needs students will be referred to their staffing teams to determine whether or not absences are related to a disability.  Once students reach eleven (11) absences in any class, they may choose one of the following options:

 

1.   A student may, with the teacher’s permission, choose to remain in the class on an AUDIT basis with no grade given, so long as the student’s presence in the classroom is not disruptive to the educational process.

2.   The student may choose to be TRANSFERRED to a study hall upon approval of the school administrator.  Note:  Whether auditing or transferring, no grades will be given.

3.   The student may ENTER into a CONTRACT with the teacher to earn credit.  The student must meet with the teacher and complete a contract that may be obtained from the teacher or the high school office.  Periods past 10 must be made up if this option is chosen.  The student must arrange with the teacher to make up time; once that is done and other provisions of the contract are met, the teacher may grant the credit for the class.  The student will be responsible for initiating the contract and taking care of the details to satisfy its provisions.

4.   The student may request an APPEAL of the NUMBER of absences. The appeal process is as follows:

 

            The student and/or his/her head of household may request a hearing concerning any administrative enforcement of the attendance regulations which result in the loss of credit for class.

To request an appeal, the student and/or his/her head of household shall file written notice of appeal with the principal within three (3) working days after written notification of his/her status.  Appeal forms may be obtained from the high school office.  During the processing of the student’s appeal, the student shall be allowed to remain in his/her class.  The loss of credit will become effective unless the appeal team (principal and counselor) reverse or alter the decision.  Further appeals may be made to the superintendent and Board of Education.

 

 

Tardy Policy

 

            Any student coming late to school must report to the office and sign in.  A student who is tardy to first period must have a pass when coming into first period.  The office will mark it excused or unexcused.

            A student reporting late for any class or homeroom will be considered tardy and may be asked to report to the office for an admission slip.  Tardiness will not be excused except in rare circumstances.  If a student misses more than 10 minutes of a period he/she will be considered skipping and may be considered truant.

            Students will be allowed two (2) unexcused tardiness per class per semester.  Detentions will be assigned for the 3rd, 4th and successive unexcused tardies by the classroom teacher or the principal recognizing these violations.  A three-minute passing period is provided, making most reasons for tardies inexcusable.

 

 

Truancy Policy

 

A.        TRUANCY/SKIPPING

 

            Any student who is absent from school without parental knowledge or permission or without the school's knowledge or permission will be considered truant and will be subject to disciplinary action.  THIS INCLUDES A STUDENT WHO LEAVES SCHOOL WITHOUT SECURING PROPER PERMISSION FROM THE PRINCIPAL/DESIGNEE AND/OR NOT CHECKING OUT AT THE OFFICE.

In addition, a student may not receive academic or make-up credit for the day or part of the day on which the truancy occurs.  The following will be used in truancy situations:

FIRST TRUANCY: Disciplinary report sent home, possible meeting with parent, student, and principal.  Possible detentions or in-school suspension depending on circumstances. 

SECOND TRUANCY: Detentions or in-school suspension time depending on circumstances, if student left school grounds, etc. Student will meet with a counselor.

THIRD TRUANCY:  Referral to at-risk teams, We-Care or We-Assist, for consequences to be determined.

Note:  If truancies continue, the student may be referred to a board committee for further action.

 

 

B.         TRUANCY AND PARTICIPATION IN ACTIVITIES

 

            Any student truant from school and also a member of extracurricular activities, clubs, or teams will not be allowed to participate in the next scheduled event of that group or groups.  Students who skip school also may forfeit the privilege of field trips or other such outings.

 

 

Notices

 

Numerous announcements, notices, and other important information are sent home with students.  The home and school need to impress upon students the important role they play in making sure adults at home receive every message sent.

 

 

Student Conduct and Behavior

 

“Discipline Begins At Home”

 

A.        STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

 

            The basis for an education is to prepare the student for the demands of the adult world, its challenges and its problems.  Foremost among these challenges is respect for the rights and property of every other individual.  Students at Westwood School are expected to have the self-discipline required to respect the rights of all other individuals with whom they will be dealing.  We expect all students to be a credit to their school, the staff, and themselves.

            Students are expected to comply with and abide by the school district’s policies, rules, regulations, and student handbook.  Students who fail to abide by the school district’s policies, rules, regulations, and handbook may be disciplined for conduct which disrupts or interferes with the education program; conduct which disrupts the orderly and efficient operation of the school district or school activity; conduct which disrupts the rights of others to obtain their education or to participate in school activities; or conduct which interrupts the maintenance of a disciplined atmosphere.  Disciplinary measures include, but are not limited to, removal from the classroom, detention, suspension, probation, and expulsion.  Discipline can also include prohibition from participating in extracurricular activities, including athletics.  The discipline imposed is based upon the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident and the student’s record.

            In order to have an orderly climate, which is conducive to learning it is imperative that students respect the position of the school’s teachers and administrators as those who make decisions which are in the best interests of individual students and the student body in general.  Lack of such respect can undermine not only an individual teacher’s effectiveness with students, but can adversely affect the effectiveness of the school’s programs.  Disrespectfulness and/or insubordination toward any school personnel will not be tolerated and MAY LEAD TO SUSPENSION for a first offense depending on the seriousness of the actions.  Insubordination includes refusing to follow faculty/staff requests and directives. 

            All teachers will be alert for any student activities that are in violation of good student behavior.  Students should also be fully aware that any of the school personnel at Westwood Community School has the authority to correct misconduct at any time.

            All Westwood Community School activities are considered to be an extension of the school day, regardless of the location, so regular school policies dictate student behavior.

 

 

B.         AREAS OF PROHIBITED STUDENT CONDUCT

 

Any conduct which causes or which creates a reasonable likelihood that it will cause a substantial disruption in or material interference with any school function, activity, or purpose, or that interferes or creates a reasonable likelihood that it will interfere with the health, safety, well-being, or the rights of other students is prohibited.

            The preceding is a general standard that should be used as a guide by all students.  Not all acts of misconduct can be itemized in this handbook.  The following is an enumeration of some of the main areas of conduct, which may lead to disciplinary action, including possible suspension or expulsion:

1.   Disrespect for any student, school official or employee.  This includes the use of profanity toward students, teachers or employees, as well as disrespectful behaviors, gestures and comments.  Disrespectfulness toward school employees may result in out-of-school suspension immediately.  Students are to address teachers with Mr., Mrs., Miss, Ms., or Coach, and are not to use first names, nicknames, or just last names.

2.   Behavior that interferes with classroom instruction or other activities associated with the school.

3.   Unsportsmanlike conduct involving visiting school teams or their representatives. Students behaving improperly at extracurriculars will not be able to attend such events for a period of time determined by the administration.

4.   Use or possession of any tobacco products on school property or at school-sponsored events and activities.

5.   Truancy or failure to attend assigned classes or activities.

6.   Excessive tardies to school, assigned classes or scheduled activities.

7.   Engaging in any activity forbidden by law which interferes with school purposes.

8.   Engaging in the unlawful possession, selling, dispensing or use of controlled substance or alcoholic liquor.

9.   Knowingly possessing, handling, or transmitting any object or material that is ordinarily or generally considered a weapon.

10.       Threatening or intimidating any student for any purpose, including the intent of obtaining money or anything of value from such student.

11.       Public displays of affection will not be tolerated.  Holding hands, kissing, embracing, massaging each others’ bodies or other sexually explicit behavior should not occur on the school grounds or at school- sponsored events.  The penalty for such displays may include a warning, detention, suspension, or other consequences based upon the seriousness of the activity.

12.       Causing or attempting to cause physical injury to a school employee or to any student.  (Fighting may result in out-of-school suspension.)

13.       Willfully causing or attempting to cause damage to private school property.

14.       Stealing or attempting to steal private or school property.

15.       Use of violence, force, coercion, threat, intimidation, or similar conduct in a manner that constitutes an interference with school purposes.

16.       Insubordination: failure to follow the requests and/or directives of a school official.

17.  Students are not allowed to bring prohibited personal property to school; see page 23 for details on these items.  If brought, they may be confiscated and returned later or held for parents.

18.  Students are not to be in the building unsupervised at any time.  Secondary students early to school are to remain in the commons until the first bell.  Any students in other parts of the building before/after school must be directly supervised by a faculty member in an activity.

19.  Wednesday is family night; all students must be out of the building by 6:00 p.m.

 

Note:  Any student who repeatedly violates school or administrative policies may be suspended and may be referred to a Board of Education committee, who will then make a determination regarding further consequences beyond the usual ones taken by teachers or administrators.

 

 

C.        CLASSROOM DISCIPLINE POLICY

 

            For students in junior/senior high, there will be a three-step process for infractions in the classroom.  This policy will go into effect after teachers have tried ordinary corrective/disciplinary measures.

 

STEP I.  The parents of a student interfering with learning in a classroom will be sent a discipline notice and the student will have a conference with the teacher or principal.  A copy of the discipline notice will be given to the principal.  Any student not showing up for the conference may be placed automatically in Step II.

 

STEP II.  A student who is moved to step II may be suspended from school from one to three days depending on the seriousness of the offense.  The student also may be removed from that class for up to three days (this may include suspension time or may be beyond the suspension time).  .

 

STEP III: A student who continues to disrupt learning environment may be suspended for a longer period of time and may be referred to a Board of Education committee for further action.  The student also may be removed from that class for the remainder of the semester or year.

 

SEVERE CLAUSE:  Serious acts of misbehavior may cause a student to be placed immediately on Step II or III.

 

Notes: * If a student has the same teacher for two different activities during the same period (I.e. junior high P.E. and study hall) or if a student has the same teacher for two different class periods, steps 1, 2, and 3 will be utilized for each incident, not each period or activity. ** Students who routinely refuse to do assigned work are violating a basic rule/expectation in any classroom and such refusal will be considered insubordination and will be dealt with within the realm of student behavior/conduct. 

 

D.        BUS CONDUCT

 

            In the Westwood School District most students ride buses to school.  It is important that proper discipline is maintained on buses for everyone’s safety.  Cameras are used randomly to monitor behavior.

 

1.  Pupils are under the authority of the bus driver and must follow his/her rules.

2.  Pupils shall remain seated while the bus is in motion.

3.  Pupils will not extend their arms, hands, head, feet, etc. through the bus windows.

4.  Pupils will converse in normal tones; loud or vulgar language is prohibited.

5.  Pupils shall not open or close windows without permission of the bus driver.

6.  Pupils shall help keep the bus clean and refrain from damaging it.

7.  Pupils must refrain from crowding or pushing.

8.  Each pupil must go directly to his/her seat on entering the bus.

9.  Pupils must not throw objects about in the bus or out through the windows.

10.       Pupils will remain on their homeward side of the road until the bus stops and the driver signals them to cross in front of the bus.

11. The driver is to dismiss the students only at the school building, their homes, or designated after school locations.  Exception:  permission of parent or guardian.

12.       Food or pop should not be carried onto buses unless drivers/sponsors have given permission.

13.       Student insubordination to our bus drivers will not be tolerated and may result in loss of bus privileges for a period of time.

 

 

E.         USE OF SECURITY CAMERAS

 

            The Westwood Comm. School District Board of Directors has authorized the use of security cameras.  The security cameras will be used to monitor student behavior to maintain order and to promote and maintain a safe environment.  Students and parents are hereby notified that the content of the videotapes may be used in a student disciplinary proceeding.  The content of the videotapes are confidential student records and will be retained with other student records.  Videotapes will only be retained if necessary for use in a student disciplinary proceeding or other matter as determined necessary by the administration.  Parents may request to view videotapes of their child if the videotapes are used in a disciplinary proceeding involving their child.

 

 

F.         HARASSMENT AND BULLYING

 

Nondiscrimination.  The mission of the Westwood Community School is to provide the environment and curriculum necessary to assist all students in achieving their fullest potential regardless of background.

 

Harassment and Bullying Prohibited.  The District is committed to providing all students a safe and civil educational environment in which all are treated with dignity and respect.  The District is also committed to promoting understanding and appreciation of the cultural diversity of our society.  The District shall educate students about our cultural diversity and shall promote tolerance of individual differences.

Harassment and bullying of students is against the policy of the State of Iowa as well as of the Westwood Community School District.  The District shall promote procedures and practices to reduce and eliminate harassment and bullying.  The District prohibits harassment and bullying of students by other students, by employees, and by volunteers while in school, on school property, and at any school function or school-sponsored activity.  This includes harassment or bullying based on the student’s actual or perceived trait or characteristic, including the student’s actual or perceived race, color, creed, sex, age, religion, marital or familial status, ethnic background, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental ability or disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical attribute, political party preference, political belief, or socio-economic background.  Acts of harassment or bullying may be treated as grounds for discipline.  Discipline may include suspension or expulsion of a student, termination of an employee’s contract, and/or exclusion of a volunteer from District activities or premises.

 

 

G.        INITIATION

 

Students at Westwood will not hold any form of “initiation.”

 

 

H.        DETENTIONS

 

            A detention is a determined period of time to be made up by a student outside the regular school hours.  A detention can be served before school, after school, or on Saturday.  Students typically are given two or three days to serve detentions (counting the day the detention was given).  However, this will be determined by the teacher or administrator.  Detentions are given for such things as not following school rules, tardies, insubordination, disrespectfulness, harassment, etc., and must be served within the time limit established by the teacher or administrator.

            Refusal to serve detentions is insubordination.  If a student doesn't serve detentions by the deadline, he/she may serve an in-school suspension day (the detention time must still be made up).  If the student still refuses to serve the detention time, he / she may be suspended out of school for a day.  Longer out-of-school suspensions may be given for students who still refuse to serve their detentions.  If the detention(s) still remain unserved, the student may be referred to a Board committee.  Also, any students failing to make up a detention assigned by a member of the faculty or administration will be placed on a restricted list, meaning they will not be able to practice, participate in, or attend extracurricular activities or other school activities.  Also, restricted students will lose privileges such as going on field trips, study hall/library privileges, etc.

            Teachers retain the right to assign morning (A.M.) detention.  The length of time for an A.M. detention is left up to the teacher (normally not less than an hour) and must be finished 5 minutes before school begins.  Students who request morning detentions in order not to miss sports or other practices may be accommodated, but if inappropriate behaviors continue, they will be required to serve afternoon detentions.  Students need to contact the principal, detention monitor, or teacher beforehand to request morning or lunch detention to ensure that the person is available to do so.

 

 

I.          OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION

 

            The superintendent or any principal may temporarily dismiss any student for violation of the rules and regulations and discipline policy of the Westwood School District and shall give notice of such temporary dismissal to the President of the School Board.  Such temporary dismissal shall not exceed ten days.  Suspended students are not allowed to attend extracurricular activities and should not be on school property during their suspension unless given special permission by the principal.

            When a student has been suspended, he/she may be readmitted by the administrator who suspended him/her.  When expelled by the Board, a student may be readmitted only by the Board in the manner prescribed by it.

            Within three days after receiving notice of expulsion or other disciplinary action, the student may request reconsideration by the Board, stating their reasons.  The Board, in its discretion, may grant the request.  Any student who is expelled should not be on school property and will not be allowed to participate in school activities or to attend extracurricular activities during the period of the expulsion unless given special permission by the Board or administration.

 

 

J.         WESTWOOD IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION (W.I.S.S.)

 

            In-school suspension, an alternative to out-of-school suspension, may be enforced in some circumstances to allow the student the opportunity to be disciplined and yet remain in school to study in a restricted area.  There are two types of W.I.S.S. --regular (8:35-3:30) and extended W.I.S.S (8:35-5:30).

 

 

K.        EXTRACURRICULAR ELIGIBILITY & GOOD CONDUCT CODE FOR GRADES 7-12

 

            Students are expected to conduct themselves according to the rules and regulations of the Westwood Community School as well as to obey all federal, state, and municipal laws.  A student’s eligibility for extra-curricular activities is dependent upon that student’s actions in relation to this code.  If a student’s behaviors, in or out of school and including vacation times, are such as to make him/her unworthy to represent the ideals, principles, and standards of the school, he/she may be declared ineligible.  Ineligibility may result from any of the following:

 

1.         Any student found guilty in a court of law of having possession of or having used alcohol

        or other drugs (including tobacco products) will be declared ineligible for extra-curricular activities.

2.         Any student who is stopped, detained, or apprehended by a law officer and has in his/her      possession alcoholic beverages or other drugs (including tobacco) will be ineligible.

3.         Any student who has been found by school personnel or law officers or a student’s own parent to have been drinking or in possession of alcohol, other drugs, or tobacco products of any kind will be ineligible.

4.         If it is determined by a law enforcement officer that a student has been drinking or is under the influence of an illegal substance, the student will be ineligible.

5.         If a student admits guilt, the student may be declared ineligible.

6.         Any report received from Juvenile Court Services indicating wrongdoing on a student’s part may cause the student to be declared ineligible.

7.         A first offense of use/possession of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs will entail an ineligibility period of three competitive/performance weeks.  The time may be reduced if the student chooses to perform 10 hours of community service.  Once community service is completed, and at least one competition/ performance date has been missed, eligibility will be restored.  (If two or more events fall on the same day, it still is considered just one “date”).     

8.         A second offense of use/possession of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs will entail an ineligibility period of six competitive/performance weeks.  The time may be reduced if the student chooses to perform 20 hours of community service.  Once community service is completed, and at least two competition/performance dates have been missed, eligibility will be restored.

9.         A third and subsequent offenses of use/possession of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs will entail one calendar year of ineligibility (beginning with the date of notification) with no opportunity to reduce the penalty.

10.     Ineligibility will carry over from year to year; meaning that if an ineligibility period is not completed in one school year, it needs to be finished the following year. 

11.     Serious infractions of school regulations or federal, state, municipal laws, including, but not limited to theft, vandalism, insubordination, serious disrespectfulness, intimidation of students, etc., may cause ineligibility.  In such cases the principal or principal and a committee of coaches will determine length of ineligibility depending on the seriousness of the offense.  These penalties are separate from alcohol/drug/tobacco policy.  However, penalties for violation of this policy cannot be served concurrently with penalties imposed for use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs.

12.  If a student suits for / attends both varsity and JV activities, he/she must serve ineligibility time at the competitive level at which he/she is primarily listed (as previously determined by their coaches) and are ineligible until the ineligibility period or dates at that level have been served. 

13.  The ineligibility will begin with the next extracurricular event with which the student would be involved and then the days/weeks (or dates for those who choose community service) are counted forward from that day until the ineligibility period is satisfied.

14.  In addition to not being eligible for competitions/performances, ineligible students also won't be allowed to represent the school or participate as Homecoming royalty or attendants, in the powder puff game, or as Student Council, National Honor Society, class officer, FFA representatives or other such meetings or non-graded activities during the time of ineligibility.

15.  Any student who has been declared ineligible for a second time for/during any season or activity will not be awarded a letter or post-season honors over which the school has control.  (Note: if an ineligibility period involves two seasons, the student will lose the letter and post-season honors only in the first activity. 

16.  Community service must be done through approved agencies and approved by the principal; the school will have a list of those agencies.  (The school may be one of those agencies depending on whether there is a need for services at that time and depending on the offense by the student).  Once the community service is completed, it must be signed off on by the agency for whom it was done as well as by a parent.  Community service cannot be done during regular school hours.

17.  Two-Year Clause: If a student has not been declared ineligible for a period of two calendar years and then were declared ineligible for an offense, he/she would fall under the “first offense” policy.

18.  Blatant Clause: Bringing illegal substances such as alcohol / tobacco / drugs, onto the school’s campus or having them on school vehicles, on trips, or at other school-sponsored events is considered a blatant disregard for school rules and the Good Conduct Code.  Those students will not be afforded the option of reducing penalties and must serve the full ineligibility time(s), as well as suspensions outlined in the “Alcohol, Tobacco, Look-Alike Substances” section of the handbook.

19.  These policies apply to both junior high and high school students.  However, once a student moves from junior high to high school, he/she will begin anew on the first step of the process.

20.  When a student is involved in an activity while working off ineligibility, he/she must complete that activity’s season, attend practices regularly, and make a good effort in the activity.

 

DEFINITIONS/DETAILS RE: INELIGIBILITY POLICY:  (a) A “competitive/performance week” is defined as a week during which a student is scheduled to participate in a non-graded extracurricular activity (concerts will not be included in ineligibility since they are part of a class grade).  Non-participation in Homecoming royalty/attendant, FFA, Student Council, National Honor Society, class officer meetings, etc., cannot be used to work off ineligibility.  While the student cannot be part of those activities/meetings during the ineligibility, the student must miss actual performances and/or competitions in order to work off ineligibility time. If there is a question as to whether an activity constitutes a competition or performance, it will be decided by the principal or the principal and the appropriate committee.  (b) Students are expected to avoid cars, residences and other places where alcohol/drugs are present.  If the school is notified that a student has been “in possession” by police or juvenile court definition, or by definition of #’s 1 through 6 above, he/she will be ineligible.  (c) a competitive/performance “date” is defined as one full day, meaning that if more than one event falls on that day, it still is considered only one “date” in terms of working off ineligibility.

 

 

L.         ALCOHOL, TOBACCO LOOK-ALIKE SUBSTANCES

 

            The use or possession of tobacco, and use or possession or being under the influence of alcohol, other controlled substances, or look-alike substances that appear to be tobacco, alcohol or controlled substances by individuals under the age of eighteen and all students regardless of age on school property or at any activities sponsored by the school is strictly prohibited.  Violation of this rule will result in disciplinary action which may ultimately include expulsion.  Such violation may also be reported to local law enforcement authorities.  Specific penalties follow:

 

      1.  Any student having possession of or having used alcoholic or dangerous drugs or drug paraphernalia on school property or on school activities will be suspended from school for a minimum of five days for a first offense and law enforcement officials will be notified.

      2.  Any student drinking alcoholic beverages or having used dangerous drugs prior to coming onto school property will be suspended for a minimum of five days for a first offense and law enforcement officials will be notified.

      3.  If any pupil is found guilty of possession of alcohol/drugs on school property or at school functions for a second time, he will be expelled from the Westwood Community School

            System and law enforcement officials will be notified.

      4.  Students with tobacco products on school property will be suspended for a minimum of three days for a first offense and for a longer period of time for a second offense.  A longer suspension may result if the possession of tobacco results in vandalism of school property (spitting tobacco on carpets, etc.).  Law enforcement officials will be notified of tobacco possession by under-aged students.

      5.  Any student charged with an offense for which the penalty is expulsion shall have the right to a hearing before the Board prior to the expulsion provided that a written request is filed with the Board secretary within three days of the receipt of the written notice of the proposed expulsion.

 

 

M.        ELIGIBILITY AND TRANSFER STUDENTS

 

            Any student declared ineligible under the prior school district’s Good Conduct Code, and then, without having completed the full period of ineligibility at that school, transfers to Westwood Jr.-Sr. High School, will not be eligible for interscholastic competition at Westwood Jr.-Sr. High School until the full period of ineligibility has been completed.  Once that time period of ineligibility has been completed, the student is then immediately eligible for interscholastic competition.

 

N.        STUDENT BEHAVIOR AND PRIVILEGES

 

            If a student has excessive tardies, absences, discipline referrals, too many poor grades (D’s, F’s, or I’s), or is on the restricted list, that student may not be allowed to go on field trips, to assemblies, or other school-sponsored activities.  Also, students who have demonstrated that they are unable to follow school rules consistently may lose the above-mentioned and other school privileges as well.

 

 

O.        MATCHES, LIGHTERS, ETC.

 

            Students are not to have in their possession lighters, matches, or any other fire-starting objects or materials at school or school-sponsored activities.  Such things as smoke bombs, stink bombs, fireworks, etc., are strictly prohibited.  Possession of such objects or materials will result in detentions, suspensions, or other disciplinary measures as determined appropriate by the principal.

 

 

P.         FIRE ALARM

 

            Any student who pulls a fire alarm without cause may be suspended for up to five days and reported to law enforcement officials.  The age and intent of the student will be considered when consequences are determined.

 

 

Q.        POSSESSION OF A WEAPON

 

            Any student who possesses any weapon shall be subject to disciplinary action.  “Dangerous weapon” includes any firearm, knife, razor blade, pins, needles, club, numchuck, star, bomb, hunting trap, grenade, mine, stun gun, and any device which fires or can fire a projectile by the explosion of a propellant charge. Any shells, bullets, etc., or any other device designed to or intended to incapacitate, threaten, or inflict bodily injury are strictly prohibited.  Any weapons or look-alike weapons will be confiscated and authorities may be notified.

 

            1st Offense and all subsequent offenses - The student may be immediately suspended or     referred to the Westwood Board of Education for expulsion.

 

 

R.        POSSESSION OF A LOOK-ALIKE WEAPON

 

            Any student who possesses or uses any look-alike weapon on any school grounds or while engaged in school-sponsored activities or while on school-owned or operated transportation or on chartered transportation, shall be subject to disciplinary action.  “Look-alike weapon” means any item which resembles or appears to be a weapon, including but not limited to squirt guns, water rifles or pistols, slingshots, toy guns, toy grenades and other similar items.

 

            1st Offense - The principal shall have the authority to determine the extent and nature of the disciplinary action based upon the student’s age, the actions of the student in possessing and using the look-alike weapon, student’s intent and the nature of the look-alike weapon and proximate resemblance to a real weapon.  The disciplinary action which may be imposed includes, but is not limited to:  conferences with the student and parent; detention; suspension for up to ten (10) days.

 

            2nd Offense and All Subsequent Offenses - Referred to the Westwood Board of Education for expulsion.

 

S.         PERSONAL PROPERTY AT SCHOOL

 

            Students are not to bring CD’s, CD players, tapes, tape players, balloons, cards, radios, rubber bands, marbles, cassette recorders, audio-video games, walkmans, headphone sets, yo-yo's (7-12), laser lights, roller blades, skateboards, pagers, etc., to school.  Such valuable and potentially disruptive personal property may be confiscated and held for parents.  Cameras are not to be brought to school except for special occasions such as Homecoming.

 

 

T.         CELL PHONES

 

            Cell Phones are to be turned off and kept in student lockers or book bags, not on the students’ person.  When phones are visible to any staff member, the cell phone will be confiscated.

Jr./Sr. high cell phones may not be visible between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. First violation will be a warning and the cell phone will be given to the detention monitor. The cell phone will be returned at 3:30 p.m.  Second violation will be a detention. Again, the cell phone will be given to the detention monitor. The cell phone will be returned to the student when the detention is served.

Bringing cell phones to school at the elementary level is discouraged.  Parents should contact the elementary principal if they feel there is a specific need for their child to have a cell phone at school or on the bus.  Cell phones should not be used on the elementary playground, in the courtyard before school, or within the building without receiving teacher permission.  At no time should elementary students use cell phones on school property as a camera phone or to text message.  Violation of the elementary policy regarding cell phones will result in the phone being confiscated and given to the principal. 

 

           

U.        STUDY HALLS

 

            Study halls are to be used by students in the way in which they are intended: to do homework, to practice skills related to schoolwork, to do free reading, or to be engaged in some other academic endeavor.

 

Study hall rules:

1.  Be in your seat when the bell rings.

2.  Roll will be taken before passes are accepted.

3.  Study halls are to be quiet.

4.  Permission to speak to another student may be granted by the teacher (one or two at a time depending on the size of the study hall); remain standing while speaking; limit time to 2-3 minutes; speaking should be about schoolwork, not just social conversation.

5.  All students are required to bring work or proper reading materials to study hall and must be engaged in some academic endeavor.  Consequences will result for failure to do so.

6.  Checkout to restrooms is limited to one boy and one girl at a time.

7.  No checkouts to lockers.  Checking out to other rooms is allowed only with a pre-signed pass.

8.  No headsets, radios, MP3 players, IPod’s, audio-visual games, cards, etc., are allowed.

9.  Tables or desks should be left clean.  Push chairs under tables in commons at the end of the period.  At the end of 8th period, students should put chairs up on tables (seats down) as directed by the study hall monitor.

10.  Seating charts will be used.

 

NOTE:  Study hall teachers may have other rules/procedures in addition to these.

 

 

V.        DRESS CODE

 

Statement of Purpose:

            The school dress code is based on the principle that student dress is a responsibility of each student and his/her parents.  For this reason, we feel that many of the restrictions on dress code and grooming should originate with the parent rather than with the school administration.

            Clothing styles change and it is hard to set definite stipulations on what is appropriate and what is not.  We feel that dress codes should allow for individualism and meet the current trend of changing styles.  However, when a style becomes extreme, the matter will be taken up with the individual and/or his or her parents.  Dress code violations will result in detention, ISS, or OSS.  Parents may be asked to bring appropriate clothing. 

 

1.   Anything that could be a substantial disruption to the educational environment in terms of attire should not be worn to school. School Administrator will have final say. Examples follow, though this list is not all-inclusive.

 

a.   “Grubby” clothes - those that are torn, threadbare, or dirty.

b.  Bare “midriff” styles (midriff cannot be showing at any time), halter tops, muscle shirts, see- through and low cut blouses, and “spaghetti” straps or strapless tops are not allowed.  Sleeveless shirts must be close fitting around the arms/shoulder.  Tank tops must have wide straps and cannot be low-cut or too revealing and should fit reasonably close around the shoulder.

c.   Undershirts/underwear are not to be worn as outerwear. 

d.   Shorts must not be too short or too tight and should be hemmed.  Shorts not allowed includes boxer shorts, biker shorts, frayed cutoffs, gym shorts (longer sports shorts allowed), or cutoff sweatpants.  Miniskirts are not allowed.

e.   Clothing, shoes, buttons, watches, etc., with inappropriate pictures, words, or profanity.

 

2.   Students must wear shoes or sandals at all times.

3.   Clothing with drug, beer, alcohol, or tobacco advertisements on them may not be worn.  This includes any symbols, which advertise any products which are illegal for minors.

4.   Any articles of clothing which are obscene or which are suggestive of drugs, sex, etc., or which are offensive are inappropriate.  These include Co-ed Naked, “Big Johnson,” “South Park,” “crabs,” “Hooters,” "pimp/pimping,” Playboy/girl, “Up Yours,” and other kinds of suggestive clothing or that which is in bad taste according to the principal, teachers, or the Board.  Such potentially disruptive clothing is not allowed. 

5.   Jeans, shorts, etc., must be worn so underwear (including boxer underwear) is covered whether standing, walking, bending, sitting, etc.

6.   No hats, bandanas, or other kinds of headgear are to be worn in the building.  Hats must be removed before students enter the building.  No headgear should be worn in the auditorium either during the day or during evening performances.  Hats are only allowed in the gym during sports activities after school and on special occasions.

7.  The wearing of long chains is prohibited due to potential class disruptions, damage to furniture, and potential use as a weapon.  Also, wearing spikes on shoes, wrists, neck, etc., is prohibited.

8.   Sunglasses are not to be worn in school without a medically validated reason.

 

W.       STUDENT DRIVERS

 

Bicycles

            Bicycles are allowed on school property only if the student enters on the north side of the building using the sidewalks and chains his/her bicycle on the north side of the elementary playground fence.  Students are not allowed to ride bikes to school on the south side of the school building.  Bike riders should yield the right-of-way to pedestrians on the sidewalk.  The District assumes no liability for personal bicycles or equipment.

 

Driver Permit Students

1.   Driving permits will be issued by the superintendent of schools or their designee.

2.   Driving permit students must drive to school and home by the most direct route and may not pick up or drop off other students on their way to or from school, practices, etc.

 

All Student Drivers

1.  Pupils must park their cars in the designated area: The south parking lot is for student parking as well as the east side of the east lot and on the crushed rock to the north of the building.  In the south lot, students may park in any spaces provided in the 2nd and 3rd rows but only in the white-lined spaces in the “front” row (nearest the school) Parking next to the school on the east or north is prohibited. Students are to park so that there is one vehicle per parking space and are not to park diagonally, crosswise, or in any way which takes more than one space per vehicle. No parking in the fire lane or in handicapped spaces without a sticker.

2.  Cars must be left parked throughout the day and students are not to be in the parking lot or in vehicles at any time during the day, including lunch periods.  If something is left in a vehicle, permission to get it must be granted by the principal or designee.

3.  All students must provide license plate numbers and other vehicle registration information to the office at registration time or shortly thereafter to maintain parking permits.

4.  Students are to stay on the concrete lots/drives at all times and are not to park or drive across the grass or ditches when coming to or leaving school.

5.  Students are not to park on, nor have front/rear tires on, snow banks or snowdrifts.

6.  Students are to maintain safe speeds and drive in a safe manner at all times while on school property.

7.  Drivers are to exit by the east exit anytime buses are still in the parking lot; the west exit may be used once buses have left.

8.  The principal is granted authority by the Board to revoke a student’s parking privileges whenever the student is in violation of these policies or other safe driving procedures. Detentions, suspension, or other consequences also may be used in lieu of or in conjunction with the revocation of a parking privilege.

9.  No mopeds should be driven to school due to safety concerns.

10. Students should not loiter in the parking lot or in cars before or after school. 

 

 

X.        STUDENTS IN BUILDING BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOL / FAMILY NIGHT

 

            Students are not to be in the building before or after school unless they are under the direct supervision of a teacher.  Students who violate this policy will be given detentions and possibly suspension for continual violations.  Open gym begins at 7:30 a.m.  All students must be out of the building by 6:00 p.m. on Wednesdays (family night).  No Wednesday evening practices are allowed.

 

Y.        RESTROOMS

 

            Restrooms are not meeting places or places to visit with your friends.  The facilities in the restrooms are there for your use.  Take care of restroom areas and help keep them clean.

 

 

Z.         HALL REGULATIONS

 

            Students will be allowed in the halls only during passing periods without a special permit from a teacher.  Please help keep halls clean and attractive by disposing of waste paper in the proper containers.  Students are expected to conduct themselves properly and do their part in keeping confusion and noise to a minimum.

 

 

AA.      PRIDE AND CARE OF THE WESTWOOD COMMUNITY SCHOOL

 

            Westwood Community School is one of the finest in the Midwest, and students can rightfully be proud of their school.  Careful attention to the protection of the building and its furnishings is essential to maintaining its quality and beauty.  Anyone vandalizing or damaging school property, equipment, buses, etc. may be suspended from school and restitution may be required up to the legal limits of the law. 

 

 

BB.      PLAGIARISM

 

            Plagiarism is a form of copying another’s work and using it as one’s own.  Plagiarism shall be considered an academic offense in any Westwood School class.  Any students found guilty of plagiarism shall be penalized.  Penalties may include a failing grade for the assignment, a failing grade for the course or other appropriate penalties.

 

 

CC.      STUDENT COMPLAINTS AND GRIEVANCES

 

            Complaints and grievances regarding board policy or administrative regulation violations and other matters should be addressed to the student’s teacher or another member of the certified personnel, other than administration, for resolution of the complaint.  It is the goal of the board to resolve student complaints at the lowest organizational level.

            If the matter cannot be resolved by certified personnel, the student may discuss the matter with the principal within three (3) days.  If the matter cannot be resolved by the principal, the student may discuss it with the superintendent within two (2) days after speaking with the principal.

            If the matter is not satisfactorily resolved by the superintendent, the student may petition the board of education to consider the matter.