CHESTER COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT HANDBOOK

INTRODUCTION

    Please read the entire handbook carefully. If you have questions, get the answers now rather than waiting until an interpretation may cause a misunderstanding. The policies and procedures in this handbook are intended to be consistent with those of the Chester County School System. Should there be any inconsistencies, the system policies shall take precedent. We will expect that each student read the material contained in this handbook and act according to the rules, procedures, and regulations contained therein.  The policies and procedures contained in this handbook are the results of a concerted effort on the part of the faculty and administration. This information has been carefully prepared and presented so that it will be of great value in helping you adjust to our school and to become an integral part of it. The ultimate purpose of education is to help each student become an effective citizen in a democracy. Developing and accepting the responsibilities and obligations of good citizenship will help you to participate in our varied activities and thus find those things within our school which will prepare you to live a better life and finally take your place in this complex society. Remember that your success in this school will be directly proportional to your efforts.

The Chester County School District does not discriminate in its education programs or educational activities on the basis of sex, race, religion, color, national origin, sex or disability in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. The Chester County School District will take steps to assure that lack of English skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in all educational and vocational programs.

This handbook, the Student Code of Behavior and Discipline and board policies, rules and regulations are in effect while students are on school grounds, school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school-owned and/or school operated buses or vehicles or chartered buses; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if the misconduct directly affects the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district or involves students or staff.

The mission of Chester County High School is for students to learn for the sake of learning, to know what to do when they don’t know what to do, and to meet others’ needs before their own.

The vision of Chester County High School is to provide diverse and challenging programs in a place of excellence that allows students to achieve their full academic and personal potentials.

Original School Alma Mater:

Revised School Alma Mater (May 2006):

School Colors: Royal blue, white, and red trim

School Mascot: Eagles

A student seeking enrollment in the district for the first time must meet all academic, age, immunization, tuition and other eligibility prerequisites for admission as set forth in state law, Board policy and administrative procedures. Students and their parents should contact the office for admission requirements. The district may deny regular school admission to a student who is expelled/ suspended from another school district and who subsequently becomes a resident of the district or who applies for admission to the district as a non-resident student.

A student may be withdrawn from school only by a parent or legal guardian. The school requests notice from the parent at least three (3) days in advance, so that records and documents may be prepared. The parent may obtain a withdrawal form from the school office. On the student’s last day, the withdrawal form must be presented to each teacher for current grade averages and book clearance; to the librarian to assure a clear library record; to the clinic for health records; to the counselor for the last report card and course clearance; and, finally, to the principal. A copy of the withdrawal form will be given to the student and a copy placed in the student’s permanent record. A student who is 18 or older, who is married or who has been declared by a court to be an emancipated minor may withdraw without parental signature.

The school may enroll a maximum of five (5) students from those exchange programs officially recognized by the Board. Admission of exchange students will be made only at the beginning of the school year. All arrangements for admission must be concluded in the summer prior to the beginning of the school term. Foreign exchange students admitted to school under an F-1 visa status would be required to pay tuition as required by law and at the rate established by the Board. Exchange students attending school under a J-1 visa will be granted tuition waivers.

Seniors are encouraged to visit college campuses on weekends or school holidays. However, if that cannot be arranged, seniors may be excused one (1) day to visit college campuses with the permission of the school counselor and with a note signed by the student’s parents or a telephone call from the parents.

Ten (10) consecutive or fifteen (15) total unexcused absences during any semester may render a student ineligible for promotion to the next grade and/or to receive credit toward graduation, and to retain a driver’s permit, or to obtain such if of age. Any student fifteen (15) years of age or older who becomes academically deficient shall be reported to the Department of Safety for driver’s license revocation. A student shall be deemed academically deficient if he/she has not received passing grades in at least three (3) full unit subjects or their equivalency at the end of semester grading. A copy of the notice sent to the Department of Safety by the attendance teacher or the director of schools or his/her designee shall also be mailed to the student’s parent or guardian.

In case of severe, inclement weather or mechanical breakdown, the school may be closed or starting time delayed. School closing, delayed starting time, or early dismissal will be announced over area television and radio stations and a message will be provided at the Central Office for more current information.

Students who are absent from school are required to make up work missed in class whether the absence is considered excused or unexcused. This work should be completed approximately in the same amount of time as the time missed in class. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain all make-up work from the teacher. Makeup work completed for unexcused absences or excused make-up work submitted after deadlines set may result in a loss of grade for the work.

A student shall not be permitted to leave the school premises during the school day except for school-related or school-sponsored activities. However, a student may be permitted to leave the school premises if a parent or guardian has made a specific request (via telephone or in person) prior to the dismissal or if a school official notifies a parent or guardian and obtains permission for the release of the student. Every dismissal shall be approved by the principal or person designated by the principal. A parent or guardian’s notification of student’s need of an early dismissal does not automatically guarantee the late will be excused. When the early dismissal of the student is approved, the student will be required to sign-out stating name, time of leaving, and reason for leaving. If the student returns to school during the same day, the student must sign-in in the office at the time of  returning. After five (5) call-ins made by parent or guardian for student’s sickness in one semester, a doctor’s statement will be required to excuse further early dismissals Excessive “unexcused” checkouts will warrant disciplinary actions by Principal. The disciplinary actions range from a warning letter mailed to parents or guardian to in- school suspension.

May – July Teacher In-service Days

July 24 New Student Registration (8:00am-3:00pm)

July 27 County wide Inservice

July 30 In-service

July 31 Administrative Day

August 1 Staff Development

August 2 ½ day for freshmen students (7:55-11:15)

August 3 First full day for all students (7:55-2:55)

August 31 Staff Development (Teachers only)

September 3 Labor Day holiday (school closed)

September 20 Parent-Teacher Conference (5:00-8:00)

September 21 School Closed. Parent-Teacher Conference (9:00-

12:00 Noon)

October 15 - 19 Fall Break (school closed)

November 21 - 23 Thanksgiving holiday (school closed)

December 14, 17, & 18 Mid-term examinations

December 18 School dismissed at 10:00 am

December 19-January 2 Christmas holiday (school closed)

January 2 Staff Development (teachers only)

January 3 First regular day of second semester

January 21 Martin Luther King holiday (school closed)

February 18 President’s Day holiday (school closed)

March 17 - 21 Spring Break holiday (school closed)

April 25 Staff Development (Teachers Only)

May 11 Baccalaureate Service at Williams Auditorium @

7:00p.m.

May 12 Graduation Ceremony at Loyd Auditorium @ 7:00pm

May 12 - 14 Final Exams (underclassmen)

May 15 Teachers work on records (school closed)

May 16 Report cards issued (10:00am-10:30am)

School hours are from 7:55 a.m. until 2:55 p.m. Students may be present on school grounds before 7:00 a.m. or after 4:00 p.m. only when they are under the supervision of an employee or extracurricular activity sponsor. If school is dismissed early, students are expected to leave the grounds within sixty (60) minutes of dismissal.

1st period 7:55 - 8:43

2nd period 8:48 - 9:33

Break 9:33 - 9:43

3rd period 9:43 - 10:28

4th period 10:33 - 11:18

Activity Period 11:18 - 11:48

5th period 11:53 - 1:15

A. 11:48 - 12:17

B. 12:17 - 12:46

C. 12:46 - 1:15

6th period 1:20 - 2:05

7th period 2:10 - 2:55

All students are expected to attend school each day, all day, except in extreme and rare situations. Regular and prompt attendance is one of the requirements of all students for promotion. Each time a student is absent from school there is a loss of opportunity for learning. It shall be left to the judgment of the principal to determine if the absence, tardy, or checkout is excused or unexcused. The school has the responsibility for knowing the whereabouts of every student while school is in session. Frequent tardies, absences, or check–outs may result in  disciplinary measures. A parent’s permission does not necessarily constitute an excused absence. Students who are absent more than five (5) days in a semester will be required to provide a doctor’s statement of required absence to receive an excused absence. If a student is absent with three (3) unexcused absences in one semester, a letter of notice will be provided to the family of the student. If a student is absent with five (5) unexcused absences in one semester, the student may be required to appear before a truancy board to explain the absences, which may result in further disciplinary actions.

All absences will be considered unexcused unless it can be identified as one of the following circumstances:

1. Illness to the student.

2. Death or serious illness within the student’s immediate family.

3. When the student is officially representing the school in a school sponsored activity.

4. Special and recognized religious holidays regularly observed by persons of their faith

5. Legal court summons not as a result of the student’s misconduct

6. Extenuating circumstances excuses

In the event that parents determine that their child needs to be absent for reasons other than those listed above, they may request an excused absence from the principal prior to the date of the absence. In the event the principal does not grant the request, it may be appealed to the Superintendent. If the superintendent denies the request, it may be appealed to the board of education at the next regularly  scheduled meeting. All requests for “extenuating circumstances excuses” should be made well in advance of the time of the planned absence in order to allow for the appeals process. The principal, superintendent, or the board shall not grant excused absences under this section retroactively. A student is considered present for the day if the student is in attendance for the majority of the day or until 11:30am.

In the event of a student’s absence, the parent or guardian shall be required to contact the school of the student explaining the reason for each absence. If the absence is a circumstance considered as “excused”, the parental notice explaining the circumstance must be made as soon as possible to the school. An excessive delay in the initial contact may require approval from principal to recognize absence  as “excused”. A doctor’s statement will be required to recognize an absence as “excused” if the student has five (5) or more excused absences in a semester. The attendance supervisor will follow up on the absence as deemed necessary (phone calls, home visits, parent-teacher conferences, etc.) In the State of Tennessee, a child is under the Compulsory Attendance Law from the student’s sixth birthday until the seventeenth birthday. Amended 9-17-98.

 In the event of a student’s late arrival to school, the student must report to the office to sign in. For the administration to consider the student’s late arrival as excused, there must be a notification provided by parent or guardian stating the reason for the late arrival. As described with the attendance policy, excusing a late will be determined based upon the circumstances provided previously. A parent or guardian’s notification of student’s late arrival does not automatically guarantee the late will be excused. After five (5) call- ins made by parent or guardian for student’s sickness in one semester, a doctor’s statement will be required to excuse a late arrival.

An added incentive for the students to achieve perfect attendance is the option of exempting semester and final exams. Students may exempt one (1) semester exam subject to the following conditions:

1. At the time of the exam, the student has no unexcused absences from the school or in the class in which the student wishes to exempt the exam;

2. At the time of the exam, the student has no more than two (2) excused absences from school or in the class in which the student wishes to exempt the exam;

3. The student must have an average of 70 or higher in the specific class.

The absences would be cumulative for the entire school year. Three (3) excused absences or one (1) unexcused absence at any point would eliminate the student from exempting future semester exams during that school year. Semester exams will count as sixteen percent of the semester grade. The total average of each six weeks grade will count as eighty-four percent of the semester grade.

Students are responsible for being to school and class on time. If school transportation is running late, the school office and teachers will be notified. Students coming to school late must immediately come to the office and get a late slip before going to class. Students who are either tardy to school or checking out early will be disciplined according to the following policy.

• 1st - 3rd tardy- no penalty

• 4th tardy- detention (1 hour after-school)

• 5th – 7th tardy- detention (2 hours after-school)

• 8+ tardies - ISS – 2 days and parent conference

The following steps apply to each six-week period during the school year.

The principal shall ensure that each student, before participating in interscholastic athletics, either purchases the insurance policy offered or presents a statement signed by the parent(s) who assures the school that the parent(s) has personal insurance or is willing to accept all financial responsibilities related to participation and travel. Every accident in the school building, on the school grounds, at practice sessions, or at any athletic event sponsored by the school must be reported immediately to the school personnel responsible.

To protect children from contagious illnesses, students infected with certain diseases are not allowed to come to school while    contagious. Parents of a student  with a communicable or contagious disease should telephone the school nurse or principal so that other students who may have been exposed to the disease can be alerted. These diseases include:

Amebiasis Meningitis, Bacterial Campylobacteriosis, Mumps, Chickenpox, Pinkeye (Conjunctivitis), Common cold with fever, Ringworm of the scalp, Fifth disease Rubella (German Measles), (Erythema Infectiosum), Gastroenteritis, Viral Salmonellosis, Giardiasis,  Typhoid fever, Head lice (Pediculosis),  Scabies, Hepatitis, Viral A Shigellosis, Impetigo Streptococcal disease, invasive Infectious mononucleosis, Tuberculosis, Pulmonary Influenza, Whooping Cough (pertussis), Measles (Rubeola)

Students and parents are encouraged to talk with a school counselor, teacher, or principal to learn about course offerings, the graduation requirement of various programs, and early graduation procedures. Each spring, students in grades eight (8) through eleven (11) will be provided information on anticipated course offerings for the next year and other information that will help them make the most of academic and vocational opportunities.  Students who are interested in attending a college, university, or training school or pursuing some other type of advanced education should work closely with their counselor so that they take the high school courses that best prepare them. The counselor can also provide information about entrance examinations and deadlines for application, as well as information about automatic admission to state colleges and universities, financial aid, housing, and scholarships. Students are ultimately responsible for knowing/seeking information about academic graduation requirements.

The school counselor is available to assist students with a wide range of personal concerns, including such areas as social, family,   academic and emotional issues, or drug, alcohol or tobacco dependency. The counselor may also make available information about community resources to address these concerns. Counseling is voluntary and students will not be required to disclose personal information.

All possession and uses of tobacco and tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco, are prohibited in all of the school district’s buildings by all students. The use of tobacco or tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco, will be prohibited in all vehicles, owned, leased, or operated by the district. This policy is covered in detail in the Code of Behavior and Discipline. Principals are required to issue a juvenile citation to student violators under age 18 years.

If a student has a medical emergency at school or a school-related activity when the parent cannot be reached, the school must have written parental consent to obtain emergency medical treatment and information about allergies to medications, etc. Therefore, parents are asked each year to complete an emergency care consent form. Parents should keep emergency care information up-to-date (name of doctor, emergency telephone numbers, allergies, etc.). Please contact the school office to update any information.

The Chester County Board of Education is committed to safeguarding the right of all students and employees within the school system to learn and work in an  environment that is free from all forms of harassment and/or sexual harassment. It is the policy of the Chester County school system to maintain learning and working environments that are free from harassment of any type. The school system prohibits any from of sexual harassment or harassment based upon age, religion, disability or race/national origin. It shall be a violation of this policy for any student or employee of the school system to harass a student or an employee through conduct or communication in any form as defined by the policy. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education amendments of 1972 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 require school districts to have officially adopted policy statements of nondiscrimination on the basis of sex, disability, national origin and race. Any person who believes he or she has been the victim of harassment by a student or an employee of the school system, or any third person with knowledge or belief of conduct which may constitute harassment should report the alleged acts immediately to any appropriate school system official which will be the School Principal or Director of Student and Employee Relations and Title IX Coordinator. Submission of a compliant or report of harassment will not affect the reporting individual’s future employment, grades, or work assignments. The school system will respect the confidentiality of the complainant and the individual(s) against whom the complaint is filed as much as possible, consistent with the school system’s legal obligations and the necessity to investigate allegations of harassment and take disciplinary action when the conduct has occurred.

No students entering school, including those entering kindergarten or first grade, those from out-of-state and those from nonpublic schools, will be permitted to enroll (or attend) without proof of required immunizations. It is the responsibility of the parents or guardians to have their children immunized and to provide such proof to the principal of the school that the student is to attend. All certificates of immunization shall be on forms furnished by the department of health. If a student’s religious beliefs conflict with the requirement that the student be immunized, the student must present a statement signed by the student (or by the parent, if the student is a minor) stating that immunization conflicts with the beliefs and practices of a recognized church or religious denomination of which the student is an adherent or member. This statement must be renewed yearly. If a student should not be immunized for medical reasons, the student or parent must present a certificate signed by a U.S. licensed physician stating that, in the doctor’s opinion, the immunization required would be harmful to the health and well-being of the student or any member of the student’s family or household. This certificate must be renewed yearly unless the physician species a lifelong condition.

Medication shall be administered only when the student’s health requires that it be given during school hours. It is the parent’s responsibility to bring this medication to school, give it to the school designee, and remove any unused medication when treatment is completed. All prescription medication must be brought to school in the original container. The pharmacy label must include the following information:

Name of student

Prescription Number

Name of medication and dosage

Administration route or other directions

Date

Licensed prescriber’s name

Pharmacy name, address and telephone number

All non-prescription medication must be brought to school in the original manufacturer’s labeled container with the ingredients listed and the child’s name affixed to the container. Medication will be administered in accordance with the dosage requirements on the label. No more than one month’s supply of any medication should be brought to school.

Prior to entering school for the first time, each student shall have a complete physical examination. This applies to kindergarten, first grade and other students for whom there is no health record. Students participating in athletics are required to provide a school district physical examination form signed by the student’s doctor stating the student is physically fit to perform in athletics prior to participation. Failure to provide proof of a physical examination makes the student ineligible.

A student who becomes ill or is injured at school shall notify his or her teacher or another employee as soon as possible. In the case of a serious illness or injury, the school shall attempt to notify the parents according to the information on the emergency form. If the student is too ill to remain in school, the student will be released to the student’s parents or, with parental permission, to another person directed by the parents. In the event of a medical emergency, employees may administer emergency or minor first aid, as appropriate and, if necessary, emergency medical personnel will be contacted. The school will attempt to notify the parents as soon as possible.

At all times, the students’ behavior should be refined and courteous. An indication of the cultural level of the school is the conduct of its student body at an assembly. Whether guests are present or not, each student is personally responsible for the impression made by the school as a whole. Unacceptable conduct includes whistling, uncalled for clapping, boisterousness, talking during the program or being disruptive to the intent of the assembly program. All students and faculty will be required to attend unless instructed otherwise. Students will be assigned a section in the gym for seating according to their grade level or classroom assignment.  Visitors or guests to the assembly must be approved before the assembly by the administration. Misbehavior by individuals or groups will not be tolerated and may result in disciplinary measures.

In certain classes, field trips and excursions are authorized and may be taken as an extension of the classroom to contribute to the achievement of the educational goals of the school district. If a field trip is required for a course, students are expected to attend the field trip. Absences from other classes or school activities due to attendance on field trips and excursions are considered present at school or excused absences. While on field trips, students are guests and considered representatives of the school district. Students must treat employees, chaperones and guides with respect and courtesy. A student’s lack of acceptable behavior in the classroom or on previous field trips may limit that student’s opportunity to attend further field  trips. A student may be required to submit a permission form, signed and dated by the parent, in order to participate in a field trip. Field trips that occur during non- school days may have required fees that are the responsibility of the student. A fee waiver process is available for students unable to afford the fee. Students/Parents should contact the central office for more information.

Student clubs or classes, outside organizations, and/or parent groups occasionally may be permitted to conduct fund-raising drives for approved school purposes. An application for permission must be made to the principal by the designated date of the current school year. Except as approved by the administration, fund-raising by any club or organization is not permitted on school property. All funds raised or collected by or for school-approved student groups will be receipted, deposited and accounted for in accordance with Tennessee law and applicable district policy and procedures. All such funds will be expended for the purpose of supporting the school’s extracurricular activities program. The building principal is responsible for administering student activity funds. The student body treasurer serves as the student government representative in administration of student activity funds.

Every student is encouraged to participate in extracurricular student organizations. School-sponsored student organizations are those, which are recognized by the school district and Board. School-sponsored student organizations include:  4-H, HOSA, Beta Club, Mu Alpha Theta, Bookbackers, National Honors Society, Future Business Leaders of America, Skills USA, Community Service Club, Spanish Honors Society, Eagle’s Eye, Student Council, Family, Career, & Community Leaders of America, Stripers,  Future Teachers of America, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Tennessee Career Association, Future Farmers of America

Participation in school-sponsored organizations is a privilege. Individual sponsors or coaches may impose rules in addition to those contained in this handbook. The privilege of participation may be suspended or canceled for violating individual coach or  sponsor’s rules as well as for violation of school district policies.

Student Code of Behavior and Discipline.

The Student Council provides for student activities, serves as a training experience for both leaders and followers, promotes the common good, gives students a share in the management of the school, develops high ideals of personal conduct, acts as a clearing house for student activities, seeks to interest students in school affairs and helps solve problems that may arise. Members of the council are the students’ representatives and have direct access to the school administration as a collective group.

Events designed to enhance social development may be conducted by schools but must not interfere with the scholastic program in any school. Student organizations may sponsor social events, which are planned under the guidance of club sponsors or school administrators, scheduled well in advance, and serve to complement the curricular program. Minimal admission fees may be charged to defray costs. The principal shall approve social events, scheduled for out-of-school hours. The superintendent and/or the Board must approve activities scheduled outside of the system.

Certain areas of the school will be accessible to students before and after school for specific purposes. Students are required to remain in the area where their activity is scheduled to take place. The cafeteria is open to students before school beginning at 7:00 a.m. Unless the teacher or sponsor overseeing the activity gives permission, a student will not be permitted to go to another area of the building or campus. After dismissal of school in the afternoon, and unless involved in an activity under the supervision of a teacher, students must leave campus immediately.

By law, both parents, whether married, separated or divorced, have access to the records of a student who is under 18 years of age unless the district is provided evidence that there is a court order, state statute or legally binding document relating to such matters as divorce, separation or custody that specifically revokes these rights. Parents of a minor, or an eligible student (if 18 years or older), may inspect and review education records during regular district hours.

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

These rights are outlined below:

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

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

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

4. The parent/student has a right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Chester County School District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:

Family Policy Compliance Office

The Chester County School System may disclose certain information, known as directory information, at its discretion without consent. Parents or eligible students may refuse to let the Chester County School System release any or all of this information. If you do not want this information released, you must send written notice annually to Chester County Board of Education, P.O. Box 327, Henderson, TN 38340 before September 1st. Forms are available from that office. The following information regarding students is considered directory information: 1. Name, 2. address, 3. date and place of birth, 4. telephone listing and electronic mail address, 5. photograph, 6. participation in officially recognized activities and sports, 7. grade level, 8. major field of study, 9. enrollment, 10. weight and height of members of athletic teams, 11. dates of attendance, 12. degrees and awards received, and 13. other similar information that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed.

The provision of the student’s social security number is voluntary and will be included as part of the student’s permanent record only as provided by the eligible student or parent.

Students who earn at least a B average in each class per six-week grading period are included in the honor roll. Lists of students who are on the honor rolls are published each six weeks period in the local newspaper. An additional incentive for students to be listed in the honor roll is that area businesses may offer discounts on services or products for the students who qualify.

Class ranking is determined each semester grading period and is based upon a 100-point scale. Senior class ranking is based upon three and one half semesters of course grades and determines the top ten-percent that includes the salutatorian and valedictorian. The school system also recognizes the top five academic students of each grade and the top ten percent seniors with an academic banquet and awards.

High school students may earn, through correspondence, a maximum of three (3) units of academic credit to be applied toward graduation requirements. Only two (2) units may be earned during any one (1) school year. Only courses offered by agencies and institutions recognized by the Board will be accepted. The express approval of the principal/designee shall be obtained before the course is taken. The principal/designee and the student will agree on a reasonable date for completion of the correspondence course(s). The student shall not be allowed credit if the course is not completed by the agreed date. The school must receive an official record of the final grade before a diploma may be issued to the student. Under ordinary circumstances, students or their parents/guardians shall pay for approved correspondence courses the student chooses to take.

To prepare students for an increasingly computerized society, the district has made a substantial investment in computer technology for instructional purposes. Use of these resources is restricted to students working under a teacher’s supervision and for approved purposes only. The student and his/her parents will be asked to sign a user agreement (separate from this handbook) regarding the use of these resources; violations of this agreement may result in withdrawal of privileges and other disciplinary action Students and parents should be aware that electronic communications —e-mail— using district computers are not private and may be monitored by district staff.

Chester County High School offers the following dual credit courses:

• Advanced Placement Calculus

• College Pre-Calculus

• College English IV

The advanced placement courses require students to make a passing grade on the end of course test to receive the additional college credit. High school credit is earned with a passing grade for the course. Students enrolled in the college course must pass the course to receive high school and college course credit.

After the ninth grade, students are classified according to the number of credits earned toward graduation. A student is classified at the start of the current school year. A student will not be able to advance in classification during the school year.

Credits Earned Grade Placement

5 - 10th

10 - 11th

15 - 12th

Graduation activities will include:

 Senior Awards Night- Thursday, May 8, 2008 @ 6:30pm

 Baccalaureate Service- Sunday, May 11, 2008 @ 7:00pm

 Graduation Commencement- Monday, May 12, 2008 @ 7:00pm

Expenses may be incurred in order to participate in the traditions of graduation, such as the purchase of invitations, diploma cover, cap and gown, and senior picture.

Prior to the ninth grade, all students will develop a four-year plan of focused and purposeful study. The student, parent(s) and faculty advisor or school counselor will develop this plan when the student is in the eighth grade. The plan will be reviewed annually. A student is required to follow a focused course of study of a university path, technical path, or both.

Before graduation, every student must achieve specified units of credit; and make passing scores on the required gateway tests (English II, Algebra I and Biology). A student in the regular high school program is required to complete the following courses: language arts (4 units); mathematics (3 units); science (3 units); social studies (3 units); health, health and wellness (1 unit); and electives (14 units) for a total of 22 units.

University Path

Core Requirements:

English 4 units

Math 3 units (Algebra I, II*, Geometry or another Advanced Math*)

Science 3 units (Biology and a physical science are required of all students)

Social Studies 3 units (U.S. History, Economics- ½ credit, Government- ½ credit, and World History or World Geography)

Lifetime Wellness 1 unit

Additional Requirements for University Path

Foreign Language 2 units (same language)

Visual/ Performing Arts 1 unit

(* Tennessee College and University Requirements)

Technical Path- Core Requirements

English 4 units

Math 3 units (Algebra I and Geometry are required of all students)

Science 3 units (Biology and a physical science are required of all students)

Social Studies 3 units (same as University Path)

Lifetime Wellness 1 unit

Focus of Study 4 units (4 units of Vocational Education focusing on a particular technical area)

A minimum of twenty-two (22) credits is required for graduation.

University Path- 17 core requirements + 5 electives = 22 credits

Technical Path- 18 core requirements + 4 electives = 22 credits

Special education students who successfully complete their Individualized Educational Program (IEP) and pass the required competency test or the required gateway tests shall be awarded a regular diploma. If the student does not attain a minimum score on the Gateway tests, he/she shall be awarded a special education diploma upon graduation.

Students who have completed all graduation requirements will be awarded a regular diploma; students who complete all graduation requirements but who have not passed the Gateway tests will be awarded a certificate of attendance at graduation.

Teachers assign homework, extra class activities or assignments as necessary. Homework is an opportunity for students to practice skills and activities, to share and discuss ideas, to review materials, to become acquainted with resources, to organize thoughts, to prepare for classroom activities or to make up incomplete class work. Students are expected to complete homework on time. Failure to complete homework may result in loss of class credit, grade reduction and a failing grade in class.

Students who receive an incomplete grade in a class must complete the class work within the early weeks after the start of the next grading period. The teacher with permission of the principal may grant extensions. Failure to finish an incomplete may result in a failing grade and a loss of credit.

Report cards of student academic performance are issued each six weeks. A progress report is a notice of student academic performance that normally is issued every three weeks.

• 1st six weeks ends September 12, report cards go out September 20

• 2nd six weeks ends November 1, report cards go out November 8

• 3rd six weeks ends December 18, report cards go out January 10

• 4th six weeks ends February 13, report cards go out February 21

• 5th six weeks ends April 3, report cards go out April 10

• 6th six weeks ends May 16, report cards go out May 16

A conference is scheduled in which parents and teachers will have the opportunity to discuss any pertinent problems or other matters of concern regarding the development and education of each student. The parent teacher conference is scheduled on Thursday, September 20, 2007 from 5p.m. to 8p.m. and on Friday, September 21, 2007 from 9a.m. to 12p.m.

In grades 9-12, achievement shall be reported to parents as:

A 93-100

B 85-92

C 75-84

D 70-74

F below 70

The District provides special programs for gifted and talented students, bilingual students, migrant students, students with limited English proficiency, dyslexic students, and students with disabilities. The coordinator of each program can answer questions about eligibility requirements, as well as programs and services offered in the District or by other organizations. A student or parent with questions about these programs should contact the central office.

Students who wish to add or drop a class must do so within ten (10) school days after the start of the school year. Students who wish to add or drop a second semester course must do so within five (5) school days after the start of the second semester. The parent and school counselor’s permission are necessary to add or drop a course. Yearlong courses can be dropped only during the first semester of school.

Underclass students must be registered for at least six (6) courses per semester unless the principal grants prior permission. Seniors may be registered for at least five (5) courses per semester.

Summer schools shall be organized and operated as a part of the public school program, shall be under the control and management of the Board, and shall comply with rules and regulations of the State Board of Education.  All summer school classes shall meet on school property, and the library, laboratories, and other facilities shall be made available to all students enrolled in the summer school program. The Board shall annually determine the tuition rates. Three (3) unexcused absences in any course offered during summer school renders a student ineligible to receive credit in that course. Absences shall be classified as either excused or unexcused as determined by the principal or his/her designee. Excused absences shall include:

1. Personal illness;

2. Illness of an immediate family member;

3. Death in the family;

4. Legal court summons not as a result of the student’s misconduct;

5. Extreme weather conditions;

6. Religious observances; and

7. Circumstances, which in the judgment of the principal or his/her designee create emergencies over which the student has no control.

In addition to routine testing and other measures of achievement, students at certain grade levels will take state assessment tests. To receive a high school diploma, students must receive proficient scores in specific end-of-course exams. Test results will be reported to students and parents; parents may review an assessment test that has been given to their child as allowed by law. Certain students, such as students with disabilities and students with limited English proficiency may be eligible for exemptions, accommodations, or a deferment. For more information, see the principal, counselor, or special education director.

Students are expected to do their own schoolwork. Cheating by looking at another student’s schoolwork, copying others’ work, copying from other sources or similar cheating is not tolerated. In addition to the disciplinary actions outlined in the Student Code of Behavior and Discipline, discipline may include the loss of class credit.

(See Student Code of Behavior and Discipline for a complete list of school rules and behavioral expectations) In order for students to take advantage of available learning opportunities and to be productive members of our campus community, each student is expected to:

• Demonstrate courtesy--even when others do not.

• Behave in a responsible manner, always exercising self-discipline.

• Attend all classes, regularly and on time.

• Prepare for each class; take appropriate materials and assignments to class.

• Meet district or campus standards of grooming and dress.

• Obey all campus and classroom rules.

• Respect the rights and privileges of other students, teachers, and other district staff.

• Respect the property of others, including district property and facilities.

• Cooperate with or assist the school staff in maintaining safety, order, and discipline.

The district has authority and control over a student at school during the regular school day, on school grounds, at any school-related activity, regardless of time or location and while being transported in district-provided transportation. A student who violates the Student Code of Behavior and Discipline may be subject to a spectrum of disciplinary action, including, but not limited to, detention, suspension, expulsion, loss of awards and honors and/or referral to law enforcement officials. The district’s disciplinary options include using one or more discipline management techniques including counseling by teachers, counselors and administrators, detention, suspension, expulsion, loss of driving privileges and loss of right to apply for driving privileges, loss of privileges, honors and awards and removal to an alternative education program. Disciplinary measures are applied depending on the nature of the offense. The age and past pattern of behavior of a student will be considered in determining appropriate disciplinary action. In addition, when a student commits alcohol and/or tobacco-related offenses or any other criminal act, he/she may also be referred to law enforcement officials. Violations of the district’s weapons/drug policy, as required by law, shall be reported to law enforcement.

Each student has a right to individually, voluntarily, and silently pray or meditate in school in a manner that does not disrupt instructional activities of the school. The school will not require, encourage, or coerce a student to engage in or to refrain from such prayer or mediation during any school activity. Each student has the right to bring, read and/or discuss religious materials to school, including the Bible during non-instructional time during the school day.

No student will be required to participate without parental consent in any survey, analysis, or evaluation--funded in whole or in part by the U.S. Department of Education--that concerns:

• Political affiliations.

• Mental and psychological problems potentially embarrassing to the student or family.

• Sexual behavior and attitudes.

• Illegal, antisocial, self-incriminating, and demeaning behavior.

• Criticism of other individuals with whom the student or the student's family has a close family relationship.

• Relationships privileged under law, such as relationships with lawyers, physicians, and ministers.

• Income, except when the information will be used to determine the student's eligibility to participate in a special program or to receive financial assistance under such a program.

Parents will be able to inspect any teaching materials used in connection with such a survey, analysis, or evaluation.

Students may participate in the production of official school district publications as part of the curriculum under the supervision of a faculty advisor and principal. Official school district publications include, but are not limited to, the school newspaper and yearbook. A faculty advisor will supervise student writers to maintain professional standards of English and journalism and to comply with the law. No student shall express, publish, or distribute in an official school district publication material, which is:

• obscene

• libelous

• slanderous

• encourages students to:

• commit unlawful acts

• violate school district policies, rules or regulations

• cause the material and substantial disruption of the orderly and efficient

operation of the school or school activity

• disrupt or interfere with the education program

• interrupt the maintenance of a disciplined atmosphere

• infringe on the rights of others

Students who believe they have been unreasonably restricted in their exercise of expression in an official student publication should follow the complaint procedure outlined in this handbook.

State-approved textbooks are provided free of charge for each subject or class. Books must be treated with care. A student who is issued a damaged book should report the damage to the teacher. Any student failing to return a book issued by the school will have his/her records held until the book is returned or paid for by the student or his/her parent/guardian.

The Chester County School District believes that the best educational result for each student occurs when all three partners are doing their best: the district staff,  the student’s parent, and the student. Such a partnership requires trust and much communication  between home and school. To strengthen this partnership, every parent is urged to:

• Encourage his or her child to put a high priority on education and commit to making the most of the educational opportunities the school provides.

• Review the information in the student handbook (including the Student Code of Behavior and Discipline with his or her child and sign and return the acknowledgment form(s). A parent with questions is encouraged to contact an Assistant Principal.

• Become familiar with all of the child's school activities and with the academic programs, including special programs, offered in the district. Discuss with the counselor or principal any questions, such as concerns about placement, assignment, or early graduation, and the options available to the child. Monitor the child's academic progress and contact teachers as needed.

• Participate in campus parent organizations. Parents have the opportunity to support and be involved in various school activities, either as leaders or in supporting roles. Parent organizations include: Band Boosters, Diamond Club, Quarterback Club, and Rebounders.

• Offer to serve as a parent representative on the District-level or campus-level planning committees formulating educational goals and plans to improve student achievement. For further information, contact the principal.

• Attend Board meetings to learn more about district operations, including the procedure for addressing the board when appropriate.

A student or parent who has a complaint concerning a classroom/teacher issue should first bring the matter to the appropriate teacher. If the outcome is not satisfactory, a conference with the principal can be requested following the conference with the teacher. If the outcome of this conference is not satisfactory, the student or parent may file a written, signed complaint with the superintendent or designee within fifteen (15) calendar days that will investigate the complaint and render a decision. If the complainant is dissatisfied with the decision of the superintendent, he/she may appeal to the Board by filing a request in writing with the superintendent within ten (10) calendar days following receipt of the superintendent’s decision. The superintendent will provide the complainant with necessary Board appeal procedures. Board decisions are final.

A student and/or parent with a complaint regarding possible discrimination of a student on the basis of sex should contact the Title VI and Title IX Coordinator at the central office.

Complaints by students or parents about instructional materials should be directed to the principal and provided in writing and signed by the student and/or parent. A reconsideration committee, comprised in accordance with Board policy, will review the material and forward a recommendation to the superintendent for appropriate action and notification to the complainant. A copy of the committee’s recommendation and justification will be forwarded to the complainant together with the superintendent’s written decision. The complainant may appeal the superintendent’s decision to the Board, whose decision will be final.

A complaint or concern regarding the identification, evaluation or placement of a student with disabilities or the accessibility of the district’s services, activities or programs to a student, should be directed to the special education director.

Building principals, the compliance officer and the superintendent have responsibility for investigations concerning harassment. All complaints and other reported incidents shall be investigated. The investigator shall be a neutral party having had no involvement in the complaint presented.

The Chester County Board of Education gives assurance that the local educational agency will administer each program covered by the Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504 HEW Form 641 application in accordance with all applicable statutes, regulations, program plans, and applications and that no student, employee, or other person will be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, sex, or handicapping condition. In attempting to solve our grievances, we will follow a formal grievance procedure.  The Chester County Board of Education will follow these basic steps when a grievance is lodged.

Step I. Building Level

Authority: Principal of Schools

When a student or any employee of a given school has a grievance, it should be reported to the principal and grievant will work together in trying to resolve all grievances.

Step II. Central Administrative

Authority: Superintendent

If the principal and grievant fail to resolve the grievance, it will be referred to the Superintendent.

Step III. Grievance Level

Authority: The Board of Education

If the grievance failed to be resolved as indicated in Step II, then the grievant is to appear before the Board of Education and state the grievance for their consideration and action.

Step IV. State Department Grievance Specialist

This is to be the final step in our grievance procedures. It is our intention to resolve grievances at least by the time it reaches Step III and acted upon by the Board of Education.

Answers to many questions and much helpful information may be obtained from

the State Department of Education by calling 1-888-212-3162 or visiting

http://www.state.tn.us/education/speced/index.htm.

Legal Services Division

Division of Special Education, Tennessee Department of Education

710 James Robertson Parkway

Andrew Johnson Tower, 5th Floor

Nashville, Tennessee 37243-0380

Phone: 615-741-2851

Fax: 615-253-5567 or 615-532-9412

West Tennessee Regional Resource Center

100 Berryhill Drive

Jackson, TN 38301

Phone: 731-421-5074

Fax: 731-421-5077

East Tennessee Regional Resource Center

2763 Island Home Blvd.

Knoxville, TN 37290

Phone: 865-594-5691

Fax: 865-594-8909

In addition to the state and local resources available to parents and children, there are many agencies and organizations that offer support, information, training, and help in advocating for persons with disabilities in Tennessee.

A few of these organizations are listed below:

The ARC of Tennessee is on the Internet at http://www.thearctn.org/

44 Vantage Way, Suite 550

Nashville, TN 37228

Phone: 615.248.5878 Toll-free: 1.800.835.7077

Fax: 615.248.5879 Email: pcooper@thearctn.org

Support and Training for Exceptional Parents (STEP) is on the Internet at

http://www.tnstep.org/

712 Professional Plaza

Greeneville, TN 37745

East Tennessee:

(423) 639-2464

karen.harrison@tnstep.org

West Tennessee:

(901) 756-4332

jenness.roth@tnstep.org

Middle Tennessee:

(615) 463-2310

information@tnstep.org

Tennessee Protection and Advocacy (TP&A) is on the Internet at

http://www.tpainc.org/

416 21st Avenue South

Nashville, Tennessee 37212

1-800-287-9636 (Toll free) or 615-298-1080

615-298-2471 (TTY) 615-298-2046 (FAX)

Tennessee Voices for Children is on the Internet at

http://www.tnvoices.org/main.htm

Middle Tennessee:

1315 8th Avenue South

Nashville, TN 37203

Telephone: 615-269-7751

Fax: 615-269-8914TN

Toll Free: 800-670-9882

E-mail: West Tennessee:

(Jackson Area)

Telephone: 731-660-6365

Fax: 731-660-6372

East Tennessee

(Knoxville Area)

Telephone: 865-609-2490

Fax: 865-609-2543

TVC@tnvoices.org

These are but a few of the organizations available to help with information, training, and advocacy. For a more extensive list visit the Tennessee Disability Services -- Disability Pathfinder Database:

http://mingus.kc.vanderbilt.edu/tdir/dbsearch.asp

On the web page, select your “county” and the “service” you desire from the drop-down lists and click “Submit.” This information is provided as a service to individuals seeking additional avenues for help and information. The Department of Education does not intend this as an endorsement or recommendation for any individual, organization, or service represented on this page.

A student shall not use body piercing to distract unreasonably the attention of other students, cause a safety hazard to themselves, or otherwise to cause disruption or interference with the operation of the school. The Principal or other duly authorized school official shall determine whether any particular mode of body piercing results in distracting unreasonably the attention of other students, causes a safety hazard to themselves or otherwise to cause disruption or interference with the operation of the school. Visible displays of body piercing are only acceptable in the ear. No  piercing of any other body part may be displayed. The student will be directed to remove these items during the school day or when representing the school in a school related function or event.

All gifts for students that are delivered during the school day must be sent to the school office unless otherwise notified by the  principal. If approved by the principal, a school representative will deliver the gift to the student. As not to interrupt the class instruction, the gifts will be delivered at the end of the school day.

All aspects of school-sponsored publications, including web pages, newspapers and/or yearbooks, are completely under the supervision of the teacher and the principal. Students may be required to submit such publications to the administration for approval. Written materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, petitions, films, tapes or other visual or auditory materials may not be sold, circulated or distributed on district property by a student or a non-student without the prior approval of the administration. If the material is not approved within 24 hours of the time that it was submitted, it must be considered disapproved. Disapprovals may be appealed by submitting the disapproved material to the superintendent; material not approved by the superintendent within three days is considered disapproved.

Materials that are part of the basic educational program are provided with state and local funds and are at no charge to a student. A student, however, is expected to provide his or her own pencils, paper, erasers, and notebooks and may be required to pay certain other fees or deposits, including:

• Costs for materials for a class project that the student will keep.

• Membership dues in voluntary clubs or student organizations and admission fees to extracurricular activities.

• Security deposits.

• Personal physical education and athletic equipment and apparel.

• Voluntarily purchased pictures, publications, class rings, yearbooks, graduation announcements, etc.

• Musical instrument rental and uniform maintenance, when the district provides uniforms.

• Personal apparel used in extracurricular activities that becomes the property of the student.

• Parking fees and student identification cards.

• Fees for lost, damaged, or overdue library books.

• Fees for driver training courses, if offered.

• Fees for optional courses offered for credit that requires use of facilities not available on district premises.

• Summer school courses that are offered tuition free during the regular school year.

• A reasonable fee for providing transportation to a student who lives within two miles of the schools.

Any required fee or deposit might be waived if the student and parent are unable to pay. Application for such a waiver may be made to the central office.

The school district participates in the National School Lunch and Commodity Programs and offers free and reduced-price meals based on a student’s financial need. Additional information can be obtained in the office. Students may bring their own lunches to school or purchase a lunch and other items, including milk. Each student is expected to practice the general rules of good manners.

Rules of courteous behavior are:

• observing good dining room standards;

• leaving the table and surrounding area clean and orderly;

• removing dirty dishes and putting trash in proper containers;

• not leaving the cafeteria while eating or carrying food;

• waiting your turn in line to purchase lunch.

Accidental spills of food or drink are going to occur. The student is to be responsible for the spill by notifying the cafeteria monitors about the accident and assist in clean up. Hot lunches will be served daily starting the first full day or school. Each student will receive a three or four digit code at the start of the school year to enter into keypad at cashier’s location to purchase lunch items each day. It is the responsibility of the student to remember the individual code and not to share the code with other students. Students are allowed to charge up to a certain dollar amount limit. The system will not allow charges to exceed this limit and if there is an outstanding balance at the end of a six weeks period, the student’s report card will be held until obligation is met.

Food and drinks are not allowed in any classroom except with prior permission from the principal with the exception of bottled water if the teacher specifically allows the practice in the specific classroom. The break period and lunch period allows for adequate time and locations to have snacks and drinks during the school day. No student will be permitted to bring drinks in containers during the school day. All drink containers must be discarded before entering the school building. All food items brought into the school by students are subject to search and food and/ or drink items brought by visitors and/ or parents must be reported to the office. A school representative will be assigned to distribute these items.

During the five minutes between class periods, students should move on the right side of the hall and go from one class to another in a reasonable, acceptable time. During that period of time between classes, students will move from class to class, deposit, and retrieve materials needed for specific classes. Courteous manners should be observed. Any behavior that is disruptive to the classes that are in session is not permitted.

Any student in the hallway after classes begin must have a hall pass. Teachers are responsible for issuing the hall passes. Students requesting permission from the teacher to leave during class time must sign out stating name, time, and reason for leaving and have a visible hall pass while in the hallway. Any student who violates this procedure may be assigned a disciplinary measure. Students are required to be in class when the late bell starts ringing. After this, they will be counted tardy. When a bell rings at the end of the class period, the teacher dismisses the students, not the bell.

Inappropriate display of affection will not be tolerated and will result in disciplinary action from teachers or administrators. All students are required to show proper respect for others as well as themselves. Students must maintain an acceptable social distance and behavior. Disciplinary actions may range from verbal warnings to Thursday school detention.

The school library is available to students during school hours. The library is a place for study and research. Students are expected to conduct themselves as if they were in class while in the library. Student must pay for lost or damaged books. There is a ten (10) cent per day late charge on overdue books.

Lockers and other district storage areas provided for student use remain under the jurisdiction of the district even when assigned to an individual student. The district reserves the right to inspect all lockers. Each student is assigned an individual locker and has full responsibility for the security of the locker. It is the student’s responsibility for making certain that the locker remains locked and that the combination is not available to others. Valuables should never be stored in the student’s locker. Lockers may be routinely inspected without prior notice to search for contraband, for maintenance or safety reasons and to reclaim district property including instructional materials.

Any articles found in the school or on district grounds should be turned in to the school office. Unclaimed articles will be disposed of at the end of each semester. Loss or suspected theft of personal or district property should be reported to the school office.

Media representatives may interview and photograph students involved in instructional programs and school activities, including athletic events, in accordance with Board policy. Information obtained directly from students does not require parental approval prior to publication. Parents who do not want their student interviewed or photographed should direct their student(s) accordingly.

A break time is provided for students between 2nd and 3rd periods. Soft drinks, snacks, etc. are available from the vending machines located in the quad area, west hall, south hall, and cafeteria. During this time students are permitted in the main hallways, restrooms, and cafeteria. After break no drinks or snacks are allowed in the classrooms without prior permission granted from the principal. A teacher may allow students to bring bottled water to class. The break is a privilege given to the student body and can be lost due to poor care of school building such as leaving spills and trash in hallways and/ or poor disciplinary conduct due to the additional time. It is the students’ responsibility to maintain the desired level of acceptable behavior to maintain the break time.

No sign, banner or poster shall be posted in the school or classroom by any student without prior approval of the teacher and/ or principal. Nothing should be taped or hung on the painted walls. The person or organization displaying the announcement or poster is responsible for its removal as well.

The restroom is not a meeting place; therefore, students should spend only the necessary time and depart. Students should keep the restrooms clean and free of any vandalism. If there are any repairs needed, the students may make those responsible for repair aware as soon as possible.

Students are responsible for knowing the content of daily announcements. Students who wish to have an item included in the daily announcements must have permission from the principal.

Generally, students receiving telephone calls during school hours are not called to the telephone. The office will take a message and forward it to the student. Only in emergency situations are students removed from class or another school activity to receive a telephone call. School office telephones are for school business only. Payphones are available for students’ use during the school day. A cost of $0.35 is required per phone call. Possession of cell phone or any type of electronic paging device is acceptable during the school day, but the devices must be “powered off” during the school day (7:30am-2: 55pm). No text messaging or other cell phone use by students is acceptable during the school day.

Under the Tennessee State Board of Education’s Unsafe School Choice Policy,  any public school student who is the victim of a violent crime as defined under Tennessee Code Annotated 40-38—111(g), or the attempt to commit one of these offenses as defined under Tennessee Code Annotated 39-12-101, shall  be provided an opportunity to transfer to another grade-level appropriate school within the district. Additional information regarding this option may be obtained by contacting John Pipkin, Director of Schools, or Linda Patterson, Federal Programs. Contact at 731-989-5134

The district makes school bus transportation available to all students living two or more miles from school. This service is provided at no cost to students. Bus routes and any subsequent changes are posted at the school. Further information may be obtained by calling (731) 989-8125. Students are expected to assist district staff in ensuring that buses remain in good condition and that transportation is provided safely. When riding school buses, students are held to behavioral standards established in this handbook and the Student Code of Behavior and Discipline. Students must: 

• Follow the driver's directions at all times. The driver has the authority to assign students to specific seats on the bus.

• Enter and leave the bus in an orderly manner at the designated bus stop nearest home.

• Keep feet, books, band instrument cases, and other objects out of the aisle.

• Not deface the bus or its equipment.

• Students must ride the bus assigned unless prior permission provided by the principal.

• Not put head, hands, arms, or legs out of the window, hold any object out of the window, or throw objects within or out of the bus.

• Bus drivers have authority during loading and unloading and over seating and conduct while transporting students.

• Wait for the driver's signal upon leaving the bus and before crossing in front of the bus.

Students who participate in school-sponsored trips are required to use transportation provided by the school to and from the event. The principal, however, may make an exception if the parent personally requests that the student be permitted to ride with the parent, or the parent presents--before the scheduled trip--a written request that the student be permitted to ride with an adult designated by the parent.

Vehicles parked on district property are under the jurisdiction of the district. Parking on school grounds is a privilege and not a right. Vehicles parked on school property by students and visitors are subject to search for drugs, drug paraphernalia or dangerous weapons. Students will park in assigned paid parking spaces. A yearly parking permit, which cost $10, must be purchased in the office. You must present your driver’s license at purchase. Students are not allowed to sit in cars at any time after arriving on campus and parking. All students must enter school once arrived on school’s campus whether driving or riding school bus. A pass is required to return to vehicles at any time before the regular dismissal time. Vehicles should be locked at all times. Students must drive in a safe and responsible manner or face disciplinary actions. Bicycles ridden to school by students must be parked in the designated area on school grounds and should be locked. Students must wear a helmet as required by law. The district assumes no responsibility or liability for loss or damage to vehicles or bicycles.

Family members and other stakeholders with Chester County High School are welcome and encouraged to visit the high school. For the safety of those within the school, all visitors are asked to report to the principal’s office. Guest passes shall be issued for all persons other than students and employees of the school. The visitor should notify the office staff when leaving the building. Visits to individual classrooms during instructional time are permitted with approval of the principal and teacher and so long as the duration or frequency does not interfere with the delivery of instruction or disrupt the normal school environment. Teachers are not  expected to take class time to discuss individual matters with visitors. Visitors attending school functions that are open to the public, such as parent-teacher  organization meetings or public gatherings are not required to register. Any unauthorized person on school property will be reported to the principal or his designee. Unauthorized persons will be asked to leave.

One of the most important lessons education should teach is discipline. While it does not appear as a subject, it underlines the whole educational structure. The training develops character, self-control, orderliness, and efficiency. It is the key to good conduct and proper consideration for other people. Effective discipline has a direct influence upon the freedom of the student body to engage in many rewarding and memorable school activities outside of the classroom. Chester County High School promotes a program that reinforces right behavior among the staff and students. The program is called, “Dare to Soar” and was established to recognize students and staff who go above and beyond the call to benefit others. The term, “Soar”, represents the acrostic, “serving  others, achieving respect.” For students to truly experience the best that our school has to offer, students are encouraged to make this motto their mindset each and every day. Our school and community support this program and offer incentives throughout the school year to show the support. With an understanding of the purposes of discipline in a school, students may form a correct attitude toward it, and not only do their part in making the school an effective place of learning, but develop the habit of self-restraint  which will make  them better, more productive citizens. All teachers have the responsibility and authority to promote effective  discipline at any time on school property and at any school-sponsored activity. Students who refuse to obey any teacher or who are disrespectful to any teacher will be disciplined appropriately. A comprehensive and specific outline of expected behaviors and disciplinary  measures are found in the Code of Behavior and Discipline. The following is an  overview of the rules addressed in the Code of Behavior and Discipline and the levels of disciplinary actions taken with each rule. Any student, who is suspected of violating a rule of the disciplinary code, may be  given a written referral of the violation by a school representative and referred to the principal. Students, as required by procedural due process, will be given the opportunity to address the charges raised against  them and present their side of the story. If the violation is proven, the student will be made aware of the disciplinary measures that will be assigned in writing and the parents/ guardians  will be notified by phone call or by letter. If necessary, appropriate law officials will also be notified.

ISS = In-School Suspension

0SS = Out-of-School Suspension

AS = Alternative School

DET = After/Before School Detention

JC = Juvenile Court

DHA = Disciplinary Hearing Authority

• Rule 1. UNEXCUSED ABSENCES. Students will not be allowed to make up work missed due to an unexcused absence.

3 days A warning letter will be sent home.

5 days The parents will be referred to the truancy board.

10 days The parents will be referred to juvenile court.

• Rule 2. TARDINESS AND EARLY CHECKOUTS.

*Tardiness to school or unexcused checkouts – during a 6-weeks period.

1 – 2 No penalty

3 Warning letter or call to parent

4 Loss of privileges

5 ISS – 1 day

6 ISS – 2 days and parent conference

7 + ISS – 3 days

*Tardiness to individual classes will be handled separately from tardiness to school. Discipline measures range from detention to OSS.

1st Offense ISS - 2 days

2nd Offense ISS - 3 days

Multiple ISS - 3 days and possible referral to the DHA

1ST Offense ISS – 1 day

2nd Offense ISS – 2 days

Multiple ISS – 2 days and possible referral to the DHA

• Rule 5. FALSE CALLS/NOTES OR FORGED STATEMENTS. Students who have someone misrepresent their parents in phone calls or forge notes from parents or medical personnel shall be in violation of this code.  The absence, tardy, or checkout shall be considered as unexcused.

1st Offense ISS – 2 days

2nd Offense ISS – 3 days

Multiple ISS – 3 days and possible referral to the DHA

• Rule 6. DRESS AND GROOMING – Students shall dress and groom in a clean, neat, and modest manner so as not to distract or interfere with the operation of the school. A list will be posted on the school website and be placed in the school handbook for distribution to all students. If attire is unclean, unsafe, or disruptive to the educational process, students will be subject to discipline procedures.

1st Offense – Warning and required to change clothes

2nd Offense – Required to change clothes and ISS for 1 day

3rd Offense – Parent conference, change clothes, and ISS for 2 days

It is the parents’ as well as the school’s responsibility to promote the highest level of student behavior in all areas, including proper dress. Students will avoid disruptive extremes and dress in good taste and in a manner that will do honor to the school and themselves. More specific guidelines appropriate for each level of school may be developed. Principals, faculty members, and students shall be involved in the development of each appropriate set of guidelines. The Chester County High School has developed a specific dress code policy revised July 2001.

• No articles of clothing may have written, stitched, or printed any logo, or comment that promotes or advertises alcohol, drugs, tobacco, suggestive sexual comments, vulgar/ obscene language, hate, racial defamatory remarks or symbols or any group which represents this violation.

• No article of clothing shall be worn with words, phrases, or slogans written, stitched, or printed that bring attention to modest parts of the student’s body. (i.e. words printed across the rear of pants)

• All shirts that conceal front and/ or back pockets must be tucked in shorts, skirts or pants.

• No articles of clothing representing gang membership or activity, by color or by design, are allowed. Tattoos, haircuts, symbols or designs/ drawings that symbolize gang membership are not allowed.

• All articles of clothing are to be fastened or buckled as intended. Including, but not limited to: overall straps, belts, shoes, shirts, pants, shorts, and skirts.

• No hats, caps, visors, hair combs/ picks, scarves or sunglasses can be worn in the school building.

• All clothing worn must be in good condition. No raveling or cut-off sleeves or pants allowed. All clothing items must be properly hemmed.

• Students are not allowed to wear large metal chains whether at neck, wrist, waist, or as a wallet chain.

• All clothing worn must completely cover all parts of the student’s undergarments.

• All shirts or blouses must completely cover the abdomen and back. All shirts or blouses worn to school must have a traditional collar or a banded collar and not be ill fitting. No tops worn by female students will be permitted that reveal cleavage. Prohibited tops include, but not limited to the following: spaghetti strap tops, cut-off tops, sheer/ see-through tops, midriff tops, back-less tops, strapless tops, deep v-neck tops.

• A school designee will make determination of an acceptable length for tops. The student in question will be required to raise arms to shoulder level. The top will be acceptable if no midriff is revealed during the check.

• Shorts, skirts, and dresses are to be no more than six (6) inches from knee when measured from a kneeling position.

• There are to be no visible tears or holes in pants, skirts, or shorts above six (6) inches from the knee.

• All pants, shorts, skirts must be worn at the waistline and properly fitting; no excessively loose or tight-fitting clothing permitted.

• Athletic shorts such as sweat shorts, nylon shorts, or jogging shorts are allowed only during PE classes or athletic practice times. Dress shorts with proper length are acceptable as appropriate school attire. Pajamas or sleepwear is not appropriate school attire.

• Students are not allowed to wear house slippers or bath slippers.

If there were a question about an item of clothing being a violation of the dress code policy, it would be appropriate to wear something that is known acceptable.

• Rule 7. MISBEHAVIOR ON BUS. Bus drivers may enact discipline measures (warnings, assignment of seating, etc.) before referring the student to the principal. Punishment for violations will vary according to severity. Bus issues referred to the principal will be handled according to the following schedule:

Failure to obey driver’s legitimate requests, not staying seated, talking too loud, etc.

1st Offense Warning

2nd Offense Bus suspension – 3 days

3rd Offense Bus suspension – 5 to 9 days

Multiple Increased loss of riding privileges

Fighting, threatening bodily harm, cursing angrily, lewd gestures, etc.

1st Offense Bus suspension 5 to 9 days,

ISS – 5 days, or

OSS – 3 days

2nd Offense Bus suspension – 10 to 20 days and

OSS – 5 days

Multiple Increased loss of riding privileges and/or refer

to AS

• Rule 8. TOBACCO OFFENSES. The use or possession of tobacco by students is prohibited on school grounds or while under school supervision. State law requires that violators be issued a citation to juvenile court.

1st Offense Citation and ISS – 2 days

2nd Offense Citation and ISS – 3 days

3rd Offense Citation and ISS – 3 to 5 days

• Rule 9. CHEATING. Cheating on tests or examinations will not be tolerated. No student shall cheat on any exam, project, or report.

1st Offense Zero grade for the assignment

2nd Offense Zero grade and ISS – 2 days

3rd Offense Zero grade and ISS – 3 days

1st Offense ISS – 2 days

2nd Offense ISS – 3 days

Multiple ISS – 3 days and possible referral to DHA

1st Offense Assessment of severity, warning, DET or ISS – 1 to 5 days

2nd Offense DET or ISS – 3 to 5 days

3rd Offense DET or ISS – 5 days and possible referral to DHA

• Rule 12. EXTORTION, HARRASSMENT, BULLYING. Extortion, harassment, or bullying will not be tolerated. Incidents will be investigated according to board policy. Punishments will vary according to the situation and may range from warnings to referral to AS or JC.

• Rule 13. PAGERS, CELLULAR PHONES, TWO-WAY RADIOS.

Students may bring pagers, cell phones, or two-way radios to school but must keep them turned off between 7:30 and 2:55 unless given specific permission by the principal. Confiscated cell phones will remain in the designated area until the period of time of the confiscation Parents or guardians will not be allowed to retrieve the cell phones prior to the end of the time of confiscation.

1st Offense Warning and confiscate phone for 3 days

2nd Offense Confiscate for 5 days and have parent pick up the phone

Multiple Confiscate for 10 days and have parent pick up the phone

Minor – Casual cursing and/or obscene gestures, racial slurs

1st Offense ISS – 2 days

2nd Offense ISS – 3 days

Multiple ISS – 5 days

Major – Extreme anger and uncontrollable behavior

1st Offense OSS – 3 days and possible referral to JC

2nd Offense OSS – 5 days and possible referral to JC

Multiple AS or expulsion

• Rule 15. RUDE AND DISRESPECTFUL BEHAVIOR. No student shall curse or intentionally argue in a demanding or disruptive manner with any school employee, or otherwise show disrespect for school personnel.

Arguing with school employee

1st Offense DET or ISS – 1 to 5 days

2nd Offense DET or ISS – 5 to 9 days

Multiple OSS – 1 to 5 days

Cursing a school employee

1st Offense OSS – 3 to 9 days

2nd Offense OSS – 10 days or refer to AS

• Rule 16. ASSAULT ON A SCHOOL EMPLOYEE. A student shall not threaten to harm or cause mental anguish to a school employee.

1st Offense OSS – 5 to 9 days or AS

2nd Offense AS or expulsion

• Rule 17. BATTERY ON A SCHOOL EMPLOYEE.

*Zero Tolerance

State regulations govern this violation. A student shall be expelled or remanded to AS for 180 school days. The superintendent may adjust this penalty as circumstances dictate.

• Rule 18. FIGHTING, ASSAULT, AND/OR BATTERY TO A PERSON.

A student shall not cause or threaten to cause bodily harm or mental anguish to any person, student, or guest, or personal property of another on the school grounds or while under school supervision.

1st Offense OSS – 3 days

2nd Offense OSS – 5 days

Multiple OSS – 5 to 9 days, AS, JC, or expulsion

1st Offense OSS – 5 days and possible remand to AS

2nd Offense Remand to AS or expulsion

*Self-Defense – The concept of self-defense shall be considered using

the following criteria:

1. Leading up to the conflict – no challenging behavior or words have been issued by the defending party.

2. During the conflict the self-defense was reasonable.

• Rule 19. DISRUPTION AND INTERFERENCE WITH SCHOOL. No student shall:

A. Block any entrance, occupy any school building, prevent any class or function from taking place, prevent any student, guest, or employee from using any facilities, or block any normal pedestrian or vehicular traffic or otherwise deprive others of free access to or use of any facility, program, or activity associated with Chester County Schools. The violation will be assessed and the penalty ranges from a warning to OSS.

B. Set fire to or in any school building or property.

The violation will be referred to juvenile authorities and the punishment will range from AS to expulsion.

C. Serious traffic violations on campus, driving in such a manner as to endanger life or limb of person using school facilities, driveways, or parking areas.

D. Cause false fire alarm.

1st Offense OSS – 1 to 3 days

2nd Offense OSS – 3 to 5 days

Multiple AS, JC, or expulsion

E. Bomb Threat.

Students delivering a bomb threat will be placed in AS or expelled along with a referral to JC.

• Rule 20. SEXUAL MISCONDUCT OR OFFENSE. No student shall be guilty of molesting another student, indecent exposure, rape, or any other overt heterosexual or homosexual act on school property, during school functions, or under school supervision. Any incident will be investigated according to board policy.

A. Intentional inappropriate touching of another student or sexual harassment – Violations will result in penalties ranging from warnings to AS.

B. Indecent exposure OSS – 3 to 9 days

C. Rape or any other overt heterosexual or homosexual act –

D. Aggravated acts will be referred to JC and result in AS or expulsion.

A student shall not possess, sell, use, transmit, or be under the influence of any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, or any drug requiring a prescription controlled by the Tennessee State Board of Pharmacy. (See Board Policy) State regulations govern this violation. A student shall be expelled or remanded to AS for 180 school days and referred to JC. The superintendent may adjust this penalty as circumstances dictate.

• Rule 22. DAMAGE OR DESTRUCTION OF SCHOOL PROPERTY. A student shall not cause damage to school property or steal or attempt to steal school property to include lunch items, library books, reference materials, or any other school property. Violations may require restitution and penalties ranging from ISS to expulsion.

A. Firearms or explosive devices are Zero Tolerance offenses.

State regulations govern this violation. A student shall be expelled or remanded to AS for 180 school days and referred to JC. The  superintendent may adjust this penalty as circumstances dictate.

B. Other weapons described above – Penalties may range from OSS to expulsion.

• Rule 26. GANG-RELATED BEHAVIORS. Any type of gang-relatedbehavior, dress, conduct, mannerisms, paraphernalia, and symbols will not be tolerated. Penalties may range from warnings to expulsion.

• Rule 27. MULTIPLE OR ACCUMULATED OFFENSES. Multiple infractions of the same rule or accumulated infractions of different rules will not be tolerated. The principal will evaluate these situations and recommend a placement in AS or expulsion.

• Rule 28. TRAFFIC OR PARKING VIOLATIONS. Student drivers shall be instructed as to the rules pertaining to driving and parking on campus. Students shall not return to their vehicle during the school day without permission from the administration. Students should observe all safety regulations while driving on campus. The campus speed limit is 15 MPH.

1st Offense -- Warning

2nd Offense – 1 hour Thursday School

3rd Offense – 2 hour Thursday School

Multiple -- Lose driving privileges

1st Offense – 1 hour Thursday School

2nd Offense – 2 hour Thursday School

3rd Offense – ISS – 3 days

Multiple -- Loss of driving privileges

Students who violate the Discipline Code and school rules may be assigned to the alternative school for a definite period of time. Recommendations for students to be assigned to alternative school are made by the administration to the Disciplinary Hearing Authority for approval or denial.

Detention is a punishment for tardies, gum chewing, and other school discipline. Students and parents/guardians will be notified in advance to allow them to arrange for the students to attend. Students assigned to detention will be expected to attend or be subject to other disciplinary actions including suspension. Being late to detention is the same as missing the detention. If a student has detention and does not attend, then the student will be assigned to a longer detention session  or in-school suspension. If a student is expelled from detention for inappropriate behavior, the student will be suspended out of school. The only excuses for missing detention are illness of the student and death in the immediate family. Any other reason for absence must be approved by the Principal or Assistant Principal. Student illness will require a doctor statement to excuse the absence.

Students suspended from school shall not be allowed to receive a grade for makeup work in any class missed. The only exception with out-of-school suspension is students can make-up mid-term and final exams. Students suspended from school will not be allowed to attend or participate in any school activity during the suspension. Students may be assigned in-school suspension for disciplinary reasons. They may make up missed work without penalty; however, they will be isolated from the student body during the entire suspension. Students assigned in-school suspension may attend or participate in school activities during this type of suspension. Students suspended from riding the bus have the privilege of attending school. In such cases parents have the responsibility by law to transport their children to school or arrange for transportation. Absence from school in such cases will be treated as any other absence.

State law requires a mandatory disciplinary measure of expulsion of one (1) calendar year from the student’s current educational setting for the following:

1. Possession of a firearm on school property or at any school-sponsored function.

2. Battery on an employee of the school system.

3. Possession of a drug including any controlled substance or legend drug. The term “fi rearm” represents any weapon that includes any explosive or incendiary device or anything capable of expelling a projectile by the action of an explosion. “Battery” would be any unlawful beating or other wrongful physical violence inflicted on a human being without consent. Drugs identified in the Zero Tolerance Policy as controlled substances and/or legend drugs include but are not limited to: amphetamine/ methamphetamine, marijuana, cocaine, heroin, or illegally-used prescription.