Amos P. Godby High School 2015-2016

Agenda and Student Handbook

1717 West Tharpe Street Tallahassee, FL 32303

Main Office 850.617.4700 * Main Office Fax 850.922.4162 Attendance 850.617.4727 * Attendance Fax 850.617.4760 Guidance 850.617.4700 * Guidance Fax 850.617.4765

Website: www.godby.leon.k12.fl.us

Shelly L. Bell, Principal

Jenny Blair, Assistant Principal for Curriculum

Kelvin Norton, Assistant Principal for Discipline

Marcus Scott, Assistant Principal for Attendance

It is our mission to produce graduates who have the academic and technological skills necessary to think analytically and communicate clearly so they can be productive members

of our global community.

General Information

Contact Information

Front Office: (850) 617-4700 Fax Number: (850) 922-4162 Guidance Office: (850) 617-4741 Fax Number: (850) 617-4765 School Web Address: http://www.godby.leon.k12.fl.us/ District Web Address: http://www.leon.k12.fl.us/

School Day

Godby’s day is from 7:30 A.M. - 1:50 P.M. Supervision is provided from 6:45 A.M. – 2:20 P.M. On Early Release days, students will be released at 11:20 A.M.

Principal Welcome

I know you join me in looking forward to the 2015-2016 school year with anticipation and excitement. Whether you are a new or returning Amos P. Godby High School student, I want you to know you have entered a unique learning environment where your individual talents and skills are valued and will be integrated into the fabric of our school. Make this year one of your most successful—work hard on your academics, develop an understanding of the requirements and responsibilities of your post-secondary goals, experience many of the activities Amos P. Godby has to offer and meet new, life-long friends. Go Cougars!

Leon County Schools Vision Leon County Schools will be an engaging, safe and respectful learning environment that embraces change and produces high academic achievers who appreciate diversity and become conscientious contributors to our society.

Superintendent Jackie Pons

Leon County School Board Dee Crumpler Maggie Lewis-Butler

Dee Dee Rasmussen Alva Striplin Georgia M. “Joy” Bowen

Bell Schedules Regular School Bell Schedule 1st period: 7:30-8:26 2nd period: 8:31-9:24 3rd period: 9:29-10:22 4th period: 10:27-11:20 LUNCH 11:20-11:54 5th period: 11:59-12:52 6th period: 12:57-1:50

Pep Rally Schedule 1st Period 7:30 – 8:12 2nd Period 8:16 – 9:02 3rd Period 9:05 – 9:52 4th Period 9:55 – 10:42 5th Period 10:45 – 11:32 LUNCH 11:32 – 12:12 6th Period 12:15 – 1:02 Event Period 1:00 – 1:50

Alma Mater Beneath the sky stands Godby High And we proudly proclaim your name We enter to learn, go forth to serve

From the home of the blue and white Those both weak and strong will pass here

Touching lives as they go by And the marks of things well done here

Will be carved for all to eye We swell with pride, for deep inside

We are sure of success for you We sing of your name so all will know

Of the home of the white and blue

School Colors:

Royal Blue & White

School Mascot:

Cougar

SCHEDULE

Career Focus: _______________________________________________________________ Post-secondary Goal: _________________________________________________________ Parent Portal Log In: __________________________________________________________

1st Semester

Course/Room/Teacher 1st

2nd

3rd 4th

5th 6th

Guidance Counselor Name

2nd Semester

Course/Room/Teacher 1st

2nd

3rd 4th

5th 6th

Guidance Counselor Name

Amos P. Godby Student Handbook The Principal retains the right to amend any provision of the following information in the best interest of the school.

Academic Integrity It is considered cheating when a student:

plagiarizes from a published or recognized work

copies another student’s work and takes credit for it as his or her own

receives help on a project, exam, test, quiz or any other evaluative activity, where such help has not been explicitly approved.

Consequences: (subject to change based on severity of incident and prior student behavior) 1st offense - zero on assignment and parent contacted: policy explained 2nd offense - same as first with the addition of a referral for 1-day work detail 3rd offense - zero on assignment PLUS referral for 2-days work detail

Academic Letters Students who are on the Honor Roll for the first three nine-week grading periods and maintain a 3.5 GPA each nine-weeks and have no D’s or F’s each nine-weeks will be recognized at the end of the year award assembly with an academic letter or bar.

Assembly and Pep Rally Code of Conduct Students will attend all designated assemblies and Pep Rallies. Students will enter and exit assembly venue in a calm and orderly manner. Students will not take any action which interferes with the progress of the assembly or Pep Rally. Students will demonstrate appropriate behavior.

Bus Changes For safety and security, students who wish to ride a different school bus home than their assigned bus must submit a written request to the Office of Student Services before/during lunch for verification with the parent or guardian. If this request is not submitted or if contact with the parent or guardian is not made, the student will be unable to change their usual bus assignment.

Card Playing Card playing is forbidden at any time while on campus.

Cell Phones, Electronic Toys, Games, Audio or Video Players and/or Personal Digital Assistants According to district policy 7.08, display or use of these items is potentially disruptive and are restricted to before or after school and during lunch. Refusal to turn over any of these devices to a teacher or administrator is considered a serious disciplinary offense and may result in an out of school suspension. The school is NOT responsible for lost or stolen cell phones or other electronic devices. If students bring these items to school, they should be off and kept in a secure place during the school day. It is the owner’s responsibility to carry insurance to protect from loss or theft. Cell phones are NOT ALLOWED into any test site. Possession alone will invalidate the student’s test.

Class Rank Senior class rank is determined on the weighted GPA calculated after seven (7) semesters (1st semester of your senior year).

Clinic Procedures The Clinic is located in the Main Office beside the Attendance Office. Except in cases of emergency, students in need of first aid or other medical assistance must have their agenda book signed by a teacher in order to visit the clinic. A parent will be notified if it is necessary for the student to leave campus. The clinic bathrooms can only be used by students requiring clinic services. For information concerning taking medication at school, refer to the section titled “Medication.”

Deliveries Classes will NOT be interrupted for messages or deliveries (except in verified emergencies). Balloons and flowers celebrating birthdays or other special events are not the responsibility of the school and will not be delivered to students. Students will not be able to carry balloons, stuffed animals, large flower arrangements, etc. from class to class. These items will be held in the Attendance Office until the end of the school day.

Discipline Amos P. Godby High School follows the Leon County Schools’ Student Code of Conduct. A copy of this booklet is distributed to all students at the beginning of the year. The administration, faculty and staff wish to establish a safe, comfortable learning atmosphere, which will ensure that each student can learn and grow as an individual. Each student is expected to treat other individuals with respect and use patience and understanding in frustrating situations.

The goal of Godby High School is to provide a safe environment where all students can learn. This discipline plan may be revised during the school year. The disciplinary action taken by the administration may deviate from this plan when appropriate. This discipline plan will be followed for all school and school sponsored activities. Please note Godby adheres to a policy of Progressive Discipline in which the consequences escalate as the behavior or frequency of the behavior escalates. The offenses listed are not all inclusive and a student committing an act of misconduct not listed will, nevertheless, be subject to the discretionary authority of the principal.

Any student assigned In-School Detention (ISD) or Out-of- School Suspension for 1 day or more may NOT participate in ANY school activity nor attend any school activity that occurs outside the regular classroom during the period of the assigned In-School or Out-of-School Suspension.

This includes but is not limited to athletic practices and/or games, trips, clubs, dances etc.

Students assigned OSS may NOT enter ANY Leon County School property during the period of suspension.

IN SCHOOL DETENTION (ISD will be assigned on an individual student basis by school administration ONLY) For minor disciplinary problems the administration or designee may assign a student to ISD for all day or part of a day. Students will be assigned to a special classroom to complete work assignments. Parent notification will be attempted and the student permitted to continue academic progress while serving detention. It will be up to the student to complete all assignments and return them to the appropriate teachers. The consequence for not cooperating in ISD or work detail is OSS (Out of School Suspension).

OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION (OSS) For disciplinary problems the administration or designee may assign a student to OSS for between one (1) and ten days (10) in accordance with the school disciplinary plan. Students will be allowed to complete the work missed during their suspension. It is the parent’s responsibility to arrange for pick up and drop off of work. PLEASE NOTE: It is expected that if a student is suspended during the day, a parent/guardian must pick the child up in a timely manner.

Parent contact will be attempted for all referrals from administration. Teachers will keep documentation of classroom interventions and anecdotal records and make parent contact prior to writing a referral. Administrator/student conference will be held for each documented referral.

WORK DETAIL Students may be assigned work detail for minor disciplinary problems. Work detail can include: picking up trash, cleaning windows, scraping gum off of the sidewalk and other tasks as assigned. Students will be given the proper equipment to perform work detail oriented.

Students charged with an off-campus felony may be subject to a 10 out-of-school suspension and recommended for expulsion.

Class I Offenses Group A Class l Consequence 1.1 Cheating/Plagiarism 1. 1 day detention (ISD or work detail)I. 1.2 Class, lunchroom or assembly disruption 2. 3 days detention (ISD or work detail) 1.3 Dress code violation 3. 1-2 day OSS 1.4 Mobile Phone Policy Violation (all electronic devices)* 4. 2-3 days OSS 1.5 False information 1.6 Gambling 1.7 Gum and inappropriate items *Refusal to give up electronic device will result in suspension. 1.8 Horseplay 1.9 Illegal organization 1.10 Inappropriate display of affection 1.11 Loitering 1.12 Tardiness 1.13 Entering building without permission

Class I Offenses Group B Class l Consequence 1.14 Skipping class or homeroom 1. Unexcused Absence and Zero for Assignments 1.15 Not serving detention 2. 2 days work detail 1.16 Defiance 3. 1-2 days OSS 1.17 Parking violation 4. 1 day OSS 1.18 Possession of a lighter/matches 5. 3-5 day OSS

Class ll Group A Offenses Class II Group A Consequence 2.1 Disrespect or disobedience which results 1. 2-3 days work detail in class/school disruption 2. 1-2 days OSS 2.2 Profanity/obscenity 3. 2-3 day OSS 2.3 Public display of affection 4. 3-5 day OSS 2.4 Vandalism (Minor)

Class II Group B Offenses Class II Group B Consequence 2.5 Instigating or escalating conflicts by spreading 1. 1-2 day OSS rumors, false statements, accusations, threats, 2. 3-5 days OSS racial slurs, name calling, etc. 3. 5-10 days OSS 2.6 Dangerous play/including slap boxing 4. 5- 10 days OSS and/or recommendation of expulsion 2.7 Possession of fireworks 2.8 Misuse of Internet 2.9 Threats, harassment, or intimidation of another student 2.10 Group incidents which disrupts the learning environment or educational process 2.11 Leaving school grounds without school authorization

2.12 Use, possession or control of tobacco products and/or under the influence as determined by the school 2.13 Offensive and/or inappropriate touching of another person 2.14 Stealing or possession of stolen merchandise

Class II Group C Offenses Class II Group C Consequence 2.15 Destruction of school property / vandalism (Possible referral to School Resource Deputy) 2.16 Directing obscene or profane language/gestures to 1. 3 -10 days OSS (discretion of administration) a school board employee 2. 5 -10 days OSS and/or recommendation of expulsion (discretion of 2.17 Fighting/physical altercation/physical aggression administration) 2.18 Igniting fireworks *Fighting is an automatic 10 days OSS with possibility of rescinding 2.19 Petty theft 2.20 Simple assault on a school board employee 2.21 Threats, harassment or intimidation of a school board employee 1 or more days for completion of counseling program 2.22 Unprovoked hitting of another student 2.23 Creating a hostile environment that includes harassing physical, verbal, sexual, graphic or written conduct that is sufficiently severe,

pervasive or persistent as to interfere with an individual's ability to participate in or benefit from school activities. This includes all forms of sexual, racial, national origin, disability or other forms of discrimination or harassment prohibited by School Board policies.

Class III Offenses Class III Consequence 3.1 Aggravated behavior Zero Tolerance 3.2 Arson Referral to School Resource Deputy AND 3.3 Battery Recommendation of expulsion 3.4 Bomb threats 3.5 Burglary of school board property 3.6 Criminal mischief 3.7 Discharging of a pistol 3.8 Inciting major student disorders 3.9 Making false accusations that jeopardize the professional reputation, employment or professional certification of a teacher or any Leon County School District employee.3.10 Possession of any weapons 3.11 Possession of firearms including look alike firearms 3.12 Possession of or setting off explosives 3.13 Possession, sale, or use of illegal drugs including alcohol 3.14 Robbery

3.15 Serious Threat 3.16 Sexual acts 3.17 Strong armed robbery 3.18 Unjustified activation of a fire alarm system

Dress Code

The United States Supreme Court has ruled that though students retain the right of freedom of expression, schools may establish dress codes to protect the learning environment. We expect students to dress appropriately for school.

Students MAY NOT wear clothing that is sexually suggestive or that features crude or vulgar messages, depicts drugs, tobacco, alcoholic beverages, racial/ethnic clubs or gang affiliation in words, pictures or colors.

Head coverings WILL NOT be permitted on campus unless deemed appropriate/necessary by school administration. This includes, but not limited to: caps, hats, hoods, scarves, bandanas, or bonnets.

If wearing pants, slacks or jeans, they are to be worn at waist level with a belt, if necessary, with no undergarments or shorts visible while standing or sitting. When wearing pants with cuts/holes, no skin should be visible above mid-thigh as defined by school administration.

If wearing shorts, skirts or dresses, they are to reach at least mid-thigh (as defined by school administration) when standing. They should be worn at waist level with a belt, if necessary, with no undergarments visible.

Shirts must cover the chest, back and shoulders (no spaghetti straps) and MAY NOT expose the midriff, cleavage, or show excessive armpit area. All undergarments such as bra straps should be covered.

Shoes must be worn at all times. Slippers are not acceptable shoes.

Students MAY NOT wear see-through clothing, spandex-type clothing such as tights, or any other garments that are too tight and form fitting. Students also MAY NOT attach chains to their clothing.

Pajamas are not acceptable clothing for school.

Students are not allowed to bring blankets to school.

Dress code violations may be covered up by other garments over the inappropriate item of clothing. However, if a student is found in violation of the dress code policy, after being asked to “cover-up”, student WILL BE considered to be in violation of dress code policy and subject to consequences.

Drug-Free School Zone The use/or possession of illicit drugs or drug paraphernalia is illegal and harmful. Any student caught with or assumed under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be suspended and asked to take an off-campus drug test and/or enroll in a substance abuse treatment program.

Exam Exemptions All students must take WRITTEN or PERFORMANCE-BASED semester exams in each of the following core subject areas: English, math, science,

social studies and foreign language. A student who has earned an “A” grade point average in both nine-week grading periods in an year-long (1.0) elective course may exempt the exam in that course with teacher and parent permission if they meet the following conditions:

Has earned A’s in both nine weeks grading periods

Has not had an out-of-school suspension or an in-school suspension

Has not transferred in or out of the district or within the Leon County School system during the semester.

Field Trips Students may be permitted to participate on field trips if their attendance, grades and behavior are in good standing. Forms will be provided to students for making this determination prior to being allowed to participate on a trip. Additionally, they must be free of any financial obligation to the school in order to participate.

Grade Level Classification To be classified as a FRESHMAN as student must be assigned to the ninth grade by his/her middle school principal. To be classified as a SOPHOMORE a student must have earned 5 credits and earned a 1.0 cumulative unweighted GPA. To be classified as a JUNIOR a student must have 10 credits and earned a 1.5 cumulative unweighted GPA. To be classified as a SENIOR a student must have earned 17 credits and earned a 2.0 cumulative unweighted GPA.

Grade Point Average (GPA) Your GPA is calculated by giving a point value to the letter grade earned: A = 4, B = 3, C = 2, D = 1 and F = 0. To get the unweighted average, simply add the points and divide by the number of grades used. To get the weighted average, use the same formula as before BUT add an extra .5 point for any honors level class where you earned a “C” or better and an extra 1 point for Advanced Placement and dual enrollment courses where you earned a “C” or better.

Grading Policy Each teacher determines his or her own grading policy. Students will receive a copy of each teacher’s grading policy which is included in the course syllabus.

Grading Scale: The Leon County Schools standard grading scale is: A = 100-90 B = 89-80 C = 79-70 D = 69-60 F = Below 60 Course credit is awarded on a semester basis except for courses that require an end of course exam (EOC). Credit for these courses are awarded on an annual basis. A semester consists of two nine-weeks grading periods. The semester grade for each course is determined by totaling the points earned in each of the two nine-weeks grading periods and adding the points from the term exam using the following point system. GRADE NINE-WEEKS EXAM POINT SCALE “A” 8 points 4 points 18 - 20 points “B” 6 points 3 points 13 - 17 points “C” 4 points 2 points 8 - 12 points “D” 2 points 1 point 3 - 7 points “F” 0 points 0 points 0 - 2 point

This chart shows ALL possible combinations and the FINAL semester grade results for a .5 credit:

1st 9 weeks grade 2nd 9 weeks grade

A A

A B

A C

A D

A F

B A

B B

B C

B D

B F

C A

C B

C C

Exam Grade A B C D F

A A A B B

A B B B B

B B B B C

B B C C C

C C C C F

A B B B B

B B B B C

B B C C C

C C C C C

C C C D F

B B B B C

B B C C C

C C C C C

1st 9 weeks grade 2nd 9 weeks grade

C D

C F

D A

D B

D C

D D

D F

F A

F B

F C

F D

F F

Exam Grade A B C D F

C C C D D

C D D D F

B B C C C

C C C C C

C C C D D

C D D D D

D D D D F

C C C C C

C C C D D

C D D D D

D D D D F

D D F F F

NOTE: An “F” in the 2nd 9-weeks and an “F” on the exam will result in an “F” and no credit for the course.

Graduation Recognitions We will recognize at graduation: a Valedictorian (highest GPA after seven semesters), a Salutatorian (second highest GPA), Summa Cum Laude (4.4 and higher), Magna Cum Laude (4.25 - 4.399), Cum Laude (4.0 - 4.249) and Honors Scholar (3.5 - 3.999). Weighted GPAs are used for these recognitions. The top 10 graduates are identified after the 7th semester. Additionally, the school will award honor cords for NHS, NAHS, NSHS, Academy of Finance and Academy of Information Technology as determined by the club/ department advisor.

Graduation Requirements for Ceremony Participation Participation in the graduation ceremony is a privilege, not a right. Senior students must meet the requirements of their selected diploma

option. In order to participate in graduation activities seniors are required to meet all statutory, school board and school requirements and participate in the mandatory graduation rehearsal.

Guidance The counselors are available to help plan an individual course of study, to help resolve conflicts or personal problems and to explore career opportunities and choices. Students may make appointments to visit their counselor by stopping by the Guidance Office before or after school or during lunch. Parents may arrange a conference by calling 617-4700.

Hall Passes This agenda book serves as your hall pass when signed by a teacher (see back pages). Students are responsible for carrying the agenda book with them at all times. Verbal permission is not acceptable. You can only use the agenda book assigned to you and it must be the complete book. If you lose your agenda book, additional agenda books may be purchased in the Guidance Office for $5.00. Hall pass infractions will be given if you are caught in the halls without the proper permission and may result in a referral.

Honor Roll Criteria For High Honor Roll designation a student must have a nine weeks unweighted GPA of 3.6 or better and no “C”, “D” or “F” grades. For Honor Roll designation a student must have a 3.0 unweighted GPA or better and no “D” or “F” grades.

Internet Usage The use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in a cancellation of those privileges. Each individual who receives an electronic account must have a signed Internet Permission/Agreement form on file. These forms are available in the Media Center. The use of your electronic account must be in support of education and research and be consistent with the educational goals and policies of the Leon County School District.

Leaving Campus Once students arrive on campus, they must remain on campus until the end of the school day. Students may leave campus only with permission from a school administrator and a parent or guardian (also refer to “Checkout Procedures”).

Lockers Lockers are available for student use, but are the property of the school. Lockers may be searched by school personnel with “reasonable suspicion”. The school assumes no responsibility for articles lost or stolen from lockers. Lockers will be assigned through the student’s English class. Lockers are to be cleaned out at the end of the school year or if a student withdraws or transfers to a different school.

Lost & Found All articles which are found should be taken to the Attendance Office. Students looking for lost articles should check with the Attendance Office. Articles left unclaimed at the end of each semester that are salvageable will be donated to a charity or similar organization.

Lunch There is one lunch period after fourth period. Students without off-campus privileges are restricted to the Cafeteria and courtyard during lunch. Buildings should not be entered during lunch unless a student obtains a teacher’s permission. Special activities may be conducted during lunch with administration’s approval.

Media Center The Media Center provides a number of services in addition to checking out books. Special reference materials are available and the computerized catalog system links Godby to libraries throughout the state. Students will have the opportunity to utilize the computer lab located in the Media Center. Students may also use the copy machine and computers that are located in the Media Center. Ninth grade students will receive a Media Center orientation.

Medication Students are not permitted to carry any prescribed or over-the-counter medications. All medications must be kept in the Clinic and distributed by a school board employee. Parents must complete a medication form (obtained from the Attendance Office) before medications can be stored or distributed. In special cases where a doctor requires a student to carry medication on their person, an additional form must be completed.

Parking Lot Students should only be in the parking lot when arriving or leaving school. “Hanging out” in the parking lot before school, during school, during lunch, or after school is NOT permitted.

Parking Permits It is a privilege, not a right, for students to drive and park on campus. The campus parking facilities are the property of the Leon County School Board (LCSB). All users are subject to the authority of the LCSB and the individual school principal or designee. The Leon County Sheriff’s Department has law enforcement jurisdiction over the parking facilities. Students must have a valid permit to park on campus. Parking permits may be suspended or revoked for vehicle-related misconduct. Applications for parking spaces will be located in the front office at the start of the school year. NOTE: ILLEGALLY parked vehicles will have an immobilizing boot placed on the driver’s side front wheel. The immobilizing boot will be removed from the vehicle at the owner’s expense. Boot removal fee is $20. This fee can be paid in the Student Services Office.

Parent Portal Students and parents can view progress in courses through Leon County Schools Parent Portal. Access to the portal can be obtained through

our web page. Students and parents will be provided with log on and password information. Parents are encouraged to view the parent portal information before scheduling a parent conference through Guidance.

Progress Reports All students will receive an interim (progress) report during the 4th week of each nine-weeks grading period. A copy is also kept on file in the Guidance Office. It is the student’s responsibility to give the progress report to his or her parents or guardian.

Parent Teacher Conference Parents may request a parent teacher conference through the guidance office. By contract, teachers are entitled to 24 hours’ notice prior to meeting with a parent.

Report Cards Report cards are distributed on a county-wide schedule after every nine-week in homeroom. The final report card in June will be mailed home. Please contact your guidance counselor for questions or concerns on your report card.

Attendance Codes: If the student fails because of excessive unexcused absences, then one of the following numeric codes will be listed in the comment column. The second number correlates to the grade the student earned in the class before the attendance failure (54 = A, 53 = B, 52 = C, 51 = D). Other Comment Codes: All other numeric comment codes are explained at the bottom of the report card.

Scheduling Students have the opportunity to select their courses with teacher and parent approval in the spring through the Course Selection Contract process. This is followed by a period of one-on-one advising by a guidance counselor or administrator to verify course selections and make changes based on college-readiness goals and scholarship eligibility. Parents may override the school’s placement decision only to move their child to a more challenging course, and in doing so, they must first meet with the course instructor and document the change in writing. A student moved because of a Parent Override will not be moved back to the original placement.

Schedule Changes Students are given a chance to choose the required and elective classes they desire in the spring with the help of their teachers and guidance counselors. In order for a student to request a schedule change, (s)he must first have completed a Course Selection Contract on file in the guidance office. The schedule change request window occurs during the first week of each semester.

Requests for changes will ONLY be honored for the following reasons:

1. the student has already received credit for the class 2. the student is a senior needing a certain credit to graduate 3. a teacher, counselor or administrator recommends a change 4. the principal makes a determination based on other valid reasons

Scholarship Information Scholarship information is available in the Guidance Office. Students and parents are encouraged to use the computer center to gather information on the Florida Bright Futures Program as well as other scholarships. For more information, see your guidance counselor. Students and parents are encouraged to visit the state’s website for scholarship information www.flvc.org

School Grounds Students are expected to respect school grounds by using the appropriate benches and walkways and placing their trash in the provided trash receptacles. Students should refrain from sitting or standing on fences, the front wall, signs, concrete figures and planters.

Scroll Announcements, reminders and recognitions are run each day on the scroll which is the school’s internal television channel. These informational items are to be reviewed every day. The scroll is broadcast in the front offices, Media Center, classes and on our web page. It is the student’s responsibility to monitor the Scroll for deadlines and upcoming events.

Search & Seizure Lockers, vehicles and individuals are subject to being searched without a warrant when the principal and/or her designee has REASONABLE SUSPICION to believe that there is a threat to the safety, health or welfare of any person, or the educational process. The use of metal detectors shall be permitted.

Senior Board The Senior Board represents the senior class and helps coordinate/organize activities for the senior class. Membership is on a voluntary basis. Students do need a 2.5 weighted GPA, good attendance and good conduct to participate.

Senior Fees This fee pays for your cap, gown, tassel, hood, diploma, diploma cover and other graduation-related expenses. A fee schedule is distributed at the beginning of the school year.

Senior Trip This annual event is an optional school-sponsored activity for graduating seniors. It is a field trip. The exact cost of the trip will be announced at the beginning of the school year and will be listed on the senior fee information sheet. Senior students who have obligations will not be able to attend until their school obligations have been paid.

Student Activities A list of student activities is maintained on the school’s website. Please refer to this list and become involved!

Student Obligations Monies owed to the school for lost instructional materials, uniforms, fees and other student obligations must be paid at the beginning of the school year. Students can check their obligation status 24/7 at http://www2.godby.leon.k12.fl.us/obligations/default.aspx.

Student Recognitions Students are recognized throughout the year in many ways. Some examples are: Highest academic seniors are recognized at graduation and in an honor ad in the Tallahassee Democrat; End of year award ceremonies celebrate student academic success; semester medallion ceremonies recognize students for good citizenship and effort; Honor Roll students are treated to a barbeque in the spring; Student of the Month recognizes senior students through a teacher recommendation process; athletic teams recognize achievers at banquets; Best and Brightest senior students are selected through an application process.

Surveillance Cameras Video cameras are located throughout the school to ensure the safety of the students. These cameras record twenty-four hours a day.

Teachers’ Authority Teachers and other instructional personnel shall have the authority to undertake any of the following actions in managing student behavior thereby ensuring the safety of all students:

Establish classroom rules of conduct and implement consequences designed to change behavior for infractions of classroom rules.

Have disobedient, disrespectful, violent, abusive, uncontrollable, or disruptive students temporarily removed from the classroom for behavior management intervention.

Assist in enforcing school rules on school property, on school-sponsored transportation, and during school-sponsored activities.

Press charges if a crime has been committed against the teacher or other instructional personnel on school property, on school-sponsored transportation, or during school-sponsored activities.

Use reasonable force, according to standards recommended by the Education Standards Commission and the Education Practices Commission and adopted by the State Board of Education, to protect himself/herself or others from injury.

Textbook Policy Students are provided with textbooks for most of their courses. If a student loses a book, they are responsible for paying for the replacement at the purchase price. A record is kept of all student textbook obligations.

Transcripts When applying to colleges, universities, or seeking employment, a copy of your transcript (record of your semester grades and credit) is usually required. Requests for transcripts should be made to the Registrar who is located in the front office. Requests should be made at least 24 hours in advance. There will be no charge for transcripts sent to colleges; however, there will be a charge for personal copies.

Trespassing Students are not to visit any other school campuses unless approved by the principal or designee. Students may be charged with a trespass warning or violation from the Sheriff’s office if they unofficially visit another school campus.

Visitors on Campus All visitors are required to sign in at the front office and have their driver’s license scanned by the Raptor system. Each visitor is required to wear a visitor’s pass while on campus. Prior students are NOT allowed to visit teachers during the school day. Exceptions to these procedures must be approved by the principal or designee.

Withdrawal/Readmission Procedures A form for withdrawing from school is available from the Registrar in the Guidance Office. Only a parent with legal custody may initiate the process. The form is to be signed by all the student’s current teachers, and other areas verifying no outstanding obligations. The Attendance Office will verify that no other obligations exist. The Attendance Office may also initiate withdrawal procedures for students at least 16 years old who accumulate more than 10 unexcused absences in a term.

Other Important Dates Progress Reports 1st Nine Weeks September 16th

2nd Nine Weeks November 18th 3rd Nine Weeks February 3th 4th Nine Weeks April 20th

End of Nine Weeks 1st Nine Weeks October 15th 2nd Nine Weeks December 18th 3rd Nine Weeks March 11th 4th Nine Weeks May 27th

Attendance Policies and Procedures

Regular school attendance is a key component of academic success and for graduating from high school on time. Therefore, students are required by law to attend all classes unless excused by school officials. For each absence, it is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to provide written documentation to the Attendance Office. Failure to do to so may result in the student receiving an attendance failure grade (F) for a course(s).

Excused absences (Appropriate documentation required.)

Illness and/or medical care. (Parent or guardian must provide a note for up to 3 consecutive days out of school. After three consecutive days of illness, a medical note must be provided.)

Death in the family.

Legal reasons.

Religious holidays. (A “Religious Holiday Exemption Request” form must be completed)

School sponsored field trips and approved school activities.

Pre-arranged absences.

Other insurmountable circumstance pending administrative approval (i.e. power outage, flooding, etc.).

Unexcused absences

Reporting to class more than 10 minutes late.

Failure to sign in/out for appointments, illness, etc.

Leaving class without permission

Skipping (absent from class without an excuse). This includes senior “skip day” in which case only medical documentation will excuse the absence.

Tardy/Late Policy

A student is tardy if he/she arrives unexcused up to ten minutes after the start time of class.

A student is late if he/she arrives unexcused more than ten minutes after the start time of class.

Excessive tardies and “lates” will cause a student to fail a course. The fourth and every subsequent tardy after that is recorded as late. A late is an unexcused absence.

Tardy Policy: o First tardy Verbal or written warning o Second tardy Lunch or after school detention with the teacher; parent contact o Third tardy Referral to Student Services o Fourth or subsequent tardy Recorded as a “Late” which is an unexcused absence; referral to student services

Arriving Late to School

If you arrive to school less than 10 minutes after the tardy bell, you are to report directly to your first period class unless you have documentation to excuse your tardiness.

If you are more than 10 minutes late to school, you are to report directly to the Attendance Office to sign in regardless of the reason.

Documentation for Excused Absences It is the parent’s responsibility to send written documentation to the school regarding the reason for a student’s absence. This documentation is expected upon the student’s return to school, but should be no more than 5 days after the absence. Notes from parents or guardians will excuse most short term absences (1-3 days) provided the notes include the student’s full name, date of the absence(s), the time/periods (if appropriate), the parent’s/guardian’s signature, and a valid contact number. Absences longer than three days or ones that are the result of medical appointments should result in a “doctor’s” note in order to be excused.

Pre-arranged absences If a student is going to be absent for an “educationally valuable experience”, the student and parent must complete and submit a “Pre-arranged Absence Form” one week in advance. This would include college visits or recruitment trips though they are expected to be scheduled when school is not in session.

Signing In/Out Students are required to sign in/out through the Attendance Office when arriving at school after the 7:30 am (first tardy bell), leaving school campus before the 1:50 pm (dismissal bell), or missing a class for appointments or emergencies. Parent permission is required prior to signing out. Documentation must be submitted to the attendance office the next day, if not previously submitted.

Failure to sign in after the 7:30 am bell, or before the 1:50 pm dismissal bell will result in being marked unexcused tardy/absence and will not be changed. This may also result in an unexcused absence and possibly a referral for skipping.

The Impact of Excessive Absences

For each class in which the student has four or more unexcused absences, an “F” will be assigned.

Makeup work cannot be accepted until the absence is excused.

Loss of off-campus lunch privileges.

Loss of Driving Privileges: Students between the ages of 14 and 18 who accumulate 15 unexcused absences within 90 calendar days and who are unable to clear them with the attendance office, will become ineligible for driving privileges.

Truancy proceedings will be initiated.

Attendance Conferences In order to appeal an unexcused absence(s) or an attendance failure, the student and parent must request an attendance appeal conference by completing and submitting an “Attendance Appeal Application” which is available in the Attendance Office. Attendance appeals must be scheduled by parents within 2 weeks of report card distribution. The attendance committee will consist of one administrator and two teachers, and the parent and the student must be present for the attendance conference. It is the parent’s responsibility to provide wr itten documentation from a doctor or recognized agency, legal proceeding or other relevant information. This documentation may be attached to the application and may be submitted in lieu of the conference provided all absences are included. If the appeal is pending after the conference is completed, you will have 10 working days to submit the required documentation.

Leaving Campus during Lunch Leaving campus during lunch is a privilege reserved for juniors and seniors who have obtained an Off Campus Pass. (Applications for Off-campus Lunch Privileges are in the Attendance Office.) Freshman and Sophomores CAN NOT leave campus during lunch. Students who become ill while off-campus during lunch must come back to school to sign-out for their illness or have a parent call the Attendance Office. Failure to adhere to this policy will result in loss of your off-campus privilege. Additionally, the school’s tardy policy applies here just as in any other class.

Field Trips Students may not participate on field trips if they have:

more than one class in which they are failing

less than a 2.0 GPA

more than one attendance F on the most recent report card

excessive disciplinary referrals

Nondiscrimination Notification and Contact Information “No person shall on the basis of gender, marital status, sexual orientation, race, religion, national origin, age, color or d isability be denied employment, receipt of services, access to or participation in school activities or programs if qualified to receive such services, or otherwise be discriminated against or placed in a hostile environment in any educational program or activity including those receiving federal financial assistance, except as provided by law.” No person shall deny equal access or a fair opportunity to meet to, or discriminate against, any group officially affiliated with the Boy Scouts of America, or any other youth group listed in Title 36 of the United States Code as a patriotic society.

An employee, student, parent or applicant alleging discrimination with respect to employment, or any educational program or activity may contact:

Dr. Kathleen L. Rodgers Equity Coordinator and Title IX Compliance Officer

Leon County School District * 2757 West Pensacola Street * Tallahassee, Florida 32304 (850) 487-7306 * rodgersk@leonschools.net

A student or parent alleging discrimination as it relates to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act may contact:

Dr. Margot Palazesi, 504 Specialist Leon County School District

2757 West Pensacola Street * Tallahassee, Florida 32304 (850) 487-7161 * palazesim@leonschools.net