Student/Parent Handbook for the BOTKINS HIGH SCHOOL Welcome to the Botkins High School. The staff and I are pleased to have you as a student and will do our best to help make your experience here as enjoyable and successful as you wish to make it. To help provide a safe and productive learning environment for students, staff, parents and visitors, the Board of Education publishes this updated Student/Parent Handbook annually to explain students’ rights, responsibilities and consequences for misbehavior. Parents are encouraged to take a few minutes to review and discuss the information in this Handbook with their school-age children. Teachers will also review this Handbook with students at the beginning of the school year. Thank you for taking the time to become familiar with the important information in this Handbook. If you have any questions, please contact your building principal. Ryan Loy, 7-12 Principal, [email protected] Krista Meyer, Guidance Counselor, [email protected] Jeff McPheron, Superintendent, [email protected]

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE The purpose of this student handbook is to provide the students of Botkins High School with the information necessary to have an orderly and successful education program. It is to serve as a guide to you as a member of the student body of BHS. It is each student's responsibility to read the information provided in this book and to function within the guidelines stated. Items not covered in this handbook should be brought to the attention of the principal, and necessary additions and corrections will be made. All policies stated within this handbook have been adopted by the Botkins Local School Board of Education and shall be in effect at all school functions unless otherwise noted.

MISSION STATEMENT The mission of Botkins Local School is to help all students acquire the knowledge, attitudes, and skills they need to become lifelong learners and healthy, productive adults who will contribute to their community and to society.

VISION STATEMENT Botkins Local Schools will be a place where staff, students, families, and community work in partnership to provide an academic environment that will enable all learners to gain the knowledge and skills they need to live, work, and continue to learn in a global society. 1

SCHOOL CALENDAR 2017-2018

FIRST NINE WEEKS August 17 August 17 August 21 September 4 October20 October 23

Teacher Work Day Open House, 5-7 p.m. First Student Day Labor Day, No School Inservice Day, No School End of First Nine Weeks 44 - Student Days 1 - Teacher Work Day 1 - Inservice Day

SECOND NINE WEEKS October 24 First Day of Second Nine Weeks November 3...................................................Parent Teacher Conferences, No School November 22, 23, 24 Thanksgiving Vacation December 18, 19, 20……………………..Exams December 21 - January 2 Christmas Vacation January 11............................................. End of Second Nine Weeks 45 - Student Days THIRD NINE WEEKS January 12..............................................Parent Teacher Conferences, No School January 15 Martin Luther King Day, No School January 16 First Day of Third Nine Weeks February 19 Inservice Day, No School March 19 End of Third Nine Weeks 44 - Student Days 1 - Inservice Day FOURTH NINE WEEKS March 20 First Day of Fourth Nine Weeks March 29, 30, April 2 No School Exams.....................................................May 22, 23, 24 May 24 Last Day of School for Students May 25 Teacher Work Day May Graduation 45 - Student Days 1 - Teacher Work Day 178 - Student Days 2 - Inservice Days 2 - Teacher Work Days P/T CONFERENCES November 2 4:00-7:30 p.m. November 3 8:00-11:30 a.m.

January 11 January 12

Make-Up Days December 21. February 19, March 29, March 30, April 2 *Note: Official calendar located in Board office 2

4:00-7:30 p.m. 8:00-11:30 a.m.

DAILY SCHEDULE School begins daily at 8:00 A.M. The tardy bell rings at 7:55 A.M. At that time students are to report to 1st period class. We ask that no student arrive before 7:45 A.M. to ensure that proper supervision is provided. Students are not permitted in the hallways or at lockers before 7:40 A.M. unless under the direct supervision of a teacher. MEETING SCHEDULE Meetings 8:00 - 8:30 1st pd. 8:33 - 9:10 2nd pd. 9:13 - 9:53 3rd pd. 9:56 - 10:36 4th pd. 10:39 – 11:19 th 5 pd. 11:22 - 12:02 6th pd. 12:05 - 12:30 6 A (JH) 12:33 - 1:00 6 BC (HS) 7th pd. 1:03 - 1:43 8th pd. 1:46 - 2:35

REGULAR SCHEDULE 1st pd. 8:00 - 8:40 2ndpd. 8:43 - 9:23 3rd pd. 9:26 - 10:06 4th pd. 10:09 -10:49 5th pd. 10:52 – 11:32 6A 11:34 -11:59 6B 12:01 - 12:26 6C 12:29 - 1:09 7th pd. 1:12 - 1:52 8th pd. 1:55 - 2:35

ONE-HOUR DELAY SCHEDULE

TWO-HOUR DELAY SCHEDULE 1st pd. 10:00 - 10:30 2nd pd. 10:33 - 11:02 3rd pd. 11:04 - 11:36 4th pd. 11:38 - 12:04 6A(JH) 12:06 - 12:34 6BC(HS) 12:36 - 1:05 5th pd. 1:07 - 1:30 7th pd. 1:32 - 2:02 8th pd. 2:05 - 2:35 K-A.M. out @ 11:30 K-P.M. starts @ 12:30

1st pd. 2nd pd. 3rd pd. 4th pd. 5th pd.

9:00 - 9:34 9:37 - 10:10 10:13 - 10:46 10:49 – 11:22 11:25 – 11:58

6A 12:01 - 12:30 6B/C 12:33 - 1:00 7th pd. 1:03 - 1:43 8th pd. 1:46 - 2:35 K-A.M. out @ 11:15 K-P.M. stays the same PEP ASSEMBLY SCHEDULE 1st pd. 8:00 - 8:40 2nd pd. 8:43 - 9:23 3rd pd. 9:26 - 10:06 4th pd. 10:09 - 10:49 5th pd. 10:52 - 11:30 6A 11:32 - 11:50 6B 11:52 - 12:17 6C 12:20 - 12:42 7th Pd. 12:45 - 1:25 8th pd. 1:27 - 2:05 Pep Rally 2:10 - 2:35

THREE-HOUR DELAY SCHEDULE 1ST pd. 11:00 – 11:30 2nd pd. 11:33 – 12:02 3rd pd. 12:04 – 12:36 6A (JH) 12:38 – 1:04 6BC(HS) 1:06 – 1:34 4th pd. 1:36 – 2:05 5th pd. 2:07 – 2:30 7th pd. 2:32 – 3:02 8th pd. 3:05 – 3:35 K-A.M. is cancelled K-P.M. starts at 12:45

ANNOUNCEMENTS Announcements will be made at the beginning of first period each morning and 8th period. All announcements to be made should be in the office prior to these times. Students should have their club advisors sign any announcements to be made.

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STUDENT RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES RIGHT TO AN EDUCATION In the State of Ohio each student is guaranteed the right to an education. Along with the right to equality of educational opportunity, each student has a commensurate responsibility to act in such a way as to not interfere with the rights of others to the same opportunity. Essential to maintaining educational opportunity is reasonable and necessary order in the educational institution. Thus, a student may forfeit his right to educational opportunities when his conduct is such that it disrupts the educational process and deprives others of their rights. Hence, each student at Botkins High School is expected to conduct himself in such a manner as to not interfere with another student's right to an education. RIGHT OF SPEECH A school by design encourages free expression of ideas including personal opinion or such matters as subject matter being taught, school activities, and policies, and areas of interest to the individual student. In expressing themselves, students maintain the responsibility to refrain from the use of slanderous remarks and obscene language and to also allow others the same freedom to express themselves if they so desire. Channels of communication have been established by which a student may express his opinions and ideas. These channels are to be used for this purpose, and it is the student's responsibility to follow the proper format for this expression. RIGHT OF WRITTEN COMMUNICATION Students have the right to express themselves in writing. However, the students maintain the responsibility to refrain from libel, obscenity, and irresponsible personal attacks. Boards of Education may establish reasonable guidelines, concerning printed matter within the school, and have these implemented by school administrators. Students who write, edit, publish, or distribute written expression among their fellow students within the schools must assume full responsibility for the content of such materials.

NOTIFICATION TO PARENTS REGARDING STUDENT RECORDS The High School Secretary is the Custodian of Records and is responsible for the supervision of student records at the school. Her office is located at the high school office or she can be reached by calling 937-693-4241. Each student’s records will be kept in a confidential file located at the student’s school office. The information in a student’s record file will be available for review only by the parents or legal guardian of a student, an adult student (eighteen (18) years of age or older), and those authorized by Federal law and District regulations. A parent or adult student has the right to: A. Inspect and review the student’s education records within forty-five (45) days after receipt of the request. The school has a form which can be used to submit a request. The Custodian of Records will notify the parent or adult student of the time and place where the records can be inspected. B.

Request amendments if the parent or adult student believes the record is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s rights. The school has a form which may be 4

C.

D.

E. F.

used to identify which information in the record the parent or adult student believes is inaccurate or misleading and to specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. Consent to disclosures of personally-identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to those disclosures allowed by the law. The school’s administrative guideline 8330 describes those exceptions and is available upon request. Challenge District noncompliance with a parent’s request to amend the records through a hearing. If the Custodian of Records decides not to amend the record, the parent or adult student will be so notified and provided the opportunity for a hearing. Additional information concerning the hearing will be provided when notified of the opportunity for a hearing. File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education, 600 Independence Avenue, Washington, D.C. 20202. Obtain a copy of the District’s policy and administrative guideline on student records (#8330).

PROTECTION AND PRIVACY OF STUDENT RECORDS The School District maintains many student records including both directory information and confidential information. Directory information includes: A students name; address; telephone number; date and place of birth; major field of study; participation in officially-recognized activities and sports; height and weight; if a member of an athletic team; dates of attendance; date of graduation; or awards received Directory information can be provided upon request to any individual, other than a for-profit organization, even without the written consent of a parent. Parents may refuse to allow the Board to disclose any or all “directory information” upon written notification to the Board. For further information about the items included within the category of directory information and instructions on how to prohibit its release you may consult the Board’s annual Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) notice which can be found in the district guidelines. Other than directory information, access to all other student records is protected by FERPA and Ohio law. Except in limited circumstances as specifically defined in State and Federal law, the School district is prohibited from releasing confidential education records to any outside individual or organization without the prior written consent of the parents, or the adult student, as well as those individuals who have matriculated and entered a postsecondary educational institution at any age. The Board will provide access or release directory information to armed forces recruiters unless the parent or student request that prior written consent be obtained. See Form 8330 F13. Confidential records include test scores, psychological reports, behavioral data, disciplinary records, and communications with family and outside service providers. Students and parents have the right to review and receive copies of all educational records. Costs for copies of records may be charged to the parent. To review students records please provide a written notice identifying requested student records to guidance. You will be given an appointment with the 5

appropriate person to answer any questions and to review the requested student records. Parents and adult students have the right to amend a student record when they believe that any of the information contained in the record is inaccurate, misleading or violates the student’s privacy. A parent or adult student must request the amendment of a student record in writing and if the request is denied, the parent or adult student will be informed of his/her right to a hearing on the matter. Consistent with Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA), no student shall be required, as a part of the school program or the District’s curriculum, without prior written consent of the student (if an adult, or an emancipated minor) or, if any unemancipated minor, his/her parents, to submit to or participate in any survey, analysis, or evaluation that reveals information concerning: A

Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parents;

B.

Mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family;

C.

Sex behavior or attitudes;

D.

Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating or demeaning behavior;

E.

Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships;

F.

Legally recognized privileged and analogous relationships, such as those of lawyers, physicians, and ministers;

G.

Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or his/her parents; or Income (other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such a program.

H.

Consistent with the PPRA and Board policy, parents may inspect any materials used in conjunction with any such survey, analysis, or evaluation. Please contact administration to inspect such materials. Further, parents have the right to inspect, upon request, a survey or evaluation created by a third party before the survey/evaluation is administered or distributed by the school to the student. The parent will have access to the survey/evaluation within a reasonable period of time after the request is received by the principal. The superintendent will notify parents of students in the District, at least annually at the beginning of the school year, of the specific or approximate dates during the school year when the following activities are scheduled or expected to be scheduled: A.

B.

Activities involving the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected from students for the purpose of marketing or for selling that information or otherwise providing that information to others for the purpose; and The administration of any survey by a third party that contains one or more of the items described in A through H above. 6

The Family Policy Compliance Office in the U.S. Department of Education administers both FERPA and PPRA. Parents and/or eligible students who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with: Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW 20202-4605 Washington, D.C. www.ed.gov/offices/OM/fpco Informal inquires may be sent to the Family Policy Compliance Office via the following email address: [email protected]; and [email protected]. HOMELESS STUDENTS Homeless students will be provided with a free and appropriate public education in the same manner as other students served by the District. Homeless students are eligible to receive transportation services, participate in education programs for students with disabilities or limited English proficiency, participate in gifted and talented programs, and receive meals under school nutrition programs. Homeless students will not be denied enrollment based on lack of proof of residency. For additional information contact the liaison for Homeless Students in the school office. CONTROL OF CASUAL-CONTACT COMMUNICABLE DISEASES Because a school has a high concentration of people, it is necessary to take specific measures when the health of safety of the group is at risk. The School’s professional staff may remove or isolate a student who has been ill or has been exposed to a communicable disease or highly-transient pest, such as lice. Specific communicable diseases include diphtheria, scarlet fever, strep infections, whooping cough, mumps, measles, rubella, and other conditions indicated by the Local and State Health Departments. Any removal will be limited to the contagious period as specified in the School’s administrative guidelines. CONTROL OF NONCASUAL-CONTACT COMMUNICABLE DISEASES The School District has an obligation to protect staff and students from noncasual-contact communicable diseases. When a non-casual-contact communicable disease is suspected, the student’s health will be reviewed by a panel of resource people, including the County Health Department. The School will protect the privacy of the person affected and those in contact with the affected person. Students and staff will be permitted to remain in the school unless there is definitive evidence to warrant exclusion. Non-casual-contact communicable diseases include sexually transmitted diseases, AIDS, ARC-AIDS Related Complex, HIV, Hepatitis B, and other disease that may be specified by the State Board of Health. As required by Federal law, parents will be requested to have their child’s blood checked for HIV and HBV when the child bleeds at school and students or staff 7

members are exposed to the blood. Any testing is subject to laws protecting confidentiality. CONTROL OF BLOOD-BORNE PATHOGENS The School District seeks to provide a safe educational environment for students and take appropriate measures to protect those students who may be exposed to blood-borne pathogens in the school environment and/or during their participation in school-related activities. While the risks of students being exposed to blood-borne pathogens may be low, students must assume that all body fluids are potentially infectious and must take precaution to follow universal procedures in order to reduce such risks and minimize and/or prevent the potential for accidental infection. Students may be exposed to blood-borne pathogens in situations, including, but not limited to the following: Engaging in activities with other students in the school environment (e.g. physical education class) where physical injuries or other actions that can cause bleeding or exposure to saliva and other body fluids may occur. Working with equipment in the school environment that can cause cuts or similar injuries that produce bleeding. Participating in extracurricular activities (i.e. athletic activities) where physical injuries or other actions that can cause bleeding may occur. Whenever a student has contact with blood or other potentially infections material, she/he must immediately notify his/her teacher, who will contact the nurse and assist the student in completing the requisite documents (e.g., Form 8453.02 F1-Exposure Report) The parents of a student who is exposed will be contacted immediately regarding the exposure and encourage to have the student’s blood tested for Hepatitis B and HIV either by his/her physician or the Shelby County Health Department. The student’s parents are encourage to consult with the student’s physician concerning any necessary post-exposure treatment. Note: Be advised that the following forms must be available in the school office as they are referenced in the student/parent handbook: • • • • • • • • •

Title VI, IX, 504 Grievance Form 2260 F1 Notice of Nondiscrimination and Grievance Procedures for Title II, Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, Section 504 and ADA Form 2260 F2 Authorization for the Possession and Use of Asthma Inhalers Form 5330 F3 Parent/Student Acknowledgement of Student Handbook Form 5500 F1 Memorandum to Parents Regarding School Board Policy on DrugFree Schools Form 5530 F2 Notification to Parents Regarding Student Records Form 8330 F9 Notification to Parents on Blood-Borne Pathogens Form 8453.01 F5 Parental Authorization and Release From Liability Form 5515 F2 Request that Directory Information Not Be Released to Recruiters Without Prior Written Consent 8330 F13 8

DEPOSITS AND FEES Students may be assessed fees for certain school-related items. All fees must be paid at the requested time. Those students not paying will have their grades held at the end of the grading period. Students not paying by the end of the year shall not receive credit for courses taken that year. Section 3313.642 of the Ohio Revised Code gives the Board of Education the authority to enforce the payment of such fees and charges. By law students who qualify for free lunch are exempt from paying instructional fees.

THEFT POLICY It should be clear to all students that theft of school or personal property of other students will not be tolerated. We encourage students to lock their lockers and not carry valuables to school. Theft should be reported to the principal's office. We reserve the right to turn students over to the law enforcement officials if caught stealing. LUNCH REGULATIONS The school lunch hour will consist of three 25-minute closed lunch sessions. Students have two options as to lunch. 1. Eat the cafeteria lunch. 2. Bring their lunch from home. No students will be permitted to leave school property during the noon hours without permission from the office. Students leaving school property without seeking permission may receive a Saturday school. Repeat offenders may receive more severe consequences. Students will be permitted only in designated areas during lunch sessions. The parking lot is off limits to students during lunch. A student may request to go to his/her car only through the office.

FREE AND REDUCED LUNCHES Botkins Schools participates in the federally subsidized free and reduced-price lunch program. Those meeting household income guidelines and other criteria are able to secure free lunches for their children and reduced-price lunches (usually at about the cost of regular price.) Those approved for free or reduced-price lunches at the end of a previous school year are automatically approved for that same status at the start of the next school year (within certain time limits). This policy enables parents to send their children the first couple weeks of school with the knowledge of their free or reduced lunch status. All applicants, however, must apply annually, and failure to apply by a specified time jeopardizes the status of this privilege. Parents having questions concerning this program are encouraged to call the administration who review all applications. EMERGENCY DRILLS ---FIRE, TORNADO, & EARTHQUAKE PROCEDURES In the event of an emergency, all students should remain quiet and orderly. Students should follow the directions posted in each room or of the teacher in charge. FIRE DRILL In order to fulfill state requirements for fire drills, periodic drills will be held. All students are to be silent when the fire bell rings and are to remain so until the drill is over. 9

The windows and doors are to be closed when vacating the room and building. All lights and other electrical appliances should be turned off. It is imperative that all students move quickly out of the building since the signal for a real fire would be the same as the one for a fire drill. Fire routes are posted in each classroom for student reference. TORNADO DRILL Students will exit to the hallways and assume a "tuck" position on the floor along the east and north sides. If there is time, windows should be closed, and all lights and electrical appliances turned off. A TORNADO WATCH means there is a chance of dangerous weather forth coming, accompanied by damaging winds. The central office will monitor for danger signs of a Tornado Warning. A TORNADO WARNING means that a tornado has been sighted in the area, and you should go at once to the area listed above. If you see or hear the tornado coming, do not wait for the warning signal -- go to your shelter area if there is time. If not, use desks or tables for protection and assume the "tuck" position. The public address system will be used for this purpose so that there will be no confusion with the fire drill procedure. School buses will be in operation during the Watch but not during a Warning. If a bus is caught in the open when a tornado is approaching, the students will be taken to a nearby ditch or ravine far enough away so that the bus cannot topple on them. Parents are asked not to come to school during a warning. EARTHQUAKE DRILL Students will move away from windows and shelves. Take cover under a desk, if possible. Sit in a tuck position and place a book over the head. Building evacuation will take place after the earthquake. Go to an open area away from power lines.

SAFETY DRILL In order to fulfill state requirements for safety drills, an annual safety drill will be conducted prior to December 1. This drill will be conducted in cooperation with the local law enforcement agency. Teachers will receive annual instruction in the procedures for this safety drill. This safety drill will include conducting a lockdown. Information concerning this drill will be sent home prior to the drill. EARLY DISMISSAL No student will be allowed to leave school prior to dismissal time without either a written request signed by the parent or the parent’s coming to the school office to request the release. No student will be released to a person other than a custodial parent(s) or guardian. CLOSING OF SCHOOL School closing will be determined by the Superintendent of Schools when deemed necessary. Announcement of school closings will be broadcast on the following radio station: HITS 105.5 and the following TV Channels: Channel 2 , Channel 7, and Channel 35. Every effort will be made to post delays and cancellations on our web page. If no announcement is read over these stations, school will be in session. We will also utilize the Alert Now system for delays and cancellations. Please do not call the school VISITOR POLICY Visitors to the school will be expected to report to the office. Students will be expected to treat visitors in such a manner as to leave with them a favorable 10

impression which well represents our student body. Any student wishing to have a student visit with them for a day must have the principal’s permission prior to any student visitation. These visitors must obey all rules and regulations or they will be asked to leave and not return. Visitors may not be active participants, they may only observe activities. LIBRARY REGULATIONS The school library is provided for student use. For this reason, it is the student's responsibility to respect the privilege of using the library. Books and magazines should be kept in the library unless checked out through the librarian. Care should be taken to handle the books and magazines in such a manner as to protect them from abuse. 1. There will be a maximum of 20 students permitted in the library at one time unless the librarian allows more. 2. No studying or reading together unless permission is granted. 3. Locker, restroom, or drinking fountain excuses will be given by library personnel. 4. No books will be checked out to a student who has an overdue book. Grade cards will also be held by the office until books are returned or monetary retribution is made for any lost books. Any infraction of the library rules will result in student's suspension from library privileges for a specified length of time. SCHOOL PROPERTY REGULATIONS Students should care for all school property in such a way as to keep it clean, useable, and pleasing to the eye. Taxpayers have provided the school and its contents for the students, and it should be treated accordingly. Care should be taken to maintain our facility as well as possible. Students defacing or destroying school property will be required to make restitution and/or accept the consequences for such behavior LOST AND FOUND A lost and found department will be maintained in the office. All lost and found articles are to be turned in and claimed at the office or with custodians. Articles not claimed may be claimed by the finder after one week. TELEPHONE REGULATIONS Cell phone usage is restricted to before and after school time frames. During the school day cell phones should be put away and in the off position. A student may keep his/her cellular telephone if they are involved in an extra-curricular activity after school hours and need to communicate with his/her parent/guardian when the activity is ending so the student can be picked up. The school phone may be used by students primarily for emergencies or when circumstances dictate use of the school phone. It may also be used for school business with prior permission. Do not use extension phones at any time as they are for employee use only. RETENTION POLICY GRADES 7 & 8 Failure of two or more of any of the following subjects will result in the child being retained: 1. Reading 2. Math 3. English 4. Social Studies 5. Science Failure to pass grade-level state-mandated achievement tests will result in retention. Students who successfully complete intensive summer school intervention will be promoted. Ohio Revised Code ---3319.01 11

The Botkins Board of Education, teaching staff and administration recognizes the need for students to progress through school demonstrating the satisfactory completion of the required work as preparation for the next higher grade. Recognizing individual differences in all children, consideration shall be given to the academic, physical and emotional development of the student when decisions regarding placement are made. For those students who fail to make adequate academic progress in a particular grade, as defined above, the child shall be retained in that grade for a second year. PROCEDURE FOR RETENTION FIRST NOTIFICATION JANUARY - At the end of the first semester, parents will be notified in writing that their child is not progressing satisfactorily, and the possibility exists for retention. SECOND NOTIFICATION APRIL --- Sometime during the month of April, parents will be notified that their child has shown little or no improvement and that he/she will more than likely be retained in that grade. THIRD NOTIFICATION End of School - Parents will be officially notified in writing that their child will be retained in that grade. If the parents are in disagreement with the school as to the retention of their child, the parents shall have the option of requesting that the child be tested for consideration in a special program.

SEMESTER EXAMS (FIRST AND FINAL) All students will be expected to be in attendance for a full day on examination days, and all students will be expected to take examinations regardless of their grade averages for the semester. First semester exams will cover material discussed the first and second nine weeks grading period. Before exams are given, teachers shall have returned all graded work so that students are given ample time to study. Second semester exams will cover material discussed third and fourth nine weeks. No comprehensive finals will be given. No material which has not been tested may appear on exams. Seniors will be exempt from exams 2nd semester.

PUPIL LOAD At least five (5) units work shall constitute the load for most students at Botkins. A student’s ability to carry additional units will be considered when the student registers for classes. No student will be permitted to carry more than seven (7) units without the approval of the principal. All students must be enrolled in classes whose credits total no less than 2 ½ units per semester. No student shall have more than two (2) full time study halls per day. NOTE: It is a state regulation that only four (4) quarter-unit courses may be counted toward graduation requirements, though there is no restriction on how many quarter-unit courses a student may take in his/her school program. UNITS FOR CLASS PLACEMENT Students must accumulate the following total number of units in order to be classified as a member of the sophomore, junior, or senior classes: Sophomore--5 units Junior--11 units Senior--16 units Partial credit will not be issued for full credit courses.

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GUIDANCE SERVICES The Guidance Office provides the following services for students: 1. Medical help - band aids, aspirin, etc. 2. Personal help - discussion of problems, gripes, etc. Self- help books are also available. 3. Bulletin Board Information – posters on colleges and technical school, visitation day invitations, sign-up sheets for speakers, trips, etc., apprenticeship programs, scholarships, loans, grants, etc. 4. Group visitation arrangements made to colleges or technical schools. 5. College and technical school catalogs, brochures, etc. 6. Applications for tests (ACT-SAT), grants, scholarships, financial aid, etc. 7. Information on every branch of the Armed Forces. 8. Information on correspondence courses, foreign study, unique educational programs of all types. 9. Aptitude tests, interest surveys, etc. 10. Tutoring programs information. 11. Information on the Youth Services Bureau and other outside counseling programs and social services. 12. Information on all types of jobs, careers, etc. through file material and the COIN microfiche system. 13. Information on special programs such as the Red Cross, the Job Corps, and other Action programs, advanced placement programs, early enrollment programs for colleges, etc. 14. Information on and registration for the Joint Vocational School. 15. Registration for classes. 16. Letters of recommendation for schools and colleges. 17. Information on college course offerings. 18. Addresses and phone numbers of colleges, technical schools, etc. Students are encouraged to ask for help when they need it. If the Guidance Office cannot be of service, they will try to find someone who can. Requests for assistance must be made by the student concerned, as the counselor is not able to guess who needs what, when. COURSE REGISTRATION Registration will be handled through the Guidance Office. Group presentations will be used as much as possible in order to expedite the process. Preregistration forms are to be completed by each student. Information such as birthplace, birth date, family physician and person to notify in case of emergency should be provided. Pre-registration generally takes place in March/April. Actual registration for classes will be done on an individual basis--first-come, first-served--beginning with the junior class. Course description will be made available for student use in the library and guidance office at least one week prior to actual registration and is to be used to plan individual schedules. Any student who wishes to carry more than seven units of credit must have the permission of the principal. All independent studies must have Principal’s approval in writing. DROP/ADD POLICY Classes may be dropped or added during the drop/add period stipulated at the beginning of each semester. Any classes dropped after this period will receive a failing grade. No Independent studies will be approved after the 1st Drop/Add period of the school year. (i.e. late August/early Sept.) Changes in schedules will be made through the Guidance Office.

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DRIVER EDUCATION AVAILABILITY Students under the age of 18 are required to successfully complete a driver education course before obtaining an Ohio driver's license. The course may be completed at our public school district or at a commercial driver training school. Ohio Revised Code does not permit a school district to offer Driver’s Education for high school credit. The Driver’s Education program is governed by the Department of Public Safety.

POLICIES UVCC STUDENTS SHOULD KNOW Botkins High School administrators and staff do attempt to cooperate with the UVCC staff in excusing students to a reasonable degree for extracurricular activities held at the home school. Participation in sports offered at the home school is encouraged, and membership in the various clubs and organizations is likewise encouraged whenever participation agreements can be reached. All students who wish to attend the UVCC are encouraged to meet admission requirements as outlined below. Any student not meeting the requirements as outlined in the handbook may be denied admission to the UVCC. Students deficient in credits needed for graduation at their specific grade levels have three options: 1. Be tutored in the necessary subjects as approved by the home school principal. 2. Make arrangements with the home school principal to take an online correspondence course. 3. Make arrangements with the home school principal to take a make- up credit class after school at the UVCC. Parents and students must understand that it is the home school principal's and superintendent’s signatures which appear on the bottom of student diplomas. It is therefore the responsibility of home school administrators to certify that all graduation requirements have been met.

Although much effort is devoted to coordinating activities with the UVCC, certain problems invariably arise. These problems, of course, can be alleviated if students carefully check the UVCC information board and listen carefully to morning announcements made there. Senior picture orders are placed and received through the home school, customarily presenting few problems. Name card, graduation announcement, and senior key chain orders are often placed through both schools with UVCC students receiving orders later than home school students. Therefore, if UVCC students wish to receive their orders at the same time, they must listen attentively and check the announcement board faithfully, while striving to pick up the necessary forms from the home school principal as soon as the announcements are made. Often being a week late in picking up an order form results in a two-to -three month delay in the reception of a student order. On the days when home school students are not in session and UVCC students are, bus transportation is still provided at the home school at regular departure and arrival times. The UVCC has its own set of policies which govern its day-to-day operations, but normally, the home school principal is informed of these policies and can answer most questions. If not, you will be referred to the proper authority.

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UVCC ADMISSIONS All students planning to attend the UVCC in their Junior and/or Senior year must have accumulated enough credits for Junior/Senior standing. Students must obtain at least the following units of credit before going to the UVCC in the Junior year: 2 units English 2 units Social Studies 2 units Science 2 units Math 1 unit Fine Arts/Foreign Language (not needed for Class of 2014 and beyond) ½ unit Health ½ unit Physical Education (unless waived) Students must have a minimum of 11 units of credit. CBI students who go to the UVCC in their Freshman or Sophomore year are encouraged to have all the credits necessary by the start of that school year for Freshman/Sophomore standing. Opportunity School is for students who are in danger of not having enough units to graduate. This program is located in Sidney. Students attend from 3-7 PM, Monday through Thursday. Work/Study credit can be offered. Attendance is by school recommendation only. WORK PERMITS To obtain a work permit through the high school office, the following steps must be followed: 1. The student must request the necessary forms from the high school office secretary. 2. The necessary forms must be completed by the student and the employer and returned to the high school office for an official work permit to be submitted. 3. A doctor’s “physical form” must be submitted with the work permit forms. (Note: a current athletic physical form may be substituted.) 4. The official work permit is then electronically submitted by the high school secretary to the state. 5. A copy of the official work permit, with an up-to-date physical form, is given to the student to give to his/her employer. 6. If a student changes jobs within a school year, it is necessary for the student to obtain a new work permit. GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS In order to graduate from Botkins High School, a student must accumulate 22 units of credit, in the proper areas. The minimum quantitative requirements are: English 4 units Social Studies 3 units—(including American History, World History and American Government) American History 1 unit World History 1 unit American Gov’t 1 unit Science 3 units (1 physical, 1 life, 1 unit of advanced science) Math 4 units (one unit must be Algebra II or its equivalent **Fine Arts 1 unit Health ½ unit ***Physical Education ½ unit *UVCC students are not required to take one full unit of American Government. They are required to take ½ unit of American Government and ½ unit of additional Social Studies; however, the financial literacy must be completed at the UVCC. **UVCC students are not required to take a Fine Arts unit. ***Physical Education may be waived if a student participates in 15

Interscholastic athletics, or cheerleading for two full seasons. Opt-out provision (valid for 3 years) A student who has attended high school for 2 years may opt-out of the Ohio Core graduation requirements by doing the following: 1. Parent/guardian files a signed, written statement consenting to the opt out. 2. Student & parent/guardian must agree to procedural requirement of the school. 3. School, student & parent/guardian must jointly develop an ICP (Individual Career Plan). 4. School must provide counseling and support. 5. Student must complete the requirements set up prior to the current state requirements (2006). 6. Student may not directly enter a four-year state assisted college. 7. The last opt-out permitted in current statute is Spring 2015 for those students who entered high school in 2015.

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION CPR/AED TRAINING REQUIREMENT Beginning with the 2017-2018 school year, schools offering grades 9 to 12 must receive instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of automated external defibrillator (AED). These requirements include hands-on CPR and AED instruction and the use of a program developed by the American Heart Association, the American Red Cross, or other nationally recognized program. Students may be excused from the training requirement upon written request of the student’s parent or guardian, or as indicated in a student’s IEP.

GRAUDATION REQUIREMENTS 2018 AND BEYOND In addition to course credits, students will earn points toward graduation on seven end-of-course exams. These exams will replace the Ohio Graduation Tests. There are 3 options for students to meet the graduation requirement. Each student must meet one of the three requirements: 1. Ohio’s State Tests: Students earn a cumulative passing score of 18 points, using seven end-ofcourse state tests. To ensure students are well rounded, they must earn a minimum of four points in math, four points in English and six points across science and social studies Students can earn from 1-5 points for each exam, based on their performance. 5 – Advanced 4 – Accelerated 3 – Proficient 2 – Basic 1 – Limited End-of-course exams are: •

Algebra I and geometry and integrated math I and II 16

• • •

Biology American history and American government English I and English II

2. Industry credential and workforce readiness: Students earn 12 points through a State Board of Education-approved, industry-recognized credential or group of credentials in a single career field and achieve a workforce readiness score on the WorkKeys (http://www.act.org/products/workforce-act-workkeys/) assessment. The state of Ohio will pay one time for those who take the WorkKeys assessment.

3. College admission test: Students earn “remediation-free” scores in English language and mathematics on a nationally recognized college admission exam. The state of Ohio will pay one time for all 11th grade students in the classes of 2018 and beyond to take the exam free of charge. Students studying Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses in biology, American history or American government may take and substitute test scores for end-of-course state exams to avoid double testing. Students also may substitute grades from College Credit Plus courses in these science and social studies subjects for end-of-course state exams. What are remediation-free scores?

ACT English Language Arts

English subscore of 18 (or higher)

Mathematics

Mathematics subscore of 22 (or higher)

Students studying Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses in biology, American History or American Government may take and substitute test scores for end-of-course state exams to avoid double testing. Students also may substitute grades from College Credit Plus courses in these science and social studies subjects for end-of-course state exams. 17

EXAM RETAKES Students that score below proficient on any exam may retake it after they receive some extra help on the material. Students that score proficient or higher on an end of course exam can retake exams only if, once they take all the exams, they have not met the minimum graduation points to graduate. In this case, a student can retake any exam after receiving some extra help on the material. The same rules apply to substitute exams, which may be used interchangeably with approved tests.

EARNING CREDITS FOR GRADUATION (CREDIT FLEXIBILTIY) Students may earn credits through any of the following or a combination thereof: a. The completion of courses b. Testing out or otherwise demonstrating mastery of course content. c. Pursuit of one or more “educational options” (e.g. distance learning, educational travel, independent study, an internship, music, arts, community service or engagement project. Issuance of credit for b & c will be determined by teachers or through the use of: a. Multi-disciplinary teacher b. A professional panel from the community c. A state performance-based assessment d. A locally developed assessment There is no limit to the number of credit earned through this program. Applications for credit flexibility are available in the guidance office and must be approved prior to the beginning of the school year or 2nd semester. The Ohio Department of Education has established an appeals process for those individuals who have concerns about having access to or implementations of the policy. More information is available by contacting the Guidance Office.

TYPES OF DIPLOMAS DIPLOMA WITH HONORS 1. Successfully complete the Botkins Board of Education adopted curriculum requirements or IEP as established for an individual student. 2. Successfully meets one of the three options of graduation requirements. 3. Successfully completes the college preparatory curriculum – seven of the following eight criteria: a. Four units of English b. Four units of mathematics that include Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II or equivalent and another higher level course or a four-year sequence of courses that contain equivalent content. c. At least four units of science including physics and chemistry. d. Four units of social studies e. Earn either three units of one foreign language or two units each of two foreign languages f. One unit of fine arts g. Maintain an overall high school grade point average of at least 3.5 on a four-point scale up to the last grading period of the senior year 18

h.

4.

Obtain a composite score of 27 on the ACT or a 1210 composite on the SAT. The student who completes an intensive career- technical education curriculum shall meet at least seven of the following eight criteria: a. Earn four units of English; b. Earn at least four units of mathematics which shall include Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry and another higher level course or a four-year sequence of courses which contains equivalent content; c. Earn at least four units of science including one unit of physics and one unit of chemistry; d. Earn four units of social studies; e. Earn four units in a career-technical education program that leads to an industry-recognized credential, results in an apprenticeship or is part of an articulated career pathway, which can lead to post secondary credit. If the student’s program design does not provide for any of these outcomes, then the student must achieve the proficiency benchmark established for the applicable Ohio career-technical competency assessment or the equivalent; f. Achieve the proficiency benchmark established for the Ohio Career-Technical Competency Assessment (available at http://www.webxam.org/info_docs.asp, with additional content available by clicking here) or equivalent assessment aligned with state-approved and industry validated technical standards; or g. Maintain an overall high school grade point average of at least 3.5 on a four-point scale up to the last grading period of the senior year; or h. Obtain a composite score of 27 on the American college testing service’s ACT assessment (excluding the optional writing test) or a combined score of 1210 on the college board’s SAT verbal and mathematics sections (excluding the score obtained on the required writing section).

DIPLOMA WITH DISTINCTION 1. Successfully completes the Botkins Board of Education adopted curriculum requirements or IEP as established for an individual student. 2. Successfully meets one of the three options of graduation requirements. 3. Maintain 3.0 GPA 4. Successfully complete the following curriculum a. 4 units of English b. 3 units of Math (including Algebra II) c. 3 units of Science (including two lab courses) d. 3 units of Social Studies e. 1 unit of Fine Arts f. 2 units Foreign Language

GENERAL DIPLOMA 1. Successfully completes the Botkins Board of Education adopted curriculum requirements or IEP as established for an individual student.

CERTIFICATE OF ATTENDANCE Successfully completes the Botkins Board of Education adopted curriculum requirements or IEP as established for an individual student. 19

COLLEGE PREP CURRICULUM REQUIREMENTS English - 4 units (May include 1 unit of fundamentals of speech.) Mathematics - 3 units (Must include 1 unit of algebra and 1 unit of geometry.) Science - 3 units (Must include 2 units from among biology, chemistry, and physics.) Social Studies - 3 units (Must include 2 units of history and 1/2 unit of civics or government.) Foreign Language - 3 units (Must include no less than 2 units of any language for which credit is sought, i.e., 3 units of one language or 2 units each of two languages.) Complete two units from one or more of the following or two additional units from one or more of the areas listed above. a. Business b. Computer Science c. Visual or Performing Arts

CAREER-TECHNICAL CURRICULUM REQUIREMENTS Complete an occupational preparation program. Complete the following curriculum requirements: a. English - 4 units b. Mathematics - 3 units c. Science - 2 units d. Social Studies - 3 units Complete two units from one or more of the following, or two additional units from one or more of the areas listed above: a. Business b. Computer Science c. Foreign Language d. Visual or Performing Arts Applied academic credits earned via vocational education shall apply to the criteria for the "Award of Merit". PERFORMANCE CRITERIA (applies to both curricula) 1. Maintain above average attendance for grades nine through twelve (compared to a rolling four-year state average). 2. Demonstrate outstanding achievement in the curriculum as evidenced by one of the following: earning the equivalent of an overall grade point average of 3.25 on a four-point scale for grades nine through twelve; earning the equivalent of an overall grade point average of 3.5 on a four-point scale for grades eleven and twelve; or ranking in the top 25 percent of the class, whichever is more inclusive. 3. Participate in co-curricular, extracurricular or community activities in accordance with procedures established by the district board of education. 4. Demonstrate outstanding citizenship/character traits in accordance with criteria established by the district board of education. HONOR ROLL All students earning a grade point average of 3.00 or better will be listed on the honor roll. Honor roll will be figured for each nine-week grading period, and the final grades for the year. Grade point averages for all courses except accelerated academic courses will be figured on the regular 4.0 scale.

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HOMEWORK LINE A homework line is available to students and parents in the evening hours, beginning after 4:00 P.M. This has been provided to allow better communication between home and school and to give students the best possible opportunity to succeed. The homework line can be accessed by calling 693-4241 or 693-3756. COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY AND NETWORKS Before any student may take advantage of the school’s computer network, the student and his/her parents must sign an agreement which defines the conditions under which the student may participate. Failure to abide by all of the terms of the agreement may lead to the termination of the student’s computer account, possible disciplinary action, and/or referral to law enforcement authorities. SERVICES FOR CHILDREN WHO ARE GIFTED In accordance with the belief that all children are entitled to education commensurate with their particular needs, children who are gifted in the district must be provided opportunities to progress as their abilities permit. The Botkins Board of Education believes that these children require services beyond those offered in regular school programs in order to realize their potential contribution to themselves and society. Annually, children who are gifted are identified by professionally qualified persons using a variety of assessment procedures. The Board encourages efforts to provide services for the children who are gifted as an integral part of the total kindergarten through grade 12 program. Identification The district follows the identification eligibility criteria as specified in Section 3324.03 of the Ohio Revised Code and the Ohio Rule for the Identification and Services for Children Who Are Gifted as specified in the Plan. I. The district shall identify children of the district, in grades kindergarten through twelve, who may be gifted in one or more of the following areas: A. Superior Cognitive Ability B. Specific Academic Ability in one or more of the following content areas: 1. Mathematics 2. Science 3. Reading, writing, or a combination of these skills 4. Social Studies C. Creative Thinking Ability D. Visual or Performing Arts ability such as drawing, painting, sculpting, music, dance, drama The district shall use only those instruments approved by the Ohio Department of Education for screening, assessment, and identification II. of children who are gifted as provided in the Assessment Instruments for the Identification of Children Who Are Gifted. III. The district shall accept scores on assessment instruments approved for use by the Ohio Department of Education provided by other school districts and trained personnel outside the school district. IV. The district shall adopt and submit to the Ohio Department of Education a plan for the screening, assessment, and identification of children who are gifted. Any revisions to the district plan will be submitted to the Ohio Department of Education for approval. The identification plan shall include the following: A. The criteria and methods the district uses to screen and select children for further assessment who perform or show potential for performing at remarkably high levels of accomplishment in one of the gifted areas. 21

B.

V. VI. VII. VIII. IX.

The sources of assessment data the district uses to select children for further testing and an explanation to parents of the multiple assessment instruments required to identify children who are gifted. C. An explanation for parents of the methods the district uses to ensure equal access to screening and further assessment by all district children, culturally and linguistically diverse children, children from low socio-economic background, children with disabilities or for whom English is a second language. D. The process of notifying parents regarding all policies and procedures concerning the screening, assessment, and identification of children who are gifted. E. Provision of an opportunity for parents to appeal any decision about the results of any screening procedure or assessment, the scheduling of children for assessment, or the placement of a student in any program or for receipt of services. F. Procedures for the assessment of children who transfer into the district. G. At least two opportunities a year for assessment in the case of children requesting assessment or recommended for assessment by teachers, parents, or other children. H. The district’s plan may provide for the district to contract with any qualified public or private service provider to provide screening or assessment services under the plan. The district shall ensure equal opportunity for all children identified as gifted to receive any or all services offered by the district. The district shall implement a procedure for withdrawal of children from district services and for reassessment of children. The district shall implement a procedure for resolving disputes with regard to identification and placement decisions. Any district gifted education services shall be delivered in accordance with Ohio Revised Code and Ohio Administrative Code. The district shall inform parents of the contents of this policy as required by Section 3324.06 of the Ohio Revised Code.

X.

ACCELERATED ACADEMICS Students in grades 7-12 may take accelerated courses in the areas of science, math, English, and social studies if a student passes eligibility requirements. High school students only may take accelerated bookkeeping, provided once again that eligibility requirements are met. Grades for accelerated courses are determined by counting regular classroom grades as 2/3 of the regular nine weeks' grades and accelerated work as 1/3 of the regular nine-weeks' grades. Students enrolled in an accelerated course are expected to do 3-5 hours of homework in addition to their regular classroom work. Accelerated courses carry with them an accelerated grade scale: A = 4.5 for 1 unit of credit B = 3.5 for 1 unit of credit C = 2.5 for 1 unit of credit D = 1.5 for 1 unit of credit A student may receive at least a "B" average in accelerated courses for the semester to be eligible to take any accelerated courses the following semester. Accelerated courses are designed to challenge even the best academic students in helping them develop to their fullest potential.

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ADVANCED PLACEMENT OPPORTUNITIES Botkins High School students have a unique opportunity of taking college level classes in their home school environment through the Advanced Placement program. This program promotes academic pursuits that “jump start” students’ college careers. ADVANCED PLACEMENT POLICY Advanced Placement courses are similar to first-year college courses. Colleges recognize Advanced Placement as the gold standard for measuring the academic excellence of a school’s curriculum. The pace of an AP class is accelerated and demands outside study time. Students who enroll in Advanced Placement courses are subject to the following: 1. Each student must hold a 3.25 cumulative grade point average at the completion of his/her Sophomore or Junior year to enroll in all AP classes. 2. Each student must take the appropriate AP examination in May designated by the College Board. 3. The student must pay the exam free prior to March 30th (unless grant monies or waivers are available. 4. Students are expected to devote outside study time and participate in tutoring/mentor sessions offered by the teacher during the course of the school day. All students will have access to APEX Learning online AP program, which include a testing review with diagnostic assessments to help students better prepare for their May College Board test. 5. College credit is based on a score of 4 or above on the College Board exam. (Note: some colleges will accept a score of 3 on the College Board exam as well) Current Advanced Placement course offerings at BHS include AP Government .

Students that participate in the AP program signal to college admissions officials that they are serious about education and that they’re ready for college-level work. AP courses will help you develop college level academic skills and be better prepared for your first year of higher education. Dual Enrollment Program Students will have the opportunity to earn college credit through Urbana University and Edison State Community College. Dual Enrollment offers HS students the ability to earn both HS and college credit while taking classes at BHS. Teachers have been approved as adjunct professors through UU’s selection process. Dual Enrollment will be available in the following classes Anatomy, Biology, Advanced Comp and Literary Analysis, Pre-Calculus, French III and IV, Spanish III and IV and American History. College Credit Plus Program Any student in grades 7 through 12 may enroll in a postsecondary program provided he/she meets the requirements established by law and by the participating college or university. A student will be denied high school credit for any portions of or for the entire class if taken during a period of expulsion. Student participation requires written consent of the Superintendent and, for students under 18, written consent of the parents or attendance in counseling services offered with this educational option. Any interested student should contact the guidance counselor to obtain the necessary information.

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EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES ACTIVITY POLICIES The school building will officially open each morning at 7:40 A.M. No students should be in the building before that time unless involved in a supervised activity. In severe weather, students arriving before 7:40 A.M. will be permitted into the entry-way at the main doors located on the west side of the building. Students will not be permitted past this entry-way until 7:40 A.M. The school day will officially end with the completion of the last regularly scheduled period each day. All students are to be out of the building by 2:45 P.M. unless they are participating in a supervised activity (that is, athletics, band, annual staff, cheerleading, etc.) Students not under supervision will be asked to leave. Students will not be permitted back into the school building unless accompanied by parent or in the case of proven necessity. (Detention is the exception to this.) No students will be allowed in the school building after 6:30 P.M. on Wednesday evenings. Since this is community church and religion night, this rule will be strictly enforced. RULES FOR PARTICIPATING IN EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES As a member of any Botkins High School squad, with the desire that this season will be a success, both in the number of games won and in the spirit maintained, you are expected to comply with the following training rules. Each athlete must have a copy of the training rules and regulations, or must have access to these rules. 1. Do not use and/or possess tobacco in any form (cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco., etc. a. First violation: Denial of participation for 10% of the competition dates, immediately following the violation. b. Second violation: Denial of participation for the remainder of that sport season and no local post season awards. 2. The possession or use of alcohol, drugs (unless prescribed by a physician), or mind altering substances is forbidden during season. a. First violation shall result in the following disciplinary action: 1. Denial of participation for two (2) competition dates. 2. Placed on probation for one calendar year. 3. Referred to and participate in a Student Assistance Program for counseling. b. Second violation during the probationary year shall result in the following: 1. Suspended from all athletics at Botkins Local Schools for one calendar year. 2. All awards for that sport season shall be forfeited. 3. Do not engage in criminal activity or violations of civil law. a. Recognizing the varying degrees of severity of violations (misdemeanors vs. felonies). Consequences for involvement may result in minor reprimand to the denial of participation for a calendar year, depending upon the nature of the offense. Consultation between the coach, A.D., and principal will be conducted before the denial of participation. 4. All athletes are expected to behave in a manner which reflects positively on Botkins School and their team. a. Behavior which reflects negatively would include such offenses as: 1. Repeated truancy from school or class. 2. Acts of vandalism or abuse of persons or property. 3. Repeated infractions of school rules or chronic incorrigible behavior. 4. Abusive language, gestures, or profanity (should be handled immediately by the coach.) 5. Behavior, attitude, or unsportsmanlike conduct at or during 24

activities, practice sessions or school sponsored events. 6. Participation in hazing activities. b. The penalties for violations will be determined by the coach/advisor and/or the Athletic Director and/or the Principal. 5. Each coach will determine any curfew hours and other training rules for the athletes which are not stated in this policy. These should be in writing, and copies on file in the principal’s and athletic director’s offices. 6. Each athlete should attempt to promote team spirit. 7. Each athlete is to conduct oneself at all times in a manner that will bring credit to the team, school and community. 8. Any violations of rules 5, 6, & 7 will be administered by the coach. Repeated violations of these rules could result in the athlete being suspended from one or more athletic contests. 9. The above rules are for each sport season. The opening dates for these seasons are those established by the OHSAA. The closing date for each sport season will normally be the conclusion of the last athletic contest of the sport. 10. It is sometimes necessary to schedule swim meets on Sundays due to limited facilities being available for use by high school swim teams. Athletes may be excused by prior written permission for religious/family reasons. Denial of Participation and Due Process a. In the event of an infraction of these rules and/or training rules established by the coach, the following procedure will take place: 1. The coach and athletic director will inform the student (in writing) of what the infraction is and what discipline might take place. 2. The principal then conducts an informal hearing to allow the student to explain his/her action. 3. If the student is denied the opportunity to participate, the student and his/her parents shall be informed of that fact in writing. 4. The student and his/her parents shall be informed that they may appeal the decision to the Review Committee. 5. If appealed, the Review Committee will meet with the students, his/her parents and the coach to hear the issue. A representative of the parents choosing may attend this review hearing with the parents or in their place. The Review Committee will then decide to uphold, vacate or modify the coach's decision. This group will be the final authority. The Review Committee shall consist of the athletic director, a board of education member, and an administrator. The committee will be chaired by the athletic director. CLASSES Each class, grades 7 through 12, conducts and participates in a variety of activities, such as magazines sales and other fund-raising activities, dances, paper drives, homecoming activities, etc. Officers are elected in the spring of every year and serve throughout the following year -- with student council representatives and presidents attending meetings of the Student Council as well as taking care of their other responsibilities. METHOD FOR SELECTION OF CLASS OFFICERS 1. Any student wishing to run for a class office must secure ten (10) signatures from students in their class, with no student being allowed to sign more than three (3) petitions for potential class officers, unless permission is granted by the Principal. 2. Students wishing to run for a class office shall have one week, to be announced every spring, to collect ten (10) signatures from fellow 25

classmates. Remember, no student may back more than three (3) students in their class; any student signing for more than three (3) students will eliminate from the running any candidate they have signed for, so candidates running for class offices should make sure they clarify this policy when securing signatures. The school principal shall check the signatures on each candidate's petition. 3. At a designated class meeting, students will vote secret ballot for five of their classmates who have properly filed their petitions with the office. 4. The candidate receiving the most votes shall become class president. Those candidates receiving the second highest vote(s) become student council representative; (two to be elected from grades 9-12 and one from grades 7-8); fourth highest, vice-president; fifth highest, secretary/news reporter (one and the same person); and sixth highest, treasurer. 5. If seven applications to run for office are not filed in the office (grades 9-12) and at least six applications per class properly filed at the junior high level, then the school principal shall appoint Student Council representatives and no class officers shall exist for that grade level; all class activities at that grade level will be left to the discretion of the class advisor. Those running for class offices should recognize the leadership roles they are assuming and be willing to assume those responsibilities. ACTIVITY ORGANIZATIONS ACADEMIA TEAM The Academia Team competes in a quiz-show format against all the other Shelby County Schools during the fall of the year. The size of the team varies upon the interest shown by the student body. All students interested in participating on the team must complete the qualifying tests in all subject areas. The weekly competitions are held in various county schools, with three schools represented at each site of competition. At the end of the five weeks of competition, the winning school gets the traveling trophy and a permanent plaque. The categories of competition are Language Arts, Literature, World History/Geography, American History/Government, Current Events, Fine Arts, Science, Mathematics, Vocational, and General Knowledge. The top four (4) in each category will participate in the specific topic. The next four (4) highest-scoring students hold the alternate seats in each category in case of illness or any other excusable absence. Every week during the season, team members may challenge individuals that hold competition or alternate positions, as long as they are only moving up one level. Rules for challenging will be established at the beginning of the season. General Knowledge is the exception to the placements of individuals; these seats are determined by the total numbers scored on all ten preliminary tests. FFA The FFA is a national and international organization which has its roots in the agricultural industry. The organization is recognized by the federal government through a federal charter. The FFA is the most prominent and prestigious youth organization in the world. The national convention has been addressed by the presidents of the United States and many other well-known celebrities. Many of the nation’s largest industries donate large sums of money to the FFA. These industries recruit many of the active FFA members of leadership positions in their companies. The FFA opens lines of communication with individual students and leaders of many large companies. The agricultural industry is the largest industry in this country and the world. Agriculture is a very diverse industry which has many different types of job opportunities. The main functions of the FFA are to provide students with the skills, knowledge, and experiences to be successful, productive, active members of our society. 26

Besides providing opportunities in the students’ areas of interests, the FFA strives to strengthen a student’s communication, social, and leadership skills through different FFA activities. Members gain knowledge through field trips, listening to different speakers, and making contact with industry leaders. Students also participate in various contests in their areas of interest. Students can also develop their leadership skills and learn responsibilities by attaining an office or committee chairmanship. Some of the activities which students have the opportunity of participating in are: Various skills and judging contests, parent member picnic, FFA banquet, FFA breakfast, FFA camp, state and national conventions, team decision making contest, speaking contest, Washington Leadership Conference, Made for Excellence Program, Building Our American Community Activities, chapter contests and activities, activities with other organizations, and various field trips. The contests and activities are designed to compliment the changes which are occurring in the agricultural industry as well as better prepare students to meet the challenges which relate to the ever changing agriculture industry.

FAMILY CAREER AND COMMUNITY LEADERS OF AMERICA (FCCLA) Family Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) is a dynamic and effective national student organization that helps young men and women become strong leaders in families, careers, and communities through family and consumer sciences education. Its projects provide a framework for hands-on, career-related learning and demonstrate the relevance of school programs to students and community members. Students encounter situations through which they accept responsibility; experience leadership; build relationships; develop appreciation for diversity; analyze and solve problems; apply academic and communication skills; adapt to change and establish positive work-related attitudes and habits. FUTURE TEACHERS OF AMERICA (FTA) The Future Teachers of America, FTA, is a high school organization available to boys and girls to allow them to investigate the possibilities in the teaching field. FTA members are assigned to a teacher for a year and help the teacher as needed. FTA responsibilities vary with the teacher but usually involve tutoring a student, working on bulletin boards or helping a teacher prepare for a classroom activity. FTA members work with their teacher during their study hall. SCHOLASTIC BOWL TEAM This academic competition team is comprised of eight individuals that have participated in Academia and want to continue to practice their trivia knowledge skills throughout the winter months. Competitions are held at various times and locations throughout the year. YEARBOOK CLASS This course is designed to teach the skills necessary to produce the school yearbook, which offers a complete record of an entire school year. The year begins by planning the coverage of the school year and designing and unifying them for the book. Students will study magazine journalism including layout and design techniques, writing and editing copy, headlines and picture captions. This course provides the study of a practice in gathering and analyzing information, interviewing, note taking and photography. Students will learn strategies of planning, marketing (ad sales) and distribution of the yearbook. Students will learn proofing strategies and work independently with photographers. At times, deadlines require that class members work after school and on weekends. Students will learn good work habits and are responsible for all phases of yearbook publication. Yearbook is also a business in which the class is held accountable to a publishing company, the student body, the faculty, and the 27

community. Unfortunately there is no way to complete all the necessary work during our limited class time. Each class member must be committed to the completion of all pages even if it requires after school work time, possible weekends, and covering activities to take pictures. NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY The National Honor Society chapter of Botkins High School is a duly chartered and affiliated chapter of the national organization. Membership is open to those students who meet the required standards in four areas of evaluation: scholarship, service, leadership, and character. Standards for selection are established by the national office of NHS and have been revised to meet our local chapter needs. Students are selected to be members by a 5-member Faculty Council, appointed by the principal, which bestows this honor upon qualified students on behalf of the faculty of our school annually. The NHS advisor will also provide evaluation sheets to all the candidate’s teachers for them to fill out. These evaluation sheets will be used in conjunction with the Student Activity Information Form by the Faculty Council to vote on who is selected for induction. It is therefore important that the candidate should strive to demonstrate all the characteristics required for membership at all times. Students in the 10th, 11th, or 12th grades are eligible for membership. For the scholarship criterion, a student must have a cumulative GPA of 3.6 or better. Those students who meet this criterion are invited to complete a Student Activity Information Form that provides the Faculty Council with information regarding the candidate’s leadership, service, and character. A history of leadership experiences and participation in school and community service is also required with confirmation needed. Following notification, a formal induction ceremony is held at the school to recognize all the newly selected members. Membership is bestowed only after the candidate participates in the induction ceremony. Once inducted, new members are required to maintain the same level of performance (or better) in all four criteria that led to their selection. Students of parents who have questions regarding the selection process or membership obligations can contact the principal. The National Honor Society (NHS) is more than just an honor roll. The Honor Society chapter establishes rules for membership that are based upon a student’s outstanding performance in the areas of: Scholarship, Service, Leadership and Character. These criteria for selection form the foundation upon which the organization and its activities are built. Scholarship: Students who have a cumulative grade point average of 3.6 or a higher cumulative average set by the local school’s Faculty Council, meet the scholarship requirement for membership. These students are then eligible for consideration on the basis of service, leadership, and character. Service: This quality is defined through the voluntary contributions made by a student to the school or community, done without compensation and with a positive, courteous, and enthusiastic spirit. Leadership: Student leaders are those who are resourceful, good problem solvers, promoters of school activities, idea-contributors, dependable, and persons who exemplify positive attitudes about life. Leadership experiences can be drawn from school or community activities while working with or for others. Character: Character upholds principles of morality and ethics, is cooperative, demonstrates high standards of honesty and reliability, shows courtesy, concern, and respect for others, and generally maintains a good and clean lifestyle.

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SELECTION INTO NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY LEADERSHIP Students will list the leadership positions they have held. They may receive up to 10 points. Students may also receive up to 20 points based on leadership qualities assessed by the faculty through evaluation form. Those qualities which will be considered are: 1. Demonstrates leadership in promoting school activities. 2. Exercises influence on peers in upholding school ideals. 3. Is able to delegate responsibilities. 4. Exemplifies positive attitudes. 5. Inspires positive behavior in others. 6. Demonstrates academic initiative. 7. Demonstrates leadership in the classroom, at work and in school activities. 8. Is dependable in any responsibility accepted. Leadership positions (up to 10 points) Leadership qualities (up to 20 points) SERVICE Students will list all activities in which they have participated in – this will include organizations outside of the school. Those which will be considered cannot carry school credit. Possible choices are (this list may not be all-inclusive and students are encouraged to list other outside activities):

School Activities Cross Country Golf Volleyball Basketball Swimming Track Baseball Softball Cheerleading Manager Statistician Pep Band Musical M.H. Aide FTA FFA FCCLA

4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

Competitions/Contests Academia Quiz Bowl Scholastic Bowl Speech Contests Writing Contests Music Contests Envirothon Awards Girls’/Boys’ State Hugh O’Brian American Legion Americanism All County Placements Individual awards in FFA/FCCLA

2 1 1 1 1 1 1

1 1 1 1 1 1

Outside Activities Church Youth Group Boy Scouts/Girl Scouts Summer Swim Team 4-H CYO Basketball A maximum of 30 points can be obtained here. CHARACTER The point total each student will receive shall be an average of all those teachers responding to the faculty recommendation. Rates for each are (1-5) 1. Abides by school rules 29

2. Cooperates with other students. 3. Displays good classroom attitude and participation 4. Displays good conduct while in school functions. Maximum - 20 points REPRIMAND/DISMISSAL Because National Honor Society is considered to be both an honor as well as a responsibility, and its members are expected to exemplify the best combination of all four areas – leadership, character, service, and scholarship, members will continue to maintain the level of integrity which was instrumental in their selection. Therefore, any member who breaks the law or defies any of the school’s policies will be subject to a letter of reprimand and/or dismissal from NHS depending upon the severity of the transgression. This action will be determined by NHS advisor and the principal after consultation with the student. If the student wishes to have a hearing, the Faculty Council will be convened and a decision will reached. The decision of the Faculty Council can be appealed to the Board of Education and due process will be followed. 7-12 GRADING SCALE 100 to 95 A 94 to 85 B 84 to 75 C 74 to 70 D 69 and below F Incomplete I

ACADEMIC LETTER 9th Grade 3.8-4.0 10th Grade 3.6-4.0 11th Grade 3.4-4.0 12th Grade 3.25-4.0

+3 activities +4 activities +6 activities +8 activities

Academia (2 points can be earned here) 1 for team/1 for table Scholastic Bowl (1 for each competition) Jets Team OCTM-Math Competition Science Olympiad American Legion Americanism Award Placement in Contests: VFW, American Legion, HOBY National Honor Society Buckeye Boys State/Girls State Envirothon Team Rotary Club Speech Daughters of the American Revolution Speech

MUSIC LETTER Required: Band or Choir membership You must receive an A in the course you are taking (if you are in both, you must have an A average when your choir and band grades are combined). Perfect attendance is required for those who are not registered for band or choir. 4 points

Musical-main cast; Large solos or many lines 30

3 points

2 points

1 point

Points needed:

Private music lessons (600 minute minimum, must bring in note from your private teacher) Honors band or choir selection Pep band member Homecoming soloist Musical performer-bit part/chorus/extra Variety Show performer-group SSA member Solo & Ensemble participant (each event) Solo & Ensemble superior rating (each event) Class A Solo or Ensemble (must receive I or II rating) Band section leader Soloist or small ensemble member for community performance (maximum of 4 points for National Anthem maximum of 4 points for church activities; Church activities require a bulletin or a note from the person in charge of the function) Music camp participant Musical participant-crew Solo & Ensemble excellent rating (each event) Class B Solo or Ensemble (must have I or II rating) Student Director/Field Commander First Part player in band Officer Student Accompanist

Freshman-7 Sophomore-10 Junior-13 Senior-13

All points begin at 0 for each new school year. PLAYS - MUSICALS Every year there is at least one local production by the high school students. In a musical or play, parts must be auditioned for and cast, and the direction of the performances is under the control of the faculty member in charge of the production. In all cases, the opportunity to participate and contribute to this creative process is open to all students, whether enrolled in music, band, or drama courses or not. STUDENT COUNCIL The Botkins High School Student Council is a 17 member elected body which primarily exists to promote the general welfare of the school and its students. More specifically, the Council serves the school by promoting community-school activities, assuming a leadership role in developing harmonious relations between faculty and students, and nurturing the qualities of leadership, character, achievement, and service within the student body. The Council consists of 8 high school members and one seventh and one eighth grade representatives, along with all the class presidents for grades 7 through 12 and the senior class vice president. A faculty advisor coordinates and guides the Council in its activities, such as buying materials and equipment for the school, movies and other money-makers, and promoting and recognizing achievements. VARSITY B CLUB This organization honors athletes who achieve in any of the interscholastic sports offered by the school; track, baseball, basketball, cross-country, volleyball, golf, 31

softball, soccer, and swimming. It also honors students who are proficient in academics and music. Points are awarded on the basis of participation, and letters and awards of merit are passed out at the athletic awards programs at the end of the sport season.

ATHLETIC POLICIES All sports are competitive and membership is determined by the relative merits of the pupils trying out for the team. Not every pupil who tries out for the team in any sport is guaranteed participation. Students who abide by the regulations as established by the coaching staff and who are receptive, cooperative and coachable generally stand a good chance of making the team. We feel that the prime prerequisite of an athlete is that of good citizenship. A player who fails to represent his/her team in a desirable way at all times throughout the year -- in the classroom, in the community, and as a guest of other communities -- is not worthy of representing our school on athletic teams. Botkins Local School is committed to good sportsmanship at all times. We remind you that interscholastic events are an extension of the classroom and that lessons are best learned when the proper respect is accorded to all. Please let your good sportsmanship show during all sporting events. Botkins High School athletes are governed by the State Athletic Association Rules. Any student wishing to participate in any interscholastic sport must obtain a physical exam card from the office and have it properly filled out and signed by parents and a doctor, signed contract, EMA form and Concussion form. No participation shall be permitted before this is done.

Any student absent from school on the day of the game shall not be permitted to participate in that contest unless a legitimate reason has been approved by the principal. The student must be in attendance on the afternoon of the game at the beginning of fifth period. For any mid-week games, the student must also be in attendance at the start of school the following day; this rule applies to all games and meets. If this rule is violated after the last game of a season the one game suspension may carry over to the next sporting season (i.e. miss school after the last basketball game and you will be suspended for the first game of the softball season). All students participating in athletics must ride the team bus to and from all meets. Special permission may be granted for other means of transportation with prior approval from the principal or superintendent. A pupil in grades 7-12, to be eligible any nine weeks grading period must have passed classes whose credit totals 5 credit units towards graduation and maintain a 1.5 GPA. A student who fails to meet this requirement will remain ineligible the next nine weeks grading period. No special recitations or tests are to be given for the purpose of making a pupil eligible. The eligibility of a pupil who attends another school during the preceding nine weeks must be established by a certificate from the school. All first semester 7th graders are eligible

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ATHLETIC TEAMS Botkins Local School is a member of the Ohio High School Athletic Association. Botkins participates in the following sports.

FALL High School Cross Country - open to eligible boys and girls Golf - open to eligible boys and girls Soccer – open to eligible boys and girls Volleyball- open to eligible girls Junior High Cross Country - open to eligible boys and girls Volleyball - open to eligible girls WINTER High School Basketball - open to eligible boys and girls Swimming - open to eligible boys and girls Junior High Basketball - open to eligible boys and girls SPRING High School Track - open to eligible boys and girls Baseball - open to eligible boys Fast pitch softball - open to eligible girls Junior High Track - open to eligible boys and girls Students may participate in two sports per season at the all levels. Cheerleading is not considered a sport. Cheerleading There are three cheerleading squads - the junior high, reserve and varsity groups. Each consists of girls chosen competitively on the basis of their performance of required and optional cheers in a contest held during the spring of every year. The girls chosen work throughout the summer, occasionally attending cheerleading camps to learn new techniques; they also practice moves, stands and yells, and make pep signs for the coming season. All groups are under the leadership of a faculty advisor and must meet certain behavioral requirements and conduct themselves as proper representatives of the school. Their responsibilities include decorating the gym, planning and performing pep rallies, and cheering at all basketball games for their respective teams. Because of their appearance at the games, they must meet the same requirements as an athlete - having a physical examination, observing training rules, meeting scholastic eligibility, etc. SENIOR GUIDED LEARNING EXPERIENCES Any senior is eligible for early release from school if he/she fills out the proper forms, meets and/or maintains the necessary requirements and is employed in an occupation that will prepare the student for a future employment or trade. Certain restrictions are placed upon those who request early release: 1. The student must leave the school building at the time assigned and go straight to the place of employment. 33

2. Students are expected to be in school on days when not working or if the position/employment is terminated. The student must notify the principal as soon as possible if either condition exists. 3. Students are expected to follow the school’s schedule even on adjusted schedules, i.e. delays. 4. The student must pass all courses. If at any time a grade of "F" on a report card is received, the student will be refused early release. 5. Once a student receives an "F" in any subject for the nine weeks grading period, the student will be removed from the program for the next nine weeks grading period. If at the end of that period his/her grade is passing, he/she may be reinstated. Both parental and employer signatures are required on the necessary forms, and the principal reserves the right to discontinue the program for any student at any time for any infraction of these privileges. ASSEMBLIES, DANCES, AND FIELD TRIPS All assemblies or meeting must be arranged through the principal's office. Requests should be made by students through their respective advisor. Any class dance must have the prior approval of the class advisors and principal. The sponsoring class is responsible for clean-up after the dance. They are also responsible for any damage done to the building during the activity. Once a student leaves the building they will not be permitted to return. A high school student is permitted to bring a guest, but he/ she must be registered in the office before the dance. Only Botkins 7th and 8th graders may attend Jr. High dances. No guests are permitted for Jr. High students at any dance. Jr. High dances will end at 10:00 P.M. High school dances will end by 11:00 P.M. PROM PREPARATION POLICIES 1. The junior class has a budget of $2000 limit on total expenditures for prom. The advisors shall be expected to supervise all pre-and post-prom activities directly connected with the school. 2. The Thursday before prom weekend, the advisors shall submit to the principal a list of students to be excused all day the following day (Friday) before prom weekend. These students shall be selected by the advisors as being the students who have contributed most to prom preparation activities at that point in time. Whether a student attends the home school or the UVCC, the only consideration given is the amount of work and dedication already demonstrated as well as the student's sense of commitment in helping with the prom. Subject to the principal's approval, these students will be excused all day that Friday without loss of a day's attendance in school. 3. Juniors who have study hall on that Friday may be excused to work on prom activities if the prom is held in the school gymnasium and provided that their help is needed. 4. Any junior not working on prom preparation activities will be sent back to class or study hall. PROM ATTENDANCE & BEHAVIOR 1. A student must be 16 years old or be of freshman status before he/she will be allowed to attend the prom and school sponsored after prom. 2. Married people may attend the prom but only if such people are legally married to the junior or senior at Botkins who is eligible to attend. 3. Formal attire is required for attendance at prom. Anyone coming to prom dressed informally will be asked to leave. 4. Any student who does not have junior standing but intends to graduate with the junior class may attend prom with the understanding he/she may attend only two proms as a student. 5. Out-of-town dates must be registered prior to the prom date with the high 34

school principal. The eligible student at Botkins is responsible for registering his/her out-of-town date with the high school principal prior to the prom date. 6. Any Botkins junior or senior attending the prom with an out- of-town date is responsible for his/her date's behavior. Any damages which may occur as a result of misbehavior shall become the fiscal responsibility of the Botkins student. 7. Any student causing problems or conducting himself or herself improperly shall be evicted. 8. The drinking of alcoholic beverages or the use of drugs of any kind is strictly prohibited. Anyone suspected of drinking or using drugs prior to entering the prom will be denied admission, and anyone concealing or suspected of using alcoholic beverages or drugs of any kind shall be evicted with prosecution considered. 9. There will be no smoking on school property during the prom, as this act is a suspendable offense. 10. Once a student or couple has entered the prom, he/she or they may not leave and re-enter. 11. The school sponsors an afterprom. Only this afterprom is school sponsored, sanctioned, and supervised. The school assumes no responsibility for anything directly or indirectly related to any other afterprom activities. 12. Prom hours shall be from 8:00 to 11:00 P.M. unless special circumstances should dictate otherwise. The above policies are established to ensure the orderly conduct of the prom so that attendance at the prom will be a pleasurable experience for the vast majority of those who wish to attend and to clarify expectations of those who may elect to attend. FIELD TRIPS All field trips must be approved by the principal's office. Students will be required to submit (prior to the trip) a field trip permit signed by their parent. Student behavior should be the same as if in school. Overnight trips must have Board approval.

ATTENDANCE, BEHAVIOR, AND CONDUCT POLICIES ATTENDANCE AND TARDY POLICY By law, every child in the United States must attend school until he is at least sixteen years of age, and then those under the age of eighteen must meet certain employment and related requirements. Since prospective employers are always interested in a student's school attendance record and since students tend to miss a great deal of information during their absence from classes, we have developed attendance and tardy policies which we believe will prepare students realistically for what they are to face in their future lives. When a student is absent the parents should notify the office by 9:00 A.M. There are three acceptable methods. A note may be sent with another child to inform the school of the absence; parent or guardian may call the school office during school hours; or, voicemail is available for use before and after school hours for attendance purposes. Please call 693-424l ext. 7001 (JH and HS) or 7000 (Elem.) to leave a message. If the approximate length of the absence is known, the office may be notified the first day. If the office has not been notified by 9:00 A.M., a call will be made. If the parent or guardian cannot be reached by phone, a notification will be mailed. Those parents who do not notify the school as to the reason for a student's absence must send a note stating the reason for the absence upon the child's return in order for the absence to be excused. This policy is a state requirement resulting from the "Missing Child Act". 35

When a student’s absences approach the max allowed in a nine weeks grading period the principal shall contact (as soon as possible) the parents of such a student to investigate the reasons for the absences. All excuses must state the reason for the student's absence and the date(s) upon which the student was absent. The acceptable excuses are death in the family or of a close relative or friend, emergencies, illness or injuries, and occasionally, the student is needed to help at home. You will not be excused from school to get a haircut, to go to the tanning salon, or to go shopping, etc. These will be considered unexcused absences. Time missed for the previouslystated reasons will be made up in Saturday school. Juniors and seniors are permitted three college visitations per year. These are excused absences only if the visitation is approved by the guidance counselor. A signed form must be returned to the Guidance office after the visit within two school days or the absence will be unexcused. No college visitations are allowed during May. The school - not the parent - reserves the right to say if the absence will be excused. If in doubt, ask. Any unexcused absence can result in Saturday school and/or a point deduction. Skipping school or missing school without an excused absence may result in truancy charges being filed. More than five days of class absence (by period) may cause a student to receive a failing grade for that class regardless of the grade earned. Absence of more than five days per class will result in the student receiving a grade of 60 E(excessive absence) for the grading period unless the student earns less than 60. In that case, the actual grade which was achieved will be the grade recorded. The principal will hear student requested appeals to review the status of situations when unusual or extended absences cause the student to miss more than five days. Appeals will be limited to those instances where the absences were due to the hospitalization, doctor's orders, legal action, or death in the immediate family. Students requesting an appeal must have documentation on hand for any/all extenuating circumstances relative to the absences to be appealed. Every attempt will be made to notify parents as the student approaches five absences; however, the ultimate responsibility for days missed belongs with the student. If a student becomes ill while at school, contact must be made with a parent or emergency person before the student will be permitted to leave. Permission to leave then must be granted by the superintendent, principal, or secretary. Any student arriving to school after the opening bell, but during first period, shall report to the office. The student shall then be given an “admit slip” for class. The rest of the day, students already in attendance but late to class will be written up as tardy by the classroom teacher. These slips will be turned into the office daily. The following procedure of discipline for tardiness to class will be followed, beginning each nine weeks (if unexcused): First time ----------warning, name recorded Second time ---- 45 minute detention, following infraction Third time -------- two - 45 minute detentions Fourth time ------Saturday school

MISSED ASSIGNMENTS It is the student's responsibility to make up missed assignments The student must contact the teacher for missed work. The student will have as many days to make up the work as he/she missed. Any work not made up by that time will become 0's. IF A STUDENT MISSES ONLY ONE DAY, HE/SHE IS RESPONSIBLE FOR TESTS ON THE DAY HE/SHE RETURNS. 36

VACATION POLICY No student shall take a vacation requiring more than two days of absence from school without prior approval from the principal. Students and parents taking a vacation should realize: 1. No special teacher tutoring will be expected of teachers to compensate for school days missed. 2. Anyone not seeking prior approval from the principal for vacations exceeding two school days shall not receive the benefits of advanced assignments, and the decision to allow make-up work shall be left to the principal's discretion. 3. The recommended vacation time should not exceed ten (10) school days if parents expect administrative approval; vacations in excess of the ten days might possibly carry with them a two-point deduction in the final nine-week’s grade for each exceeding the ten-day limit. 4. No school days are to be missed during a nine-week’s period after a vacation has been taken unless a doctor's excuse is presented. 5. A phone call from parents is absolutely essential on or before the day of the absence if special circumstances necessitate absence from school after taking a vacation which causes a student to exceed the five excused days limit per nine weeks. No make-up work will be allowed if this particular policy is not followed. 6. Students are fully responsible for securing and completing all make-up and prior assignment work and tests within a reasonable time, with the number of days allowed for make- up never to exceed the number of school days missed. Work handed into teachers later than the number of school days missed is not to be accepted by them. Students will receive zeros for this work. DRESS REGULATIONS Students and their parents are responsible for students’ proper dress and personal appearance while at school. Students are expected to dress appropriately at all times. Any dress or grooming that interferes with the cleanliness, health, welfare, or safety of the students, or that disrupts the educational process by being distracting, indecent or inappropriate, is expressly prohibited. Students should consider the following when dressing for school: 1. Clothing and accessories will not have obscene, profane, drugrelated or gang-related messages nor should it advertise something prohibited to minors. 2. Shoes must be worn. 3. Hats or hoods are not appropriate in school between 8 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.. 4. Students need to dress appropriately for the weather. 5. Spandex/leggings cannot be worn alone without being covered by another garment that must be at least mid-thigh in length. 6. No clothing with rips or holes will be permitted. Sponsors and teachers of elective classes or activities may require standards that are more strict regarding dress and appearance for participation in their programs or activities. The administration has the right to determine what clothing and accessories are appropriate. Students will be asked to refrain from wearing clothing and accessories deemed inappropriate. Students may be asked to change clothing and accessories that are deemed inappropriate. The decision of the administration is final. Disciplinary action may be taken if a student refuses to follow the direction of the administration. 37

All students participating in physical education must have a separate pair of tennis shoes for P.E. only. It will be reflected in the student's grade if students do not comply. Students who do not comply with the dress code may be asked to return home to change. Transportation is the responsibility of the student and/or parent. Disciplinary action will be the following: 1st Offense – Warning 2nd Offense – Detention 3rd Offense – Saturday School STUDENT CONDUCT CODE Discipline is the positive direction of behavior toward established standards of conduct, fully understood and based upon reason, judgment and rights of others. Ideal discipline is self-directed and self-controlled. Schools, community and parents share the responsibility for helping students develop self-discipline. Discipline is necessary to assure an orderly environment in which each person may live and learn to his/her full capabilities in harmony with others. When selfcontrol falters and self-discipline fails, disciplinary forces outside the individual must be imposed to protect the rights of others. Education proceeds best when there is a balance between valid disciplinary regulations and due process provisions. A contemporary school atmosphere is essential among students, teachers, and administrators. There are times, however, when certain circumstances dictate that policies regarding suspension, emergency removal, and expulsion be implemented, but only when the student in question has knowledge of the regulations and has access to the due process guidelines. This code of regulations applies while a student is in the custody or control of the school; on school grounds or closely proximate thereto; at a school-sponsored function or activity or on school-owned property; or on provided transportation vehicles. In addition, the Student Code of Conduct governs a student’s conduct at all times, on or off school property, when such student conduct is connected to activities or incidents that have occurred on district-owned or controlled property; is reasonably related to the health and safety of other student and/or employees; is directed at a district official or employee or the property of the official or employee; or such conduct would unreasonably interrupt the educational processes of the Botkins Local School.’ CLASS AND STUDY HALL EXCUSE POLICY 1. All students are to report to their scheduled class first. Students ask permission to be dismissed; they do not inform the teacher where they are going. Teachers may and should refuse students to leave if they have reason to believe students are abusing their privileges. 2. No student on the failure list may be excused from class or study hall except with principal's permission. 3. Students needing to use the restroom should report to class before it starts to seek permission to be late and to report in for attendance purposes. With teacher permission, the student may be dismissed for a designated period of time. 4. A note shall be required of all students desiring to see a teacher before their dismissal is granted. If a student wishes to secure a note for a group of students, only one student is to be sent, and upon that student's return and with the teacher's permission (failure list checked), their dismissal granted. 5. Absolutely no tardiness to class will be tolerated. No student should be in the hall at any time during the school day (except during their lunch hour or between classes) unless he/she has a hall pass or excuse stating the reason for the request to be excused in his/her possession. 38

6. MAINTAIN GOOD ORDER. 7. Students who have been detained by another teacher, causing their tardiness, must secure notes from the teacher who detained them before being admitted to their next class. 8. All students must have a hall pass to be in the hall.

STUDY HALL REGULATIONS 1. Students are expected to be on time and in their seats as they are in any other class. 2. Students are not to be excused unless by written request from another teacher. 3. No more than one (1) student should be permitted to leave the study hall at any one time. Approximately 3-4 minutes should be permitted in the restroom. 4. Games (cards, chess, checkers, etc.) are allowed with permission and within reason. 5. Twenty (20) study hall students only are permitted in the library at one time unless by special permission from the school librarian. 6. MAINTAIN GOOD ORDER. 7. No student may have more than 2 study halls per day. Physical education courses and lab courses will not be included in the count. 8. Headphones and radios are allowed with permission and within reason. No games are allowed. TEXTBOOK REGULATIONS Students damaging a textbook or a library book while it is checked out to them will be assessed a fee to cover the cost of replacing the book. SIGN-IN/SIGN-OUT REGULATIONS Any student reporting to or leaving the school premises after the opening bell, must check in with the high school office. All students leaving the building must have permission from a parent or guardian. Permission must be granted from office personnel to leave school. Anyone failing to check in with the office properly will be considered truant from school and will be disciplined accordingly. A written excuse should always be presented and prior approval from the office must be given before admissions and departures will be authorized during school hours. BULLYING Prohibition Against Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying Harassment, intimidation, or bullying behavior by any student/school personnel in the Botkins School District is strictly prohibited, and such conduct may result in disciplinary action, including suspension and/or expulsion from school. “Harassment, intimidation, or bullying”, in accordance with House Bill 276, means any intentional written, verbal, graphic or physical act including electronically transmitted acts i.e., Internet, cell phone, personal digital assistant (PDA), or wireless handheld device, either overt or covert, by a student or group of students toward other students/school personnel with the intent to harass, intimidate, injure, threaten, ridicule, or humiliate. Such behaviors are prohibited on or immediately adjacent to school grounds, at any school-sponsored activity, on school provided transportation, or at any official school bus stop that a reasonable person under the circumstances should know will have the effect of:

39

A. Causing mental or physical harm to the other students/school personnel including placing an individual in reasonable fear of physical harm and/or damaging of students’ personal property; and, B. Is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment for the other student/school personnel. SEXUAL HARASSMENT All persons associated with this school system, including but not limited to the Board, the administration, the staff and the students, are expected to conduct themselves at all times so as to provide an atmosphere free from sexual harassment. Any person who engages in sexual harassment while acting as a member of the school community will be in violation of this policy. Definition of Sexual Harassment: Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature may constitute sexual harassment. Reports of sexual harassment may be reported to the counselor, principal, or superintendent. ANTI-HAZING POLICY It is the policy of the Botkins Board of Education that hazing activities of any type are inconsistent with the educational process and shall be prohibited at all times. No administrator, faculty member, or other employee of the school district shall encourage, permit, condone, or tolerate any hazing activities. No student, including leaders of student organizations, shall plan, encourage, or engage in any hazing. Hazing is defined as doing any act or coercing another, including the victim, to do any act of initiation onto any student or other organization that causes or creates a substantial risk of causing mental or physical harm to any person. Permission, consent, or assumption or risk by an individual subjected to hazing does not lessen the prohibition contained in this policy. Administrators, faculty members, and all other employees of the school district shall be particularly alert to possible situations, circumstances or events which might include hazing. If hazing or planned hazing is discovered, involved students shall be informed by the discovering school employee of the prohibition contained in this policy and shall be reported immediately to the principal. GANG-RELATED POLICY “Gang” as used in this policy, shall mean two or more individuals who associate with each other primarily for criminal, disruptive, and/or other activities prohibited by law and/or by the district’s rules and regulations. Gangs and gang-related activities are prohibited on school property or during school-affiliated activities. No student may intimidate or harass another student for the purpose of gang recruitment, gang intimidation, or gang retaliation. The visibility of gangs and gang-related activities in the school setting cause a substantial disruption of and/or material interference with school and schoolrelated activities of this district. No student on or about school property or at any school-sponsored activity shall: 1. Wear, possess, use, distribute, display, any clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge, symbol, sign, or other item which is evidence of membership in or affiliated with any gang. 2. Communicate membership in or affiliation with a gang either verbally or nonverbally (through gestures, handshakes, slogans, drawings, etc.). 3. Commit an act which furthers gang activity, including but not limited to: 40

. Soliciting others for membership in any gang . Requesting any person to pay for protection or otherwise intimidating or threatening any person . Committing any other illegal act or other violation of school district policies . Inciting other students to act with physical violence upon any person All violations of this policy will be referred to the police and students will be subject to suspension, counseling, and/or expulsion.

RESPONSIBILITY AND AUTHORITY The administration, the classroom teacher, and the other professional staff members are responsible for setting guidelines and administering these guidelines in an effort to ensure student safety and discipline in the building, on the school grounds, on field trips, at extracurricular activities, to and from school, and during the lunch period. Classified employees (secretaries, teacher aides, library aides, cooks, custodians, bus drivers, etc.) are responsible to the administration for supporting the discipline code by referring problems which develop to the administrators. In the absence of the administrator, such problems are to be referred to a professional staff member. Discipline problems on school buses on routine trips shall be referred to the administrator. Field trips are an extension of the classroom. The school staff will work with parents and the community to maintain proper student safety and discipline to and from school. Where misbehavior exists, the appropriate administrative actions will be taken.

DISPLAY OF AFFECTION POLICY The administration and teachers at Botkins High School recognize that a natural part of growing up involves the demonstration of physical affection for members of the opposite sex. However, it is question of propriety when such affection is openly exhibited in school. Therefore, because of the example such actions set for younger students in school, and to reinforce the primary reason for attending school -- that of acquiring an education -- it shall be the policy of Botkins Local Schools to notify parents of any kissing, petting or hand holding which is unbecoming to the general image of the school. Repeated violations after warnings will result in stronger actions and may involve suspension from school. There is a time and place for everything. During school hours is not the time, and school is not the place, for such actions. Depending on the infraction, any of the following measures may be used: 1. Verbal Warning 2. School detention (or Saturday school) 3. Parent Notification/Conference 4. Withdrawal of privilege (e.g. driving to school, athletic participation, attendance at or participation in any extracurricular activity.) 5. In-School Suspension 6. Out-of-School Suspension 7. Referral to Truant Officer 8. Referral to Juvenile Court 9. Recommendations for Expulsion

41

INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR/DISCIPLINE VIOLATIONS: A violation of any of the following will result in disciplinary actions. Areas of violation: 1. Engaging in fighting or other violent behavior. 2. Disruption or interference with curriculum or extracurricular activities. 3. Threatening harm to another. 4. Using abusive language or offensive language. 5. Challenging or taunting another likely to evoke a violent response. 6. Creating a physically offensive situation. 7. Creating a risk of physical harm to a person or property. 8. Damage to property. 9. Assault to a student, school employee or other persons on school premises. 10. Carrying, possessing, or transporting a dangerous weapon (or any object which can be dangerous) on a school premises. Pocket knives are not permitted. The penalty for carrying, possessing, or transporting a weapon (or any object which can be dangerous) can be expulsion. 11. Use, possess, transmit, purchase, sell, or be under the influence of narcotics, alcoholic beverages or drugs including look-alike drugs, while on school premises during school hours, after school hours, and during school activities. 12. Failure to comply with reasonable directions of teachers, student teachers, substitute teachers, teacher aides, principal or other authorized school personnel during any the period of time when the student is under the authority of the school. *13. Smoking, use or possession of tobacco (or nicotine vapor / electronic cigarettes) on school premises. 14. Violations of rules governing bus behavior. 15. Violations of regulations of school clubs and organizations. 16. Tardiness. 17. Truancy. 18. Skipping classes. 19. Unauthorized use of school property. 20. Automobile operation violations. 21. Leaving school grounds without permission 22. Distributing or possessing pornographic publications on school premises. 23. Lying. 24. Stealing. 25. Disrespect. 26. Cheating. 27. Forgery of a parent, guardian, or school personnel's signature. 28. Altering or removal of school records. 29. Parking a motor vehicle in an unauthorized area. 30. Setting off fire alarms/setting fires. 31. Being in the hall without a hall pass. 32. Abuse of school personnel. 33. Other acts not consistent with the philosophy of Botkins Local School. 34. Bullying 35. Use of hand held electronics with internet capability. 36. Cell phone usage is prohibited during school hours. 37. Using a camera/cell phone in any restroom, locker room, or shower room is forbidden. *By law, the penalty for smoking must be clearly stated. It is as follows: 1) Penalty for possession of tobacco 2-day suspension 2) Penalty for use of tobacco -------- 3-day suspension 42

*For purposes of this policy, “use of tobacco” means to chew or maintain any substance containing tobacco, including smokeless tobacco, in the mouth to derive the effects of tobacco, as well as all uses of tobacco or tobacco substitutes, including cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco, chewing tobacco, snuff or any other matter or substance that contain tobacco, in addition to papers used to roll cigarettes, and/or the smoking of electronic, “vapor” or other substitute forms of cigarettes, clove cigarettes, or other lighted smoking devices for burning tobacco or any other substance.

BEHAVIOR AND CONDUCT These rules and regulations apply to all school functions both during the school day and after hours. They are enforceable at any school-related activities. Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner becoming to the school. No GAMBLING, SMOKING, or DRINKING of ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES shall be permitted. Students may not have in their possession any form of drug, unless by prescription. They may not buy, sell, or trade for such items unbecoming and unrepresentative of our school. Behavior of our students should make us proud of our school system and be a tribute to our parents and the community. MEMORANDUM TO PARENTS REGARDING DISCIPLINARY MEASURES WILL BE ENFORCED FOR VIOLATIONS WHICH OCCUR 1. On and off the school grounds during and immediately before or immediately after school hours; or 2. On the school grounds at any other time when the school is being used by a school group; or 3. Off the school grounds at a school activity, function, or event; or 4. While being transported by a vehicle provided by the school for student transportation. It should be remembered that a school's authority extends to any student, at any time or place on the school grounds or at any school function. SEARCH AND SEIZURE Administrators may search a student or his/her property (including vehicles, purses, knapsacks, gym bags, etc.) with or without the student’s consent, whenever they reasonably suspect that a search will lead to the discovery of evidence of a violation of law or school rules. The extent of the search will be governed by the seriousness of the alleged infraction and the student’s age. General housekeeping inspection of school property may be conducted with reasonable notice. Student lockers are the property of the District and students have no reasonable expectation of privacy in their contents or in the contents of any other District property including desks or other containers. School authorities may conduct random searches of the lockers and their contents at any time without announcement. Unannounced and random canine searches may also be conducted. (Note: Signs accurately reflecting this policy MUST be placed in a conspicuous area by lockers.) Search of a student and his/her possessions, including vehicles, may be conducted at any time the student is under the jurisdiction of the Board of Education if there is a reasonable suspicion that the student is in violation of school rules. A search may also be conducted to protect the safety of others. Any student who exercises the privilege of parking an automobile on school grounds shall be considered to have given implied consent to a search of such 43

automobile at any time a search is requested by the school administration. Failure to comply with a reasonable search will be considered insubordination. Additionally, students have NO reasonable expectation of privacy in their actions in public areas including but not limited to, common areas, hallways, cafeterias, classrooms and gymnasiums. The District may use video cameras in such areas and on all school vehicles transporting students to and from regular and extracurricular activities. Anything that is found in the course of a search may be used as evidence of a violation of school rules or the law, and may be taken, held or turned over to the police. The School reserves the right not to return items that have been confiscated. SURVEILLANCE CAMERAS For students’ safety and welfare, video surveillance cameras are placed throughout the building and school grounds. Actions recorded on these cameras may be used as evidence in disciplinary action. Any attempt to damage or interfere with the function of these devices will result in disciplinary action by the school and possible referral to local law enforcement agencies. EXPLANATIONS OF DISCIPLINE TEACHER DETENTION: This form of detention is given by the teacher and will be served under that teacher's supervision. At least one day's notice will be given to allow the student to make transportation plans. SCHOOL DETENTION: This type of detention is to be served before or after school Wednesday, 2:45-3:30 P.M. or Thursday, 7:00-7:45 A.M. Times and days may change. Any changes will be announced over the P.A. and 24 hours notice will be given. 1. Students must be in assigned seat and they will not be able to leave the room until dismissed. If a student fails to be in the assigned room on time, this will result in further disciplinary action. All students are to remain seated until they raise their hands, are recognized and have permission granted from the supervisor. If the supervisor feels a student is abusing the privilege, he may deny a student this privilege. Only one student may be out of the room at any given time. No talking without permission is permitted. It is the responsibility of the parents to provide transportation from detention. 2. If a student violates detention rules, Saturday school will be imposed. 3. If a student fails to show up for detention and doesn't notify the principal, it could result in an automatic one-day suspension. This will be handled case by case. 4. Any student who accumulates five detentions in a grading period will be assigned a Saturday school. Ten in a grading period, will result in a one-day suspension. SATURDAY SCHOOL: This is provided to help students recognize the importance of being in school and to keep students in school by providing a viable alternative to suspension. Saturday School Guidelines: 1. Students will be seated and working at a time to be determined. 2. Students must have school work to do at Saturday session. DO NOT bring magazines. 3. Students will remain seated and ask for permission to leave seat for any reason -- including pencil sharpener. 4. Any form of communication without permission, sleeping, putting head down, passing materials, eating, or general disobedience will result in suspension. 44

5. Failure to report to Saturday School will result in suspension. It is the responsibility of the parents to provide transportation from detention and to and from Saturday School. IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION: Students who have violated the discipline code may be assigned to serve in-school suspension. First offenses may result in suspensions. Examples include but are not limited to drug, alcohol and tobacco possession and use, failure to serve detention. Students assigned to in-school suspension will attend at Botkins under the supervision of a suspension monitor. Any violations by a student while assigned to in-school suspension will result in either automatic out-of-school suspension, or additional time in in-school suspension. Due process will be followed. The student will be in a study room all day and must do all assigned work during that time. All work may be made up during in-school suspension. OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION: The out-of-school suspension is used when a student has not changed their behavior to that which is acceptable by the school, even after repeatedly using other less forceful types of discipline. In some cases first offenses may result in suspension. Examples include, but are not limited to, alcohol and tobacco possession and use, and failure to serve detention. There are times when out-of-school suspension will be used immediately because the offense is of such a magnitude as to warrant that discipline. Whenever out-of-school suspension is used, the administration will follow due process and will allow the student a hearing, and will, whenever possible, contact the parent by phone and will follow the action with a letter to the parent stating the offense and the time to be spent out of school. When a student is on an out-of-school suspension, he is not to participate in any school activities or to attend any school events. In addition, while suspended from school, a student should remain at home during the hours school is in session. During this period, the student is responsible for all make-up work. If the student is suspended for three days, they will have three days after the suspension to make up the work. An out-of-school suspension will count as a day of unexcused absence. For out-of-school suspensions, a student's final nine weeks grade will be deducted (2) points for each day of suspension. An out-of-school suspension is counted as an absence. EXPULSION: 1. Only the superintendent shall have the right to expel. 2. Written notice shall be given the pupil. 3. The notice shall contain the reasons for intended expulsion, and a notice of time and place to appear before the superintendent for a hearing, if desired (this hearing may be attended by the pupil, parents or a representative); such a hearing shall not be less than seventy-two hours and not more than one hundred twenty hours after notice is given. 4. Notification of parents, guardian or custodian of the pupil and the clerk of the board shall occur within twenty-four hours after suspension. 5. This notice shall contain the reasons for expulsion, a notification of the right to appeal to the Board of Education after a hearing with the superintendent -- (a request must be in writing within seventy-two hours after the hearing)--and notification of the right to be represented at the appeal and for the appeal to be held in executive session. 6. Expulsion of a student will result in a student being removed from school for more than ten (10) days. During the expulsion, a student's grades will be 0% for each day missed. 45

DUE PROCESS RIGHTS The Board of Education recognizes that students waive certain constitutional rights, regarding their education. Accordingly, the Board establishes the following procedures: A. Student subject to suspension: When a student is being considered for an out-of-school suspension by the Superintendent, principal, or other administrator: 1. 2.

3. 4.

5.

6.

The student will be informed in writing of the potential suspension and the reasons for the proposed action. The student will be provided an opportunity for an informal hearing to challenge the reason for the intended suspension and to explain his/her actions. An attempt will be made to notify parents or guardians by telephone if a suspension is issued. Within one (1) school day of the suspension the Superintendent, principal, or other administrator will notify the parents, guardians, or custodians of the student and the Treasurer of the Board. The notice will include the reasons for the suspension and the right of the student, parent, guardian, or custodian to appeal to the Board or its designee; the right to be represented at the appeal; and the right to request the hearing be held in executive session if before the Board. The notice shall also specify that if the student, parent, guardian, or custodian intends to appeal the suspension to the Board or its designee, such notice of appeal shall be filed, in writing, with the Treasurer of the Board or the Superintendent within 14 calendar days after the date of the notice to suspend. (Note: It is recommended that the Board require individuals to file the notice of appeal within a specific number of calendar days after the suspension notice. The Board cannot specify a date for the filing of a notice of appeal of an expulsion that is less than fourteen (14) days). If the offense is one for which the District may seek permanent exclusion, then the notice will contain that information. Notice of this suspension will also be sent to the: a. Superintendent; b. Board Treasurer; c. Student’s school record (not for inclusion in the permanent records). If a student leaves school property without permission immediately upon violation (or suspected violation) of a provision of the Student Code of Conduct/Student Discipline Code or prior to an administrator conducting an informal hearing as specified above, and the student fails to return to school on the following school day, the principal, assistant principal, Superintendent, or any other administrator, may; send the student and his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) notice of the suspension, and offer to provide the student and/or his/her parents an informal hearing upon request to discuss the reasons for the suspension and to allow the student to challenge the reasons and to explain his/her actions, any time prior to the end of the suspension period. 46

Appeal of suspension to the Board or its designee The student who is eighteen (18) or older or the student’s parent(s) or guardian(s) may appeal the suspension to the Board or its designee. They may be represented in all such appeal proceedings. A verbatim record will be kept of the hearing which may be held in executive session at the request of the student, parent, or guardian, if held before the Board. The procedure to pursue such appeal will be provided in regulations approved by the Superintendent. Notice of appeal must be filed, in writing, with the Treasurer or the Superintendent within fourteen (14) calendar days after the date of the notice to suspend. (Note: It is recommended that the Board require individuals to file the notice of appeal within a specific number of calendar days after the suspension notice. The Board cannot specify a date for the filing of a notice of appeal of an expulsion that is less than fourteen (14) days). Appeal to the Court Under Ohio law, appeal of the Board’s or its designee’s decision may be made to the Court of Common Pleas. B.

Students subject to expulsion: When a student is being considered for expulsion by the Superintendent: 1.

2.

3.

The Superintendent will give the student and parent, guardian, or custodian written notice of the intended expulsion, including reasons for the intended expulsion. The student and parent or representative have the opportunity to appear before the Superintendent or designee to challenge the proposed action or to otherwise explain the student’s action. The written notice will state the time and place to appear, which must not be earlier than three (3) school days nor later than five (5) school days after the notice is given, unless the Superintendent grants an extension upon request of the student or parent. Within one (1) school day of the expulsion, the Superintendent will notify the parents, guardians, or custodians of the student and the Treasurer of the Board. The notice will include the reasons for the expulsion and the right of the student, parent, guardian, or custodian to appeal to the Board or its designee; the right to be represented at the appeal; and the right to request the hearing be held in executive session if before the Board. The notice shall also specify that if the student, parent, guardian, or custodian intends to appeal the expulsion to the Board or its designee, such notice of appeal shall be filed, in writing, with the Treasurer of the Board or the Superintendent within 47

fourteen (14) calendar days after the date of the notice of expulsion. (Note: Under statute, the Board cannot specify a date for the filing of a notice of appeal of an expulsion that is less than fourteen (14) days). If the offense is one for which the District may seek permanent exclusion, then the notice will contain that information.

Appeal of Expulsion to the Board The student who is eighteen (18) or older or the student’s parent(s) or guardian(s) may appeal the expulsion by the Superintendent to the Board or its designee. They may be represented in all such appeal proceedings and will be granted a hearing before the Board or its designee. A verbatim record will be kept of the hearing which may be held in executive session at the request of the student, parent, or guardian. The procedure to pursue such appeal will be in accordance with regulations approved by the Superintendent. Notice of appeal must be filed, in writing, within fourteen (14) calendar days after the date of with the Superintendent’s decision to expel with the Treasurer of the Board or the Superintendent. (Note: under statute, the board cannot specify a date for the filing of a notice of appeal of an expulsion that is less than fourteen (14) days). While a hearing before the board may occur in executive session, the Board must act in public. Appeal to the Court Under State law, the decision of the Board may be further appealed to the Court of Common Pleas. C.

Students subject to emergency removal: Students whose conduct warrants emergency removal shall be dealt with in accordance with the rights and procedures outlined in Policy 5610.03—Emergency Removal.

D.

Students subject to permanent exclusion: Students whose conduct is that for which permanent exclusion is warranted shall be dealt with in accordance with the rights and procedures outlined in Policy 5610.01—Permanent Exclusion of Nondisabled Students.

E.

Students subject to suspension from bus riding/ transportation privileges: Students whose conduct warrants suspension from bus riding and/or transportation services shall be dealt with in accordance 48

with the rights and procedures outlined in Policy 5610.04— Suspension of Bus Riding/Transportation Privileges. These procedures shall not apply to in-school disciplinary alternatives including in-school suspensions. An in-school suspension is one served entirely within a school setting. Nor shall these disciplinary alternative procedures apply to students who are prohibited by authorized school personnel from all or part of their participation in co-curricular, interscholastic, and/or noninterscholastic extracurricular activities.

EMERGENCY REMOVAL If a pupil's presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property or an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process, the superintendent or principal may remove the student from the premises, during curricular or extra-curricular activity. A due process hearing, as outlined under "suspension", must be held within twenty-four hours after removal unless the removal is for less than twenty-four hours in length. If the superintendent or principal reinstates a pupil prior to the hearing for emergency removal, the teacher may request and shall be given written reasons for the reinstatement. The teacher cannot refuse to reinstate such a pupil. In an emergency removal, a pupil can be kept from class until the matter of his misconduct is disposed of either by reinstatement, suspension or expulsion. LOCKERS School lockers are the property of the school, but students must rent locks for the price of $1.00 per year. All students are requested to keep their lockers locked to avoid theft and unnecessary destruction of items left unsecured in lockers. BUS POLICY Students scheduled to ride the bus are expected to do so. Those students wishing to drive to school must follow the driving regulations. Behavior on the bus should be the same as that in school. Students not conducting themselves properly may face suspension of their privilege of bus transportation. PUPIL AND PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Parents and pupils must assume that school bus transportation is a privilege to the student, not a right. 2. Pupils will ride on assigned buses. Parents must request in writing to permit deviation from this rule. Requests shall be made to the administration. 3. Pupils will ride their assigned bus both to and from home to school unless a written request asking permission to be let off the bus at some other stop is presented to bus driver and signed by the parents. Parents will assume the responsibility of the child when such a request is made and granted. 4. Parents are responsible for the safety of pupils while going to and from pick up points and for their meeting the bus on schedule. 5. Buses operate on a time schedule as outlined by the transportation administrator. Parents and pupils should help maintain this time schedule by being ready at the appointed time designated. 6. Parents will be responsible for any damage to a bus by their children. 7. Eating, smoking, drinking pop, and littering are not permitted on buses. 8. Noise on a bus shall be kept to a minimum at all times to assure safety of operation. 49

9. Absolute quiet must be maintained at railroad crossings or other danger areas. 10. Nothing shall be thrown out of the bus, nor anything held so it extends out of the window. 11. All parts of pupils’ bodies shall be kept inside the school bus at all times. 12. Pupils shall be waiting at the curb side of the road to board the bus when it stops in the morning. 13. Back door is used as an emergency only and not as an exit door. 14. Loading and unloading, stay back on the sidewalk until bus has stopped to load and unload. 15. Pupils shall sit three to a seat and no standers shall be allowed as long as seats are available. Seats may be assigned by the driver to maintain order and for evacuation purposes. 16. No fighting, name calling or profane language will be tolerated. 17. The bus driver has the authority to enforce the above regulations. The pupils shall conduct themselves on the school bus as they would in a classroom except that reasonable conversation is permissible. Continued disorderly conduct or refusal to submit to the authority of the driver shall be sufficient reason for refusing transportation due to misconduct. The school administration shall notify the parents of such refusal with a full explanation for this action. 18. No buses will make stops detouring from their normal bus route. This iincludes kindergarten students. USE OF MEDICATIONS Students who must take prescribed medication during the school day, must comply with the following guidelines: a. Parents should, determine with the counsel of their child’s prescriber whether the medication schedule can be adjusted to avoid administering medication during school hours. b. The appropriate form must be filed with the guidance counselor before the student will be allowed to begin taking any medication during school hours or to use an inhaler to selfadminister asthma medication and epi-pen. Such forms must be filed annually and as necessary for any change in the medication. c. All medications must be registered with the Guidance Office and must be delivered to school in the containers in which they were dispensed by the prescribing physician or licensed pharmacist. d. Medication that is brought to the Guidance office will be properly secured. Except as noted below, medication must be delivered to the Guidance Office by the student’s parent or guardian or by another responsible adult at the parent or guardian’s request. Students may carry emergency medications for allergies and/or reactions, epi-pen, or asthma inhalers during school hours. Students are strictly prohibited from transferring emergency medication or inhalers to any other student for their use or possession. A student may possess and use a metered dose inhaler or a dry powder inhaler to alleviate asthmatic symptoms or before exercise to prevent the onset of asthmatic symptoms, and may possess and use an epi-pen, at school or at any activity, event, or program sponsored by or in which the student’s school is a participant if the appropriate form is completed and on file in the Health Office. SCHOOL BOARD POLICY ON DRUG-FREE SCHOOLS In accordance with Federal Law, the Board of Education prohibits the use, possession, concealment, or distribution of drugs by students on school grounds, in school or school-approved vehicles, or at any school-related event. Drugs 50

include any alcoholic beverage, anabolic steroid, dangerous controlled substance as defined by state statute, or substance that could be considered a “look-a-like” controlled substance. Compliance with this policy is mandatory for all students. Any student who violates this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, in accordance with due process and as specified in the student handbooks, up to and including expulsion from school. When required by State law, the District will also notify law enforcement officials. The District is concerned about any student who is a victim of alcohol or drug abuse and will facilitate the process by which she/he receives help through programs and services available in the community. Students and their parents should contact the school principal or counseling office whenever such help is needed.

DRIVING REGULATIONS: The following regulations apply to students who drive to school: 1. Students must have insurance to cover liability and property damage. 2. No motorcycles or cars shall be parked in front of a school exit or block any driveways or exits. 3. Speeding will not be tolerated in the vicinity of the school. Any reports from school, neighbors or faculty concerning reckless conduct with an automobile will result in the student's loss of driving privileges, and the matter shall be turned over to the local police. 4. Cars should be locked when parked. 5. Students may not spend free time in their cars or drive around in them during the school day. 6. Students may not take cars from the school property during the day unless permission is granted by the office. 7. All motorized vehicles that are being driven to school by students, must be registered in the principal's office. Forms can be obtained in the high school office. 8. Students need to ask permission from the office to be in the parking lot during school hours. THOSE STUDENTS PARKING IN RESERVED AREAS MAY RECEIVE SATURDAY SCHOOL. PARKING Students must park in the South parking lot. Students are not permitted to park in the visitor parking spots in the South lot or in the teacher parking lot west of the school.

51

Driving Regulations

51

Pupil Load

12

Academia Team

26

Drop/Add Policy

13

Responsibility and Authority

40

Academic Letter

30

Drug Free Schools

50

Retention Policy

11

Accelerated Academics

22

Due Rights Process

46

Saturday School

44

Activity Organizations

26

Early Dismissal

10

Scholastic Bowl

27

INDEX

Announcements

School Property Regulations

11

Anti-Hazing Policy

40

Emergency Removal

49

Search and Seizure

43

Appeal to the Board

47

Expulsion

45

Semester Exams

12

Assemblies

34

Extracurricular Activities

24

Senior Guided Learning

33

Athletic Policies

32

FCCLA

27

Sexual Harassment Policy

40

Athletic Teams

33

FFA

26

Sign In/Sign Out Regulations

39

Attendance Behavior and Conduct Policy

35 42

35 9

Statement of Purpose Student Conduct Code

1 38

Bell Schedules Blood Borne Pathogens, Control of Bus Policy—Student/Parent Resp.

3 8 49

Field Trips Free and Reduced Lunches FTA

27

Student Council

31

Gang-Related Policy

40

Student Records, Protection & Privacy

5

Bullying

39

Grade Classification

29

Student Rights and Responsibilities

4

Calendar

3

9

Grading Scale

29

Study Hall Regulations

39

Career-Technical Curriculum

20

Graduation Requirements

15

Suspensions

45

Cell Phones

11

Guidance Services Homeless Students

13 7

Tardy Policy

35

Certificate of Attendance

19

Homework Line

21

Telephone Regulations

11

Cheerleading

33

Honor Roll

20

Textbook Regulations

39

Class and Study Hall Excuse

38

Inappropriate Behavior/Discipline

42

Theft Policy

Classes/Selection of Officers

25

UVCC Admissions

15

Tobacco

42

Closing of School

10

Library Regulations

11

Units for Class Placement

12

College Prep Curriculum Communicable Diseases, Control of Computer Technology Agreement

20 7 21

Lockers

49

Vacation Policy

37

Lost and Found

11

Varsity B

31

Course Registration

13

Lunch Regulations

9

Violations

42

Credit Flexibility

14

Medications

50

Vision Statement

Missed Assignments

36

Visitor Policy

10

1

Work Permits

15

Yearbook

27

Daily Schedule Dances Deposits and Fees

2

Emergency Drills

3 34 9

Mission Statement Music Letter

30

Detentions

44

National Honor Society

28

Diplomas

18

Notification to Parents

4

Display of Affection Policy

41

31

Dress Regulations

37

Plays, Musicals, Variety Shows Policies-UVCC Students

Driver Education Availability

14

Prom

34

52

14

9

1

SUMMER CONTACT:

BOTKINS LOCAL SCHOOL 404 E. State Street P O Box 550 Botkins, Ohio 45306 Phone-937 693-4241 Ext 7001

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