TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome/Introduction Formula for Student Success Vision Statement/School Motto Common Instructional Framework Student Academic Accountability Grade Level Requirements General Curriculum Information Calculating Weighted Grades and Class Rank Honors Point System/Grading Scale NC State Board of Education Academic Scholars’ Program Selection of Ushers, Marshals, and Honors Students Academic Letter Award National Technical Honor Society Scholarships Available to MHHS Students Attendance Policy Early Dismissal and Late Arrival Procedures & Consequences Bell Schedules (Lunch & Delay Schedule) Cafeteria and Lunch Procedures Counselors Military Recruiters Textbooks Lockers Drivers Education/Student Drivers Internship/Dual Enrollment/ Intern Program Requirements and Procedures Job Shadowing Procedures Co-curricular Activities Fire Drills Illness at School/Medicines Homebound Students Lost & Found Announcements and Class Interruptions Schedule Changes School Insurance Withdrawal Procedures Transfer Students Home School Transfer Students School Grievance Procedure Gym Rules & Regulations Media Center Privileges & Responsibilities Olweus Bully Prevention Procedures & Standards of Conduct Cell Phones Hats & Hoods Posted Material Prom Skateboards/Off Campus Violations ISS & Lunch Detention Bus Procedures Standards for Athletes Dress Code Discipline Code Matrix

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2 2 3 3 3 4 4 5 6 7 7 8 8 8 8 9 10 11 11 11 11 12 12 13 15 15 15 16 16 16 16 16 16 17 17 17 18 18 18 18 19 19 19 19 20 20 20 20 21 22 23

WELCOME TO YOU, THE STUDENTS of Mountain Heritage High School, the administration, faculty, and staff extend a most sincere and hearty welcome. This handbook contains information concerning our school policies and procedures. We hope it will be of great value in helping you to adjust to our school and to become an integral part of it. Graduation from high school fulfills dreams and provides the means to a new and exciting future. Our goal is to develop a program that will allow each student to realize his/her mental, emotional, social, and physical potential. We hope that you will participate in our varied activities within our school which will prepare you to live a better life and successfully take your place in a global society. Our school welcomes you to its ranks, and we hope you will always be conscious of its traditions and requirements. The school will be whatever you make it. Remember that your success in this school will be directly proportional to your efforts. Let us always have the spirit and courage to do the things which will make it outstanding. The image you create can make Mountain Heritage High School a school to be proud of now and for many years to come. Sincerely, Kevin M. Huskins, Principal Mountain Heritage High School

INTRODUCTION The intent of this handbook is to give overall guidelines to the standards and procedures of Mountain Heritage High School. The administration feels it is the responsibility of each student and their parents to secure a copy of this handbook for easy referral should questions arise. Sometimes new situations will occur or circumstances will arise not covered specifically by this handbook. The administration reserves the right to exercise its administrative prerogative in responding to these new situations.

FORMULA FOR STUDENT SUCCESS         

Conduct yourself in such a manner that contributes to an orderly environment. Always be considerate of others. Become involved in extra-curricular activities. Always give your best effort. Attend school on a regular basis for academic success. Make good choices and decisions. Keep informed—make sure we have your correct mailing and phone information. Ask for help when you need it. Plan and prepare for your future.

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VISION STATEMENT OF MOUNTAIN HERITAGE HIGH SCHOOL BELIEFS WE BELIEVE:     

Effective schools challenge and encourage all students to learn. Effective schools foster a safe and inclusive environment for all students. Effective schools tailor instructional approaches and educational settings to respond to a diverse student population. Effective schools provide curricular, co-curricular and extra-curricular activities that foster life-long learning. Effective schools function as an integral part of the community.

SCHOOL MOTTO M – Mastering a quality education. H – Hoping for a brighter future. H – Honoring our heritage. S – Striving for success.

COMMON INSTRUCTIONAL FRAMEWORK Every student reads, writes, thinks and talks in every classroom every day.

STUDENT ACADEMIC ACCOUNTABILITY    

In order to be promoted from grade 9 to 10, each student must pass seven units of credit, one of which must be English. In order to be promoted from grade 10 to 11, each student must have earned no less that fourteen (14) course units, two of which must be English. In order to be promoted from grade 11 to 12, each student must have earned no less than twenty-two (21) course units, three of which must be English. Twenty-eight (28) units of credit are required for graduation and include the following: English - 4 course units Math - 4 course units (one must be Math I) Social Studies - 4 course unit (World History, Civics & Economics, American History I & II) Science – 3 course units (Earth Science, Biology, and a Physical Science) Health & Physical Education - 1 course unit Electives - 12 course units

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GRADE LEVEL REQUIREMENTS 9TH GRADE - ENGLISH I, MATH, WORLD HISTORY, EARTH SCIENCE, HEALTH/PE., 3 ELECTIVES 10TH GRADE - ENG. II, MATH, CIVICS & ECONOMICS, BIOLOGY, 4 ELECTIVES 11TH GRADE - ENG. III, MATH, U.S. HISTORY 1 and 2, LABORATORY SCIENCE, 3 ELECTIVES 12TH GRADE - ENG. IV, MATH, 6 ELECTIVES  

All students in grades 9-12 shall register for and enroll in four (4) courses per semester. Any student, who plans to seek college course credit, while still enrolled at MHHS, must have prior approval of the high school administration.

Seniors who have to do make up work required for graduation must have work turned into the course teacher five (5) days prior to the end of the 180-day school term to be eligible to participate in graduation. No student who is ineligible for a diploma may participate in graduation. Students can only register for one English course per year. However, students who fail English the fall semester may revise their second semester schedule, with the principal's approval, and retake English immediately providing class load limitations are not violated. No independent study courses will be offered unless approved by the principal. Students may not take Dual Enrollment classes at Mayland if the same class is offered by Mountain Heritage High School. Dual Enrollment classes need to be academic in nature or correspond to a CTE pathway. Students may earn up to four high school credits per semester. A reduced schedule for seniors second semester is not allowed. Policy #4101 states: “All students who enroll in the Yancey County Schools must enroll full time”. This can be met by taking Dual Enrollment courses. For some students with learning disabilities, the Occupational Course of Study will remain an option. These students should have the Occupational Course of Study identified in their Individualized Education Plan.

GENERAL CURRICULUM INFORMATION Foreign Exchange students will not be awarded a high school diploma. Notification During each grading period, parents of students in grades 9-12 who are failing coursework or not meeting graduation requirements will be notified at mid-term and the end of each nine weeks. Parent conference and involvement shall be solicited and remedial efforts stated. Report cards are distributed each nine weeks and are not withheld for any reason. Modifications Test modifications shall comply with guidelines established by the State Department of Public Instruction. Exceptional Students Identified handicapped students who are pursuing a high school diploma shall follow the course of study and meet the same standards for promotion and/or course credit as non-handicapped students. Identified handicapped students shall be provided educational and related services as considered appropriate by exceptional children committees to provide the students an opportunity to successfully attain one of the completion documents and/or earn promotion. 4

SUMMARY OF STANDARDS FOR CALCULATING THE WEIGHTED GRADE POINT AVERAGE AND CLASS RANK The calculations are based on a standardization of (1) academic course levels; (2) grading scales; and (3) the weighting of course grades. The class rank is based on a weighted grade point average in which a half (.5) quality point or weight is added to passing grades earned in Advanced/Honors/Academically Gifted courses or one (1) quality points are added to passing grades earned in Advanced Placement courses. The weighting policy that is in effect for all students has been approved by the NC Board of Education, by the University of North Carolina system, and the NC Community College System. This ranking will be displayed on all student transcripts. Academic Course Levels and Associated Weights The NC Board of Education agreed and approved a standard 10-point grading scale to begin with the 2015-16 school year. This scale will not include “pluses” or “minuses” and it will be applied for coursework beginning with the 2015-16 school year for students in grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. There will not be any attempt to retroactively alter grades from prior years to the new grading scale.

Courses That Are Eligible for Weights (Class of 2016, 17, 18) Courses eligible for weights include courses that fall into one of the following seven categories: 1. Honors/AIG sections of standard level academic courses, Career and Technical Education courses, and NCVPS courses and on-line courses, that are in accordance with the philosophy, rubric, procedures, guidelines, and standards for curriculum, instruction, and assessment, as described in the North Carolina Honors Course Implementation Guide. Such courses are assigned to category H (1 point); it is not necessary to have a standard level of a course to offer an honors level. 2. Pre-calculus (advanced mathematics 2070), non-AP/IB calculus, mathematics courses beyond the level of calculus, and foreign language courses beyond the second year level. Such courses are considered to be inherently advanced and are assigned to category H (1 point); 3. Arts education courses that are proficient or advanced course components that are of a numerical sequence of courses in any discipline area of arts education meeting the standards for music honors, dance honors, visuals arts honors, and theatre arts honors (1 point); 4. All AP/IB and higher-level college courses (2 point). 5. Grades in community college courses that have been approved on the most recent Comprehensive Articulation Agreement Transfer List and courses taught at four year universities and colleges (2point) 6. Independent colleges and universities and UNC campuses may also have any of the CAA courses (lower division courses typically taught in the freshman or sophomore year of college) taught by their colleges receive quality points in the same way as provided in #5 for the community colleges. Courses That Are Eligible for Weights (Class of 2019) Courses eligible for weights include courses that fall into one of the following seven categories: 1. Honors/AIG sections of standard level academic courses, Career and Technical Education courses, and NCVPS courses and on-line courses, that are in accordance with the philosophy, rubric, procedures, guidelines, and standards for curriculum, instruction, and assessment, as described in the North Carolina Honors Course Implementation Guide. Such courses are assigned to category H (.5 point); it is not necessary to have a standard level of a course to offer an honors level. 2. Pre-calculus (advanced mathematics 2070), non-AP/IB calculus, mathematics courses beyond the level of calculus, and foreign language courses beyond the second year level. Such courses are considered to be inherently advanced and are assigned to category H (.5 point); 3. Arts education courses that are proficient or advanced course components that are of a numerical sequence of courses in any discipline area of arts education meeting the standards for music honors, dance honors, visuals arts honors, and theatre arts honors (.5 point);

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4. All AP/IB and higher-level college courses (1 point). 5. Grades in community college courses that have been approved on the most recent Comprehensive Articulation Agreement Transfer List and courses taught at four year universities and colleges (1point) 6. Independent colleges and universities and UNC campuses may also have any of the CAA courses (lower division courses typically taught in the freshman or sophomore year of college) taught by their colleges receive quality points in the same way as provided in #5 for the community colleges. Remedial courses are not eligible for weighting. All honors courses offered have followed the review process outlined in the latest edition of the North Carolina Honors Course Implementation Guide. A listing of honors courses and AP courses offered at Mountain Heritage High School: HONORS POINT SYSTEM In compliance with N.C. Department of Public Instruction standards for calculating weighted grade point average and class rank, the following courses will receive additional quality points: (5/ 4.5) Point Courses Honors English I, II, III, IV Honors Earth/Environmental Science Honors Biology Honors Art IV Honors Physics Spanish III, IV French III, IV Honors World History Honors US History Honors Early Childhood Education II Honors E-Commerce I Honors Multimedia and Webpage Design Honors Health Science II

Honors Civics & Economics Anatomy and Physiology Honors Chemistry Proficient/Advanced Band Proficient/Advanced Theater Arts Proficient/Advanced Chorus Drafting III Honors Math I Honors Math II Honors Math III Honors Horticulture Pre-calculus Honors JROTC

(5/6) Point Courses (available to Juniors and Seniors) AP English Language AP English Literature AP U.S. History AP Biology AP Calculus (BC) AP Music Theory *AP Earth & Environmental Science – available to Sophomores per teacher recommendation CAA college courses All other courses receive four quality points.

GRADING SCALE A = 90-100 B = 80- 89 C = 70- 79 D = 60- 69 F = 0- 59 FF = Failing grades due to attendance

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NORTH CAROLINA STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION ACADEMIC SCHOLARS' PROGRAM The North Carolina State Board of Education, believing that the success of our State and Nation depends on the full development of our youth and that some students should be encouraged to pursue a well-balanced but more rigorous high school program, institutes a North Carolina Academic Scholar's Program with concentrations in one or more program areas. Students satisfactorily completing requirements as identified by the State Board shall be named North Carolina Academic Scholars and receive special recognition by the State Board. Students meeting all requirements for a North Carolina Academic Scholar's Program will receive from the State Board of Education an appropriate seal of recognition to be affixed to the diploma. Interested students should contact the Counseling Office for information and requirements. SELECTION OF USHERS, MARSHALS, AND HONOR STUDENTS Honor students consist of those having a 4.0 cumulative GPA or higher. In order to be an honor student, marshal, or usher at graduation, a student MUST have met the minimum attendance requirements and be in good standing regarding discipline violations (OSS or Suspensions). Students may not be currently over, or have been over prior to make-up in the current semester, in attendance. Selected students must have a cumulative weighted GPA of 4.0 or higher.

Graduates with a GPA of 4.0 or higher will be designated as graduating with “Honors”. Graduates with a GPA of 4.25 or higher will be designated as graduating with “High Honors”. Honor graduates will be noted in the graduation program and will wear honors cords to highlight their achievement. Students WILL NOT WALK BY RANK but will walk alphabetically. Selection Criteria for Valedictorian and Salutatorian (only applies to Class of 2016, 17, 18) Eligible seniors must have completed 32 credits prior to graduating from MHHS, which can include credits from former schools, on-line and/or dual-enrollment courses. Students must complete 3 full semesters at MHHS prior to graduation. The Valedictorian will be the person or persons with the highest weighted GPA in the graduating class and ranked as #1. The Salutatorian will be the person or persons with the second highest weighted GPA in the graduating class and ranked as #2. In the event the Valedictorian and the Salutatorian are tied within 3 thousandths (.000), they will serve as a Co-Valedictorians. Students who rank in the top fifteen of their respective classes will have the following augmented scale applied to earned grades to determine weighted GPA. This weighted GPA will determine valedictorian and salutatorian for the graduating class. This will not affect official class rank as determined by the official North Carolina Transcript. Augmented Scale: 96-100=4.00 95%=3.875 94%=3.750 93%=3.625 92%=3.500

91%=3.375 90%=3.250 89%=3.125 88%=3.000 87%=2.875

86%=2.750 85%=2.625 84%=2.500 83%=2.375 82%=2.250

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81%=2.125 80%=2.000 79%=1.875 78%=1.750 77%=1.625

76%=1.500 75%=1.375 74%=1.250 73%=1.125 70-72%=1.000 ≤69%=0.000

Transcripts of students who may be transferring to a high school may not be altered in order to “standardize” the calculations for class rank. For example, a student transferring in had an opportunity to take more AP courses than students in the school; therefore, someone changes the student’s transcript so that the student does not impact class rank of students who were already enrolled at the school. Under no circumstances will a student’s transcript be changed once the courses have been entered unless there was an error in the entry. The transcript may not be changed to accommodate calculation of class rank. This practice is a clear ethics violation. (SBE, June 16, 2009)

ACADEMIC LETTER AWARD To receive an Academic Letter Award, a student must have a cumulative average of no less than 95 or a 4.0 or higher grade point average. The student must have completed at least 2 complete semesters at MHHS.

NATIONAL TECHNICAL HONORS SOCIETY To qualify for Technical Honors, students must meet the following requirements: Maintain an overall GPA of 3.0, maintain a vocational or technical overall GPA of 3.25, complete a Level II course, complete all vocational/technical career courses, obtain teacher recommendations, have active involvement in student organizations or clubs, and pay a one-time fee of $25.00. The student must have completed at least 2 complete semesters at MHHS.

SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE TO MHHS STUDENTS See the Senior Counselor for information regarding applications, deadlines and financial aid. This information is also available on the Counseling Department webpage. Students should check their email frequently in order to receive up-to-date information. ATTENDANCE POLICY We believe that attendance is the responsibility of the home, and regular school attendance is a significant factor in educational achievement. All students under 16 years of age shall attend school as required by North Carolina General Statute 115-116 Compulsory Attendance Law. The public school, like businesses and industry, must have standards and procedures concerning attendance, to help students form habits of acceptable attendance and punctuality, and to place the responsibility for school attendance on the student and his/her parents. MHHS staff follow the YCS Attendance Policy 5100 and State attendance guidelines. They shall endeavor to cooperate fully with parents and students in matters concerning absences and tardies. Excused Absences With documentation, the following reasons for absences, tardies, or early pick-ups will be excused according to North Carolina Attendance Code: (1) Illness or injury (6) Religious observances (2) Quarantine (7) Educational opportunity (3) Death in immediate family (8) Late or no bus (4) Medical or dental appointments (9) Out-of-school suspension (OSS) (5) Court proceedings (in which student is a party to or under subpoena as a witness)

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Unexcused Absences An absence not deemed excused under the reasons listed above will be unexcused. NOTIFICATION  Parents will be notified each day via the Blackboard Connect of their child's absence. Parents should contact the school within five (5) days after the student returns to school of the reason for the student’s absence. Parents may notify the school by telephone, written statement, or doctor’s statement. After five (5) consecutive or ten (10) accumulated absences (excused or unexcused) per semester, a doctor’s excuse for additional absences will be required.  The principal will provide notification to the parents/guardians after the student’s 3rd unexcused or 6th combined absence that their child is in danger of the NC Compulsory Attendance Law and the YCS Attendance Policy which may be subject to course credit denial.  The sixth unexcused absence will result in the notification to the YCS attendance counselor. Continued unexcused absences from school will result in court involvement.  The principal will provide written notification to the parents/guardians after the student’s 10th combined absence, that their child is in violation of the YCS Attendance Policy and is subject to course credit denial. The school’s attendance committee and the YCS attendance officer will be notified.  An accumulation of excused and unexcused absences, which exceed ten (10) days per semester, are considered excessive and may result in no-credit for the class.  Documented reasons for exceeding the 10th combined absence limit per semester will be considered by the attendance committee. Parental appeal letters or personal appearances can be considered as documentation. The following documentation will be required for excessive absences:  Notes from doctors/dentists  Hospital/emergency room documents  Notes from Clerk of Court  Notes from Health Department  Forms for pre-arranged educational opportunities * Students may appeal to the attendance committee to receive course credit for classes in which they were over in attendance. Make-up Time Students may only earn credit for excused days missed up to five (5) days/twenty (20) periods per semester by attending after-school academic sessions. One and one-half (1 ½) contact hours will be equal to one period of attendance. Attendance make-up will only be provided the last twenty days of each semester prior to testing. Make-Up Work Arrangements to do make-up work are the responsibility of the student and should be made with the subject teacher promptly. This may be done during SMART LUNCH. Make-up work may be assigned when the student is absent. The student will complete all make-up work within 5 days of the date in which the student returns back to school. Make-up work may be specific material missed by the student, reinforcement, or enrichment. Students are entitled to complete work caused by excused absences without receiving penalties to grades.

LATE ARRIVAL & EARLY DISMISSAL PROCEDURES & CONSEQUENCES 

Students who arrive on campus after 8:10 am will report to the attendance coordinator. Students must be present for at least 60 minutes during any class period in order to be counted present for that period. Students who arrive more than 30 minutes late for any class or leave more than 30 minutes 9

before the end of class will be counted absent for that class period.  The student must sign out in the office and present the early dismissal form to the security personnel at the gate.  Students may not be excused from school on a regular basis to report to work unless enrolled as an intern. The Department of Public Instruction requires that all students enrolled in grades 1-12 in public school receive 5 1/2 hours of instruction per day.  Students will not be allowed to leave school and return to campus except for medical/legal reasons. Mountain Heritage High School’s premises are under video surveillance. BELL SCHEDULES SMART Lunch Schedule (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) 1st 8:05 - 9:34 89 min. 2nd 9:38 - 11:07 89 min. SMART LUNCH Homeroom 11:07- 11:32 25 min. Lunch 11:32 – 11:57 25 min. 3rd 12:01 – 1:30 89 min. 4th 1:34 - 3:03 89 min. Regular Lunch Schedule (Monday & Friday) 1st 8:05 - 9:39 2nd 9:43 - 11:17 1st Lunch 11:17 - 11:47 3rd (for 1st lunch) 11:51 - 1:25 2nd Lunch 12:55 - 1:25 3rd (for 2nd lunch) 11:21 - 12:55 4th 1:29 - 3:03

94 min. 94 min. 30 min. Building A 94 min 30 min Building B & Math Department 94 min 94 min

Two Hour Delay/Snow Schedule 1st 10:03 - 11:08 1st lunch 11:08 - 11:38 2nd (for 1st lunch) 11:42 - 12:47 2nd (for 2nd lunch) 11:12 - 12:17 2nd lunch 12:17 - 12:47 3rd 12:51 - 1:55 4th 1:59 - 3:03

65 min. 30 min. Building A 65 min. 65 min. 30 min. Building B & Math Department 64 min. 64 min.

Three Hour Delay/Snow Schedule 1st 11:00 - 11:51 1st lunch 11:51 - 12:16 nd 2 (for 1st lunch) 12:20 - 1:11 2nd (for 2nd lunch) 11:55 - 12:46 2nd lunch 12:46 - 1:11 3rd 1:15 – 2:07 4th 2:11 - 3:03

51 min. 25 min. 51 min. 51 min. 25 min. 52 min. 52 min

Building A

Building B & Math Department

Mountain Heritage High School’s classes are a first priority during a schedule change or snow delay. Interns and Dual Enrollment Students must make prior arrangements for schedule changes or snow delays with Mayland or intern employer.

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CAFETERIA & LUNCH PROCEDURES Breakfast will be served to Mountain Heritage students until 8:10 a.m. The prices are as follows: Reduced - $0.00 Full – $1.00 Adults – TBA Mountain Heritage High School participates in the Federal Lunch Program which allows us to offer full, reduced and free lunches to those students who qualify. Prices for lunches are as follows: Reduced meal - $.40 Regular meal - $2.40 Adult regular meal - TBA Mega meal- $2.75 Adult Mega meal - TBA The cafeteria, besides being a lunchroom, is also a place where good human relations can be developed. Students are expected to practice the general rules of good manners which one should find in the home and elsewhere in life. Some simple rules of courteous behavior which would make the lunch period pleasant and relaxing are:  Observing good dining room standards at the table.  Leaving the table and surrounding area clean and orderly.  Replacing chairs, putting trash in proper containers, and putting trays in proper area.  Not leaving the cafeteria while eating or carrying food.  Not being in the lunchroom other than at the designated times.  Not running to the cafeteria.  Not breaking lunch line. During the lunch periods students' free time will be confined to the breezeway or amphi-theater. Students will not be allowed inside the academic buildings during these times. This includes the FACS area. Students are not allowed to leave and return to the campus during lunch.

COUNSELORS Counseling services are available to all students from the counseling department, the Next Step center, or through community mental health agencies. Many problems concerning both school and one's personal life can be helped by counseling with a competent person. Some of the services available include assistance with education planning, interpretation of test scores, occupational information, career information, scholarship information, college entrance exams, and more. The counselors are here to help and will be more than willing to help schedule courses or help decide on a future vocation, as well as to assist with any personal problems a student may have. Anything discussed with a counselor will be kept confidential. Students wishing to visit a counselor should contact the counseling office to arrange an appointment. Students who need information on careers/career planning should contact the Next Step Center to schedule an appointment. MILITARY RECRUITERS Unless you request otherwise, our school is required by federal law to give your child’s name, address, and phone number to any military recruiter who asks. If you do not make this request, release of the information is automatic when recruiters ask. See Counselors for Parent Refusal Form for Military Recruiter Information if needed.

TEXTBOOKS All textbooks are loaned to students for their use during the school year. Textbooks are to be kept clean and handled carefully. Lost and/or damaged books are the responsibility of the student, and must be paid for. A student who willfully abuses a textbook will be required to pay full value of the book. 11

LOCKERS A locker will be assigned to each student at the beginning of the year by the homeroom teacher. A lock will be issued to those students desiring one. All students are urged to keep their lockers locked to guard against theft. The school is not responsible for stolen items. Each student will be held responsible for any damage to the locker or lock. The lockers are the property of Mountain Heritage High School and are subject to inspection by authorized school personnel. Any lock used must be a school lock. No student is allowed to use any locker other than his/her own, and accepts all liabilities involved in so doing.

DRIVER EDUCATION Driver Education is offered as an out-of-school program. Students need to see the school secretary to make arrangements. There is a $40 fee for the driving element in Drivers Education which will be collected by the Drivers Education instructors. STUDENT DRIVERS Driving to school is a privilege which is subject to cancellation at any time should a student's driving constitute a problem or hazard. Parking stickers are required for all student vehicles and students are required to purchase a parking sticker for their vehicle. Any student who obtains driving/parking privileges under false pretenses (i.e. buys a sticker for another student, allows another student to buy a sticker for him/her, borrows a parking sticker from another student, or found using another student’s sticker on one’s car, etc.) will lose driving privileges for the remainder of the semester with no refunds. Pursuant to G.S. 115C-46 the Yancey County Board of Education has the power to regulate parking of motor vehicles on school campuses. Parking Sticker Fees Parking Stickers – Early Graduates ONLY $20 Parking Sticker for the school year $30 Parking stickers must be paid in the first two weeks of each semester. All fees must be paid BEFORE a sticker will be issued. Any student who possesses a valid NC Driver’s License and are in good standing may drive to school and obtain a parking permit. Student drivers may lose their driving privileges for any time period from one (1) day to permanent revocation for any of the following reasons: 1. Failure to purchase and display a parking sticker. 2. Failure to park in designated parking area. 3. Violation of local and state traffic laws on school grounds. 4. Leaving school without permission. 5. Loitering in cars before or after school, during school hours or during lunch. 6. Transporting students off campus who do not have permission to leave. When a student loses his/her driving privileges he/she may not operate an automobile on school grounds nor have someone else drive an automobile for them on school grounds. Student absences do not clear driving suspension days. Mountain Heritage assumes no responsibility for student drivers or their passengers who choose to park off campus and walk the remainder of the distance to school. Student vehicles may be towed on repeat offenders. Student drivers who fail to pass three (3) subjects per semester or maintain ninety (90) percent attendance in any semester will be denied driving privileges for the next semester. 12

PERMANENT REVOCATION of driving privileges will result for any of the following reasons:  Possession of alcohol, drugs, drug paraphernalia or controlled substances in a vehicle on school grounds or for use of a vehicle to acquire and return to campus with said substances.  Refusal by a student or that student's parents to allow campus police or any other law enforcement officer to search the students' vehicle while it is on campus.  Allowing passengers to ride in any area other than the designate passenger compartment i.e. truck beds, hoods, fenders, roofs, trunks, bumpers, trailers while the vehicle is on campus. Passenger- 1st offense=2 days ISS, 2nd offense=OSS.

MHHS INTERNSHIP PROGRAM POLICIES AND PROCEDURES An Internship is a work-based learning experience in which a high school student learns by taking on a responsible role as a worker in a company or organization and then observing and reflecting on what happened while they were in the workplace. Student internships supplement formal classroom instruction by giving students the opportunity to apply what they have learned in school to real-world situations. Students are exposed to industry standards while interacting with industry experts during the daily operations of a business or organization in the student’s chosen career field. Participation in the Internship Program helps students make informed career decisions for their future and sometimes lead to part-time or full time employment after high school or college graduation. Prerequisite: Students must be approved for entry into the program before registering for the class. Students must demonstrate the maturity and responsibility necessary to participate in the program as shown by their academic performance, attendance record and discipline history. Students must have completed a four-course concentration in the Career Cluster in which they wish to intern. Students may see the Career Development Coordinator (CDC) or a Counselor for more information about the Internship Program. Internship Requirements:  Internships are to be completed during a student’s senior year.  Work-based learning experiences must take place in a field related to the student’s career interests as documented on their Career Development Plan.  An official agreement among the school, business partner, student and parent/guardian outlining the requirements and responsibilities of all parties involved must be completed for each internship position and kept on file by the CDC. These agreements outline the goals of the internship and the competencies to be mastered by the student. The CDC will provide a copy of agreements to each party.  Student interns must be supervised by a licensed teacher or Career Development Coordinator who has an appropriate background for creating job placements and supervising student interns.  At the completion of the internship, each student intern must submit a final project documenting their experiences throughout the semester. The school supervisor and job site supervisor must both evaluate the project and make a collaborative decision concerning the student’s grade for the project.  To earn academic credit for internships (both paid and unpaid), students must work:  A minimum of 135 hours* must be completed for 1 course credit.  A minimum of 270 hours* must be completed for 2 course credits. *Travel time does not count toward internship hours. Internship Application Process 1. Internship Application Two weeks prior to registration, the student must submit to the CDC: a) A completed application form b) Two teacher recommendations

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c) A one-page typed essay explaining what the student hopes to learn by participating in the internship program and their future career goals. The essay should be double-spaced and keyed in a 12-point font with 1-inch margins. 2. Job Placement Once the student is admitted into the program, the CDC will work with the student and employers to find an appropriate job site directly related to the student’s career goal. Note: State Board Policy HSA-M-001 prohibits students from earning credit by providing school services such as cafeteria worker or office assistant. Students cannot work in in a business that their family owns or be supervised by a family member. Once an appropriate internship site has been identified, the student must complete an internship packet which includes permission forms, policies and procedures and contains all necessary forms. Students cannot begin working at their job site until all agreements and forms have been completed, signed and submitted to the CDC. These packets will be provided to students by the CDC and include: a) Work-Based Learning Agreement b) Skill Development Plan c) Intern Information Sheet d) Employer Agreement e) Parent Agreement The student, Career Development Coordinator and employer will jointly plan the organization, implementation, and evaluation of the internship experience. 3. Student Responsibilities The student must: 1. Provide a valid Worker’s Permit to the employer and the Career Development Coordinator if they are working in a paid internship position and are under the age of 18. 2. Provide his/her own transportation to and from the internship site. 3. Sign in and out of school at the Receptionist Desk each day for their internship class period. 4. Submit required time sheets and work logs (signed by their site supervisor) to the Career Development Coordinator at the end of each week. 5. Complete and submit a Final Project at the end of the semester which documents the skills and knowledge gained during the work experience. Internship Program Rules and Regulations 1. Students are not allowed on the high school campus during the class period scheduled for their internship without permission from the Career Development Coordinator or Principal. 2. Internship time cannot be used as a time to complete make-up work for other classes, for personal errands, other jobs or non-internship related activities. 3. Students must be present at school AND on the job site to earn hours each day unless they have received prior approval by the CDC or principal. 4. Students may work at their job site during teacher work days or if schools are closed due to inclement weather IF road conditions are safe enough for student travel. 5. Students must be at their job site during the scheduled internship period for the entire semester, even if they have already met the minimum hours for credit. 6. Students must notify the Career Development Coordinator in advance if the business or organization is closed during a school day or if their employer tells them not to work on a specific day. 7. Students must abide by all school and work-site rules and regulations, especially cell phone and dress code policies.

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JOB SHADOWING Job Shadowing is a short-term educational experience that introduces an individual student to a particular job or career by pairing the student with an employee of a business, industry or agency. By following or "shadowing" the employee, the student becomes familiar with the duties associated with that occupation, the physical setting of the occupation, and the compatibility of the occupation with his or her own career goals. Shadowing develops an awareness of the educational and technical skills required for entry and advancement in a specific occupation. The student becomes familiar with the work-site environment and the job-related characteristics of the specific job or career. Shadowing provides students the opportunity to discuss areas of interest or concern with the employee in the "real world" occupation they are shadowing. By providing a relevant experience outside the classroom, employers are able to contribute to the education of youth and help prepare students for future career opportunities. Job Shadowing Policies Job shadowing experiences are coordinated through the Mtn. Heritage CDC. To participate in a job shadowing experience, students must:       

Complete an application and documentation for job shadowing. Obtain permission from teachers, their parents and the Career Development Coordinator using the proper documentation. Attend a brief orientation session with the Career Development Coordinator prior to the shadowing experience. Provide their own transportation to and from the shadowing site. Adhere to school and workplace rules while participating in the shadowing experience, especially cell phone and dress code policies. Complete a Job Shadowing evaluation form upon completion of the experience. Write a thank you letter to the workplace mentor.

COCURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Students participating in any cocurricular activity at Mountain Heritage High School must pass a minimum course load of three (3) subjects each semester in order to be eligible to participate in cocurricular activities the following semester. Also, students participating in any co-curricular activity must meet a minimum attendance requirement of being present at school ninety (90) percent of the previous semester. Co-curricular activities are defined as, but not limited to, any school-sponsored activity such as band, drama, clogging, chorus, class officers, club officers, honor societies, homecoming and Miss Trillium contestants, etc. which meets and/or performs after regular school hours. FIRE DRILLS Fire drills at regular intervals are required by law and are an important safety precaution. It is essential that when the signal is given, everyone obeys promptly and clears the building by the prescribed route as quickly as possible, even if suspected to be false. The classroom teacher will give specific instructions to students. Sounding the alarm under false pretenses is not only punishable by law but will be treated as a very serious offense by school officials.

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ILLNESS AT SCHOOL Students who are too ill to follow a normal class schedule should not attempt to come to school on that day. Students who become ill after they have arrived at school, and are too ill to attend classes, should report to the office immediately. The school is not responsible for the student's transportation home. Under no circumstances will a student be permitted to stay in a restroom because of illness. Occurrences of this type will be treated as a skipping class. MEDICINES Students who have been prescribed medicines by their physician may keep their medicines at the school. Bottles must be clearly labeled and stored with the school nurse. Medicine is not to be transported on the school bus to and from school. Students may not receive any over the counter medicine, such as aspirin or cold medication, without parental consent.

HOMEBOUND STUDENTS No student will be considered deserving of homebound status unless his/her physical handicap is verified by a physician. Family members of the student will have the responsibility of notifying the school and making arrangements for continuing studies of the student.

LOST AND FOUND Students finding lost articles in the school building or on the school grounds are to take them to the office, where they will be claimed by the owner. After five (5) days the articles will be disposed.

ANNOUNCEMENTS & CLASS INTERRUPTIONS Brief announcements will be made at the beginning of second and fourth periods, before and after school, and during class changes. No announcements will be made during classes unless an emergency. CATV will run announcements daily. All announcement requests must be turned in by the beginning of first period. NO flower or balloon deliveries are permitted at school during school hours. Parties during the school day are not appropriate at the high school level unless they are part of the curriculum.

SCHEDULE CHANGES No schedule changes will be permitted after the first ten days of the semester. This is the point in which the Department of Instruction considers you enrolled in this course and will participate in all testing for this class. SCHOOL INSURANCE Accidents do happen, whether on the athletic field, in the gym or cafeteria. Yancey County Schools offers parents the opportunity to purchase student accident insurance from a private third-party insurance provider. The insurance provides coverage for medical costs associated with accidents at school and some options provide coverage for accidents that occur outside of school. Each year students are provided with the necessary enrollment forms. If you are interested in purchasing the insurance, please review the form and

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send directly to the insurance carrier or go online at www.studentinsurance-kk.com . If you did not receive a form, please contact your child’s school. Disclaimer: Yancey County Schools has no direct affiliation with the insurance provider and does not receive any portion of the premium you may pay to the provider. This notice and the opportunity to purchase the insurance are provided merely as a service and convenience to parents.

Students in shop classes, auto mechanics, agriculture, foods, co-op, industrial mechanics, interscholastic athletics, and physical education classes must either take school insurance or bring a signed statement (furnished by the school) from the parents saying that the student is covered by a family insurance policy.

SCHOOL WITHDRAWAL PROCEDURE Students who wish to withdraw from school, either to transfer or drop out permanently, must check with the counselors before doing so. Paper work is required if a student plans on dropping-out. A form will be furnished to the student who will be responsible for getting his/her teachers to sign and then return to the counseling office. The forwarding of records for students who fail to follow proper procedure will not be honored. A parental conference and contract between school, student, and parent will be required of students who have previously dropped out one or more times and wish to re-enroll.

TRANSFER STUDENTS Students transferring from another school to Mountain Heritage must provide proof that they withdrew from their previous school in good standing. Students, who will continue to reside in Yancey County, but wish to transfer to another school, must secure a release from the Yancey County Board of Education. Students whose legal residence is outside Yancey County must secure a release from the Board of Education of that county and be accepted by the Yancey County Board of Education. Students, who transfer to Mountain Heritage from schools who are on a schedule other than four-period per day/two semester per year, will be oriented to our schedule on an individual basis.

HOME SCHOOL TRANSFER STUDENTS Placement of students transferring in from home school will be determined by Mountain Heritage High School. Grade equivalency of students transferring from home school or private school using nonstandard grading systems will be determined by Mountain Heritage High School retroactively based on student performance for the first nine weeks at Mountain Heritage. Grades in home school courses shall not be used to determine honor student status.

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SCHOOL GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE A student who has a grievance should first discuss this with the principal. A student can request a formal hearing in which both parties may present witnesses and have opportunity to cross examine. The final decision is rendered by the principal. If the student is not satisfied with the decision of the principal, the student may appeal to the Superintendent, at the Yancey County Board of Education office.

GYM RULES AND REGULATIONS      

You must wear a regulation gym or tennis shoes for use on the gym floor. Any shoes worn on the outside (this includes tennis shoes) will not be allowed on the gym floor. There will be no activities or recreation in the gym unless there is supervision. All activities in the gym during the school day must be cleared through the department chairperson. All night activities must be cleared through the Athletic Director. No student is permitted in the gym at any time unless supervised by a teacher or coach. No one will use the weight room unless under the supervision of a coach. All students assigned to a Physical Education class must be an active participant in that class. MEDIA CENTER PRIVILEGES AND RESPONSIBILITY

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The Media Center is opened each day to students, classes, and small groups and is staffed with teachers and student assistants to help with the use of equipment, locating print and non-print resources, troubleshooting technology issues, and more. It is expected individual students coming to the Media Center will use the materials and equipment with consideration for others. All materials and equipment are to be checked out at the circulation desk and are to be returned by due date. Late fees will apply. Students must pay for all lost and damaged media materials. Computers in the Media Center are to be used for educational purposes. The use of these computers is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use of this privilege will result in the cancellation of those privileges. It is very important to behave in a manner that will continue to provide Media Center privileges.

Technology Support Center (TSC) The TSC is located in the Media Center and is open each day. The TSC is available to students for:  Troubleshooting technology issues with chrome books  Reporting damages and making insurance claims  Checking out loaner chrome books for single day use The TSC will not remove items from a student’s chrome book (charger, strap, personal belongings) without the student’s permission. The TSC will work efficiently to solve the problems and/or fix damages in a timely manner.

OLWEUS BULLY PREVENTION PROGRAM MHHS will begin the Olweus Bully Prevention Program in the fall of 2011. All faculty, staff, and students will be trained in this program Olweus provides information about what bully is and is focused on changing norms and restructuring the school setting to become bully free.

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The anti-bullying rules are as follows: 1. We will not bully others. 2. We will help students who are bullied. 3. We will include students who are left out. 4. If we know that somebody is being bullied, we will tell an adult at school and an adult at home. PROCEDURES AND STANDARDS OF CONDUCT The school, acting in place of and on behalf of parents, has a legal right and responsibility to discipline its charges fairly and evenhandedly. Students, teachers, parents, and society as a whole gain no advantage from a lack of discipline. It is with this understanding and spirit in mind that these procedures are formulated and imposed. It is understood that not every event of behavior is foreseeable. This lack of foreknowledge does not in any way excuse a behavior found to be undesirable in our schools nor exempt individuals or groups from punishment deemed necessary by the administration or staff for said behaviors. Students must obey all rules, codes, regulations, policies and laws of the State of North Carolina. It is understood that students do possess the right to due process within the limits of the law. Students should expect parent notification if a disciplinary action occurs. Suspensions carry an automatic conference opportunity for the parents. Parents are urged to request a conference within three (3) days following the suspension. In cases of suspension for more than ten (10) consecutive days, the student may have counsel present if he/she desires and provides it; they shall also be given a five (5) day notice of hearing prior to the actual hearing. Video cameras and recorders maybe used to monitor school premises/ buses. More information concerning student discipline can be found in the Yancey County Student’s Rights and Responsibility Handbook/Code of Student Conduct adopted 7/14/08 and revised July 2015.

CELL PHONES - ELECTRONIC DEVICES Cell Phones will be allowed for use during non-instructional times. These include class change and lunch. However, once a student enters a classroom, all electronic devices must be turned off unless deemed appropriate by the teacher for the lesson of the day. Students who misuse cell phones will follow the DISCIPLINE MATRIX. HATS - HOODS Students must remove all head wear when entering the building. Hats are not permitted in the building. Students may choose to wear a hat when outside the building during lunch, PE or special classroom activities. If a student enters the building with a hat on, they will be asked to remove the hat and turn in to the office with consequences to follow based on the DISCIPLINE MATRIX.

POSTED MATERIALS No notes/signs/brochures will be posted that interferes with the school day. All materials must be posted on an approved bulletin board and approved by the administration.

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PROM All students that do not attend MHHS are not allowed to attend the prom unless approved by the administration/SRO. A background check will be run on these students. Tickets will not be sold until the person has been approved. PROM Guidelines:  No person the age of 21 or older can attend the prom with a student from MHHS.  A student will not be eligible to attend the prom if they have dropped out of school or have not passed three out of four classes. (Including attendance — same rules for athletic eligibility and driver’s license/permit).  All students that do not attend MHHS must be approved by administration prior to buying a ticket. Background checks will be run.  Any student who has had 5 days of out-of-school suspension, 7 days of in-school-suspension, or 9 total in- or out-of-school suspensions will not be allowed to attend the prom.

SKATEBOARDS ARE NOT ALLOWED ON CAMPUS AT ANY TIME.

OFF CAMPUS VIOLATIONS Student conduct not occurring on education property but violating the Yancey County Student Rights and Responsibility’s Handbook/Code of Student Conduct and the conduct having a direct nexus to the orderly and efficient operation of the school or the safety of individuals in the school may result in in-school suspension or out-of-school suspension. ISS AND LUNCH DETENTION Students will be assigned to Time-Out on a period by period basis. Only in extreme cases may a student spend the entire day in ISS. Accumulated ISS and Time-Out will be handled on a case by case basis. Students who are disruptive in class may be sent directly to Time-Out for the remainder of that class time. Students may be assigned lunch detention for late arrival to school, disturbances outside the classroom, or failure to comply with the procedures and standards of conduct set forth in the handbook. Students assigned to lunch detention in ISS will go directly to the ISS room at the beginning of their lunch and remain there the entire lunch period. BUS PROCEDURES The intent of Yancey County Board of Education Policy is to provide safe bus transportation for the students of the Yancey County Schools. This policy provides standard procedures to be followed by each principal or his designee in the control of student misconduct while said student is being transported to or from school.   

The driver of a school bus shall work closely with the principal of the school to foster and develop the proper attitude toward riding a school bus. All students who ride a school bus may be assigned to a seat by the school principal or his designee. A seating chart shall be displayed on the bus. No exceptions shall be made to this procedure unless authorization by the principal or driver is given to do so. It shall be the responsibility of the bus driver to report all cases of misconduct on the school bus to the proper school official. Proper discipline forms are to be turned in.

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Any student who needs to ride a bus which is not their regularly assigned bus, must present a signed note to Ms. Faye Laws for confirmation.

Failures to follow the rules and regulations on the bus may result in suspension of the bus riding privilege. The following rules apply for bus transportation:  Students must stay seated while the bus is moving.  No fighting, use of tobacco products, use of profanity, or refusal to obey instructions.  No vandalizing or defacing the bus in any manner.  No unauthorized leaving the bus when in route.  No arms, head, etc., out of the windows.  No littering or throwing objects from bus.  Seats may be assigned * Buses are equipped with video cameras and monitored daily. Students are responsible for any damage to bus seats or interior of the bus. *Additional disciplinary action may apply and students may be suspended immediately from riding the bus for actions of gross misconduct.

PROCEDURES AND STANDARDS OF ATHLETES Philosophy: The athletic program of Mountain Heritage High School is to be considered an integral part of the curriculum. It should be subject to the same administrative procedures, regulations, and must operate within the scope of sound educational practices and be based on principles and policies established by the Yancey County Board of Education and the North Carolina High School Athletic Association of which Mountain Heritage is a member. The foremost responsibility of the athletic department will always be the proper educational development of the student who is participating. Eligibility Regulations:  Physical Exam - Athletes must have a physical examination before they compete in any activity. Forms are furnished by the county for this purpose. No athlete is to practice without a physical form being signed by his/her parents and signed by a licensed physician. NOTE: A physical signed by a physician's assistant or a nurse is invalid.  Insurance - Athletic insurance coverage is made available by Mountain Heritage High School. All athletes must carry regular school insurance in order to participate or have a parent signed Insurance Release Form on file.  Students should not be allowed to participate unless he/she (with exception of football which is to be paid for by the school) shows proof of personal insurance coverage and the waiver form is signed by a parent.  To be eligible for athletics in any semester, a student athlete must have passed three (3) subjects the previous semester or by the end of summer school.  To be eligible for participation in athletics in any semester, a student athlete must have attended school ninety (90) percent of the previous semester. Days made up in attendance make-up during the 90 day school term will be counted toward a student athlete's attendance eligibility. Responsibilities of Athletes: Violation of team rules, school policies and unsportsmanlike conduct will result in disciplinary action which may include any of the following in addition to school-imposed discipline: (a) Suspension of game(s) (b) expulsion from the team (c) Additional exercise assignment (d) trophy recipient denial

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Athletes Attendance at School:  The athlete is expected to be in school the entire day of an athletic game and the entire day after a game. Any exceptions to this are to be handled at the discretion of the athletic director.  The athlete cannot practice or participate in any game while in out-of-school suspension.  Students will not be excused from class early for practices.  Tardies will not be excused following an athletic game or practice.  Student athletes and all other students who participate in extra-curricular activities will not be permitted to leave school to get equipment or uniforms unless they have written permission from their coach and/or sponsor; plus administrative and parental approval.

DRESS CODE A student will maintain personal attire and grooming standards that promote safety, health, and acceptable standards of social conduct, and are not disruptive to the educational environment. Appearance or clothing which is disruptive, provocative, indecent, vulgar, obscene, or which advertises illegal drugs or displays obnoxious or indecent signs, symbols or drawings, or which endangers the health or safety of the student or others is prohibited by the Yancey County Schools Board of Education. Articles of clothing, which are offensive to race, creed, color, or sex will not be permitted. Dress Which is Considered Inappropriate (This is not an all-inclusive list and pertains to the regular school environment) 1. Halter tops 2. Tank tops and shirts altered to resemble tank tops (Unacceptable Tank Top: T-shirt with narrow straps and large arm holes). Minimum of 2" coverage on shoulders 3. Bare midriff tops 4. Bare-back tops 5. Shorts, skirts, and dresses should not be shorter than length of extended arm and fingertip length 6. "Sagging" Pants and/or pant legs that excessively drag the floor 7. Underwear worn as Outerwear 8. Clothing with alcohol, tobacco, or controlled substance advertisement or reference 9. Clothing displaying vulgar writing or symbols, sexual reference, or racial comments 10. Exposed undergarments 11. See-through clothing 12. Biker tights worn as outer wear 13. No headgear, hats, hoods or bandanas to be worn inside a School building unless prior approval by the school administration 14. Roller shoes of any nature (ex. Heelys) 15. Any hairstyle, clothing, piercings or attire that is disruptive 16. Clothing or symbols that might be disrespectful, insulting, or promoting an organized social group The code for students bans various modes of dress that would fall under the "disruptive behavior" category. Prohibited are dark glasses worn within a building, lack of appropriate foot covering, chains or jewelry that hang from wallets, studded collars and bracelets which may be used as a weapon, cause injury, or hinder movement. A student who is not in compliance with this policy or a school dress code will be held to the levels of disciplinary action as listed in the Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook “Code of Student Conduct". Students and parents should make themselves familiar with their schools Student Handbook and the Students Right and Responsibilities Handbook for protocol, procedures and consequences.

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