Arp Independent School District

Elementary Student Handbook

2009-2010

Wendy Popescu, Principal

Ernie Haire, Assistant Principal

Sharon Keith, Counselor

16438 CR 294

Arp, Texas 75750

903-859-4650

903-859-3683 Fax

Dear Parents,

The staff of Arp Elementary welcomes you and your child to our campus. Our goal is to provide a safe and positive learning environment for our children. Our mission is to begin building a strong foundation that will prepare our children to live and work responsibly and productively in our society.

We believe the best education results when the school and the home are partners in the educational process. Education is a team effort, and we know that students, parents, teachers, and other staff members all working together can make this a wonderfully successful year that will serve the needs of our children. We request your support and encourage your participation in this process.

The Arp Elementary Student Handbook is designed to provide a resource for some of the basic information that you and your child will need during the school year. Please be aware that the term “the student’s parent” is used to refer to the parent, legal guardian, or any other person who has agreed to assume school-related responsibility for a student.

Both students and parents should become familiar with the Arp ISD Student Code of Conduct, which is a document adopted by the board and intended to promote school safety and an atmosphere for learning. That document may be found inside this handbook.

The Student Handbook is designed to be in harmony with board policy and the Student Code of Conduct. Please be aware that the handbook is updated yearly, while policy adoption and revision may occur throughout the year. Changes in policy or other rules that affect Student Handbook provisions will be made available to students and parents through newsletters or other communications.

In case of conflict between board policy or the Student Code of Conduct and any provisions of the Student

Handbook, the current provisions of board policy or the Student Code of Conduct are to be followed.

After reading through the entire handbook with your child, keep it as a reference during this school year. If you or your child has questions about any of the material in this handbook, please contact the campus office or your child’s teacher.

Also, please complete and return to your child’s campus any required forms included in this handbook or provided by Arp ISD.

We welcome your suggestions.

Sincerely,

Wendy Popescu, Principal

Student Handbook

Arp Elementary School

SECTION I: REQUIRED NOTICES AND INFORMATION FOR PARENTS

This section of the Arp Elementary Student Handbook includes several notices that the district is required to provide to you, as well as other information on topics of particular interest to you as a parent.

STATEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION

In its efforts to promote nondiscrimination, Arp ISD does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, or disability in providing education services, activities, and programs, including vocational programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.

The following district staff members have been designated to coordinate compliance with these legal requirements:

§ Title IX Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of gender: [Johna Huse, 101 Toney Dr. Arp, TX, 903-859-8482]

§ Section 504 Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of disability: [Lara Parker, 101 Toney Dr. Arp, TX 903-859-8482]

§ All other concerns regarding discrimination: See the superintendent [Toney Lowery, 903-859-8482]

PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT

Working Together

Both experience and research tell us that a child’s education succeeds best when there is good communication and a strong partnership between home and school. Your involvement in this partnership may include:

§ Encouraging your child to put a high priority on education and working with your child on a daily basis to make the most of the educational opportunities the school provides.

§ Ensuring that your child completes all homework assignments and special projects and comes to school each day prepared, rested, ready to learn and on-time.

§ Becoming familiar with all of your child’s school activities and with the academic programs, including special programs, offered in the district.

§ Discussing with the counselor or principal any questions you may have about the options and opportunities available to your child.

§ Monitoring your child’s academic progress and contacting teachers as needed

§ Attending scheduled conferences and requesting additional conferences as needed. To schedule a telephone or in-person conference with a teacher, counselor, or principal, please call the school office at 903-859-4650 for an appointment. The teacher will usually return your call or meet with you during his or her conference period or before or after school.

Becoming a school volunteer.

§ Participating in campus parent organizations. Parent organizations include: PTO (Parent/Teacher Organization) and PAW (Parents At Watch).

§ Serving as a parent representative on the district-level or campus-level planning committees, assisting in the development of educational goals and plans to improve student achievement. For further information contact the school at 903-859-4650.

§ Attending board meetings to learn more about district operations.

PARENTAL RIGHTS

Obtaining Information and Protecting Student Rights

Your child will not be required to participate without parental consent in any survey, analysis, or evaluation—funded in whole or in part by the U.S. Department of Education—that concerns:

§ Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent.

§ Mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family.

§ Sexual behavior or attitudes.

§ Illegal, antisocial, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior.

§ Critical appraisals of individuals with whom the student has a close family relationship.

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

§ Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents.

§ Income, except when the information is required by law and will be used to determine the student’s eligibility to participate in a special program or to receive financial assistance under such a program.

You will be able to inspect the survey or other instrument and any instructional materials used in connection with such a survey, analysis, or evaluation.

“Opting Out” of Surveys and Activities

As a parent, you have a right to receive notice of and deny permission for your child’s participation in:

Any survey concerning the private information listed above, regardless of funding.

School activities involving the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information gathered from your child for the purpose of marketing or selling that information.

Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered and scheduled by the school in advance and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of the student. Exceptions are hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under state law.

Inspecting Surveys

As a parent, you may inspect a survey created by a third party before the survey is administered or distributed to your child.

Requesting Professional Qualifications of Teachers and Staff

You may request information regarding the professional qualifications of your child’s teachers, including whether a teacher has met state qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction; whether the teacher has an emergency permit or other provisional status for which state requirements have been waived; and undergraduate and graduate degree majors, graduate certifications, and the field of study of the certification or degree. You also have the right to request information about the qualifications of any paraprofessional who may provide services to your child.

Reviewing Instructional Materials

As a parent, you have a right to review teaching materials, textbooks, and other teaching aids and instructional materials used in the curriculum, and to examine tests that have been administered to your child.

Displaying a Student’s Artwork and Projects

The district will seek parental consent before displaying students’ artwork, special projects, photographs taken by students, and the like on the district’s Web site, in printed material, by video, or by any other method of mass communication.

Accessing Student Records

§ You may review your child’s student records. These records include:

§ Attendance records,

§ Test scores,

§ Grades,

§ Disciplinary records,

§ Counseling records,

§ Psychological records,

§ Applications for admission,

§ Health and immunization information,

§ Other medical records,

§ Teacher and counselor evaluations,

§ Reports of behavioral patterns, and

§ State assessment instruments that have been administered to your child.

Granting Permission to Video or Audio Record a Student

As a parent, you may grant or deny any written request from the district to make a video or voice recording of your child. State law, however, permits the school to make a video or voice recording without parental permission for the following circumstances:

§ When it is to be used for school safety;

§ When it relates to classroom instruction or a co-curricular or extracurricular activity; or

§ When it relates to media coverage of the school.

Removing a Student Temporarily from the Classroom

You may remove your child temporarily from the classroom if an instructional activity in which your child is scheduled to participate conflicts with your religious or moral beliefs. The removal cannot be for the purpose of avoiding a test and may not extend for an entire semester. Further, your child must satisfy grade-level and graduation requirements as determined by the school and by the Texas Education Agency.

Excusing a Student from Reciting the Pledges to the U.S. and Texas Flags As a parent, you may request that your child be excused from participation in the daily recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Texas flag. The request must be in writing. State law does not allow your child to be excused from participation in the required minute of silence or silent activity that follows.

Excusing a Student from Reciting a Portion of the Declaration of Independence

You may request that your child be excused from recitation of a portion of the Declaration of Independence. State law requires students in social studies classes in grades 3–12 to recite a portion of the text of the Declaration of Independence during Celebrate Freedom Week unless (1) you provide a written statement requesting that your child be excused, (2) the district determines that your child has a conscientious objection to the recitation, or (3) you are a representative of a foreign government to whom the United States government extends diplomatic immunity.

Requesting Notices of Certain Student Misconduct

A non-custodial parent may request in writing that he or she be provided, for the remainder of the school year, a copy of any written notice usually provided to a parent related to his or her child’s misconduct that may involve placement in a disciplinary alternative education program (DAEP) or expulsion.

Requesting Transfers for Your Child

As a parent, you have a right:

To request the transfer of your child to another classroom if your child has been determined by the [board or its designee] to have been a victim of bullying as the term is defined by Education Code 25.0341.

To request the transfer of your child to attend a safe public school in the district if your child attends school at a campus identified by TEA as persistently dangerous or if your child has been a victim of a violent criminal offense while at school or on school grounds.

To request the transfer of your child to another campus [or a neighboring district] if your child has been the victim of a sexual assault by another student assigned to the same campus, whether that assault occurred on or off campus, and that student has been convicted of or placed on deferred adjudication for that assault.

Requesting Classroom Assignment for Multiple Birth Siblings

As a parent, if your children are multiple birth siblings (e.g., twins, triplets, etc.) assigned to the same grade and campus, you may request that they be placed either in the same classroom or in separate classrooms. Your written request must be submitted no later than the 14th day after the enrollment of your children.

Parents of Students with Disabilities

Parents of students with learning difficulties or who may need special education services may request an evaluation for special education at any time.

Options and Requirements for Providing Assistance to Students Who Have Learning Difficulties or Who Need or May Need Special Education

If a child is experiencing learning difficulties, the parent may contact the person listed below to learn about the district’s overall general education referral or screening system for support services. This system links students to a variety of support options, including referral for a special education evaluation. Students having difficulty in the regular classroom should be considered for tutorial, compensatory, and other academic or behavior support services that are available to all students including a process based on Response to Intervention. The implementation of Response to Intervention has the potential to have a positive impact on the ability of school districts to meet the needs of all struggling students.

At any time, a parent is entitled to request an evaluation for special education services. Within a reasonable amount of time, the district must decide if the evaluation is needed. If the evaluation is needed, the parent will be notified and asked to provide informed written consent for the evaluation. The district must complete the evaluation and the report within 60 calendar days of the date the district receives the written consent. The district must give a copy of the report to the parent.

If the district determines that the evaluation is not needed, the district will provide the parent with a written notice that explains why the child will not be evaluated. This written notice will include a statement that informs the parent of his or her rights if the parent disagrees with the district. Additionally, the notice must inform the parent how to obtain a copy of the Notice of Procedural Safeguards—Rights of Parents of Students with Disabilities. The designated person to contact regarding options for a child experiencing learning difficulties or a referral for evaluation for special education is Shirley Irwin at 903-859-4052.

If a student is receiving special education services at a campus outside his or her attendance zone, the parent or guardian may request that any other student residing in the household be transferred to the same campus, if the appropriate grade level for the transferring student is offered on that campus.

Accommodations for Children of Military Families

Children of military families will be provided flexibility regarding certain district requirements, including:

Immunization requirements.

Grade level, course, or educational program placement.

Eligibility requirements for participation in extracurricular activities.

Graduation requirements.

In addition, absences related to a student visiting with his or her parent related to leave or deployment activities may be excused by the district.

COMMUNICABLE DISEASES/CONDITIONS

To protect other students from contagious illnesses, students infected with certain diseases are not allowed to come to school while contagious. If a parent suspects that his or her child has a communicable or contagious disease, the parent should contact the school nurse or principal so that other students who might have been exposed to the disease can be alerted.

If a student is sent home with fever, vomiting, and/or diarrhea he or she will not be allowed to return to school until at least 24 hours after all symptoms have ceased.

The school nurse or the principal’s office can provide information from the Texas Department of Health regarding these diseases.

Bacterial Meningitis

State law specifically requires the District to provide the following information:

· What is meningitis?

· Meningitis is an inflammation of the covering of the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by viruses, parasites, fungi, and bacteria. Viral meningitis is most common and the least serious. Bacterial meningitis is the most common form of serious bacterial infection with the potential for serious, long-term complications. It is an uncommon disease, but requires urgent treatment with antibiotics to prevent permanent damage or death.

· What are the symptoms?

§ Someone with meningitis will become very ill. The illness may develop over one or two days, but it can also rapidly progress in a matter of hours. Not everyone with meningitis will have the same symptoms.

§ Children (over 1 year old) and adults with meningitis may have a severe headache, high temperature, vomiting, sensitivity to bright lights, neck stiffness or joint pains, and drowsiness or confusion. In both children and adults, there may be a rash of tiny, red-purple spots. These can occur anywhere on the body.

§ The diagnosis of bacterial meningitis is based on a combination of symptoms and laboratory results.

· How serious is bacterial meningitis?

§ If it is diagnosed early and treated promptly, the majority of people make a complete recovery. In some cases it can be fatal or a person may be left with a permanent disability.

· How is bacterial meningitis spread?

§ Fortunately, none of the bacteria that cause meningitis are as contagious as diseases like the common cold or the flu, and they are not spread by casual contact or by simply breathing the air where a person with meningitis has been. The germs live naturally in the back of our noses and throats, but they do not live for long outside the body. They are spread when people exchange saliva (such as by kissing; sharing drinking containers, utensils, or cigarettes).

§ The germ does not cause meningitis in most people. Instead, most people become carriers of the germ for days, weeks, or even months. The bacteria rarely overcome the body’s immune system and cause meningitis or another serious illness.

· How can bacterial meningitis be prevented?

§ Do not share food, drinks, utensils, toothbrushes, or cigarettes. Limit the number of persons you kiss.

§ While there are vaccines for some other strains of bacterial meningitis, they are used only in special circumstances, which may include a disease outbreak in a community or people traveling to a country where there is a high risk of getting the disease. Also, a vaccine is recommended by some groups for college students, particularly freshmen living in dorms or residence halls. The vaccine is safe and effective (85–90 percent). It can cause mild side effects, such as redness and pain at the injection site lasting up to two days. Immunity develops within seven to ten days after the vaccine is given and lasts for up to five years.

· What should you do if you think you or a friend might have bacterial meningitis?

· You should seek prompt medical attention.

· Where can you get more information?

§ Your school nurse, family doctor, and the staff at your local or regional health department office are excellent sources for information on all communicable diseases. You may also call your local health department or Regional Texas Department of Health office to ask about meningococcal vaccine. Additional information may also be found at the Web sites for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, http://www.cdc.gov, and the Department of State Health Services, http://www.dshs.state.tx.us.

DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLISHED MATERIALS OR DOCUMENTS

School Materials

Publications prepared by and for the school may be posted or distributed, with prior approval by the principal, sponsor, or teacher. Such items may include school posters, brochures, murals, etc.

Nonschool Materials … from students

Unless a student obtains specific prior approval from the principal, written materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, petitions, films, tapes, posters, or other visual or auditory materials that were not developed under the oversight of the school may not be posted, sold, circulated, or distributed on any school campus. To be considered, any nonschool material must include the name of the sponsoring organization or individual. The decision regarding approval will be made in two school days.

The student may appeal the principal’s decision in accordance with policy FNG (LOCAL). Any student who posts material without prior approval will be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. Materials displayed without this approval will be removed.

Nonschool Materials … from others

Written or printed materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, films, tapes, or other visual or auditory materials not sponsored by the District or by a District-affiliated school-support organization will not be sold, circulated, distributed, or posted on any District premises by any District employee or by persons or groups not associated with the District, except as permitted by policy GKDA. To be considered, any nonschool material must meet the limitations on content established in the policy, include the name of the sponsoring organization or individual, and be submitted to the principal for specific prior review. The principal will approve or reject the materials within two school days of the time the materials are received. The requestor may appeal a rejection in accordance with the appropriate District complaint policy.

Prior review will not be required for:

· Distribution of materials by an attendee to other attendees of a school-sponsored meeting intended for adults and held after school hours.

· Distribution of materials by an attendee to other attendees of a community group meeting held after school hours in accordance with policy GKD (LOCAL).

· Distribution for electioneering purposes during the time a school facility is being used as a polling place, in accordance with state law.

All non-school materials distributed under these circumstances must be removed from District property immediately following the event at which the materials are distributed.

PROTECTION OF STUDENT RIGHTS

The school will notify parents of the right to inspect all instructional materials to be used in connection with a survey, analysis, or evaluation as part of a federally funded program. Notice will be sent home before such a survey, analysis, or evaluation is administered, and parent consent (or student consent if 18 or older) will be requested if information regarding any of the following is part of the survey, analysis, or evaluation:

COMPLAINTS BY STUDENTS/PARENTS

Local Policy EFA, FB, and FNG

Complaints by students or parents about instructional materials, loss of credit on the basis of attendance, removal to alternative education programs, and expulsion are handled through procedures specific to policies to those particular areas. To review relevant policies or obtain further information, see the principal.

š A student and/or parent with a complaint regarding possible discrimination in any school program on the basis of sex should contact the building principal.

š A complaint or concern regarding the placement of a student with disabilities who is not eligible for special education or about the District’s programs and services available to the student should be brought to the building principal.

š On all other matters, a student or parent who has a complaint should first bring the matter to the appropriate teacher.

If the outcome is not satisfactory, a conference with the principal can be requested. If the outcome of the conference with the principal is not satisfactory, a conference with the superintendent may be requested. If the outcome of the conference is not satisfactory, the student or parent may appear before the Board of Trustees, in accordance with Board Policy.

NOTICE OF PARENT AND STUDENT RIGHTS FAMILY EDUCATION RIGHTS & PRIVACY ACT – SCHOOL RECORDS 20 U.S.C. SEC. 1232g

The Arp Independent School District maintains general education rights required by law.

A student’s school records are private and protected from unauthorized inspection or use. A cumulative record is maintained for each student from the time the student enters the District until the student withdraws or graduates. This record moves with the student from school to school.

By law, both parents, whether married, separated or divorced, have access to the records of a student who is a minor or a dependent for tax purposes, as do students who are 18 years of age or older. A parent whose rights have been legally terminated will be denied access to the records if the school is given a copy of the Court Order terminating these rights.

The principal is custodian of all records for currently enrolled students at the assigned school and for students who have withdrawn or graduated. Records may be reviewed during regular school hours. The records custodian or designee will respond to reasonable requests for explanation and interpretation of these records. The special education director is the custodian of all special education records. All requests for copies of records should be made through the Arp Independent School District Special Education Department. The address of the Arp Independent School District Special Education Department is: P.O. Drawer 70, Arp, Texas 75750. (903) 859-4052.

Parents of a minor or of a student who is a dependent for tax purposes, the student (if 18 or older), and school officials with legitimate educational interests are the only persons who have general access to a student’s records. School officials include any employees, agents, or Trustees of the District, cooperatives, or contractual placement facilities, as well as their attorneys and consultants who are:

¨ Working with a student

¨ Considering disciplinary or academic actions, the student’s case, or a handicapped student’s individual education plan;

¨ Compiling statistical data; or

¨ Investigating or evaluating programs.

Certain other officials from various governmental agencies may have limited access to the records. The District forwards a student’s records without prior consent on request to a school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. Parental consent is required to release the records to anyone else. When the student reaches 18 years of age, the right to consent to release of records transfers to the student.

The parent or student’s rights of access to, and copies of, student records do not extend to all records. Materials that are not considered educational records, such as teacher’s personal notes on a student that are shared only with a substitute teacher and records on ex-students, do not have to be made available to the parents or student.

Students over 18 years of age and parents of minor students may inspect the student’s records and request a correction if the records are inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy or other rights. If the District refuses the request to amend the records, the requester has the right to a hearing and to place in the student’s record a statement commenting on the information. Although improperly recorded grades may be challenged, parents and students are not allowed to contest a student’s grade in a course through this process. Parents or students have the right to file a complaint with the Superintendent if they feel that the District is not in compliance with the law regarding student records.

Copies of student records are available at a cost, payable in advance. Parents may be denied copies of a student’s records: (1) after the student reaches 18 and is no longer a dependent for tax purposes; (2) when the student is attending an institution of post secondary education; or (3) if the parent fails to follow proper procedures and pay the copying charge. If the student qualifies for free or reduced-price lunches and the parents are unable to view the records during regular school hours, upon written request of the parent, one copy of the record will be provided at no charge.

Certain information about District students is considered directory information and will be released to anyone who follows procedures for requesting it, unless the parent objects in writing to the principal within ten school days after the issuance of this notice. Directory information includes: a student’s name, address, telephone number, data and place of birth, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, awards received in school, most recent previous school attended, and other similar information.

AVISO DE PADRE y DERECHOS DEL ESTUDIANTE LOS DERECHOS EDUCATIVOS FAMILIARES y ACTO DEL RETIRO, 20 USC SEC 1232g

El Distrito Escolar Independiente de ARP mantiener achivos de educacion generales requeridos par ley Los archivos de la escuela de un estudiante son privados y son protegido de inspection desautorizado a uso. Un registro cumulativo se mantiene para cada estudiante de la escuela adiestrar Por ley, ambos padres, si casado, separado, o se divorcio, tengo acceso a los archivos de un estudiante que es un menor o una persona a cargo para los propisitos del impuesto. Un padre cuyo se han terminado derechos legalmente se negara acceso al registro si la escuela se da una copia del arden judicial que termina estos derechos.

El principal esta a favor custodia de todos los archivos de los estudiantes acualmenta enrollados en la escuela asignada. El superintendente esta a favor el custodia de todos los archivos de estudientes que han retirado a han graduado. Pueden repasarse archivos durante las horas escolares regulares. Ei custodia del registro a designee responderan a una demand a razonable para la explicacian y interpretacion de los archivos. El director de educacion especial es el custodia de todos los archivos de educacion especiales. Todos piden para las capias de archivas debe haserse a traves del Distrito Esclolar Independiente de ARP .La direcion de Distrito Escolar Independiente de ARP es P. 0. DRAWER 70, ARP, TEXAS 75750 (903) 859 -4052 .

Los padres son un menor o un estudiante que esta a favor una persona a cargo de los propositos del impuesta, el estudiante (si 18 a mas viejo), y los oficiales escolares con intereses del legitimate educacional son las unicas personas que lienon acceso general a los archivos de un estudiante. 'Los oficiales escolares con inteneses de educacion legitimos' incluya a cualquier empleado, agentes, a Fideicomisarios del Distrito, de cooperativas de las que el Distrito es un miembra, a de medias con que las contratos Distrita para la colocacian de estudiante can invalideces, asi coma sus abogados y cansuliores que son (1) trabajando can el estudiante; (2) consideranda acciones disciplinarias a academicas, el casa del estudiante, a un plan educativa individual (IEP) de un estudlante can invalideces; (3) campilanda daios estadisticas; a (4) investiganda a evaluanda pragramas

Ciertos atros aficiales de las varias agencias gubernamentales pueden haber limitada acceso a las archivas. El Distrito remite los archivas de un estudiante en demarlda a una escuela en que un semanas del estudiante a piensa enrollarse sin la necesidad del permisa del padre. El consentimienta paternal se exige soltar las archivas a nadie mas Cuando el estudiante alcanza 18 anos de edad, el dercho para consetir soltar de traslados de las archivas al estudiante. El derecha del padre a estudiante de acceso a y capias de los archivos del estudiante no se extienden a todas los archivos.

Materiales que no son considerados archivos educativos, como maestros las notas personales en un estudiante que solo es compartida can maestro del suplente y archivas en estudiantes anteriores despues de que ellos no son ningun estudiante mas largo en el distrito, no tiene que ser hecho disponible a los padres o estudiantes. Estudiantes mas de 18 y padres de estudiantes menores pueden inspeccionar los archivos del estudiante y pide una correccion si los archivos son inexactos y desencaminan, o por otra parte en violacioin del retiro del estudiante o ostros derechos. Si los desechos Distrito la demanda para enmendar los archivos, el requester tiene el derecho a un oido Si los archivos no se enmiendan como rosultado del oido, el requester tiene 30 dias de la escuela para ejercer el derecho para poner una declaracion que hace un comentario sobre la informacion en el registro del estudiante. Aunque inadecuademente grabo pueden dosafiarse calidades, no se permiten a los padres y a estudiantes disputar las calidades de un estudiante en un curso a traves de este proceso. Padres o estudiantes tienen el derecho para archivar una queja con el U.S. la Seccion de Educacion si ellos creen que el Distrito no conforme a la ley con respecto a los archivos del estudiante

Las copias de archivos del estudiante estan disponibles en un costo de 10 centavos por la pagina, pagable en antemano. Los padres pueden o nego copias de los archivos de un estudiante (1 )despues de los alcances del estudiante edad 18 y no es ninguna persona a cargo mas larga para los propositos del impuesto; (2) cuando el estudiante esta asistiendo a una institucion de educacion poste-secundaria; (3) si el padre no sigue procedimientos apropiados y pagar el cargo copiando; o (4) cuando el Distrito se da una copia de un orden judicial que termina los derechos puternales. Si el estudiante califica para libre o los almuerzos del reducido-precio y los padres son incapaces de ver los archivos durante las horas escolares regulares, en la demanda escrita del padre, una copia del registro se proporcionara a ningun cargo. Cierta informacion sobre los estudiantes Distrito es considerada informacion del directory y se comprendera a cualquiera que sigue procedimientos por pedirlo, a menos que el padre objeta al descargo de cualquiera o toda la informacion del directorio sobre el nino. Esta objecion debe hacerso por escrito al principal dentro de diez dias de la escuela despues de la emision de est a aviso. La informacion del directorio incluye. el nombre del el del estudiante del un, dirjase, el numero de telefono, la fecha ellugar de y deinacimiento, participacion en las actividades oficialmente reconocidas el deportes de y, peso la altura de y del miembros del atleticos del equipos, fechas dellas de la asistencia, los premios recibicron en escuela, y la mas reciente escuela el asistio anterio. La politica completa del Distrito contra el respecto un los archivos del estudiante esta disponible del de oficina de la o Superintendente principal.

FREEDOM FROM DISCRIMINATION

The District believes that all students learn best in an environment free from harassment and that their welfare is best served when they can work free from discrimination. Students are expected to treat other students and District employees with courtesy and respect; to avoid any behaviors known to be offensive; and to stop those behaviors when asked or told to stop. District employees are expected to treat students with courtesy and respect. The Board has established policies and procedures to prohibit and promptly respond to inappropriate and offensive behaviors that are based on a person’s race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sex, age, or disability. See policy FFH. Prohibited harassment in general terms, is conduct so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it affects the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity; or substantially interferes with the student’s academic performance. A copy of the District’s policy is available in the principal’s office and in the Superintendent’s office. Examples of prohibited discrimination may include, but are not limited to, derogatory language directed at a person’s religious beliefs or practices, accent, skin color, or need for accommodation; bullying, threatening or intimidating conduct; name-calling or slurs, taunting, teasing (even when presented as “jokes”), or rumors; aggression or assault; graffiti or printed material promoting racial, ethnic, or other negative stereotypes; or aggressive conduct such as theft or damage to property. Examples of prohibited sexual harassment may include touching private body parts or coercing physical contact that is sexual in nature; sexual advances; jokes or conversations of a sexual nature; and other sexually motivated conduct, communications, or contact.

Sexual harassment of a student by an employee or volunteer does not include necessary or permissible physical contact not reasonably construed as sexual in nature. However, all romantic and inappropriate social relationships, as well as all sexual relationships, between students and District employees are prohibited, even if consensual. Any student (or the student’s parent) who believes that he or she has experienced prohibited harassment should immediately report the problem to a teacher, counselor, principal, or other District employee.

To the extent possible, the District will respect the privacy of the student; however, limited disclosures may be necessary to conduct a thorough investigation and to comply with law. Allegations will be promptly investigated. The District will notify the parents of any student alleged to have experienced prohibited harassment by an adult associated with the District, or by another student, when the allegations, if proven, would constitute “sexual harassment” or “other prohibited harassment” as defined by District policy. If the District’s investigation indicates that prohibited harassment occurred, appropriate disciplinary or corrective action will be taken to address the harassment. The District may take disciplinary action even if the conduct that is the subject of the complaint did not rise to the level of harassment prohibited by law or policy. Retaliation against a person who makes a good faith report of prohibited harassment is prohibited. However, a person who makes a false claim or offers false statements or refuses to cooperate with a District investigation may be subject to appropriate discipline. A student or parent who is dissatisfied with the outcome of the investigation may appeal in accordance with policy FNG.

In its efforts to promote nondiscrimination, the District makes the following statements: Arp ISD does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sex, or disability in providing education services, activities, and programs, including vocational programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.

The following District staff members have been designated to coordinate compliance with these requirements:

· Title IX Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of sex: Toney Lowery – 903-859-8482

· Section 504 Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of disability: Toney Lowery – 903-859-8482

Services for the Homeless and for Title I Participants

Other designated staff you may need to contact include:

· Liaison for Homeless Children and Youths, who coordinates services for homeless students: Wendy Popescu, Principal or Sharon Keith, Counselor – 903-859-4650.

· Parent Involvement Coordinator, who works with parents of students participating in Title I programs: Wendy Popescu, Principal or Sharon Keith, Counselor – 903-859-4650.

Services for Students with Disabilities

Parents of students with learning difficulties or who may need special education services may request an evaluation for special education at any time. For more information, contact Shirley Irwin at 903-859-4052.

SECTION II: INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS

Topics in this section of the handbook contain important information on academics, school activities, and school operations and requirements. Take a moment with your child to become familiar with the various issues addressed in this section. It is conveniently organized in alphabetical order to serve as a quick-reference when you or your child has a question about a specific school-related issue. Should you be unable to find the information on a particular topic, please contact Arp Elementary Office at 903-859-4650.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT

A student in any grade may take an examination for acceleration to be advanced one grade level or to gain credit for a course he or she has not formally taken for credit. Any testing fees are the responsibility of the student/parent/guardian. For additional information contact Sharon Keith at 859-4650.

ARRIVAL/DISMISSAL

When students arrive at school, they should go directly to the area designated below and remain there until 7:50 a.m., unless they are going to breakfast. Our school day starts at 7:50 a.m. with Jump Start. Breakfast is served starting at 7:30 a.m.

Head Start and Pre-Kindergarten – report to the classroom

Kindergarten through 5^th grade – report to the cafeteria for breakfast and Jump Start

Students who ride the bus will enter and exit the building through the South (back) doors or through East (Main Side) doors in inclement weather (covered walkways). Students riding with parents should enter and exit through the North (front) doors (covered walkway).

All students will be dismissed at 3:35.

ARP SCHOOL SONG

In the Eastern part of Texas, Forward ever be our watchword;

Towering toward the sky, Conquer and prevail.

Proudly stands our Alma Mater Hail to thee, our Alma Mater;

As the years go by. Hail to A. H. S.

ARP FIGHT SONG

Cheer, Cheer for Dear Old Arp High. Get on the beam and win tonight.

We’ll beat the _________, T-T-T-I-G

Beat ‘um or die. E-E-E-R-S

All ye Tigers Fight, Fight, Fight, T-I-G-E-R-S Spells Tigers, and Tigers Fight!

ATTENDANCE

ABSENCES/ATTENDANCE

Regular school attendance is essential for a student to make the most of his or her education—to benefit from teacher-led and school activities, to build each day’s learning on the previous day’s, and to grow as an individual. Absences from class may result in serious disruption of a student’s mastery of the instructional materials; therefore, the student and parent should make every effort to avoid unnecessary absences. Two state laws—one dealing with compulsory attendance, the other with attendance for course credit—are of special interest to students and parents. They are discussed below.

Compulsory Attendance

State law requires that a student between the ages of six and 18 attend school, as well as any applicable accelerated instruction program, extended year program, or tutorial session, unless the student is otherwise excused from attendance or legally exempt.

A student who voluntarily attends or enrolls after his or her 18^th birthday is required to attend each school day until the end of the school year and is subject to compulsory attendance laws, if the student is under 21 years old. In addition, if a student 18 or older has more than five unexcused absences in a semester the district may revoke the student’s enrollment. The student’s presence on school property thereafter would be unauthorized and may be considered trespassing. [See FEA]

Students enrolled in prekindergarten or kindergarten are required to attend school.

State law requires attendance in an accelerated reading instruction program when kindergarten, first grade, or second grade students are assigned to such a program. Parents will be notified in writing if their child is assigned to an accelerated reading instruction program as a result of a diagnostic reading instrument.

A student in grades 3–8 will be required to attend any assigned accelerated instruction program, which may occur before or after school or during the summer, if the student does not meet the passing standards on the state assessment for his or her grade level and applicable subject area.

Exemptions to Compulsory Attendance

State law allows and Arp ISD Board approves exemptions to the compulsory attendance requirements for several types of absences. These are the only excused absences and include the following activities and events:

· Religious holy days;

· Required screening, diagnosis, and treatment for Medicaid eligible students

· Activities related to obtaining United States citizenship;

· Service as an election clerk; and

· Documented health-care appointments, if the student begins classes or returns to school on the same day as the appointment.

· Temporary absence resulting from any cause acceptable to the principal.

· Juvenile court proceedings documented by a probation officer.

· Absence required by state or local welfare authorities.

Failure to Comply with Compulsory Attendance

School employees must investigate and report violations of the state compulsory attendance law. A student absent without permission from school; from any class; from required special programs, such as additional special instruction, termed “accelerated instruction” by the state; or from required tutorials will be considered in violation of the compulsory attendance law and subject to disciplinary action.

A court of law may also impose penalties against both the student and his or her parents if a school-aged student is deliberately not attending school. A complaint against the parent may be filed in court if the student:

· Is absent from school on ten or more days or parts of days within a six-month period in the same school year, or

· Is absent on three or more days or parts of days within a four-week period.

Attendance for Credit

To receive credit in a class, a student must attend at least 90 percent of the days the class is offered. A student who attends at least 75 percent but fewer than 90 percent of the days the class is offered may receive credit for the class if he or she completes a plan, approved by the principal, which allows the student to fulfill the instructional requirements for the class. If a student is involved in a criminal or juvenile court proceeding, the approval of the judge presiding over the case will also be required before the student receives credit for the class.

If a student attends less than 75 percent of the days a class is offered or has not completed a plan approved by the principal, then the student will be referred to the attendance review committee to determine whether there are extenuating circumstances for the absences and how the student can regain credit, if appropriate.

In determining whether there were extenuating circumstances for the absences, the attendance committee will use the following guidelines:

· All absences will be considered in determining whether a student has attended the required percentage of days. If makeup work is completed, absences for the reasons listed above at Exemptions to Compulsory Attendance will be considered days of attendance for this purpose.

· A transfer or migrant student begins to accumulate absences only after he or she has enrolled in the district. For a student transferring into the district after school begins, including a migrant student, only those absences after enrollment will be considered.

· In reaching a decision about a student’s absences, the committee will attempt to ensure that it is in the best interest of the student.

· The committee will consider the acceptability and authenticity of documented reasons for the student’s absences.

· The committee will consider whether the absences were for reasons over which the student or the student’s parent could exercise any control.

· The committee will consider the extent to which the student has completed all assignments, mastered the essential knowledge and skills, and maintained passing grades in the course or subject.

· The student or parent will be given an opportunity to present any information to the committee about the absences and to talk about ways to earn or regain credit.

The student or parent may appeal the committee’s decision to the board of trustees by filing a written request with the superintendent in accordance with policy FNG(LOCAL).

The actual number of days a student must be in attendance in order to receive credit will depend on whether the class is for a full semester or for a full year.

Parent’s Note After an Absence

When a student must be absent from school, the student—upon returning to school—must bring a note, signed by the parent that describes the reason for the absence. A note signed by the student, even with the parent’s permission, will not be accepted unless the student is 18 or older. This information will be kept on file and used if needed by the attendance committee for grade level credit only.

Doctor’s Note After an Absence for Illness

Upon return to school, it is recommended that a student absent for more than 3 consecutive days because of a personal illness bring a statement from a doctor or health clinic verifying the illness or condition that caused the student’s extended absence from school. These are unexcused absences but this information will be kept on file and use if needed by attendance committee for grade level credit only.

BUILDING USE

For information concerning the use of the Arp Elementary facility, contact Wendy Popescu, Principal at 859-4650. For information concerning building use on a campus other than Arp Elementary, contact the office of the campus you wish to use. They will direct your call to the appropriate personnel.

BUILDING AND PLAYGROUND BEHAVIOR

It is the responsibility of each student to help keep the building and campus clean, safe, and attractive. In order to do this, these guidelines must be followed.

Building

BUS REGULATIONS

Students who ride school buses shall be under the disciplinary control of the bus driver. Outside of ordinary conversations, standards in place for classroom conduct shall be expected at all times students are on the bus.

The following regulations shall be observed:

1. The bus driver is in full charge of the bus and must be obeyed.

2. Students shall not at any time extend any parts of their bodies outside the bus.

3. Students must remain seated at all times, and refrain from loud talking or any behavior, which might distract the driver.

4. Students shall not attempt to get on or off the bus or move about inside the bus while it is in motion.

5. Students must meet the bus promptly at designated stops.

6. Students shall observe all safety precautions, such as crossing roads with care, standing off the roadway while waiting for the bus, and observing directions of the driver while leaving the bus.

7. The student will respect district property and the property of others while riding on district transportation.

8. Students must have written permission to depart the bus at any house other than their own.

9. The District makes school bus transportation available to all students living in the school district. This service is provided at no cost to students; its cost is reimbursed by the state of Texas. Bus routes and any subsequent changes are posted at the school. Further information may be obtained by calling the transportation office at 903-859-2782.

10. When students ride in a District van or passenger car, seat belts must be used at all times.

11. Do what is right at all times.

BUS OFFENSES/CONSEQUENCES

š First Offense: The student will be warned and explained the consequences of additional offenses by the bus driver. The bus driver will also contact the parents by telephone, and send a written referral to the principal.

š Second Offense: The principal and possibly the bus driver will meet with the student and send a letter of warning to the student’s parents or legal guardian.

š Third Offense: The student will be removed from the bus for three days. The school principal will notify the student’s parent or legal guardian by letter.

š Fourth Offense: The student will be removed from the bus for not less than ten days, depending on the offense. The school principal will notify the student’s parent(s) or guardian by letter.

š Fifth Offense: The student may lose bus privileges for the remainder of the semester or year. The school principal will notify the student’s parent(s) or guardian by letter.

If a student’s bus riding privileges are suspended, the suspension will begin the day following the conference with the principal. In the event a student is engaged in an offense considered to be major, the principal may immediately suspend the student’s bus riding privileges. In the event a situation arises where a student becomes a threat to himself/herself or others, the driver will be permitted to put the student off the bus or call for law enforcement assistance. The driver will report the problem to the principal as soon as possible. The principal will contact the parents of the student.

DAMAGE TO SEATS OR OTHER BUS EQUIPMENT

1. First Offense – Student will be held responsible for all costs relating to the repair or replacement of damaged item.

2. Second Offense – Student will be held responsible for all costs relating to the repair or replacement of the damaged item and will be suspended from riding the bus for the remainder of the year.

EXTRA CURRICULAR EVENTS BEHAVIOR

All rules governing students at school shall also apply to students at school sponsored activities. Students involved in conduct of a disruptive nature will be subject to disciplinary action, including the right to attend future school activities.

CONFERENCES

Teachers will be glad to confer with parents and students during the teacher’s conference period. Parents wishing to confer with a teacher about the student’s work should arrange a conference appointment through the office. Parents wishing to confer with the principal should also arrange an appointment through the office.

COUNSELING: ACADEMIC COUNSELING

School counselors hold the professional certificate in counseling issued by the Texas Education Agency on the recommendation of the college or university where the counselor has obtained certification in counseling or psychology.

The counselor believes that most children have the capacity to resolve their own problems and to make their own decisions with the professional assistance of a counselor serving as a facilitator. Each counselor’s goal is to help each child develop positive feelings of self as well as the problem solving skills necessary to be effective citizens in today’s world.

The counselor spends time counseling with children in her office, provides guidance services to children in classrooms, confers with teachers, and parents to promote the best interests of children, and serves as a liaison to outside agencies that also serve the interests of children.

The counseling relationship is a professional relationship and counselors have a professional code of ethics. The counselor is aware that there are times when she must confer with others regarding a particular child’s problems in order to best serve that child. The counselor and all school personnel are required by state law and their own professional code of ethics to report any form of child abuse or neglect. To the extent possible under legal and ethical guidelines, privacy rights of children and their families are protected by our counselor.

It is impossible for a counselor to guarantee specific results in working with any child. Our counselor follows accepted standards of practices for the profession. Her services are available to any child unless specifically prohibited by written request from the parent or guardian, or unless the child is currently being treated by a licensed professional counselor, psychologist, a psychiatrist, or other certified/licensed mental health professional outside the school setting.

If parents/guardians have any questions regarding the counselor or counseling services, please contact Sharon Keith at 903-859-4650.

DELIVERIES TO STUDENTS

For security, any delivery to students such as book or lunch box, etc. should come to the office. We will deliver the item to the student or call him/her to pick it up. Please limit delivery of celebratory gifts to birthdays.

DRESS CODE POLICY

Student dress should conform to the policies adopted by the Arp ISD Board of Trustees. A school is judged, to some degree, by the appearances of its students. It is the goal of Arp ISD to promote good hygiene, instill discipline, prevent disruption, and avoid safety hazards. It is the responsibility of each student to uphold the standards of the Arp ISD by dressing properly for school and school functions.

SHIRT:

Maroon, Gray, Black, Pink, White and Navy Polo (short or long sleeved)
Arp Elementary Polo
Black or White long sleeve T-shirt (to be worn as under shirt)
Logos can be no larger than the size of a quarter
No denim material

PANTS:

Elastic waist or Belted
Black, Khaki or Navy
No denim material

SHORTS, SKORTS, SKIRTS:

Finger tip length or longer
Black, Khaki or Navy
NO Sport Shorts
No denim material

Shoes:

NO Sandals, Flip Flops, Crocs, or Healy’s (safety issues)

Examples of stores in the area that will be carrying these products:

Target Wal-Mart J C Penney Macy Sears

Kohl Academy Levine Dillard

All students participating in school sponsored events must follow prescribed event dress code.

Friday’s they can wear an Arp Tiger shirt and blue jeans.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

In compliance with state regulations, fire and tornado drills are held at regular intervals throughout the school year. Detailed instructions are posted in each classroom, are reviewed by staff at the beginning of each school year, and teachers acquaint students with proper evacuation or protection procedures. The following procedures will be followed:

¨ FIRE – Staff led students will march out of the building in an orderly manner to designated locations without rushing or crowding and will return when all clear is sounded.

¨ TORNADO – Staff led students will take appropriate cover in classroom, bathroom, or hallway as instructed by the staff and will return when all clear is sounded.

¨ ALL CLEAR – Announcement will be made.

ENROLLMENT REQUIREMENTS

To be enrolled in Arp ISD Schools for the first time, a student must present an original birth certificate, a copy of the original Social Security card, and a current Immunization record, and verification of physical address.

FEES

3. Students in 2^nd, 3^rd, 4^th, and 5^th grade receive numerical grades except in Citizenship.

100-90 ………… E 89-80 ………… S 79-70 ………… N Below …………U

MAKEUP WORK

· A student will be permitted to make up all assignments missed because of absences unless principal considers this inappropriate.

· A student will be responsible for obtaining and completing the make-up work in a satisfactory manner and within the time specified by the teacher (up to 2 days per assignment).

· Any assignment not completed and submitted to teacher within the time allotted by the teacher will be considered late and follow Arp Elementary late-work policy.

LATE WORK (Distinguished from make-up work for absences)

Requiring assignments to be turned in on time teaches responsibility, instills work ethics, and makes the grading system fair and equitable. Class work and homework are due for full credit on the date designated by the teacher. Any assignment not turned in on time is considered late and students will be required to make up this work during their weekly TIGER day or they may complete their work before TIGER day by arranging tutorial time with teacher. Late work can not be completed at home without teacher approval. All completed late work will be assessed a grade no higher than a 70% and must follow these strict timelines. Repeated offenses will produce more serious consequences.

MASTERY (Redoing work)

Mastering a daily assignment is our goal. If a student fails a daily assignment they may better this grade only by participating in our tutorial program within 48 hours of original due date or they may redo this work during their weekly TIGER day. Requiring a student to attend extended day tutorials and/or tutorials during TIGER day will provide the student with the skills necessary for mastery of the assignment and will therefore only be assessed a grade up to a 70% upon mastery. Students that fail an objective on a test may retake a similar test only after participating in our tutorial program (the 2 tests will then be averaged together for a maximum score of 70%).

DAEP or In-School Suspension Makeup Work

A student removed to a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) during the school year will have an opportunity to complete coursework needed to fulfill the student’s high school graduation requirements before the beginning of the next school year. The District may provide the opportunity to complete the coursework through any method available, including a correspondence course, distance learning, or summer school. The District will not charge the student for any method of completion provided by the District.

A student removed from the regular classroom to in-school suspension or another setting, other than a DAEP, will have an opportunity to complete before the beginning of the next school year each course the student was enrolled in at the time of removal from the regular classroom. The District may provide the opportunity by any method available, including a correspondence course, distance learning, or summer school. Students and their parents are encouraged to discuss options with the teacher or counselor to ensure the student completes all work required for the course or grade level.

HEALTH-RELATED MATTERS

Illnesses

If a child is kept at home or sent home from school due to fever, vomiting, and/or diarrhea they must be cleared of all symptoms 24 hours before returning to school.

Physical Activity for Students in Elementary Grades

The District will make available for public inspection a statement of the policy adopted to ensure that students in elementary grades engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day or 135 minutes per week, along with other information. For information regarding the District’s requirements and programs regarding elementary student physical activity requirements, please see the principal.

School Health Advisory Council

Information regarding the District’s School Health Advisory Council, including the number of meetings scheduled or held during the year and information regarding vending machines in District facilities and student access to the machines is available from the principal.

Other Health-Related Matters

Tobacco Prohibited

The District and its staff strictly enforce prohibitions against the use of tobacco products by students, parents, and others on school property or at school-sponsored or school-related activities. See the Student Code of Conduct and policy GKA.

Asbestos Management Plan

The District’s Asbestos Management Plan, designed to be in compliance with state and federal regulations, is available in the superintendent’s office. If you have any questions, please contact Toney Lowery at 903-859-8482.

INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

Pest Management Plan

The District applies only pest control products that comply with state and federal guidelines. Except in an emergency, signs will be posted 48 hours before application. Parents who want to be notified prior to pesticide application inside their child(ren)’s school assignment area may contact Toney Lowery at 903-859-8482. Information concerning these applications may be obtained from Mr. Kyle Waldron (903) 859-2782.

Any school personnel that apply pesticides, insecticides, or herbicides on a routine basis at a school or on school property must be either a licensed non-commercial applicator or technician. The Board will review and set standards. Technicians must work under direct supervision of the non-commercial certified applicator.

A notification of pest control treatment must be posted at least 48 hours in advance. The purpose of the notice is to inform employees and faculty that a pest control treatment will be done. Also a consumer information sheet must be provided to any employee upon request. Students may not re-enter a treated area for at least 12 hours following application. Outside application areas cannot be used by students for 12 hours following treatment. These re-entry restrictions apply to normal academic and extracurricular activities.

All pest control use records shall be maintained on the employer’s premises for two years. The records must include the name and address of customer (supervisor), name of pesticides or devices used, amounts of pesticides or devices used, percent in solution of pesticides used, purpose of which the pesticides or devices were used (target pest), date pesticides or devices were used (school campus). The records must be made available to an employee of the Structural Pest Control Board upon request.

The Structural Pest Control Board would like to thank you for your support of the Integrated Pest Management program. Please contact our office with any questions or suggestions for the IPM committee. Please call (512) 835-4066 or write the Texas Structural Pest Control Board, 9101 Burnet Road #210, Austin, Texas 78758.

IMMUNIZATIONS

A student must be fully immunized against certain diseases or must present a certificate or statement that, for medical reasons or reasons of conscience, including a religious belief, the student will not be immunized. For exemptions based on reasons of conscience, only official forms issued by the Department of State Health Services, Immunization Division, can be honored by the District. The immunizations required are: diphtheria, rubeola (measles), rubella, mumps, tetanus, Haemophilus influenzae type B, poliomyelitis, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and varicella (chicken pox). The school nurse can provide information on age-appropriate doses or on an acceptable physician-validated history of illness required by the Department of State Health Services. Proof of immunization may be personal records from a licensed physician or public health clinic with a signature or rubber-stamp validation.

If a student should not be immunized for medical reasons, the student or parent must present a certificate signed by a U.S. licensed physician stating that, in the doctor's opinion, the immunization required poses a significant risk to the health and well-being of the student or any member of the student's family or household. This certificate must be renewed yearly unless the physician specifies a life-long condition. For further information, see policy FFAB and the Department of State Health Services Web site: http://www.tdh.state.tx.us/immunize/school_info.htm.

LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES

When law enforcement officers or other lawful authorities wish to question or interview a student at school:

§ The principal will verify and record the identity of the officer or other authority and ask for an explanation of the need to question or interview the student at school.

§ The principal ordinarily will make reasonable efforts to notify the parents unless the interviewer raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection.

§ The principal ordinarily will be present unless the interviewer raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection.

§ The principal will cooperate fully regarding the conditions of the interview, if the questioning or interview is part of a child abuse investigation.

Students Taken Into Custody

State law requires the District to permit a student to be taken into legal custody:

§ To comply with an order of the juvenile court.

§ To comply with the laws of arrest.

§ By a law enforcement officer if there is probable cause to believe the student has engaged in delinquent conduct or conduct in need of supervision.

§ By a probation officer if there is probable cause to believe the student has violated a condition of probation imposed by the juvenile court.

§ By an authorized representative of Child Protective Services, Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, a law enforcement officer, or a juvenile probation officer, without a court order, under the conditions set out in the Family Code relating to the student’s physical health or safety.

§ To comply with a properly issued directive to take a student into custody.

§ Before a student is released to a law enforcement officer or other legally authorized person, the principal will verify the officer’s identity and, to the best of his or her ability, will verify the official’s authority to take custody of the student.

§ The principal will immediately notify the superintendent and will ordinarily attempt to notify the parent unless the officer or other authorized person raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection to notifying the parents. Because the principal does not have the authority to prevent or delay a custody action, notification will most likely be after the fact.

Notification of Law Violations

The District is also required by state law to notify:

§ All instructional and support personnel who have responsibility for supervising a student who has been arrested or referred to the juvenile court for any felony offense or for certain misdemeanors.

§ All instructional and support personnel who have regular contact with a student who has been convicted, received deferred prosecution, received deferred adjudication, or adjudicated of delinquent conduct for any felony offense or certain misdemeanors.

MEDICINE AT SCHOOL

District employees will not give a student prescription medication, nonprescription medication, herbal substances, anabolic steroids, or dietary supplements, with the following exceptions:

Authorized employees, in accordance with policy FFAC, may administer:

§ Prescription medication provided by the parent, along with a written request, and in the original, properly labeled container and written authorization from a physician.

§ Medication from a properly labeled unit dosage container filled by a registered nurse or another qualified District employee from the original, properly labeled container.

§ Nonprescription medication provided by the parent along with a written request, and in the original, properly labeled container.

§ Herbal or dietary supplements provided by the parent if required by the student’s individualized education program (IEP) or Section 504 plan for a student with disabilities.

§ In certain emergency situations, the District will maintain and administer to a student nonprescription medication, but only:

§ In accordance with the guidelines developed with the District’s medical advisor and

§ When the parent has previously provided written consent to emergency treatment on the District’s form.

A student with asthma or severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) may be permitted to possess and use prescribed asthma or anaphylaxis medication at school or school-related events only if he or she has written authorization from his or her parent and a physician or other licensed health-care provider. The student must also demonstrate to his or her physician or health-care provider and to the school nurse the ability to use the prescribed medication including any device required to administer the medication.

The student and parents should see the school nurse or principal if the student has been prescribed asthma or anaphylaxis medication for use during the school day.

In accordance with a student’s individual health plan for management of diabetes, a student with diabetes will be permitted to possess and use monitoring and treatment supplies and equipment while at school or at a school-related activity. See the school nurse or principal for information.

STEROIDS

Parents and students should be aware that state law prohibits students from possessing, dispensing, delivering, or administering an anabolic steroid. Anabolic steroids are for medical use only, and only a physician can prescribe use.

Under state law, bodybuilding, muscle enhancement, or the increase of muscle bulk or strength through the use of an anabolic steroid or human growth hormone by a healthy student is not a valid medical use and is a criminal offense.

PSYCHOTROPIC DRUGS

Teachers and other District employees may discuss a student’s academic progress or behavior with the student’s parents or another employee as appropriate; however, they will not recommend use of psychotropic drugs. A District employee who is a registered nurse, an advanced nurse practitioner, a physician, or a certified or credentialed mental health professional can recommend that a student be evaluated by an appropriate medical practitioner, if appropriate.

“Psychotropic drug” means a substance used in the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of a disease or as a component of a medication and intended to have an altering effect on perception, emotion, or behavior. It is commonly described as a mood- or behavior-altering substance.

P.E. WAIVERS

Any student with a physical handicap or who for other physical reasons should not take physical education may receive a waiver by submitting to the office a statement to this effect from a licensed physician.

PLEDGES AND MOMENT OF SILENCE

Texas law requires students to recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Texas flag each school day. Parents may submit a written request to the principal to excuse their child from reciting a pledge.

A minute of silence will follow recitation of the pledges. The student may choose to reflect, pray, meditate, or engage in any other silent activity so long as the silent activity does not interfere with or distract others.

SCHOOL PLEDGE

I pledge to believe in myself, to be positive and truthful. I will be respectful by listening and being honest to myself and others. I will work hard to be the best person I can be, following all rules and helping others to succeed. THIS IS OUR SCHOOL. Let’s be proud of who we are and encourage each other to keep it safe. This is my education. I’m here to learn!

I CAN, I WILL, I MUST!

THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

THE TEXAS PLEDGE

Honor the Texas Flag; I pledge allegiance to thee, Texas, one state under God, one and indivisible.

PRAYER

Each student has a right to individually, voluntarily, and silently pray or meditate in school in a manner that does not disrupt instructional or other activities of the school. The school will not require, encourage, or coerce a student to engage in or to refrain from such prayer or meditation during any school activity.

PROHIBITED ITEMS

During school time, students are not permitted to use such items as telecommunications devices with text messaging, pagers, radios, CD players, tape recorders, camcorders, DVD players, cameras, or electronic devices or games at school, unless prior permission has been obtained from the principal. Without such permission, teachers will collect the item and turn it in to the principal’s office. The principal will determine whether to return the item at the end of the day for the student to take home or whether the parent will be contacted to pick up the item. Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. For certain items, such as pagers, in which a third party retains a legal right of ownership, the school may charge for releasing the pager to the third party. (See Telecommunications Devices)

Students are not permitted to use tobacco products in any form, alcohol, or drugs, at school, on school buses, or at any school sponsored function. Students are forbidden to bring knives or other dangerous items to school.

PROMOTION/RETENTION POLICY

To be promoted to the next grade level, a student must meet the passing requirements based on the district performance standards.

Students may be promoted only on the basis of demonstrated proficiency in the subject matter for the grade level, be on grade level in their performance for the yearly expectancy – adequate yearly progress (AYP) and show mastery on district benchmark assessments for all subject matter.

Students in grades using numerical grading system must meet promotion standards established by the District in order to be promoted These standards include one or more of the following conditions:

Technology Acceptable Use Policy Guidelines for Arp ISD

OVERVIEW OF DISTRICT TECHNOLOGY INFUSION GOALS

1. To meet the challenge of preparing all students in Arp Independent School District (ISD) for a technologically challenging future by complying with Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills guidelines as set forth by the Texas Legislature.

2. To better inform and utilize parents, community, and business leaders in the area of technology implementation. This goal includes a biannual school board presentation on Strategic Technology Planning.

3. Allow technologies to be implemented K-12 in a sequentially valid plan that apportions equipment from simple to complex through the grade levels (i.e. Kindergarten should not utilize equipment more advanced than the high school campus.) This policy will require reapportionment and/or migration of equipment at reasonable and predictable intervals.

4. To allow students K-12 to become more and more responsible for the use, care, and maintenance of equipment as they mature through the grades. Elementary students will be taught basic care of input and output devices. Junior high students will learn the computer system components and proper care of each. High school students will be taught to manage, maintain, and upgrade software and hardware.

5. To more profusely integrate technology tools in the curriculum as students move through the grade levels. New technologies, new techniques, and new skills will accompany each grade level in a logical, sequential, technology-infused curriculum, beginning in Kindergarten with keyboarding skills.

6. To commit Arp ISD in providing all students the most effective, current and real-world technologies so that all students may gain valuable, relevant, and marketable skills.

7. To utilize technology in the district to meet student instructional needs and District administrative needs. Planning for technology will be driven by instructional objectives, student needs in achievement, curricular and instructional strategies, and administrative assessments for effectiveness. Hardware will never drive the Technology Plan.

8. Inter-connectivity will be the priority of the Technology Plan. The ability to share resources, information, and ideas are important assets a school district can offer, second only to character development through a nurturing, caring spirit.

STANDARDS: Arp ISD maintains high standards of ethical and acceptable use of all technology for educational purposes. To accomplish these standards the following policies will be followed:

FACULTY & STUDENT TRAINING: All technology will be utilized for educational purposes (i.e. games without educational objectives are not permitted at anytime and may result in the loss of privileges to technology.) If there will not be an independent assessment over the software content, do not use in the

educational environment. If games are used for educational objectives, those objectives and the selected game must be documented in the lesson plans.

Faculty will be responsible for making sure that classroom substitute teachers are advised that students will not utilize computers and technology unless specific written instructions have been left by the classroom teacher on proper/educational use of technology for a specific class period.

Failure to document use or failure to use technology for ethical and educational purposes will result in the reassignment or relocation of technology (microscopes, calculators, computers, TVs, video equipment, etc.)

STUDENT SAFETY ISSUES: Maintaining student safety must be a priority for all. Safety issues involve the following: (PLEASE READ CAREFULLY!)

· Students’ last names, phone numbers, addresses, or other personal information will not be utilized over any network without express permission from the student and the parent. Please help all your students understand how important it is for them to remain anonymous over the Internet. This is exactly the same precaution we use when a stranger calls our home.

· Students should not join any group of activities on the Internet that has not been recommended to them through the Texas Education Network or another legitimate educational resource.

· Students need to be informed that networks run “log” programs. Administrators of networks can track anyone’s activity on their network. Threats, such as to the President, can and will be tracked. Arp ISD’s network has such a “log” program. Tracking of student and faculty activity is possible, if it becomes necessary. Please inform students that it is illegal to threaten, stalk, and send lewd content or abuse through e-mail. Recently a judge in California sent a young student to jail for sending racially motivated “scare” mail to another student.

· Students should be encouraged to report any unethical behavior that they encounter while using any network, whether in e-mail or at any Internet site. The FBI is actively seeking to help schools by the arrest and prosecution of those who participate in illegal activity on the Internet.

ETHICAL USE POLICY: In compliance with the state of Texas, Arp schools adhere to the ethical use of all technological tools, networks, and the Internet. Ethical Use is defined as the following: Ethical Use of technologies refers to the utilization of resources, either hardware or software, in such a way as to maintain trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship -- the six pillars of ethical character. The application of which relies on each individual to: DO NO HARM, DO GOOD, PREVENT HARM, and UNDO HARM.

COMPUTER MAINTENANCE: The following practices have been found to reduce maintenance costs. All district equipment will be used following these guidelines.

DO NOT

NOTE: The Network Administrator and Administration have the right to categorize by disciplinary level any activity they deem an offense to the District’s Technology Resources.

STUDENT TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY GUIDELINES:

Students of Arp ISD will properly utilize technologies. Proper use includes real-world problem solving, independent and group productivity, research, design, and synthesis of ideas, and/or simulation exploration, experimentation, assessment and evaluation processes. All students will understand basic and complex system design, maintenance, and acceptable use policies. Students wishing to utilize the district network and Internet resources will be required to have a teacher sponsor their access and each student must sign and have their parent’s sign the Acceptable Use Contract.

All students will be required to follow ethical use, and copyright laws. Infringement of these policies will result in restriction or limited use of technology in Arp ISD. Public domain software may not be uploaded or downloaded by a student without written permission from the campus technology coordinator. The coordinator will assist the student in properly checking the software for viruses before it is utilized in the district. Technology tools are provided by the district to support appropriate educational objectives (i.e. games such as Solitaire, will not be played during school hours). Students utilizing technology for unauthorized purposes may be restricted from or lose privileges to district technologies.

Students will maintain equipment and report any equipment failure, damage or loss to their teacher. A student's failure to report important damage or loss may result in restricted use or loss of privileges to technologies. Since technology equipment is school property, student violation or abuse of this equipment will be subject to disciplinary action as defined in the District Discipline Management Plan. All e-mail will be retained for no longer than six weeks on the Arp Independent School District’s Network, unless authorized by the District Technology Coordinator. Students and staff are responsible for deleting old messages and keeping their e-mail below 500 Kbytes of server disk space. Attempts at forgery of electronic mail, password accounts, and files are expressly prohibited. Arp ISD maintains a Web site at the following address: http://www.arpisd.org

Because this website is maintained purely on a volunteer basis, only those sections with active volunteer Web Masters can and will be updated. On several occasions, areas of this site have been requested NOT to be updated by staff and coaches. If you would like to participate as a volunteer to update a section of this website that is of particular importance to you, please contact: joy@arpisd.org

Telecommunications Devices, Including Mobile Telephones

For safety purposes, the district permits students to possess telecommunications devices, including mobile telephones; however, these devices must remain turned off during the instructional day, including during all testing. The use of mobile telephones in restroom areas at any time while at school or at a school-related or school-sponsored event is strictly prohibited.

A student who uses a telecommunications device during the school day shall have the device confiscated. The parent may pick up the confiscated telecommunications device from the principal’s office for a fee of $15.

Confiscated telecommunications devices that are not retrieved by the student’s parents will be disposed of after the notice required by law. [See policy FNCE.]

Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. The district will not be responsible for damaged, lost, or stolen telecommunications devices.

Other Electronic Devices

Students are not permitted to possess such items as radios, CD players, MP3 players, video or audio recorders, DVD players, cameras, games, or other electronic devices at school, unless prior permission has been obtained from the principal. Without such permission, teachers will collect the items and turn them in to the principal’s office. The principal will determine whether to return items to students at the end of the day or to contact parents to pick up the items.

Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. The district will not be responsible for any damaged, lost, or stolen electronic device.

Inappropriate Use of Technology

Students are prohibited from sending or posting electronic messages that are abusive, obscene, sexually oriented, threatening, harassing, damaging to another’s reputation, or illegal. This prohibition applies to conduct off school property if it results in a substantial disruption to the educational environment. Any person taking, disseminating, transferring, or sharing obscene, sexually oriented, lewd, or otherwise illegal images or photographs will be disciplined according to the Student Code of Conduct and may, in certain circumstances, be reported to law enforcement.

TELEPHONE USE

The school telephone is for business only. All calls to students must be from their parents or other responsible adults. Students will not be called out of class except in emergencies, and the students will not make calls except when a real need exists and permission is secured from the office. Students MAY bring cell phones to school, but they must keep them out of sight during class time. Please read Electronic Device Policy at: http://www.arp.sprnet.org/admin/policy/Electronic_Device_Policy.htm

TEXTBOOKS AND LIBRARY BOOKS

All students must keep the textbooks issued to them in good condition. These textbooks must be kept covered. Pencil marks or ink marks are considered damage to books. The student to whom the textbook is issued is held responsible for the condition of the book even though another person damages the book. If, because of the damage, the book is no longer usable, then the student must pay for such damage. If the book is lost, the student to whom it was issued must pay for it. Except for the requirement that books be covered, the same rules apply to the care of library books.

TIGER DAY-TUTORIAL PROGRAM

Tiger Day (Today Is a Great day for Extra activities & Recovery) will be offered once a week for each grade level. This day is designed to meet the needs of any student that is struggling and also provide extra activities. If a student is behind in his/her work or at-risk of failing any mandatory academics, they will be provided tutorials during this day. This day will be used to promote mastery of subjects and at the same time provide enrichment activities only available on TIGER Day.

Tutorial Program is designed to provide struggling students with timely assistance. Each teacher will be offering tutorials 2 or 3 days a week (mornings from 7:20-7:50 a.m. or after-school from 3:40- 4:10 p.m.). Teachers will provide you with their individual tutorial schedule.

VISITORS TO THE SCHOOL

Parents and others are welcome to visit District schools. For the safety of those within the school and to avoid disruption of instructional time, all visitors must first report to the principal’s office. Visits to individual classrooms during instructional time are permitted only with approval of the principal and teacher and so long as their duration or frequency does not interfere with the delivery of instruction or disrupt the normal school environment. All visitors are expected to demonstrate the highest standards of courtesy and conduct; disruptive behavior will not be permitted.

WITHDRAWAL

A parent or guardian is required to be present to withdraw a student from school. The student must be clear of all charges including textbooks, library books, cafeteria and all other charges.

Arp Independent School District

EXCERPT FROM

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

BEHAVIOR OFFENSES AND CONSEQUENCES FOR STUDENTS

LEVEL I: Minor Behavior Violation – Teacher Intervention

Intervention should occur by the teacher who is supervising the student or who observes the misbehavior. A record of offenses and disciplinary actions shall be maintained by the teacher for Level I behavior. The teacher may discuss the misbehavior with parent, administrator and/or support personnel.

Minor behavior violations and discipline options/responses are not limited to those herein listed. Repeated violations shall result in a more severe response and/or referral to Level II.

Some examples of Level I violations include:

DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLISHED MATERIALS OR DOCUMENTS

Services for the Homeless and for Title I Participants

SECTION II: INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS

COMPLAINTS AND CONCERNS

Pest Management Plan

STEROIDS

PSYCHOTROPIC DRUGS

Retention – Parent Notification

Grade Placement Committee