2016 - 2017

Polo Community High School

Student Handbook

Fight Song of the Polo Marcos

Polo fights for victory; Polo fights for fame.Ever show your loyalty; ever praise her name.Loyal sons of Polo High, fight for the Gold and the Blue -- Keep her colors waving high, we're proud of you.

(shout)Fight, fight, Polo High!Fight, fight, Polo High!Yea, team! Say, team! Fight!

(sing)Polo fights for victory; Polo fights for fame.Ever show your loyalty; ever praise her name.Loyal sons of Polo High, fight for the Gold and the Blue -- Keep her colors waving high, we're proud of you.

C. E. Rose1940

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To Our Parents and Students:

We would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to Polo Community High School. The purpose of this handbook is to help you to become acquainted with the rules and regulations that help us to run our high school in an effective and efficient manner.

Please keep in mind that we must make decisions for the good of all our students and not just one individual or special group. Many of the events and situations that will arise during the school year are covered in this handbook. Everyone should be aware, however; that the handbook is not all inclusive. Many situations will arise that may require special interpretations or the implementation of common sense rules to deal with situations. This handbook is, however, designed to serve as a guide for both student behavior and administrative decisions. Please contact us if any questions, problems, or concerns arise. The administration, faculty and staff are here to help you have an enjoyable and productive school year.

We expect you, as parents and students, to read the handbook and understand the rules and regulations contained within. You are the most important part of our school, so prepare yourself to work and be the best you can possibly be.

We are looking forward to working with you. Have a great school year.

Our mission is to inspire, educate, challenge and support all students to reach their highest level of learning and personal development to ensure a solid foundation for their future.

Please visit http://polo222.org/dist/dssbpolidx.html online to access the district board policies.

Sincerely, Mr. Faivre, Principal

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Student Opportunities 2016 - 2017

SportsBasketballBaseballCheerleadingFootballGolfManagersSoftballStatisticiansTrackVolleyballWrestling

ActivitiesAssembliesCoed GolfCoed VolleyballDodge ball Field TripsHomecomingJob ShadowingMusicalsPlaysPowder-Puff FootballProm

Student HonorsAcademic Honors NightAthletic BanquetsFine Arts BanquetHigh Honor RollHonor RollNational Honor SocietyService to the School Student of the MonthStudent of the Quarter

Clubs and OrganizationsAcademic TeamBandChorusCycle/YearbookDrama ClubFFAFCCLASpanish ClubStudent CouncilVarsity Club

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Table of Contents

1. Title Page 19. Weapons Prohibition 2. Letter to Parents Gang & Gang Activity Prohibited 3. Student Opportunities Re-Engaging Returning Students4 Table of Contents 20. Administrative Discretion5. GENERAL GUIDELINES Discipline Steps

Activities and Student Organizations 21. SuspensionAdministering Medications Activity CodeAnnouncements Due ProcessBullying 22. Discipline LevelsBus Permits Cell Phones & Other Electronic

6. Classroom Expectations DevicesCorridor Pass SIRS (Student Incident Reporting System)Cutting / Skipping Class Criminal ActFinal Exams 23. Expulsion Gangs and Gang Related Activities ATHLETICS

7. General Policies Academic EligibilityGrooming Guidelines AttendanceDress Code 24. GRAD. REQUIREMENTS

8. Homeroom / Study Hall 25. Driver Education Lockers EnrollmentLunch Period Eight Semester Courses

9. Safety Drills and Emergencies Criteria for Attending W.A.C.C.Student Accidents Criteria for Work Study Student Parking Correspondence Courses and

10. Student Valuables and Lost & Found Credit from Other Schools Telephone Calls 26. Graduation Requirements andTextbooks Grading ProceduresVisitors Distance Learning Virtual High ATTENDANCE School Tardiness Proficiency Testing

11. Admits to Class Student RecordsExcused Absences 27. DISTRICT POLICIES Unexcused Absences Behavior Intervention

12. Hearing Procedure Electronic Network User Medical Documentation AgreementSpecial Permission Absences 28. Access to Student Info. & WebsitesTruancy Notice of Electronic Recording

13. Emergency Absence Search and SeizureMake-up Work School Property, Equipment, and

14. GRADES Personal Effects Left By StudentsGrading System StudentsSemester Grades 29. Seizure of Property Report Cards Sex Equity Incompletes Sexual Harassment DISCIPLINE Special Education Services

15. Prohibited Student Conduct 30. Prevention and Response to16. Prohibited Student Conduct, con’t. Bullying17. Prohibited Student Conduct, con’t. 32. Calendar

When & Where Conduct Rules Apply 33. Calendar18. Disciplinary Measures 34. Calendar19. Corporal Punishment Winter Weather

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GENERAL GUIDELINESActivities and Student OrganizationsAll school activities must be approved by the principal and scheduled on the calendar. The activities for the year should be planned and scheduled early in the fall. Requests for money raising projects at the high school must first be proposed to the Activities Director who then will forward the request with recommendations to the principal. These requests must be filed in the office three weeks prior to the fundraiser starting date.

Money raising projects must be approved by the principal. Community canvas- type solicitations are discouraged.

Administering MedicationsStudents needing medicine during the school day to remain in daily attendance, for comfort, or as a necessity shall be required to comply with the following guidelines:

1. Written orders are to be provided to the school from a physician detailing the name of the drug, dosage, and the time interval in which the medication is to be taken.

2. All medications must be administered by the school nurse or through the office.

3. All School Board policy guidelines must be followed. 4. The school shall not administer aspirin, acetaminophen, vitamin tablets, or

other types of medicine unless the above guidelines have been followed.

AnnouncementsA message that is to be read over the PA system should be approved and initialed by the activity sponsor and turned in to the office before 8:00 A.M.

BullyingStudents will not use any form of aggressive behavior that does physical or psychological harm to anyone else. Also, they will not urge other students to engage in such conduct. Prohibited aggressive behavior includes, but is not limited to, the use of violence, force, noise, coercion, threats, intimidation, fear, bullying, or other comparable conduct. The punishment for bullying is a Level 3-4 consequence.

Bus PermitsVisitors wishing to ride with you on the school bus must request permission from the principal by presenting a note from the host’s parents and a note from the visitor’s parents. If the bus is not overcrowded, permission will be granted.

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Classroom ExpectationsThe following expectations apply to all students for each class at Polo Community High School.

1. Bring Chromebook, textbook, notebook paper, pen or pencil, and other necessary materials to class. Coming to class unprepared may result in a tardy.

2. Be an active participant in the classroom by taking notes, listening well, and taking part in discussions.

3. When provided study time, use this time effectively and understand the assignment before leaving the class.

4. Students are encouraged to keep their student planner up to date and bring it to class daily.

Corridor PassAny student in the hallway at times other than passing periods must have a pass.

To get a corridor pass, the student must contact the teacher before or after school or between class periods. After receiving the pass, the student will arrive at the destination before the tardy bell rings and remain there until the end of the period. If the student must return before the end of class, he/she will need the original pass signed by the teacher indicating departure time.

Cutting / Skipping ClassBeing absent from a class or classes without permission is an unexcused absence and an act of truancy. There is no legitimate reason for cutting or skipping. Cutting class is a cause for at least one of the following: loss of academic points, failing grade, detention, suspension or expulsion. Severity of the discipline will depend on the record of the student and frequency of the offense.

Final ExamsAll students except for seniors are required to take semester exams in all subjects. Seniors may take exams if they choose. To qualify for 1st semester exemptions seniors must meet the following criteria: 1) has a “C” or better in the class at time of semester exams; 2) has 6 or fewer absences for the current semester. To qualify for 2nd semester exemptions the following criteria must be met: 1) is not failing the class at the time of semester exams; 2) has 4 or fewer absences for the current semester per class period (absence exceptions are limited to school activities or family funeral). Students enrolled in an AP class must take the final exam for the class if they do not take the AP test.

Gangs and Gang Related ActivitiesThe presence of or student involvement in gangs or gang-related activities on school grounds, including the display of gang symbols or paraphernalia is strictly prohibited. Any student who violates this policy shall be subject to suspension or expulsion in accordance with the District's student discipline policy.

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General Policies1. Students will not use electronic devices including Chromebooks in school

during school hours unless required by a teacher for class. Students may use electronic devices during lunch time if deemed appropriate by the school principal.

2. Cell phones may only be used before and after school and during lunch. Cell phones must be turned off during the regular school day. Cell phones may be confiscated by staff for inappropriate use. Cell phones that are found in the locker room will be a minimum Level 2 offense.

3. Knives, guns, other weapons, or any look-alikes are not permitted on the school premises at any time without written permission from the principal.

4. Water guns are prohibited. 5. Students damaging school property will be required to pay the cost of repair

and/or replacement. 6. Hazing is illegal and may result in suspension. 7. Only water will be allowed during the school day for students. Individual

teachers will set their own food and beverage consumption guidelines which will be enforced. Pop will only be sold after school at 3:10 P.M.

Grooming GuidelinesThe Board of Education, the Administration and the Faculty believe the students of our school district possess the good judgment, personal integrity and respect for themselves and their school to dress appropriately and maintain appropriate hygiene. Much of the responsibility for their proper attire should rest upon the students and their parents. We recognize the possibility that upon occasion an individual may need guidance regarding proper dress.

Dress CodeIn general, students are required to dress in a way that does not distract or disrupt the educational environment of the school and also in a way that will not compromise the individual safety of the student.

1. The following are examples, but not limited to, wearing apparel considered unacceptable or inappropriate for dress in a school classroom setting:

• halter tops • cut offs • see through blouses• tank tops • short shorts • short mini skirts• mesh jersey • sleeveless shirts (boys)• cut shirts • swimsuits

2. Hats, scarves, bandanas, kerchiefs, hoods or other head coverings are not to be worn in the building during the day. Any hat or head covering worn in the building during the day may be confiscated and not returned until the end of the school year.

3. No student shall wear clothing or practice grooming which is unsafe, unsanitary, distracting to others, or is destructive to property.

4. Language or pictures on clothing, such as obscenities or terms relating to sex, violence, alcohol, drugs, or tobacco cannot be worn.

Any student who does not comply with the dress and grooming regulations may be sent home to change, be required to have a parent conference, or receive other disciplinary action deemed appropriate by the principal.

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HomeroomHomeroom rules will follow Study Hall rules at the discretion of the teacher.

1. Clubs and organizations will meet only on their specified day unless given permission from the office. Students may attend meetings unless they have assignments that must be completed. The office will notify Study Hall / Homeroom teachers of any changes.

Study HallThis time is set aside during the school day for students to study. The entire class period is to focus on academic efforts. This may involve research, review, preview, studying, writing and reading. Study Hall is a graded class. At no time will a student be allowed to pursue nonacademic endeavors such as listening to music, talking, playing games, or the like.

1. All students will need to bring something to read to Study Hall every day. When homework is completed, students will be required to read for the remainder of the time.

2. Electronic devices will not be allowed with the exception of a device used solely for reading such as Kindles, Nooks, E-readers, Chromebooks, etc.

3. Students will only be allowed out of Study Hall with a signed pass. This includes trips to the library.

4. Students will only be allowed to retrieve work from teachers of other classes if the student has a pass from that teacher. This includes asking questions.

5. There will be no food or drinks in the room with the exception of the current “bottled water” policy in the Handbook. Students may lose this privilege if they cannot control the use of the water and resulting need to use the restroom.

6. Any behavior contrary to that outlined above will be viewed as insubordination and dealt with according to school guidelines.

LockersEach student will be issued a hall locker. It is his/her responsibility to see that the locker is kept clean, in good working order, and locked at all times. Do not attach any signs, posters, or decorations on the outside of lockers without office permission. A student should use only his/her locker and not allow another student to use that locker. Any locker damage should be reported to the office immediately.

All lockers are the property of the school and students should not have an expectation of privacy in school lockers. Lockers are subject to random searches at any time by school officials. Any contents contrary to school regulations or school welfare will be confiscated.

Lunch PeriodOpen campus during the lunch period is considered by the District, School Board and Administration to be a privilege and that privilege can and will be revoked at the principal’s discretion for any of the following reasons:

1. Inappropriate conduct while off campus during the lunch period2. Late returns from lunch without a valid excuse

3rd late from lunch: closed campus 1 week 4th late from lunch: closed campus 1 month 5th late from lunch: closed campus remainder of year

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3. Careless driving in the PCHS parking lot4. Violations of attendance policies (e.g. tardies, truancies,

unexcused absences, etc.)5. Other inappropriate conduct (e.g. too many detentions)

Safety Drills and EmergenciesFire and disaster drills will be scheduled throughout the school year. Teachers and posted signs will indicate the route to be taken from various rooms to the designated areas. It is imperative that students follow directions, behave in an orderly manner, and maintain silence in case instructions must be given.

Student AccidentsThe student is responsible for reporting accidents at school to the teacher or coach in charge at the time of the occurrence. Accident reports must be filed in the school office.

Student ParkingParking at PCHS is a privilege. Cooperation with the parking regulations will allow continued use of students’ vehicles at the high school. All PCHS students who drive vehicles to school will be required to register their vehicle and purchase and display a vehicle sticker.

Students may park their vehicles in the north parking lot only. Vehicles must be parked between the painted lines, and must be driven under the speed limit of 10 miles per hour while in the lot. Vehicles should be driven safely and must yield to pedestrians. Vehicles parked outside painted lines or designated parking spots may be ticketed or towed at the discretion of the school, at the vehicle owner’s expense. Students caught driving recklessly in the parking lot may be subject to disciplinary action, which may result in a student losing their driving privilege for a period of, at a minimum, one week to a maximum of the remainder of the school year.

The front row of the west side of the north lot, the cafeteria parking lot, and drive behind the school are designated are for school staff, personnel, and others designated by administration. These lots MAY NOT be used by students at any time. Student vehicles parked in these lots may be ticketed or towed at the discretion of administration.

The school is not responsible for student vehicles, any possessions left in them, or anything attached to the vehicles. STUDENTS PARK THEIR VEHICLES ON OR NEAR SCHOOL PROPERTY AT THEIR OWN RISK. Students should be aware their vehicles are not protected in any way while in the parking lot, and items of value should not be left in or near the vehicle while unattended.

Students have no reasonable expectation of privacy in cars parked on school grounds. School lots are regularly searched by contraband dogs, administration, and police officers. Students should be aware that items and spaces on school grounds are subject to search and view by others, and that prohibited items discovered during the course of a search may result in discipline, including, but not limited to, expulsion from school.

Vehicles MAY NOT be parked or located in the bus lanes or fire lanes at ANY TIME (including in front and behind the school). Bus lanes and fire lanes are

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clearly marked. Vehicles located in these locations may be ticketed and/or towed by the police.

Video cameras may be active in parking lots and may be used for the purposes of investigation into student misconduct. Discipline for misconduct includes all disciplinary measures in the student discipline code and/or withdrawal of parking privileges.

Student Valuables and Lost and FoundStudents are cautioned not to bring large amounts of money or other valuables to school. Students, not the school, are responsible for their personal property. On occasion, students may request to leave money or other valuables in the office for safekeeping. Any article found on school property should be brought to the school office. If a student has lost or misplaced an item, he/she should check in the office.

Telephone CallsStudent use of the office telephone will be for emergencies only.

Cell phones may not be used during school hours. If students must contact their parents during the school day they are to use the office phone not their cell phones. (See General Policies #2 for additional details.)

TextbooksAll textbooks are provided at public expense for all students. In exchange, the students are responsible for returning all issued books showing no more than normal wear. Writing on or highlighting in textbooks is not acceptable. Fines will be assessed in all cases if books show evidence of carelessness or neglect. Lost textbooks must be paid for as soon as possible. The price will be that of a new book. If the lost book is recovered, the payment will be refunded.

VisitorsVisitors must secure permission at the principal’s office. Students who wish to have visitors at school must gain approval from the principal at least one day in advance of the requested visit. A note from the parent/guardian requesting the visit is required. No visitors to class will be allowed during the first or last week of the school year or during exam week.

ATTENDANCEA student’s success in school and later in life is reflected by his or her attendance. To encourage each individual at Polo Community High School to be the best he/she can be, the Board of Education and administration have an attendance policy which fosters the success of each individual in preparation for his/her future goals and plans. Herewith, the following attendance policy will be followed:

TardinessBoth being late to school or class are considered tardies. Students have 3 minutes for passing time between classes and should have no problem getting to class on time.

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TardyDefinition: 1. Late to class. Whether you must be in the room or be in your

seat when the bell rings is at the discretion of the classroom teacher.

2. Being on time but not having the correct materials for the day's activities.

Consequences: 4th Tardy – Detention assigned 5th Tardy and above – Detention and parent contact

Late-to-SchoolDefinition: Any amount of time more than a couple of minutes late will not be

considered a tardy, but rather an unexcused absence that can be applied towards PCHS policies. Consequences will be determined per individual case.

Consequences may include any of the following:Detention Closed Campus, during lunchParent Conference SuspensionSaturday Detention

Admits to ClassA student must report to the office by 8:05 A.M. for an admit slip upon returning from any absence. If a student loses an admit slip or does not request it before school, a tardy will be assessed.

After an absence (if contact with the school has not been made) the student must bring a note from home which includes:

1. An explanation of the reason for the absence; 2. Date of absence(s); 3. A parent/guardian signature.

If the student fails to bring a note from home after an absence, further disciplinary action will be taken.

The parent/guardian is required to call the school when his/her child is absent.

Excused Absences1. Personal illness 2. Medical or dental appointments 3. Serious illness or death in the immediate family 4. Authorized religious holidays 5. Other absences which may receive prior approval of the principal

Unexcused AbsencesAny student who misses 5 days of school or more per semester due to unexcused absences in a specific class will have his/her letter grade dropped one letter on the final semester grade (6 days will result in a two letter grade deduction and 7 days will result in three). A student having 8 or more unexcused absences in a semester in any individual class will receive no credit (NC) in that class.

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Unexcused absences are absences such as but not limited to: 1. Shopping trips 4. Baby sitting 7. Car trouble2. Gainful employment 5. Non-family vacations 8. Over slept3. Missed the bus 6. Hunting or fishing trips

Hearing ProcedureA student and/or a parent may appeal a student’s grade reduction and/or no credit status and request a hearing with the principal. If the parties are not satisfied with the principal’s action, they may request a hearing with the superintendent. If they are not satisfied with the superintendent’s action they may request a hearing before the Board of Education whose decision shall be final.

The Hearing Officer shall be in complete charge of the hearing. The decision of the Hearing Officer shall be reduced to writing within two working days and provided to both parties.

Medical DocumentationUnder certain circumstances, schools may require parents or guardians to present medical documentation of physical or emotional conditions causing a student’s absence. Beginning with the sixth day of absence during the school year, the student will be expected to provide written verification of the illness by a medical doctor and/or the school nurse within two school days. If this written verification is not provided, the future absences will be considered unexcused.

Special Permission AbsencesWith prior approval of, at least one day in advance, special permission may be granted for a student to be absent for family vacations*, college visitations**, and job applications. The student will be permitted to work ahead on assignments that will be missed. Full credit will be given for work completed and turned in before the actual absence. No make-up work will be accepted after the absence.

*Family vacation shall be interpreted to mean that at least one parent, grandparent or guardian must accompany the student on the vacation. A student is limited to five excused vacation days per school year. Students will be allowed one planned absence per year with principal approval. This form must be completed and turned into the principal 24 hours prior to the planned absence.

**College visits must be arranged through the office, approved by the principal, and are limit two days per year for juniors and seniors. The student is to bring written verification to the Guidance Counselor from the college after the visit.

Truancy1. This district considers a student to be truant who is absent without valid cause

for a school day or portion thereof, as defined in Section 26-a of the Illinois School Code.

2. Examples of truancy, but not limited to, as listed below: a. Skips school or a class; b. Leaves school without signing out in the proper office;c. Leaves school during lunch without a pass if on closed campus status;

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d. Is absent from class without permission; e. Obtains a pass to go to a certain place and does not report there;f. Becomes ill and goes home or stays in the restroom instead of reporting to

the office; g. Goes home for lunch, becomes ill and remains there without having a parent

or guardian call; h. Comes to school but does not attend class.

Emergency AbsenceOccasionally a family emergency develops at the last moment and it becomes imperative that a student stays at home to help out. The emergency may exist for only an hour, for a half day or perhaps for all day. In any event the parent should call the principal at his/her earliest opportunity to explain the emergency. The principal may waive all regulations concerning “student absences” when in his/her judgment the urgency of the absences justifies special consideration. The key word will be “emergency” rather than the “convenience” of the situation. When in the opinion of the school authorities a student’s emergency absences become excessive, a parent conference will be required with the principal and/or Board of Education.

Make-up WorkAny student missing school because of an excused absence will be able to make up work that was missed. The following guidelines will apply:

1. It is the student’s responsibility to check with the teacher to complete the assignments by the deadline dates.

2. The deadline date, for a one-day absence, will be the next school day. 3. In the case of extended illness for which a student needs additional time to

make up work, deadline dates will be determined jointly by the teacher and Guidance Counselor.

4. Make-up work should be closely similar and alike in content to work done in class during the absence. However, teachers may vary the format or nature of the make-up work.

5. With long term assignments, such as quizzes, tests, projects, and/or term papers, students are required to meet deadlines regardless of absences.

6. If a student’s absence is excused or if a student is suspended from school, he/she will be permitted to make up all missed work, including homework and tests, for equivalent academic credit. Students who are unexcused from school will not be allowed to make up missed work.

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GRADESGrading System

90 - 100 % A Excellent - Superior80 - 89 % B Good - Average70 - 79 % C Average - Satisfactory60 - 69 % D Poor - But Passing59% - below F Below Passing / No CreditP Passing with special prior approvalNC No Credit in Pass/Fail Class0 No CreditI Incomplete/No Credit

To better inform parents of their child’s progress, the percentages will be indicated on the report cards.

Semester GradesSemester exams count 20% of the total semester grade. Each 9 week/quarter-grading period will count 40% of the total semester grade. Quarter or 9 week-grades should consist of many of the following: tests, quizzes, homework assignments, daily assignments, and projects, etc.

Report CardsReport cards will be withheld for students who have records or obligations that have not been cleared by the office or library. Report cards and student progress is available through the parent portal. Check with the office for more information.

IncompletesAny incompletes not taken care of before 7 calendar days after any grading period ends, will be changed to an “F” grade unless prior arrangements have been made.

DISCIPLINEOne goal of the Polo Community High School is to develop positive, constructive student behavior. Each student needs to develop self-discipline and a strong sense of responsibility for himself/herself and others. For those students who are unable to display positive, constructive behavior or demonstrate self-discipline, enforcing discipline by teachers and administration may become necessary. Students may be suspended or recommended for expulsion for a serious violation of school rules. While both the principal and the superintendent are legally permitted to suspend a student from school, expulsion must come from the Board of Education.

In making a decision relative to the type of punishment that should occur for nonconformance to rules and regulations, the administration follows four points: 1) the cause of the misbehavior; 2) the severity of the offense; 3) the habitualness of the offender and 4) the personality of the offender, i.e., certain individuals may respond more appropriately to different types of discipline.

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Prohibited Student ConductStudents may be disciplined for gross disobedience or misconduct, including but not limited to the following:

1. Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, selling or offering for sale tobacco or nicotine materials, including electronic cigarettes or e-cigarettes. (Level 2-3-4)

2. Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, or selling alcoholic beverages. Students who are under the influence of an alcoholic beverage are not permitted to attend school or school functions and are treated as though they had alcohol in their possession. (Level 3-4)

3. Using, possessing, distributing, purchasing, selling or offering for sale: (Level 3-4)a. Any illegal drug, controlled substance, or cannabis (including marijuana,

medical cannabis and hashish).b. Any anabolic steroid unless it is being administered in accordance with a

physician’s or licensed practitioner’s prescription.c. Any performance-enhancing substance on the Illinois High School

Association’s most current banned substance list unless administered in accordance with a physician’s or licensed practitioner’s prescription.

d. Any prescription drug when not prescribed for the student by a physician or licensed practitioner, or when used in a manner inconsistent with the prescription or prescribing physician’s or licensed practitioner’s instructions. The use or possession of medical cannabis, even by a student for whom medical cannabis has been prescribed, is prohibited.

e. Any inhalant, regardless of whether it contains an illegal drug or controlled substance: a) that a student believes is, or represents to be capable of, causing intoxication, hallucination, excitement, or dulling of the brain or nervous system; or b) about which the student engaged in behavior that would lead a reasonable person to believe that the student intended the inhalant to cause intoxication, hallucination, excitement, or dulling of the brain or nervous system. The prohibition in this section does not apply to a student’s use of asthma or other legally prescribed inhalant medications.

f. “Lookalike” or counterfeit drugs, including a substance that is not prohibited by this policy, but one: a) that a student believes to be, or represents to be, an illegal drug, controlled substance, or other substance that is prohibited by this policy; or b) about which a student engaged in behavior that would lead a reasonable person to believe that the student expressly or impliedly represented to be an illegal drug, controlled substance or other substance that is prohibited by this policy.

g. Drug paraphernalia, including devices that are or can be used to: a) ingest, inhale, or inject cannabis or controlled substances into the body; and b) grow, process, store, or conceal cannabis or controlled substances.

h. Any substance inhaled, injected, smoked, consumed or otherwise ingested or absorbed with the intention of causing a physiological or psychological change in the body, including without limitation, pure caffeine in a tablet or powdered form.

Students who are under the influence of any prohibited substance are not permitted to attend school or school functions and are treated as though they have the prohibited substance, as applicable, in their possession.

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4. Using, possessing, controlling or transferring a “weapon” or explosives, or violating the procedures listed below under the Weapons Prohibition section of this handbook procedure. (Level 3-4)

5. Using or possessing an electronic paging device.6. Using a cellular telephone, smartphone, video recording device, personal

digital assistant (PDA), or similar electronic device in any manner that disrupts the educational environment or violates the rights of others, including using the device to take photographs in locker rooms or bathrooms, cheat, or otherwise violate student conduct rules. Prohibited conduct specifically includes, without limitation, creating and sending, sharing, viewing, receiving or possessing an indecent visual depiction of oneself or another person through the use of a computer, electronic communication device or cellular telephone, commonly known as “sexting.” Unless otherwise banned under this policy or by the building principal, all cellular phones, smartphones and other electronic devices must be kept powered-off and out-of-sight during the regular school day unless: a) the supervising teacher grants permission; b) use of the device is provided in a student’s individualized education program (IEP); c) it is used during the student’s lunch period; or d) it is needed in an emergency that threatens the safety of students, staff, or other individuals. (Level 1-2)

7. Using or possessing a laser pointer unless under a staff member’s direct supervision and in the context of instruction. (Level 1-2)

8. Disobeying rules of student conduct or directives from staff members or school officials. Examples of disobeying staff directives include refusing a staff member’s request to stop, present school identification or submit to a search. (Level 2-3-4)

9. Engaging in academic dishonesty, including cheating, intentionally plagiarizing, wrongfully giving or receiving help during an academic examination, altering report cards and wrongfully obtaining test copies or scores. (Level 1-2)

10. Engaging in bullying, hazing or any kind of aggressive behavior that does physical or psychological harm to a staff person or another student or encouraging other students to engage in such behavior. Prohibited conduct specifically includes, without limitation, any use of violence, intimidation, force, noise, coercion, threats, stalking, harassment, sexual harassment, public humiliation, theft or destruction of property, retaliation, hazing, bullying, bullying using a school computer or a school computer network or other comparable conduct. (Level 1-2-3-4)

11. Engaging in any sexual activity, including without limitation, offensive touching, sexual harassment, indecent exposure (including mooning) and sexual assault. (Level 1-2-3-4)

12. Engaging in teen dating violence. (Level 2-3-4)13. Causing or attempting to cause damage to, stealing, or attempting to steal,

school property or another person’s personal property. (Level 3-4)14. Entering school property or a school facility without proper authorization.

(Level 1-2-3-4)15. In the absence of a reasonable belief that an emergency exists, calling

emergency responders (calling 911) ; signaling or setting off alarms or signals indicating the presence of an emergency; or indicating the presence of a bomb or explosive device on school grounds, school bus or at any school activity. (Level 2-3-4)

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16. Being absent without a recognized excuse. (Level 1-2)17. Being involved with any public school fraternity, sorority, or secret society.

(Level 1-2-3-4)18. Being involved in a gang or engaging in gang-like activities, including

displaying gang symbols or paraphernalia. (Level 1-2-3-4)19. Violating any criminal law, including but not limited to, assault, battery, arson,

theft, gambling, eavesdropping, vandalism and hazing. (Level 2-3-4)20. Engaging in any activity, on or off campus, that interferes with, disrupts, or

adversely affects the school environment, school operations, or an educational function, including but not limited to, conduct that may reasonably be considered to: a) be a threat or an attempted intimidation of a staff member; or b) endanger the health or safety of students, staff, or school property. (Level 2-3-4)

21. Making an explicit threat on an Internet website against a school employee, a student, or any school-related personnel if the Internet website through which the threat was made is a site that was accessible within the school at the time the threat was made or was available to third parties who worked or studied within the school grounds at the time the threat was made, and the threat could be reasonably interpreted as threatening to the safety and security of the threatened individual because of his or her duties or employment status or status as a student inside the school. (Level 1-2-3-4)

22. Operating an unarmed aircraft system (AUS) or drone for any purpose on school grounds or at any school event unless granted permission by the building principal. (Level 1-2-3-4)

23. Violation of the Computer/Network Authorization for Use policy. (Level 2-3-4)

Any other violation of school rules or failure to adhere to standards of appropriate conduct may be disciplined at Levels 1-2.

For purposes of these rules, the term “possession” includes having control, custody, or care, currently or in the past, of an object or substance, including situations in which the item is: a) on the student’s person; b) contained in another item belonging to, or under the control of, the student, such as in the student’s clothing, backpack, or automobile; c) in a school’s student locker, desk, or other school property; d) at any location on school property or at a school-sponsored event; or e) in the case of drugs and alcohol, substances ingested by the person.

Efforts, including the use of positive interventions and supports shall be made to deter students, while at school or a school-related event, from engaging in aggressive behavior that may reasonably produce physical or psychological harm to someone else.

No disciplinary action shall be taken against any student that is based totally or in part on the refusal of the student’s parent/guardian to administer or consent to the administration of psychotropic or psychostimulant medication to the student.

When and Where Conduct Rules ApplyThe grounds for disciplinary action also apply whenever the student’s conduct is reasonably related to school or school activities, including but not limited to:

1. On, or within sight of, school grounds before, during, or after school hours or at any time;

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2. Off school grounds at a school-sponsored activity or event, or any activity or event that bears a reasonable relationship to school;

3. Traveling to or from school or a school activity, function, or event; or4. Anywhere, if the conduct interferes with, disrupts, or adversely affects the

school environment, school operations, or an educational function, including but not limited to, conduct that may reasonably be considered to: a) be a threat or an attempted intimidation of a staff member; or b) endanger the health or safety of students, staff, or school property.

Disciplinary MeasuresSchool officials shall limit the number and duration of expulsions and out-of-school suspensions to the greatest extent practicable, and, where practicable and reasonable, shall consider forms of non-exclusionary discipline before using out-of-school suspensions or expulsions. School personnel shall not advise or encourage students to drop out of school voluntarily due to behavioral or academic difficulties. Potential disciplinary measures include, without limitation, any of the following measures:

1. Notifying parents/guardians.2. Disciplinary conference.3. Withholding of privileges.4. Temporary removal from the classroom.5. Return of property or restitution for lost, stolen or damaged property.6. In-school suspension.7. After-school study or Saturday study provided the student’s parent/guardian

has been notified. (If transportation arrangements cannot be made in advance, an alternative disciplinary measure will be assigned to the student.)

8. Community service.9. Seizure of contraband; confiscation and temporary retention of the personal

property that was used to violate school rules.10. Suspension of bus riding privileges.11. Suspension from school and all school activities for up to 10 days. A

suspended student is prohibited from being on school grounds.12. Expulsion from school and all school activities for a definite time period not to

exceed 2 calendar years. An expelled student is prohibited from being on school grounds.

13. Transfer to an alternative program if the student is expelled or otherwise qualifies for transfer under State law.

14. Notifying juvenile authorities or other law enforcement whenever the conduct involves criminal activity, such as, illegal drugs (controlled substances), “lookalikes,” alcohol or weapons or in other circumstances as authorized by the reciprocal reporting agreement between the District and local law enforcement agencies.

The above list of disciplinary measures is a range of options that will not always be applicable in every case. In some circumstances, it may not be possible to avoid suspending or expelling a student because behavioral interventions, other than a suspension or expulsion, will not be appropriate and available, and the only reasonable and practical way to resolve the threat and/or address the disruption is a suspension or expulsion.

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Corporal PunishmentCorporal punishment is illegal and will not be used. Corporal punishment is defined as slapping, paddling, or prolonged maintenance of students in physically painful positions, or intentional infliction of bodily harm. Corporal punishment does not include reasonable force as needed to maintain safety for students, staff, or other persons, or for the purpose of self-defense or defense of property.

Weapons ProhibitionA student who is determined to have brought one of the following objects to school, any school-sponsored activity or event, or any activity or event that bears a reasonable relationship to school shall be expelled for a period of not less than one year but not more than 2 calendar years:

1. A firearm, meaning any gun, rifle, shotgun, weapon as defined by Section 921 of Title 18 of the Unites States Code, firearm as defined in Section 1.1 of the Firearm Owners Identification Card Act, or firearm as defined in Section 241 of the Criminal Code of 1961. The expulsion period may be modified by the superintendent, and the superintendent's determination may be modified by the board on a case-by-case basis.

2. A knife, brass knuckles or other knuckle weapon regardless of its composition, a billy club, or any other object if used or attempted to be used to cause bodily harm, including “look alikes” of any firearm as defined above.

The expulsion requirement may be modified by the superintendent, and the superintendent's determination may be modified by the board on a case-by-case basis.

Gang & Gang Activity Prohibited “Gang” is defined as any group, club or organization of two or more persons whose purposes include the commission of illegal acts. No student on or about school property or at any school activity or whenever the student’s conduct is reasonably related to a school activity, shall: 1) wear, possess, use, distribute, display, or sell any clothing, jewelry, paraphernalia or other items which reasonably could be regarded as gang symbols; commit any act or omission, or use either verbal or non-verbal gestures, or handshakes showing membership or affiliation in a gang; or 2) use any speech or commit any act or omission in furtherance of the interest of any gang or gang activity, including, but not limited to, soliciting others for membership in any gangs; 3) request any person to pay protection or otherwise intimidate, harass or threaten any person; 4) commit any other illegal act or other violation of district policies, 5) or incite other students to act with physical violence upon any other person.

Re-Engagement of Returning StudentsThe building principal or designee shall meet with a student returning to school from an out-of-school suspension, expulsion or alternative school setting. The goal of this meeting shall be to support the student’s ability to be successful in school following a period of exclusion and shall include an opportunity for students who have been suspended to complete or makeup missed work for equivalent academic credit.

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Administrative DiscretionIt is recognized that not all disciplinary problems and situations can be identified for the “general” guidelines. The administration reserves the right to act appropriately at its discretion in any situation or problem that is not specifically stated, calls for additional disciplinary measures or overrule or suspend the guidelines due to an unusual or unique set of circumstances. Any such “change” or “ruling” by the administrator is not deemed to be policy or precedent setting.

Discipline StepsStep One - Teacher Conference

1. Teacher contact and conference slip will be used as the first step in changing behavior.

2. Conference may be up to 50 minutes. 3. If the problem is deemed serious, a teacher should issue an immediate

detention and/or immediate principal referral. 4. If the problem continues, a teacher initiated parent contact should be

made. 5. These conferences should be conducted outside class time whenever

possible.

Step Two - Detention1. If the problem continues without a change in behavior, the student will

be given a detention. 2. The teacher assigning the detention will be responsible for following up

on the serving of the detention.

Detention Rules1. School-Wide Detention begins at 3:15 P.M. and ends at 4:00 P.M.

If the student is tardy for detention, the supervisor may detain the student for the number of minutes the student was late.

2. School-Wide Detention will be held in the office. Teacher Detentions will be held in the room of the assigned teacher as indicated on the detention schedule.

3. Students will come prepared with sufficient educational materials to work the entire time. Students will remain silent, seated and actively involved in studying educational materials.

Step Three - Principal Referral 1. If the problem continues or the detention is not served, the student

will be referred to the principal. At that time the principal will determine the appropriate action. (Please refer to Discipline Levels on page 22.)

Failure to serve a teacher detention or school-wide detention will result in the issuance of a Saturday detention. Failure to serve an assigned Saturday detention will result in an ISS.

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Suspension

Suspension: A temporary termination of enrollment until stipulated conditions are met. Responsibility for suspending a student shall reside with the administration.

The Board of Education does hereby authorize the superintendent of the district and the building principals in charge of student affairs to suspend pupils guilty of gross disobedience or misconduct. Such suspensions shall not exceed ten days and shall be reported immediately to the parents or guardians of such pupil along with a full statement of the reasons for such suspensions and a notice of their right to review, a copy of which shall be given to the school board by sending notice to the Board President. A student is not to be on school grounds or attend any school activity on school grounds during an out-of-school suspension.

ProcedureThe following procedures or guidelines shall govern school suspension:

1. Any such suspension shall be reported immediately to the parents or guardians of said suspended pupil along with a written statement of the reasons for such suspension which shall include a notice of a right to a review of the suspension.

2. Upon written request of the parent or guardian, within five days of the receipt of the notice, a hearing may/be requested.

Activity Code (Applies to any student involved in any extra-curricular activity, not just athletics.)

Any PCHS student guilty of violating the Activity Code and involved in extra-curricular activities will be suspended from the activities as follows:

Tobacco Alcohol Other Illegal Drugs1st Offense 2 wks. or 9 wks. 3 wks. or 12 wks. 4 wks. or 18 wks.2nd Offense 1 calendar year 1 calendar year 1 calendar year3rd Offense Career Career Career

Note: The first number indicates the amount of time suspended from competition or participation within the activity if the student chooses counseling. If the student does not choose counseling, the second number applies.

After the first violation in any category, a second violation in any category will be considered a second offense.

Due ProcessIn accordance with the School Code, Section 10.22.6, a written notice of out-of-school suspension, in-school suspension, and/or recommendation for expulsion shall be sent to the parent, guardian, or student. This notice shall include information explaining the right to appeal a decision and the right to a due process hearing.

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Discipline LevelsDiscipline may be administered by appropriate school personnel. Level 1-4 consequences need not be invoked in order and any combination of specific consequences within a given level may be utilized if appropriate.

LEVEL 11. Notification of parent and or/conference2. Rule clarification and/or reprimand3. Detention with teacher or administrator

LEVEL 21. Notification of parent and/or conference 2. Rule clarification and/or reprimand3. Saturday-detention4. In-school suspension 5. Up to 3 Saturday detentions or up to 3 days out-of-school suspension

LEVEL 31. Notification of and/or conference with parent2. Rule clarification and/or reprimand3. 3 to 10 day out-of-school suspension

LEVEL 41. Notification of and/or conference with parent2. Expulsion

Gross disobedience or misconduct may result in an expulsion recommendation. The Board of Education shall retain sole and exclusive authority to invoke expulsion as a disciplinary measure.

Cell Phones and Other Electrical Devices1. 1st Violation: Removal of cell phone/electrical device2. 2nd-3rd Violation: Removal of cell phone/electrical device, detention, no cell

phone, and parent/principal meeting before the item is returned3. 4th Violation: Level 2 discipline

Student Incident Reporting System (SIRS)Information will be reported to the State Board of Education and local police for the following incidents:

1. Battery to a staff member2. Firearm3. Drug-related incidents

Criminal ActsThe commission of or participation in criminal acts can result in report to or involvement of law enforcement or other outside authorities.

Certified personnel have the right to use sufficient force to prevent personal violence, injury and/or property damage.

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All disciplinary policies shall be enforced at all school activities, home and away. Students may be disciplined for off-campus conduct if the student behavior is reasonably connected to school interests.

ExpulsionThe Polo Board of Education has the authority to expel students following expulsion procedures.

The following reasons for expulsion of a student include, but are not limited:

1. Truancy2. Defiance of school rules and regulations after having been warned or

conferences between student, teachers, parents, administrators, guidance counselor, and service personnel

3. Immoral conduct or illegal activity on the school campus4. Defiance or disobedience to school personnel5. Extortion or intimidation of other students6. Physical attack on any school employee7. Continued acts of conduct which effect the welfare and/or protection of the

student or staff subsequent to the student being warned about his course of conduct

8. Weapons (A student who uses, possesses, controls, or transfers a weapon, or any other object that can reasonably be considered, or looks like, a weapon, shall be expelled for at least one calendar year, but no more than 2 calendar years.)

9. Sale or delivery of illegal drugs10. Repeated occurrences of lack of academic progress

ATHLETICSAthletics at Polo Community High School are considered an extra-curricular opportunity for those who qualify. To participate in interscholastic athletics, a student must have a valid health examination, maintain academic eligibility, and abide by regulations established by the coach. High school athletes must certify cumulative grade eligibility each week and must conform to IHSA regulations.

Academic Eligibility1. No more than one failing semester grade in any subject for the immediate

preceding semester. 2. Must be passing 7 of 8 current courses based on cumulative semester grades.

AttendanceStudents must be enrolled full time in District #222 and must be in attendance one-half day immediately prior to participation unless previously arranged with the head coach due to a dental or medical appointment that cannot be rescheduled or a funeral.

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GRADUATION REQUIREMENTSMinimum units of work: 28 units

Required Units: • English -- 4 units • Social Science -- 3 units consisting of:

World Civilization -- 1 unit U.S. History -- 1 unit American Government -- 1/2 unit Consumer Education -- 1/2 unit

• Mathematics -- 3 units • Science -- 3 units

Laboratory Science -- 1 unit • Health -- 1/2 unit • Physical Education -- 4 units unless prevented by medical restrictions or approved exclusions

• Computers -- 1 unit Technology 9 -- 1/2 unit Technology 10 -- 1/2 unit

• Vocational/Fine Arts -- 2 units chosen from:Art, Music, Foreign Language, including American Sign Language, Vocational Education -- 1 unit must come from vocational education

Additional Requirements • Completion of 30 hours of classroom instruction in Traffic Safety • 10 Hours per year of community service/service learning• Passing grades on the tests on the Federal and Illinois Constitutions • Take required state testing, unless exempt according to 105 ILCS 5/2-3.64• A minimum of 4 years of high school attendance • No more than 3 credits per year from W.A.C.C. will be accepted to meet graduation requirements.

Class ClassificationSophomore 7 creditsJunior 14 credits Senior 20 credits

Grading and PromotingThe administration and professional staff has established a system of grading and reporting academic achievement to students and their parents and guardians. This system also determines when promotion and graduation requirements are met. A student shall not be promoted based upon age or any other social reason not related to academic performance.

Schedule ChangesA student may drop a class without failing within the first four student attendance days of each semester. This must be done by seeing the Guidance Counselor. If a course is dropped after the four-day period, the student will receive a failing grade for the semester. In addition, if a student is removed from a class for discipline

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reasons, a failing grade will be given. IN MOST CIRCUMSTANCES, STUDENTS WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO DROP A YEAR-LONG CLASS AT THE SEMESTER.

Driver EducationEnrollment: Students are assigned Driver Education according to three criteria:

1. Seniors and juniors are assigned Driver Education first. 2. Sophomores are assigned second. 3. Only high school students at least 15 years old or older are enrolled.

Eight Semester Classes:Students must pass eight semester classes within the last two semesters combined to be allowed to take Driver Education. A freshman who is taking Driver’s Education must have passed eight semester classes during his/her eighth grade year. A student not passing eight classes may petition the superintendent for a waiver to take the class.

Enrollment Criteria for Attending W. A. C. C.To be considered for admission to WACC, any junior or senior level student interested in attending WACC must meet the PCHS criteria listed below.

The student must:1. Maintain a 3.0/5.0 overall GPA.2. Not have missed more than 10 days in a previous school calendar year

(unless there are extenuating circumstances).3. Have counselor, administration, and teacher recommendation.

Enrollment Criteria for Work StudyThe student must:

1. Maintain a 2.5/5.0 overall GPA.2. Not have missed more than 10 days in a previous school calendar year

(unless there are extenuating circumstances).3. Have counselor, administration, and teacher recommendation.

Correspondence Courses and Credit From Other SchoolsAll correspondence study to be applied toward graduation must be approved and supervised by the high school principal.

Credits earned in night school, summer school, other high schools, colleges, or any other deviation to this policy will be evaluated by the high school principal on an individual basis in regard to meeting requirements for graduation. Special requests for consideration must be made prior to enrollment. No more than one unit of correspondence or college credit will be accepted to meet graduation requirements without special approval of the Board of Education.

Part-time students will not be accepted without special Board approval. A part-time student is defined as any student enrolled in less than 4 academic units plus PE. If a student has a 4.25 grade point average for the first six semesters and will have completed all graduation requirements by the end of his/her seventh semester he/she may apply to the Board of Education for certification of graduation. Any request prior to the seventh semester, the student must have a 4.50 grade point

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average for academic work completed as part of the early graduation request. The request for exception must be filed with the Superintendent of Schools no earlier than 60 days prior to the date of early graduation. Any student who graduates early will no longer be regarded as a student at PCHS upon the completion of required coursework. Therefore, any student who graduates early forfeits the right to attend prom or walk at the high school graduation ceremony.

Graduation Requirements and Grading ProceduresThe value of "F" for the computation of grade point average and class standing will equal zero. In computing the grade point average and the class standing:

1. The following courses will receive a weighting of 1.25: Advanced Algebra (sem.) AP Calculus (yr.) Advanced Biology (sem.)Advanced Statistics (sem.) Spanish IV (yr.) Biology II A & P (yr.)Trigonometry (sem.) Economics (sem.) Physics II (sem.)Pre-Calculus (sem.) English 12 – Composition (yr.) AP Chemistry II (yr.)

2. For a student to qualify for Valedictorian he/she must take a minimum of 4 weighted classes.

3. The following courses will receive a double grade due to 2 period attendance: W.A.C.C. courses Work Study

Distance Learning/Virtual High SchoolStudents with junior or senior class standing may make application for registration to selected distance learning/virtual high school classes as approved and offered by the high school principal.

Applicants will be selected for admission to distance learning/virtual high school classes based upon a review process and criteria established by the high school principal.

Proficiency TestingNo credit will be awarded toward graduation through military experience, life experience, or other non-formal education endeavors.

Credit will be awarded through proficiency testing only in Consumer Education by meeting the criteria of the state established Consumer Education Proficiency Test. Students who meet these criteria are excused from taking the Consumer Education course as a prerequisite for graduation from high school and receipt of a high school diploma.

The superintendent shall develop reasonable rules and regulations to implement this policy.

Student RecordsEach student will have two files at Polo Community High School. The first file is the student's permanent record. This file consists of basic identifying information and academic transcript including grades, class rank, College Entrance Test Scores, attendance record, and other basic information. The permanent record shall be kept in the school office for at least sixty years after graduation or withdrawal.

The second file is the student's temporary record kept by the guidance counselor. This temporary record consists of all information not required to be in the student

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permanent record, including family background information, test scores, psychological evaluation, health record, teacher anecdotal records, and disciplinary information. The temporary record will be destroyed entirely within six years after graduation or withdrawal.

Polo Community High School complies with the Public Law commonly referred to as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 and the Ill. rev. Stat., 1985.

Note:Student directory information will be released without prior consent unless the parent or eligible student has notified the school district on or before October 1, 2015, that they do not want the information released. For further information contact the High School Office.

“Federal law permits the school district to disclose personally identifiable information in the student’s education records to ‘school officials with legitimate educational interests.’ School officials include persons employed by the district as an administrator, supervisor, teacher, or support staff member (including but not limited to… transportation personnel…);…or a person, agency, or company with whom the District has contracted, or otherwise arranged to perform a special task or service… Such individuals have a legitimate educational interest if he/she needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional and/or official responsibility.

A legitimate educational interest also exists where the staff member or other individual works directly with students and needs to review education records to increase his/her awareness of steps necessary for the safety and welfare of students and staff members.”

DISTRICT POLICIESBehavior InterventionIt is the purpose of this policy to comply with P.A. 89-191 of The School Code on the use of behavioral interventions for students with disabilities.

The Polo District recognizes that appropriate interventions are necessary for all students, disabled or non-disabled, whose behavior is not acceptable, and that administrators, teachers, and other school personnel who work with students with disabilities require training and guidance in the use of behavioral interventions. A goal of this policy and procedures (hereafter, collectively, “Policy”) is to make available training and guidance to administrators and teachers of students with disabilities who require behavioral intervention, that provides ways of working successfully with said students in order to provide an environment in which said students can learn. The Policy recognizes that the use of positive or non-aversive interventions designed to develop and strengthen desirable behaviors should be used to the extent possible and are generally preferable to the use of aversive or more restrictive procedures. While positive approaches alone may not always succeed in controlling inappropriate behavior, the use of more restrictive procedures may be necessary and should be utilizes as provided in the Policy.

Electronic Network User Agreement All students and employees of Polo School District #222 sign the following user agreement:

I understand and will abide by the above Authorization for Electronic Network Access. I understand that the district and/or its agents may access and monitor

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my use of the Internet, including my E-mail and downloaded material, without prior notice to me. I further understand that should I commit any violation, my access privilege may be revoked, and school disciplinary action and/or appropriate legal action may be taken. In consideration for using the district’s electronic network and having access to public networks, I hereby release the School District and its Board members, employees, and agents from any claim and damages arising from my use of, or inability to use the Internet.

Access to Student Social Networking Passwords & WebsitesSchool officials may conduct an investigation or require a student to cooperate in an investigation if there is specific information about activity on the student’s account on a social networking website that violates a school disciplinary rule or policy. In the course of an investigation, the student may be required to share the content that is reported in order to allow school officials to make a factual determination.

Notice of Electronic Recording on School Buses and School FacilitiesElectronic video and audio recording are viewed to investigate an incident reported by a bus driver, administrator, supervisor, student, or other person. They are also viewed at random. Viewing and/or listening to electronic video and/or recordings is limited to individuals having a legitimate educational or administrative purpose. A written log will be kept of those individuals viewing the video recordings stating the time, name of individual viewing, and the date unless it is needed for any educational or administrative purpose.

Search and SeizureIn order to maintain order safety and security in the schools, school authorities are authorized to conduct reasonable searches of school property and equipment, as well as of students and their personal effects. “School authorities” includes school liaison police officers.

School Property, Equipment, and Personal Effects Left by StudentsSchool authorities may inspect and search school property and equipment owned or controlled by the school (such as, lockers, desks, and parking lots), as well as personal effects left there by a student, without notice to or the consent of the student. Students have no reasonable expectation of privacy in these places or areas or in their personal effects left there.

The building principal may request the assistance of law enforcement officials to conduct inspections and searches of lockers, desks, parking lots, and other school property and equipment for illegal drugs, weapons, or other illegal or dangerous substances or materials, including searches conducted through the use of specially trained dogs.

StudentsSchool authorities may search a student and/or the student’s personal effects in the student’s possession (such as, purses, wallets, knapsacks, book bags, lunch boxes, etc.) when there is a reasonable ground for suspecting that the search will produce evidence the particular student has violated or is violating either the law or the school or district’s student rules and policies. The search will be conducted in a manner that is reasonably related to its objective of the search and not

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excessively intrusive in light of the student’s age and sex, and the nature of the infraction.

School officials may require a student to cooperate in an investigation if there is specific information about activity on the student’s account on a social networking website that violates the school’s disciplinary rules or school district policy. In the course of the investigation, the student may be required to share the content that is reported in order for the school to make a factual determination.

Seizure of PropertyIf a search produces evidence that the student has violated or is violating either the law or the school or district’s policies or rules, evidence may be seized and impounded by school authorities, and disciplinary action may be taken. When appropriate, evidence may be transferred to law enforcement authorities.

Sex EquityThe Board of Education and the District are committed to insuring that the District’s female students and employees achieve equality with male students and employees.

Polo High School will complete a system-wide sex equity evaluation at least once every 4 years that includes an examination of course enrollment data to identify any instances of disproportionate enrollment on the basis of sex and where discrimination may have contribute to such disproportionality. The sex equity plan shall seek to redress any such disproportionality identified.

Sexual HarassmentIt is the policy of Polo School District #222 to provide its employees and students an employment and educational environment free from unwelcome sexual advances by employees and students of the district. An employee, student, or other individual who feels he/she is a victim of sexual harassment should report it to the building principal.

Special Education ServicesThe Polo School District ensures that a free appropriate public education (FAPE) is available to each child with a disability who is between the ages of 3 and 21 (inclusive), resides in the state and is a resident of the district, and requires special education and related services to address the adverse effect of the disability on his or her education. The special education and related services must be provided according to the child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) at no cost to the parent and in accordance with the state regulations. This school district is bound by this requirement, and children with disabilities attending this school district and their parents retain the right to services if deemed necessary.

The Polo School District provides special education services as part of the required continuum of service options for special education. The district strives to provide the necessary supports to educate all students in their home district. However, if a student needs service to receive an appropriate education beyond what this school can provide, the district will seek support from the Ogle County Educational Cooperative (OCEC). As a member of the OCEC, students in this district with disabilities can receive programming and support services from the OCEC if appropriate. The services and programs provided by the OCEC comprise one or

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more parts of the continuum of special education service options for a local district. The OCEC operates and administers a number of special education instructional programs and related services.

For further information on special education services in this district as well as the OCEC, please see the building administrator. As part of the district responsibility for Special Education Child Find, the district requires all requests for special education evaluations and services be put in writing and addressed to the building principal where your child attends.

Prevention of and Response to Bullying, Intimidation, and HarassmentBullying, intimidation, and harassment diminish a student’s ability to learn and a school’s ability to educate. Preventing students from engaging in these disruptive behaviors and providing all students equal access to a safe, non-hostile learning environment are important school goals.

Bullying on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, national origin, military status, unfavorable discharge status from the military service, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender-related identity or expression, ancestry, age, religion, physical or mental disability, order of protection status, status of being homeless, or actual or potential marital or parental status, including pregnancy, association with a person or group with one or more of the aforementioned actual or perceived characteristics, or any other distinguishing characteristic is prohibited in each of the following situations:

1. During any school-sponsored education program or activity.2. While in school, on school property, on school buses or other school vehicles,

at designated school bus stops waiting for the school bus, or at school-sponsored or school-sanctioned events or activities.

3. Through the transmission of information from a school computer, a school computer network, or other similar electronic school equipment.

4. Through the transmission of information from a computer that is accessed at a nonschool-related location, activity, function, or program or from the use of technology or an electronic device that is not owned, leased, or used by the school district or school if the bullying causes a substantial disruption to the educational process or orderly operation of a school.

Bullying includes cyber-bullying (bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication) and means any severe or pervasive physical or verbal act or conduct, including communications made in writing or electronically, directed toward a student or students that has or can be reasonably predicted to have the effect of one or more of the following:

1. Placing the student or students in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s or students’ person or property;

2. Causing a substantially detrimental effect on the student’s or students’ physical or mental health;

3. Substantially interfering with the student’s or students’ academic performance; or

4. Substantially interfering with the student’s or students’ ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or privileges provided by a school.

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Examples of prohibited conduct include name-calling, using derogatory slurs, stalking, sexual violence, causing psychological harm, threatening or causing physical harm, threatened or actual destruction of property, or wearing or possessing items depicting or implying hatred or prejudice of one of the characteristics stated above.

Students are encouraged to immediately report bullying. A report may be made orally or in writing to the district complaint manager or any staff member with whom the student is comfortable speaking. Anyone, including staff members and parents/guardians, who has information about actual or threatened bullying is encouraged to report it to the district complaint manager or any staff member. Anonymous reports are also accepted by phone call or in writing.

Complaint Managers:____Andy Faivre_______________ ____Melydi Huyett_________ ____

Name Name____100 Union Ave._ ______ ____ ____308 Pleasant__ _

Address Address____815-946-3314__ ____________ ____815-946-3811_____________ ___

Phone Number Phone Number

____afaivre@poloschools.net_ _______ ____mhuyett@poloschools.net__ ___

Email Address Email Address

A reprisal or retaliation against any person who reports an act of bullying is prohibited. A student’s act of reprisal or retaliation will be treated as bullying for purposes of determining any consequences or other appropriate remedial actions. A student will not be punished for reporting bullying or supplying information, even if the school’s investigation concludes that no bullying occurred. However, knowingly making a false accusation or providing knowingly false information will be treated as bullying for purposes of determining any consequences or other appropriate remedial actions.

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