WELCOME TO FULTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

Welcome to Fulton Independent School District. Fulton Independent School has provided an outstanding education to the young people of this community for many years. The administration, faculty, and staff are committed to continuing this tradition.

Our goal is to help students have a successful high school experience. In order to do that, they must be present, engaged, and give a lot of themselves in pursuit of their education. The policies and procedures at FISD are intended to help students reach their maximum potential by ensuring that they are helping us help them. One important item to note is attendance – students need to be present and on time each and every day. Failing to adhere to the attendance policy can become a problem area for students because of grades, inability to participate in field trips, extra-curricular activities, participating in the graduation ceremony, etc.

We want every student who enters the doors at FISD to be proud to be part of the school community. We offer a wide variety of coursework and programs, so that each and every student can find his or her place. The expectation is high! We will work hard to teach each child how to create a positive learning environment – and we expect each student to work to help us create a great school. We expect every student to be kind to others, be respectful of their elders, follow basic rules, and to do their very best every day.

TO THE PARENTSWe think that well-informed parents promote a positive school environment. Consistent with this philosophy, we are requiring that your child bring home a copy of the Student Handbook so that you may become acquainted with the various phases of school life. In this handbook, you will note that we have included regulations, the Code of Student Conduct, activities, clubs, and general information which will aid a student in becoming a productive member of the school community. All policies listed in this handbook are subject to change because of Fulton Independent School Board or school administrative action. Students will be notified when such changes occur. The changes will be posted on the district home page: www.fultonind.kyschools.us.

In addition, parents are encouraged to use the Infinite Campus Parent Portal to monitor current student progress. The portal allows parents to check grades, attendance, scheduling, immunizations, and much more.

TO THE STUDENTSThis handbook has been developed for the purpose of informing you of the policies, procedures, and organizations of your school. We hope that it will assist you in making your school days pleasant and productive. It is the responsibility of each student and parent to read, understand, and abide by this handbook. All policies listed in this handbook are subject to change because of Fulton Independent School Board or school administrative action. Students will be notified when such changes occur. The changes will be posted on the district home page - www.fultonind.kyschools.us.

In addition, students are encouraged to use the Infinite Campus Student Portal to monitor current student progress. The portal allows students to check grades, attendance, and scheduling.

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CONTACT INFORMATION

Superintendent Tammy Smith 270-472-1553Supervisor of Instruction/DPP DeAnna Miller 270-472-1553Principal Donna Garland 270-472-1741Assistant Principal Sondra Gibbs 270-472-1637Guidance Counselor Mindy Rose 270-472-1741Office Secretary Kelly Cash 270-472-1741DoSE/Preschool/504 Deborah Heisel 270-472-5758School Nurse Joyce Lawrence 270-472-1637Family Resource Center Tracy Pulley 270-472-6924Food Service Director Vickie Swift 270-472-1640Community Education Mike Thomas 270.309-0373

FACULTY & STAFFTim Adams ......................................................................................................MaintenanceAllison Butner ................................................................................. Drama/Chorus/HVPAScott Carlson .........................................................................History/Social Studies/HVPATammy Crumble ......................................................................................Library AssistantTia Cross-Davis.................................................................................Middle School EnglishDan Dietrich ...................................................................................Junior/Senior EnglishJennifer Dillon .................................................................................................MathematicsErica Duke................................................................ Middle School Social Studies/HVPA Tracey Grooms ...............................................................................Middle School ScienceKathy Godfrey .............................................................................................. Food ServiceJessica Green ....................................................................................Instructional AssistantBen Harned ......................................................................................Instructional AssistantStacy Howell ...................................................................................... Middle School MathJustin Johnson ..................................................................................................... CustodianStephanie Lee ......................................................................................... Special EducationChad Malray ......................................................................................................... BusinessMelissa Martin ................................................................... Alternative Classroom MonitorKatherine Parr ...................................................................................................... LibrarianBeverly Pledge ....................................................................................... Special EducationPatricia Ray .....................................................................................................Food ServiceChris Roberts ..............................................Middle School/Freshman/Sophomore EnglishFred Robinson ..................................................................................Instructional AssistantBrad Rozzell ...............................................................................Physical Education/HealthGeneva Storey ...............................................................High School Mathematics/SpanishKathy Thweatt ..........................................................................................................Science

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MISSION STATEMENTFulton Independent School, in partnership with the citizens of Fulton, is committed to educational excellence and equity, whereby 21st Century students are provided a safe learning environment in which they can become lifelong learners of a democratic society, functioning productively in a global economy and reaching their fullest potential.

VISION STATEMENTAt Fulton Independent School District “We Teach Success to Every Student Every Day” by providing relevant, engaging, quality learning experiences in a safe school climate supported by an exemplary and visionary partnership of students, parents, community members, staff, and administrators.

BELIEFSThe Fulton Independent School District believes that all students can learn in different ways with a variety of instructional approaches to support their learning. Varied assessment should provide opportunities to demonstrate student achievement. Clear goals and high expectations for student achievement should guide the development and design of the curriculum. Each student is seen as a valued individual with unique intellectual, physical, and emotional needs capable of continuous improvement. This will enable students to become confident, ethical, productive citizens who are self-directed lifelong learners and who can compete successfully in a global society. Teachers, staff, administrators, parents, students, and community members share the responsibility for providing a supportive learning environment within our school.

PHILOSOPHYEvery child served by the Fulton Independent School District will participate in relevant, engaging, quality learning experiences in a safe school climate supported by an exemplary and visionary partnership of students, parents, community members, staff, and administrators.

Students are citizens and do not lose guaranteed rights when they enter a school building. As citizens, they may exercise their rights, as long as they do not violate the rights and responsibilities of others, including their right to learn and the responsibilities of adults to educate.

HANDBOOK PURPOSEThe Fulton Independent Board of Education Student Handbook describes standards of conduct which are important to the success of both learning and community life in our schools. For students to have a successful educational experience, they must understand that individual rights and responsibilities go hand in hand. When people come together, their individual rights become limited because of the need for mutual respect.

This includes the responsibilities of following rules and respecting the authority of adults whose jobs are to ensure a successful educational opportunity for all students.In accordance with board policy 09.438, KRS 158.148, and 704 KAR 7:050 the board shall develop a student discipline code of acceptable student behavior and discipline. Board policies are available upon request.

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NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENTThe Fulton Independent School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Donna Garland, Title IX Coordinator or Deborah Heisel, 504 Coordinator.

SEVERE WEATHER/SCHOOL CLOSINGIn case of severe weather (snow, ice, etc.) the official announcement for school closing or delayed opening may be heard over WPSD TV and/or KF99 radio. Another source of information may be through Fulton Independent’s Board of Education ONECALL system.

CALENDAR OF EVENTSAll Fulton Independent events can be viewed online on the schools’ website at www.fultonind.kyschools.us.

VISITORS & SCHOOL VISITATIONSince the safety and education of all students are of primary importance, the school requests that all visitors abide by the following:

Have valid school business. Report to the office upon entering the building. Dress appropriately as to school expectations. Wear appropriate visitor’s badge.

Parents of students are always welcome and encouraged to visit the school. Should a parent/teacher conference be necessary, please call the office at 472-1741 to schedule an appointment. Appointments are encouraged to allow for preparation and scheduling. When in the school building, all students are under the supervision of school personnel, even when parent/guardian is in attendance. Students are not permitted to bring visitors to school or into the classrooms at any time during the school year.

Visitors are guests in the building. If their conduct is disrespectful, violent, threatening or otherwise inappropriate, they will be banned from the school and possibly school events. It is a Class D Felony for anyone to threaten any school personnel whether it is verbal, physical or perceived. (KRS 508.078 and KRS 161.190)

STUDENT INSURANCEWhenever a student has health insurance of any kind, such insurance is the primary insurance. Student accident insurance is secondary insurance available to any student at low cost. Forms are available in the front office. Student must also be able to show proof of primary medical insurance prior to participation in PE, field trips, athletics, etc. or may purchase student accident insurance through the Board of Education.

ACADEMIC INFORMATIONGRADES

1. GRADING POLICYa. A syllabus for each class will be distributed to students at the beginning of each

course outlining the subject matter to be covered, supplemental readings and/or recommended readings, and any long-term projects/assignments.

b. Teachers will explain the course grading system to the students at the beginning of each course.

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2. GRADE POINT AVERAGE a. The Grading Scale is as follows:

“A” is 90-100; “B” is 80-89; “C” is 70-79; “D” is 60-69; “F” is anything 59 and below.

b. All regular (non- Advanced Placement “AP”) classes are calculated on a 4.0 scale. The grade of an “A” will equal 4.0 points, “B” will equal 3.0 points, “C” will equal 2.0 points, “D” will equal 1.0 point and a failing grade will equal 0.0 points.

c. All AP and Dual Credit courses are calculated on a 5.0 scale to take into consideration the increased degree of difficulty of these classes. The grade of an “A” will equal 5.0 points, “B” will equal 4.0 points, “C” will equal 3.0 points, “D” will equal 2.0 points, and a failing grade will equal 0.0 points.

3. GRADE REPORTING Students at FISD will have continuous grading throughout the year and may access their confidential grade records via the Infinite Campus Portal. The student’s PIN number to access these grades may be obtained through the guidance office by the student and/or parent/guardian.In addition, the following is a schedule of nine week endings and progress and report card issue:

August 6 – October 4 1st Nine WeeksOctober 14 – December 20 2nd Nine WeeksJanuary 6– March 7 3rd Nine WeeksMarch 10– May 15 4th Nine Weeks

September 6 1st Progress ReportOctober 21 1st Report Card Parent Teacher ConferencesNovember 8 2nd Progress ReportJanuary 8 2nd Report CardFebruary 7 3rd Progress ReportMarch 14 3rd Report Card Parent Teacher Conferences

April 21 4th Progress ReportMay 19 4th Report Card Final not returned

NOTE: Each progress report given to students is to be signed by parent/guardian and returned within 5 school days. All late report cards/progress reports will result in an early morning detention.

4. EXAMSAll courses are required to give exams and will count as 20% of the course grade. Exams are to be administered on the designated days and times as specified by administration.

5. EOC (END OF COURSE EXAM)End of Course Assessments reflect the course content that students should have mastered by the conclusion of the course. EOC Assessments will be given in the following areas: English II, U.S. History, Biology, and Algebra II and will count as 20% of the course grade. These exams are constructed by the Department of Education will be administered within the testing window (usually mid-April) as

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determined by the Kentucky Department of Education. Testing window for EOC exams will be posted on the school website.

6. PROMOTION REQUIREMENTSA student must earn a minimum of 5 credits in order to be promoted to the 10 th grade; 10 credits to be promoted to the 11 th grade, and 15 to be promoted to the 12 th grade. Core courses are not optional and must be made-up in summer school or repeated the upcoming year if failed. Failing core courses can cause students to drop their diploma type or even postpone graduation. Any student who has not met/completed the requirements for graduation will not be allowed to walk in the graduation ceremony.

NOTE: All year long classes will be given one (1) credit at the end of the school year upon passing the course.

7. HOMEWORK POLICY

Board of Education Policy 8.211 states homework shall be assigned for the improvement of learning. Curriculum-related assignments shall not be used for disciplinary purposes. Assignments should have meaning for the student, should be clear and specific, and should be of an amount and type that may be accomplished in a reasonable period of time. Homework requirements for each high school course are contained in the course syllabus supplied to each student at the beginning of the course. Teachers determine the quantity and value of homework appropriate for the courses they teach. If no homework is given, students should review material given in class and use the time to master subject concepts.

8. CREDIT RECOVERYCredit recovery will be offered to high school students in grades 9-12 only during summer school. Classes offered for credit recovery include: Psychology, Health, English 1-4, Algebra I and II, Geometry, American Government, World History, American History, Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry and HVPA. Credit recovery may be offered during the school day ONLY when deemed necessary by the administration. Guidelines will be given to students who qualify prior to the start of credit recovery.

There will be a fee of $100 per credit. Students will receive the grade earned upon successful completion of the work

assigned using the A+ credit recovery program. Students may only work during approved times to receive credit. Academic

honesty rules apply for credit recovery.

NOTE: Students who are taking an EOC exam class in Credit Recovery classes will be required to take and EOC exam upon completion.

9. MIDDLE SCHOOL PROMOTION & RETENTIONAcademic progress for middle school students focuses on core content. The middle school curriculum is a building block in preparation for high school. A student must end the 7th or 8th grade with a passing grade in Math, Language Arts, Social Studies, and Science in order to be promoted to the next grade. Any student who has failed a content course may be promoted if he/she passes a

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comprehensive end of course (EOC) exam in that content area which is created by the content teacher.In cases which involve a student with disabilities, the procedures mandated by federal and state law for students with disabilities shall be followed. (Board Policy 08.22)

10. PLAGIARISMCheating or plagiarism is a serious offense. You are cheating any time you present something as your own which is not really yours. Plagiarism occurs any time you take ideas, writings, or any works from another and present them as your own. If you present work from any source (i.e. Internet, encyclopedia, textbook, any other published or unpublished work, or oral interviews) without proper citation or reference, you are guilty of plagiarism. Cheating or plagiarizing any school assignment or assessment will result in the following disciplinary action:

1st school wide offense (for the current school year) Zero for the assignment with the opportunity to make it up in

detention Teacher calls parent – mandatory After School Detention

2nd school wide offense (for the current school year) Zero for the assignment Administration calls parent Saturday School Detention

3rd school wide offense (for the current school year) Zero for the assignment Administration call parent Ineligible for future leadership position/awards/school activities

(for remainder of the current school year) Three days in the alternative classroom

Plagiarism for Seniors: The same steps above that apply to cheating also apply to Plagiarism. However, on the third offense, participation in Senior Activities will not be allowed. These include prom, project graduation, senior trip, etc.

11. GRADUATIONStudents must meet course requirements established by the Kentucky Department of Education and the Fulton Independent Board of Education. FISD requires all students to give a “good faith” effort on all standardized tests and state assessments administered by the school. Any questions about graduation requirements should be directed to the student’s guidance counselor.Students graduating must have a minimum of 22 credits for a general diploma and 24 credits for a Mastery Diploma.

12. DIPLOMA TYPES7

GENERAL DIPLOMA MASTERY DIPLOMALanguage Arts 4 credits Language Arts 5 creditsSocial Studies 3 credits Social Studies 4 creditsMathematics 3 credits Mathematics 4 credits

Science 3 credits Science 4 creditsHealth ½ credit Health ½ Credit

PE ½ credit PE ½ creditHVPA 1 credit HVPA 1 credit

Elective 7 credits Electives 3 creditsForeign Language 2 credits

TOTAL CREDITS 22 credits TOTAL CREDITS 24 credits

NOTE: It is required ALL students take a math class every year.Class Rank for graduation purposes will be determined at the end of the fourth nine weeks progress report.

Only students in the Mastery Diploma tract will be ranked equally by GPA for consideration of Valedictorian, Salutatorian and Honor’s Night Speaker.

Honor graduates will be ranked by GPA regardless of diploma track.

13. BULLDOG ACADEMY/DUAL CREDIT COURSESThe Bulldog Academy is part of the Four Rivers Scholarship Program and a partnership with WKCTC and Murray State University. The program allows juniors and seniors the opportunity to take dual credit college hours at Fulton Independent High School and the Area Technology Center. All juniors and seniors should meet with the guidance counselor to discuss their eligibility for the Bulldog Academy. Parents are encouraged to contact the guidance counselor to discuss their student’s enrollment in the Bulldog Academy. The Four Rivers Scholarship Program and other Bulldog Academy sponsors provide funding for some of the associated costs.

14. VALEDICTORIAN AND SALUTATORIAN POLICYTo be Valedictorian/Salutatorian of Fulton City High School, one must have completed four semesters of high school work at Fulton City High School. Two of those semesters must be the senior year. A best estimate of the cumulative GPA will be calculated using up to and through the fourth nine weeks progress report of the senior year. This calculation will also be used to calculate class rank for graduation purposes. The valedictorian and salutatorian must have met all requirements for the Mastery diploma as defined in this handbook.

15. SCHEDULING The scheduling process usually begins in the Spring. Students will work with teachers, parents, and the counselor to receive a preliminary schedule. Changes may be required and are made until final schedules are issued. Schedule changes must be made through the guidance office by the end of the first full week of the semester. Schedule changes after that date must be approved by school administration.

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EXTRA-CURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIESFulton Independent offers the following extra/co-curricular opportunities for students:Academic Team B.A.D. FEA SoftballBaseball Cheerleading Football Student CouncilBasketball Choir Green Club VolleyballBeta Club Drama Kennel Newspaper Y-ClubBook Club FCA Science Club Yearbook

STUDENT GOVERNMENT1. STUDENT COUNCIL

To develop student responsibility, initiative, and leadership To promote the welfare of the school through proper student-faculty relationships To foster a spirit of school loyalty To provide effective training in citizenship To offer assistance in student problems To encourage and guide participation in extra-curricular activities To conduct class officer elections It is the duty of the class representative to bring to the Council’s attention

complaints and suggestions from their classmates and to take to their homerooms or clubs the actions of the council. Membership: All students and teachers of Fulton Middle and High School are members-at-large of this organization. Each spring a president, vice-president, secretary, and treasurer are elected to carry on the work the following year. Representatives are elected through the class officer process.

2. CLASS OFFICERS In order to run for and/or remain a class officer, students must meet ALL of the

following criteria: Students must maintain an overall GPA of 2.5 or greater. Freshmen GPA will be

based on their final 8th grade report card. Students will have no suspensions during the present school year or prior

semester. No failing grades at the time of elections. Student must be enrolled in the Fulton Independent School District at least one

semester prior to officer elections. Student must not have attendance infractions or have been truant the prior

semester or at the time of elections. Student must meet all deadlines established by class sponsors relative to

completing and submitting class officer application. Class sponsors determine if an officer is in violation of criteria or expectations/requirements. Class sponsors will determine if an officer is to be suspended or removed from office. An appeals process, originating with the class sponsor, is available to suspended or removed officers.

MISCELLANEOUS ELECTED CRITERIA AND PROCEDURE1. Mr. and Miss Fulton High School

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Minimum 2.5 GPA No suspensions during the current school year or prior semester Must have completed a minimum of four semesters of eight at Fulton Independent

High School Each member of the senior class shall nominate three boys and three girls from

the senior class The student body and faculty shall vote for one boy and one girl for the title Homeroom teachers shall tally votes and turn ballots to the administrator Ballots will be filed in the administrator’s office

2. Senior Who’s Who No suspensions during the current school year or prior semester. Each member of the senior class shall nominate one boy and one girl from the

senior class for each category of Senior Who’s Who. Each member of the senior class and faculty shall vote for one boy and one girl in

each category. The sponsors shall tally the nominations. The two senior boys and two senior girls receiving the most nominations shall be

placed on a ballot for voting. Yearbook staff with approval by administration will determine categories for

Who’s Who. The senior class sponsors shall count the votes to determine the winners in each

category. All ballots shall be filed in the administrator’s office.

3. Homecoming Court Minimum 2.5 GPA No suspensions during the current school year or prior semester Must be enrolled in the Fulton Independent School District at least one semester

prior to homecoming Three teacher recommendations Must have administrator’s final approval. Each nominee will be voted for by their respective class and their class sponsors Queen will be voted on by the student body and faculty which will be selected

from the senior nominees

4. Class Favorites (Grades 7-12) Students shall have no suspensions during the current school year or prior

semester Each member of the class shall nominate a boy and a girl candidate The two boys and two girls receiving the most nominations shall be placed on the

ballot Each class member and all middle school faculty members shall be allowed to

vote All ballots shall be filed in the administrator’s office

ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS & ABSENCES

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Attendance and TardyStudents are expected to be at school every scheduled day, in their assigned classroom seats on time, and ready for the work. If a student is absent, that student’s parent or guardian must call the school’s office at 472-1741 and indicate the reason for the student’s absence. The school’s office will be open at 7:00 a.m.

Students shall be excused from school for the following reasons for a maximum of six (6) events (full day or partial day absence or tardy) per school year. Events in excess of six (6) must be substantiated by a doctor’s excuse for illness, or the student must provide evidence of circumstances beyond his/her control. Written verification is required for all absences.Below are examples of excused absences or tardiness but are not limited to:

Death or severe illness in the pupil’s immediate family. Illness of the pupil. Medical appointment that cannot be scheduled outside of school day. Driver’s examination. Summoned court appearances with documentation. Religious holidays and practices. One (1) day for attendance at the Kentucky State fair. Documented military leave. One (1) day prior to departure of parent or guardian called to active military duty. One (1) day upon the return of parent or guardian from active military duty. Trips qualifying as educational enhancement opportunities, as determined by the

school administrator / superintendent/designee, shall be granted an excused absence for up to ten (10) days. Must be pre-approved five (5) days prior to the trip.

Other valid reasons as determined by the school administrator / superintendent/designee.

When a student returns to school, he/she must bring a statement signed by the parent or guardian or attending physician. A note is required for all absences, whether excused or unexcused. If the school is not notified of a student’s absence, it will be assumed that the absence is without the parent’s knowledge. An attempt will be made to contact the parent or guardian to verify the absence. Students must report to the office if they are tardy to school.

Students who present notes which do not indicate the exact days or time absent and without the exact reason for absence will be given an unexcused absence for the time missed. Students forging the signature of another person will be subject to disciplinary action and/or suspension.

Upon return to school, the student must obtain an admission slip before first class and present that slip to each teacher whose class or activity was missed.

Students are not counted absent when participating in activities which are authorized by FHS or the school system and which are part of the instructional program of the school. Students may not be excused when they are absent as spectators at school activities unless it qualifies as an educational enhancement activity and has prior approval from the principal or DPP. If the absence is excusable, the student will be expected to contact his/her teachers immediately on their return to make up assignments missed.

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Students who have been absent from school one-half (½) day or more, shall not compete in any extracurricular activities scheduled for that afternoon, evening or Saturday (for a Friday’s absence). Board of Education Policy 09.123. Excused Absences: Students will be given the opportunity to complete work missed due to excused absences and shall be held responsible for all subject matter missed during the absence. Upon returning to school from an excused absence, the student must meet with their teacher the (1st) first day back to receive assignments missed. The student will have the same number of days to make up work that they have missed. If the student does not meet with their teachers a grade of zero will be given for the assignments and/or tests missed.

Unexcused Absences: Students will be given the opportunity to receive up to fifty percent (50%) of the grade earned on missed work for unexcused absences. Upon return of an unexcused absence, the student must ask each teacher for make-up work. Number of days absent will equal to the number of days to complete the missed work. Upon the set date to turn in work, the student must have all assigned work turned in to the teacher, even if the student is absent, or the student will receive zeros for missed work instead of 50%. Suspensions are considered unexcused absences.

Home/Hospital Program: Under the provisions of KRS 159.030(2) and 704 KAR 7:120, students who are unable to attend school due to illness or injury may continue their school services through the provision of instruction in a home or hospital setting. Home/Hospital instruction is intended to be short term-instruction in the home or other designated site for a student who is temporarily unable to attend school. According to state regulations, two (2) one (1) hour visits by the home instruction teacher each week will be equivalent to five days of school attendance. Home instruction is not designed to take the place of a more appropriate school service. The Director of Pupil Personnel (DPP) supervises and administers this program. Forms for admittance to the program are provided for the parent and/or guardian. A doctor referral is required to determine eligibility to participate in the program. The DPP assigns a home instruction teacher and works with the parent to set up the schedule. All work from student must be turned in weekly for full credit.

Educational Enhancement: A student may be allowed up to ten (10) days per school year to participate in an educational enhancement opportunity that the Principal and DPP determines to be of significant educational value. Participation in an educational foreign exchange program or an intensive instructional program in one (1) of the core curriculum subjects of English, Science, Mathematics, Social Studies, Foreign Language or the Arts could be considered an Educational Enhancement Opportunity. Educational Enhancement days must be pre-approved by the Principal or DPP at least five (5) days prior to the trip. Days on which students have been approved by the principal or DPP to participate in such an opportunity will be included in aggregate daily attendance. An Educational Enhancement Form may be picked up from the school secretary. This should be pre-approved 5 days prior to the trip or the trip could be considered unexcused.

Truancy: A student is considered truant when three or more unexcused events (absences or tardiness to school) have occurred and is handled through the Director of Pupil Personnel.

6 absences/tardies (these can be parent excused)2 unexcused absences/tardies over the excused 6 = 1st truancy letter3 unexcused absences/tardies over the excused 6 = 2nd truancy letter

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4 unexcused absences/tardies over the excused 6 = 3rd truancy letter5 unexcused absences/tardies over the excused 6 = FINAL truancy letterCourt proceedings can now occur

Attendance of 95%: In order for any FHS student to walk in the graduation ceremony, he or she must attend at least 95% of school days with no more than 5% of absences (nine days) being unexcused per year during their entire years at FHS. (Home/Hospital Program does not fall under this policy.)

2014: 95% Senior Year Only2015: 95% Junior and Senior Year Only 2016: 95% Sophomore through Senior Year 2017: 95% Freshmen through Senior Year

Any senior who has accumulated ten (10) unexcused absences will not be allowed to walk in the graduation ceremony. Partial days may contribute to the 10 days.

CHECK IN/CHECK OUT PROCEDURESCheck InWhen a student enters school after the tardy bell at 7:45, the student must sign in and obtain an “Admission Slip” from the office. The student must have a note or a phone call from a parent/guardian for the tardy to be excused.

Check OutWhen a student needs to check out from school, the student will be given permission by the teacher to go the office or will be called to the office by office staff or administration. The student or parent/guardian must sign out in the office before leaving. Students may bring notification of a need to check out to the office at the beginning of the school day or parent/guardian may contact the school with date and time needed to check out their child.

NOTE: A student 18 years or over is NOT permitted to check himself/herself out. Any student 18 years or over who checks out of school without a written excused prior arrangement from parent/guardian will not be allowed to return to school that day. This will be considered as an unexcused absence. An attempt to notify the parent/guardian will be made. *WARNING: This could affect participation in the graduation ceremony.

Students are considered leaving the school grounds without permission if they do not follow the check-out procedure. Leaving school without permission will be considered skipping school and will be subject to disciplinary action. Administrators will determine additional disciplinary action depending on the behavior of the student and reason for leaving school grounds.

Tardiness 1. Tardiness to School

A student is considered tardy to class when he/she is not in their classroom at the proper time. This refers to tardies to periods 2-7 only. Tardy to first period is considered being tardy to school – a student will be required to sign in at the front office and parent notes/truancy issues will apply.

2. Tardiness to Class

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Teachers will take attendance at the beginning of each class period and will record a tardy. Each student is allowed six (6) cumulative tardies per nine weeks. On the seventh (7th) cumulative and subsequent tardies, the student will receive early morning detentions.

3. Hall PassesStudents must receive permission from their teacher to leave the classroom for any reason. The student must sign out when leaving the classroom and sign in upon return. The student must also have the teacher’s hall pass with them while out of the classroom. It is the teacher’s prerogative to allow a student to leave the classroom or not.

GENERAL INFORMATION

ENROLLMENT AND NEW STUDENT REGISTRATION FORMSThe following forms must be completed or presented when a student enrolls/registers:

Internet Use Form School Physical Form Medication Consent Form (if necessary) Student Social Security Card Vision Screening Immunization Certificate Certified Birth Certificate Parent-School Learning Compact Receipt of Handbook Lunch Application Form

Medical Forms may be obtained from the nurse as needed. Federal lunch food program forms may be obtained from the school secretary.Parent/Guardian will sign that they have received a copy of the Student Handbook and agree to read and discuss it with their student(s).

SCHOOL/OFFICE HOURSThe school building will be open at 7:20 a.m. Teachers will be in their rooms by 7:40 a.m. Avoid arriving at school before that time so that waiting outside will not be necessary. The first bell will sound at 7:40 a.m. The tardy bell will ring at 7:45 a.m. The dismissal bell will sound at 2:45. Teachers will be in the building until 3:05.

The office hours are 7:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. The office area is strictly for carrying on the business of the school. Students having business to conduct in the office should enter the area to transact business and then leave. There is to be no loitering in the office area.

VEHICLESStudents are required to register their cars with the school and purchase a Fulton Independent Schools permit. They must have a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance. The permit must be placed on the rearview mirror of the vehicle. There is a yearly fee of $5.00 for the parking permit for the student until graduation or withdrawal from school. There is a $5.00 fee for replacement parking tags. Students whose insurance lapses or who lose their driver’s license will have their parking privileges on school property revoked. Students who drive to school must park and get out of their cars as soon as they arrive at school and remain out of them until school is dismissed. The South parking lot is reserved for student parking. Student cars are not

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to be parked behind or in front of the building. In no case should a student drive off the campus without permission from an administrator until the end of the school day.

Students are to drive responsibly while on school campus. Reckless driving or speeding will result in losing the privilege to drive on school campus. Students will be responsible for articles left in their cars. Parking lots will be monitored. Cars parked on school property without a parking permit may be towed at the owner’s expense. For the privilege of driving and parking on school property, school officials retain the right to search vehicles driven by students with or without students’ knowledge or permission. An administrator may search a vehicle if he/she has reasonable suspicion that the student may be in possession of weapons, narcotics, alcoholic beverages, stimulant drugs, or any type of explosive or disruptive device. Driving to school is a privilege and that right may be revoked by the administration at any time as a consequence for conduct violations.

USE OF OFFICE/CLASSROOM PHONEThe telephone in the office is placed there for school business. Students who find it necessary to use the office telephone during school hours must secure permission from the office staff. The office staff has the right to inquire from the student the purpose of the call. It is to be used in a business-like manner. The office staff has the right to limit student’s time on phone. Students may use classroom telephones under the supervision of the teacher for the purpose of calling for non-emergency reasons. Students will not be called from class to the phone except for emergency situations. However, important messages will be sent to the student through the teacher. Parents should phone pupils only when it is absolutely necessary.

LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTERThe library is a media resource center for the school; a place to do research, to study, or to read for one’s own enjoyment. Library operating hours are from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Students must have a pass issued by a teacher or administrator in order to use the Library/Media Center. Books are checked out for two weeks. A fine of 5 cents per day is charged for overdue books. Additional books may not be checked out until students have returned all books and paid all fines.

CAFETERIA INFORMATION & FOOD REGULATIONSBreakfast: Breakfast is served each morning between 7:20 and 7:35 for grades 7-12. When the bell rings, all students will report to first period class. The tardy bell to begin class rings at 7:45 for High School students and for Middle School students. Lunch: All school policies are enforced during lunch. Carbonated drinks are prohibited as part of a sack lunch. (This is a Federal Law in which we must comply.) Lunch shall end promptly when the first bell after lunch sounds. Students are to immediately dispose of all trash properly, including food and drink. Class shall begin promptly with the sounding of the tardy bell. No food or drink may be taken to any other part of the building, unless under teacher supervision. Students will not be permitted to remain in the commons area for the purpose of extending lunch after the first bell sounds. Under extraordinary conditions, as determined by the administrator or his/her designee, individual students may be granted extended lunch privileges if deemed necessary.

Cafeteria Prices:

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All meals for Fulton Independent students will be at no charge. A la carte items may not be charged.

Adults will not be allowed to charge. Prices for Adult meals:Breakfast: $1.35 Lunch: $2.25

COMPETITIVE FOODS REGULATIONSThe sale or serving of any food or beverage item to students in competition with the School Breakfast Program or the national School Lunch Program shall be prohibited on the school campus during the school day until one-half (1/2) hour after the close of the last lunch serving period.

MEDICATIONA parent, legal guardian, or other person or agency responsible for a student shall notify the student’s principal/designee if the student has any medical condition which is defined by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services in administrative regulation as threatening the safety of the student or others in the school. Students must leave all prescription medication and over the counter medication (OTC) in the office immediately upon entering the school building. Student will request medication from the office at the prescribed time. Over the counter (OTC) medication can only be administered by a school nurse or properly trained personnel for three days only if accompanied by a note from parent with proper dispensing instructions. An OTC medication shall not be administered beyond its expiration date. All prescription drugs must be in the original bottle with doctor’s prescription and current date written on it. Consent forms signed by parent or guardian and physician must be turned into the office before first dose can be given. Students who use inhalers may keep the inhaler with them and use as needed. However, a medical consent must be completed by the physician and parent or guardian and turned into the office.

EMERGENCY DRILLSStudents will be trained in and observe all drills in an effort to keep them safe should an actual event occur. Drills for tornado, fire, earthquake and lockdown will be practiced. Students will observe all safety procedures as they relate to the specific drill. They will be orderly and obedient during these activities. Failure to follow faculty/staff directions during drills will result in disciplinary actions.

PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS – IMMUNIZATIONSAll students new to the Fulton Independent School District must have certification of a physical examination and an updated Kentucky immunization certificate before school begins. No student will be allowed to attend school without a valid Kentucky immunization certificate. Students in violation will be sent home.

ACCIDENT REPORTS FOR STUDENT INJURY AT SCHOOLAn accident report must be filed any time a student is injured in a school-related event. The student’s teacher or supervisor will obtain a report from the office, complete the form, and return it to the Board of Education at the time of the injury.

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SPORTS/EXTRA-CURRICULAR PARTICIPATIONAny student 6-12th grade who plans to participate in any sport sponsored by the school should note the following By-law 5, Section 3, of the Kentucky High School Athletic Association Constitution and other related By-laws. By-law 5, Section 3, states: A contestant must have, for the current semester up to and including Friday of the week preceding that in which the contest occurs, a passing average in each of at least five full-credit high school studies or their equivalent in units of credit accepted for graduation. A student cannot participate in extra-curricular activities if they have more than two (2) F’s. Grades are checked every Monday by the Principal. The athlete will be notified that day of their participation eligibility by the athletic director. The athlete will not be eligible to participate for one week when having more than two failing grades and will not participate until there are no more than 2 F’s are being made.

If a student is absent unexcused from school for more than 1/2 of the school day, he/she shall not compete in extracurricular activities or any school sponsored activity during the school day or scheduled for that afternoon or evening.

Furthermore, the same eligibility requirement is for extracurricular activities including but not limited to: Drama Club, Y Club, Beta Club, Science Club, etc. Club sponsors will be responsible for checking prior to participation of events.

Students who have been absent form school one-half (½) day or more, shall not compete in any extracurricular activities scheduled for that afternoon, evening or Saturday for a Friday’s absence. (Board of Education Policy 09.123)

Students cannot participate in extracurricular activities or walk in the graduation program until all school debt is paid. This includes athletic, class fees, text or library books and lunch debts.

SPORTSMANSHIP EXPECTATIONS /ATHLETIC CHAIN OF COMMANDMiddle and High School athletics emphasize positive values. We remind you that we expect good behavior/sportsmanship from all who attend FISD sporting events. It is the right of the Administration, Contest Officials, and/or Coaches to have unruly spectators removed from the site. Depending on the reasons/circumstances for removal, a ban from future contests may be possible.

In addition, it is believed that every parent becomes a part of our athletic program and deserves the right to be made fully aware of and understand the expectations being placed on his or her child. However, there are decisions made by the coaching staff that is not appropriate to discuss with parents.

It is extremely difficult to accept a child not playing as much or as often as the parent wishes. Coaches are professionals and decisions are made on what they believe to be in the very best interest of the team. Nonetheless, some areas of conversation that should never be discussed with a coach by a parent include: playing time, team strategy, play calling, line-ups, substitutions, other team members, other parents and past teams and/or athletes.

If a parent requests a meeting to discuss concerns with a coach, the parent is asked to set up an appointment with the coach no sooner than the next day. In the event that a meeting with the coach does not reach a satisfactory conclusion, the parent should set up an appointment with the

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Athletic Director for a second meeting. If a meeting with the Athletic Director does not offer a satisfactory understanding, the final step in the chain of command is a conference with the Principal

STUDENT FEESHigh School students are required to pay a $7.00 classroom fee each year payable to the homeroom teacher.Students cannot participate in extracurricular activities or walk in the graduation program until all school debt is paid. This includes athletic, class fees, text or library books and lunch debts.In addition, fees for rental or purchase of instructional resources may be charged. (Board of Education Policy 9.15).

LOCKERSEach student will be assigned a locker and a lock and will be responsible for the assigned locker. Only school assigned locks may be used. It is required that lockers be kept locked. Items that are missing from unlocked lockers will not be the responsibility of the school to investigate or locate. Unassigned lockers are not to be used for any purpose without official permission. Locks are to be returned to the office when withdrawing from school and/or at the end of the school year. A $7.00 fee will be paid for lost or damaged locks. A school administrator has the right to search lockers if they have reasonable suspicion to do so.

FIELD TRIPSThe Board of Education or the superintendent shall approve all overnight school related trips. The superintendent or the superintendent’s designee shall approve all other school related trips. A member of the faculty or administration shall accompany students on all school-sponsored and school-endorsed trips. Parents/guardians are to be informed of each school related trip. The parent/guardian must return the field trip permission form signed in order for the student to participate. A written note or phone call to the school will not be permitted. Student participation in school related trips will be determined by:

1. Teacher recommendation2. Discipline history.3. Discretion of administration.

Any students currently suspended will not be allowed to go on field trips. Students who are in the alternative classroom will not be allowed to attend field trips. There will be no refunds for field trips to students who do not attend.

Seniors who are not passing classes needed for graduation will not be allowed to attend any senior field trips and will be required to stay at school to work on their assignments/credit recovery.

Field trips may be denied any student, upon the request of the student’s teacher(s). Supporting documentation of specific problems/incidents must be presented to the principal/designee, with whom the final decision lies.

Parents/guardians will be required to pick up their child when returning from a field trip after dark. Students will not be permitted to walk.

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LOST / DAMAGED MATERIALS OR SCHOOL DEBTStudents will be held responsible for lost or damage school materials or property. Any pupil, organization, or group of pupils participating in activities who destroy, defaces damages or removes school property, or personal property of students, shall be subject to disciplinary action and/or liability. Damage to personal property of school personnel on school property, off school property, or at school sponsored activities shall be subject to suspension or expulsion from school. All lost or damaged materials, including library materials and textbooks must be paid when a student transfers to another school or before the student graduates. Students cannot participate in extra-curricular activities or walk in the graduation program until all school debt is paid. This includes athletic and lunch debts. Parents may work with the school to set up a payment plan through the Board of Education office.

PUBLICATION OF STUDENT PHOTOAny parent or guardian who does not wish his/her child’s picture to be published/printed, whether on web site, in a newspaper, or by any other medium accessible to public view, must present such request in writing for the present school year to the administration office within thirty days of the first day of school.

PERSONAL ITEMSPersonal items unrelated to school activities should not be brought to school; items such as cell phones, cameras, tape recorders, CD players, MP players, I Pods, game playing devices, and headphones/ear buds. The school is NOT responsible for the loss/theft of personal items while on school property or on any school related activity. Prohibited items such as knives, lighters, etc. will be taken to the office and will be returned to a parent/guardian upon request. Appropriate disciplinary action will result.

BACKPACKSFulton Independent School District is in compliance with the safe schools legislation. It is preferred all backpacks be net or clear as to allow for visual inspection.(Middle school students are not allowed to have backpacks in any middle school classroom.)

COMPUTERS & ELECTRONIC MEDIA/ACCESS TO ELECTRONIC MEDIAA written parental request shall be required prior to the student’s being granted independent access to electronic media involving District technological resources.

The required permission/agreement form, which shall specify acceptable uses, rules of on-line behavior, access privileges, and penalties for policy/procedural violations, must be signed by the parent or legal guardian of minor students (those under 18 years of age) and also by the student. This document shall be kept on file as a legal, binding document. In order to modify or rescind the agreement, the student’s parent/guardian (or the student who is at least 18 years old) must provide the superintendent with a written request. Forms for parents/guardians to sign are available in the Media Center, and needs to be submitted to the librarian before students are permitted to use electronic media.

Individuals who violate district rules governing the use of district technology shall not be granted further use of the equipment, software, or information access system. Individuals shall reimburse the Board for repair or replacement of district property lost, stolen, damaged, or vandalized while under their care.

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RULES AND REGULATIONS

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCTOne of Fulton Independent School’s goals is to have an effective discipline plan, which will foster a positive educational environment in which student learning and social growth are enhanced. The Student Handbook is approved by the local Board of Education prior to the beginning of each school year and each child will be provided with a copy. In the event of any major changes in the plan, all parents and guardians will be provided a copy of the revised portion. If a student chooses to interrupt a teacher’s instruction, halt the learning of other students, or violate the student code of conduct established by the Board of Education, disciplinary action will be taken in order to establish and maintain a safe and orderly educational environment.

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS Students are expected to attend school and their classes in a punctual manner. Students are expected to be respectful to all Fulton Independent faculty, staff, and

students. Students are expected to conduct themselves in an orderly and peaceful manner at

school and at school events. Students are expected to comply with teacher and staff directives. Students are expected to abide by the Fulton Independent High School dress code. Students are expected to practice academic honesty and social honesty. Students are expected to be responsible for their own actions, materials, and

assignments. Students are expected to abstain from the use and possession of all prohibited and

illegal substances and items while on school grounds and at school events. Students are expected to abstain from the use of language and behaviors which can be

considered profane, bullying, or harassing. Students are expected to abstain from the use of physical force and violence while on

school grounds or at school events. Students are expected to abide by the school’s policies and regulations concerning

cell phones and electronic devices, and turn in a signed AUP at the beginning of each school year.

Students are expected to abstain from public displays of affection while on school grounds or at school events.

Students are expected to read the school handbook and abide by all of the policies therein, thereby ensuring their own success and the success of their peers.

Students are expected to share the student handbook with their parents/guardians, so that parents are informed of school policies and procedures.

STUDENT DISCIPLINEStudent disciplinary infractions will be handled according to policy 09.4 with dispositions including, but not limited to: Opportunity Time (OT), Early Morning Detention (EMD), After School Detention (ASD), Saturday School Detention (SS) suspension, and/or recommendation for expulsion. Students may also be removed from the regular classroom setting and provided an alternative classroom setting to complete assignments and assessments. In addition, student may receive conferences with counselor or administration, parent conference, probation/warning, loss of school privileges, loss of driving privileges, removal from extracurricular activities,

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restitution, law enforcement intervention, referral to another educational setting or referral to school board for expulsion hearing.

DETENTIONSOpportunity Time (OT) will be held on days assigned by the teacher from 2:50 – 3:05. Early Morning Detention (EMD) will be held on designated days from 7:00 a.m. – 7:30 a.m. After School Detention (ASD) will be held on designated days from 2:50 – 4:20. Saturday School Detention (SS) will be held on designated days from 8:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. All detentions are required to have at least a 24 hour notice with the exception of AC.

Consequences for skipping the above detentions: Skipping OT: Early Morning Detention Skipping EMD: After School Detention Skipping ASD: Saturday School Detention Skipping SS: 3 days AC 1st offense; 5 days AC 2nd offense; 7 days AC 3rd

offense

Students tardy to any detention will not be admitted and will be treated as a failure to attend. No cell phones are allowed. Students will be required to bring the necessary materials with them for study purposes and/or to complete all work. Detention monitor may assign work to be completed by end of the detention. Incompletion of work during detention may result in additional time in detention.

Unexcused absences from school on the assigned date will be considered as a failure to meet that detention. Students will be dismissed at designated time. Transportation is the responsibility of the student and parent/guardian. Not having transportation and/or student working are not acceptable excuses for not attending detention. Involvement in after school activities, appointments, and babysitting will not excuse an individual from any detention.

ALTERNATIVE CLASSROOMThe alternative classroom is a structured learning environment. The Alternative classroom shall be assigned by administrators only. Students will be expected to follow the alternative classroom rules and regulations. A copy of the referral notice will be given to students upon assignment to the alternative classroom. An attempt to notify the parent will be made by phone at the time of the alternative classroom assignment along with the mailing of the original alternative classroom assignment form. Students will continue to have contact with their teachers and assignments will still be expected to be turned in to them. Contact with other students will be restricted and attendance at school functions, extracurricular activities and sporting events will be prohibited whether on or off school campus. Attending school functions, extracurricular activities and sporting events while in the alternative classroom will constitute added days in the alternative classroom.

Alternative Classroom Guidelines:1. Alternative Classroom hours are 7:45 AM– 2:50 p.m. Students must enter through the

rear doors and exit through the rear entrance each day and may not re-enter the building. Additional assignment in the alternative classroom will occur if student re-enters the building without administrative permission.

2. Alternative Classroom students will eat breakfast and lunch in the Alternative Classroom.

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3. Alternative Classroom students will not be allowed to leave the room except for supervised restroom breaks, specific requests by teacher, or requests by administration to report to the office.

4. Students may, upon request of teacher and permission from administration, attend a particular class due to special instruction or lab. This student MUST be escorted by a faculty or staff member to and from the classroom minutes after the tardy bell rings and minutes prior to class dismissal.

5. Alternative Classroom students are responsible for bringing all materials necessary to complete their assignments.

6. Alternative Classroom students are expected to complete their daily assignments. Assignments will be turned in to the Alternative Classroom monitor. The classroom monitor will then turn in all assignments given to the classroom teachers.

7. All rules outlined in the Student Handbook apply to all students in the Alternative Classroom.

8. Students will be required to turn in their cell phones to the Alternative Classroom monitor when they enter the classroom; the cell phone will be returned to the student at the end of the day before leaving the building.

9. Students may be searched at any time if there is reasonable suspicion of violation of law or school rules.

10. Random wanding may be used periodically or daily. Refusal to be wanded will result in additional discipline measures.

11. Defiance of school guidelines, disruption of the Alternative Classroom or disrespect to the alternative classroom monitor will result in extra days in the Alternative Classroom or suspension.

NOTE: Any student may randomly be wanded by administrator/designee.

Corporal Punishment [Paddling]Board of Education Policy 9.433 authorizes the use of corporal punishment as a disciplinary measure. Parents may request a copy of this policy. Corporal punishment will only be used as a last resort. Parents will be notified, in writing, when corporal punishment has been used on their child. Only the principal or an administrator may administer corporal punishment. It will be done in the presence of a certified staff member. It will not be administered in front of other students. At the parent’s written request, a student can be excused from corporal punishment. When that occurs, other appropriate punishment, including suspension, shall be administered.

SUSPENIONS AND EXPULSIONAll students are required to comply with school rules. Failure to follow school rules constitutes cause for suspension or expulsion from school. The following infractions are subject to suspension and/or expulsion:

willful disobedience or defiance of the authority of the teachers, staff or administrators;

aggressive contact or verbal abuse toward faculty or staff; use of profanity or vulgarity; assault or battery or abuse of other students; the threat of force or violence; the use or possession of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs; stealing or destruction or defacing of school property or personal property of students;

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the carrying or use of weapons or dangerous instruments; or other incorrigible bad conduct on school property, as well as off school property at school-sponsored activities.

Suspension:The superintendent, principal, or assistant principal may suspend a student up to a maximum of 10 days per incident. A student shall not be suspended until the following due process procedures have been provided: The student has been given oral or written notice of the charge or charges against the

student which constitute cause for suspension; The student has been given an explanation of the evidence of the charge or charges if

the student denies them; and The student has been given an opportunity to present the student’s own version of the

facts relating to the charge or charges.

These due process procedures shall precede any suspension unless immediate suspension is essential to protect persons or property or to avoid disruption of the ongoing academic process. In such cases, the due process procedures shall follow the suspension as soon as practicable, but no later than 3 school days after the suspension.

The superintendent, principal, or assistant principal suspending a student must report the action in writing immediately to the superintendent and to the parent or guardian of the student.

After a suspension, a student will be assigned to the alternative classroom for a specific number of days determined prior to transitioning back to the regular classroom.

Out of school suspension means that a student is prohibited from participation and attendance in all activities of the regular school program, extra-curricular activities, and sporting events and may not come onto school property. Out of school suspension time is counted as unexcused absences and will be treated as such by all teachers.

ONCE A STUDENT HAS EXCEEDED 10 DAYS OF OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION THE STUDENT WILL BE REFERRED TO THE BOARD OF EDUCATION FOR REVIEW AND FURTHER DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS.

Expulsion:The Board of Education has the authority to expel a student for serious misconduct. However, expulsion will not occur until the parent or guardian of the student has had an opportunity to have a hearing before the Board of Education. The decision of the Board of Education shall be final. In situations involving students with disabilities, federal and state law involving discipline will be followed.

GRIEVANCE PROCEDUREAny student who wishes to express an educational concern or grievance shall observe the following order of appeal:

1. Teacher2. Principal/Designee

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3. Superintendent/Designee4. Board

CELL PHONES & ELECTRONIC DEVICESFulton Independent School administration requests and recommends that no student bring a cell phone to school. If a student brings a phone to school, the phone cannot be on/used/or left on vibrate or used for texting or for pictures during class unless given permission by the administrator/designee. NOTE: It is a violation of privacy to take a picture of anyone without that person’s knowledge and will be subject to disciplinary action.

Students are responsible for keeping up with devices they bring to school. The district shall not be responsible for loss, theft, or destruction of devices brought onto school property or to any related school activity

If a cell phone or any other electronic device is on/vibrate/beeps/or used to text or take pictures during class or is visible during class, the cell phone or other electronic device will be taken.

Once a cell phone or an electronic device has been requested by a staff member due to the breaking of cell phone rules, and a student refuses the request, a referral will be written for defiance and will follow the discipline process.Viewing and/or sharing inappropriate material (texting, sexting, photos, etc.) will not be tolerated. Disciplinary actions will be administered and authorities will be notified.

Consequences for violating the cell phone policy: 1st Offense: phone taken to office. Student may pick up the phone at end

of day. 2nd and consequence offenses: Parent/guardian must pick up phone from

the office.

CLASSROOM DISRUPTION/SCHOOL DISRUPTIONDisruption is defined as conduct and/or behavior of which is destructive or disruptive to the orderly educational procedure for the school, in the classroom, the commons area, hallways, the cafeteria, and the gymnasium. Types of behavior may include but not be limited to inappropriate discussion, language, scuffling, and horseplay, which may lead to more serious conflict. Students should always be in control of their voices, limbs, actions, and attitudes while on campus and on buses so that the school environment is one that contributes to learning.

CRIMINAL VIOLATIONSStudents are accountable to their role as students as well as to the law in their capacity as citizens. The criminal laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky and of the federal government apply to the conduct of all persons on school property. Verified criminal offenses to another person or property or which pose a direct threat to the safety of others in the school or the educational process will result in the immediate removal of the student from the regular school setting and recommendation to the Superintendent for suspension or expulsion.

Any employee who knows or has reasonable cause to believe that a student has been the victim of a serious offense, including but not limited to assault, menacing, wanton endangerment, terroristic threatening, criminal abuse, or stalking, while on school premises, on school-

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sponsored transportation, or at a school-sponsored event shall immediately report the incident to the principal of the school attended by the victim.

The principal shall notify the parents, legal guardians, or other persons exercising custodial control or supervision of all students involved in an incident reportable under this section.

The principal shall file with the Board of Education and the local law enforcement agency, the Kentucky State Police, or the county attorney within forty-eight (48) hours of the original report a written report containing:

a. The names and addresses of the student victim and his or her parents, legal guardians, or other persons exercising custodial control or supervision;

b. The student’s age;c. The nature and extent of the violation;d. The name and address of the student allegedly responsible for the violation; ande. Any other information that the principal making the report believes may be

helpful.

Any employee acting upon reasonable cause in the making of a report under this section in good faith shall have immunity from any liability, civil or criminal, that may otherwise be incurred or imposed.

The Board of Education and school personnel shall participate in any investigation reported under this section at the request of the agency to which the report was made.

Retaliation against a complainant or a person making a report under this section is strictly prohibited. If a complainant or person making a report under this section feels that retaliation has occurred, they shall immediately inform their principal or the superintendent.

DEFIANCE OF AUTHORITY (DISOBEDIENCE)Defiance of authority is defined as any act or behavior in which the student willfully defies the lawful authority to follow reasonable instructions of any school personnel.

DISRESPECTDisrespect is defined as lack of respect or courteous regard for another person.

DRESS CODEStudents are expected to dress in a manner that is conducive to a positive learning environment. The following guidelines are requirements for student dress from the time a student arrives at school until the end of the school day:

a) Skirts, shorts, and dresses are to be worn at knee length; leggings worn under dresses/skirts/shorts that are not knee length do not meet dress expectations. Slits may not be more than 3 inches above the knee.

b) Leggings are not to be worn as pants.c) All pants are to be worn to entirely cover the buttocks. No sagging pants will be allowed.d) Shirts must have sleeves.e) No low-cut shirts that expose cleavage; shirt/top necklines that expose more than two (2)

inches of skin below the collar bone are not acceptable.f) No male or female undergarments are to show during normal activity.

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g) No undergarments will be visible. This includes any type of apparel that is visible underneath the outer clothing. Example: females wearing a sheer blouse over a camisole.

h) Skin may not show through rips, frays, or holes in any part of the clothing at knee level or above.

i) All clothing must remain in place to cover the belly during normal activity.j) Articles of clothing or accessories that present hazard to the individual or other people

will not be allowed.k) Clothing or tattoos that promote drugs, sex, tobacco, alcohol, violence, vulgarity, or are

offensive or degrading will not be visible.l) Sleepwear, pajama pants, house shoes, and lounge pants are not allowed.m) No caps, hats, head gear, sweatshirt hoods, sweatbands, combs, bandanas, or sunglasses

(unless prescribed by a physician) will be allowed to be worn inside the building.n) Ear buds and headphones are NOT to be worn in school or class unless being used with a

particular assignment and with the permission of the class instructor.o) Chains or chain wallets are not allowed to hang from attire.p) Trench coats are not allowed in the building.

Styles change and the administration reserves the right to deem any attire inappropriate. If you are unsure about any article of clothing, inquire before you wear it. If the violation is easy to correct and no new clothing is needed, then the teacher will fill out a referral to be turned in to an administrator. If the violation requires a change of clothing, the student will be sent to the office and disciplined accordingly. The appearance at school-related activities shall be determined by the activity coach/sponsor/administrator.

Consequences for violating dress code policy: 1st offense: Student must correct the violation. An early morning

detention will be assigned. 2nd offense: Student must correct the violation. An after school detention

will be assigned. 3rd offense: Student must correct the violation. A Saturday School

detention will be assigned. 4th offense and subsequent violations: Three (3) days Alternative

Classroom assigned.

ENTERING UNAUTHORIZED AREASA student is guilty of being in an unauthorized area if discovered there without legitimate reason or permission. Areas that are considered off-limits to students include, but are not limited to…

High school students are not to use the middle school hallway to go to classes unless their class is in the middle school wing.

High school students are not allowed to use the middle school restrooms at any time. Middle school students are not allowed to use the high school restrooms at any time. Teachers’ areas are off limits to students. (This includes desks, cabinets, file

cabinets, the faculty lounge, faculty restrooms, etc.) Students are not permitted to operate copy machines. Mechanical rooms, wiring closets, janitorial closets, and storage rooms are not

available to students unless accompanied by school staff.

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Classrooms, athletic storage, and gym are not available to students unless accompanied by a member of the school staff.

FIGHTING Fighting is defined as the use of physical force to another.

Disciplinary action taken for fighting is cumulative from the time a student enters high school until they graduate. For example, if a student is disciplined for the first offense as a freshman and is involved in fighting again as a junior, discipline will be for the second offense.

Disciplinary action taken for fighting is cumulative for junior high students from the time they enter seventh (7th) grade until they leave eighth (8th) grade.

Disciplinary action for fighting is as follows:

1st offense: 3 Days Out of School Suspension and 3 Days AC transition. The parent/guardian must come with the student upon his/her return and meet with the administrator OR meet with administrator prior to the suspension.

2nd offense: 5 Days Out of School Suspension and 5 Days AC transition. The parent MUST meet with the Director of Pupil Personnel before the student can return to school.

3rd offense: 7 Days Out of School Suspension and referral to alternative education. The parent MUST meet with the Director of Pupil Personnel to determine alternative educational placement and setting.

4TH offense: 10 Days Out of School Suspension. The parent MUST meet with the Board of Education to determine placement.

Additional disciplinary action may be taken if it is evident that one student acted in an overt aggressive manner.

LAW ENFORCMENT MAY BE CALLED AND CHARGES FILED.

*NOTE: Fulton Independent School District honors other school districts’ discipline records.

All punishments for fighting will be left to the discretion of the administration, particularly in areas having to do with self-defense.

Students who instigate fights, but are not actively involved (that is, students who carry rumors, put others up to fighting, carrying information back and forth between other individuals who subsequently fight), submit themselves to the same penalties as those who are involved in the fight.

Students not using physical force, yet engaged in verbal confrontation in a disorderly manner, will be subject to disciplinary action.

Students who are intimidated or harassed by another student should report that to a teacher or administrator. Students who intimidate or harass another student are subject to disciplinary action.

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FORBIDDEN ITEMS AT SCHOOL OR SCHOOL EVENTSForbidden items include but are not limited to:

Pets - unless teacher approved because of a teaching goal Toys - any item that is not used for an educational purpose or not approved by the

teacher Any illegal substance Weapons - state law requires the dismissal of a student for one year if they bring

certain weapons such as guns, brass knuckles, etc. to school. It is against school rules to have look-alike weapons at school

All tobacco products All forms of pornography Any item that a student is using to cause a disturbance or harm another person. Matches and lighters Any item for sell or trade Lasers Drug and alcohol possession, use, or distribution may result in suspension and or

expulsion from school for up to one full year Knives of any kind. Fire-crackers, stink bombs, etc. Dice or other gambling devices White Out Possession of Tylenol, prescription pills, over the counter medication

FORGERYForgery is defined as falsely making or changing a written paper or signing someone else’s name.

GANG ACTIVITYEngaging in any form of gang activity, such as dress, hand signs or signals, drawing/written communications, use of gang language during the school day, and/or during any school activity is prohibited.

Consequences for violation will include, but not limited to: Parent notification Alternative Classroom Three (3) days Out of School Suspension

Continuance of activities will result in referral to superintendent for expulsion.

GROSS/HOSTILE PROFANITYGross and hostile profanity includes using profane language, such as the f-word or calling students or any faculty/staff member other derogatory names, or using profanity in a hostile manner.

HARASSMENT & BULLYEveryone in the Fulton Independent School District has a right to feel respected and safe. Consequently, the Fulton Independent School District prohibits discrimination and harassment because of sex, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, or age. Bullying is also

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prohibited. A harasser may be a student or an adult. Harassment may include, but not be limited to, the following when related to sex, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, or age:

name calling pulling on clothing graffiti notes or cartoons unwelcome touching of a person or clothing offensive or graphic posters or book covers; or violent acts

Bullying is also a form of harassment and occurs when someone keeps hurting, frightening, threatening, or leaving someone out on purpose. Examples of bullying include:

Hurting someone physically by hitting, kicking, tripping or pushing Stealing or damaging another person’s things Ganging up on someone Teasing someone in a hurtful way Using put-downs, such as insulting someone’s race or making fun of someone for

being a boy or girl Spreading rumors about someone Leaving someone out on purpose or trying to get other students not to associate with

someone Communicating orally, in writing, or electronically (by telephone, Internet or other

electronic means) in a manner that causes the victim to suffer fear of physical harm, intimidation, humiliation, or embarrassment and which serves no purpose of legitimate communication.

If any words or actions make you feel uncomfortable or fearful, you need to tell the school principal, the District Coordinator for Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504, or the District Superintendent. You may also make a written report. It should be given to the school principal, the District Coordinator for Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504, or the District Superintendent.

Your right to privacy will be respected as much as possible. We take seriously all reports of discrimination, harassment, and bullying and will take all appropriate action to investigate such claims, to eliminate such conduct, and to discipline any persons found to have engaged in such conduct.

The School District will also take action if anyone tries to intimidate you or take action to harm you because you made such a report.This is a summary of the School District’s policy against discrimination, harassment, and bullying. A complete copy of the policy is available at the principal’s office upon request.

LEAVING CLASS WITHOUT PERMISSIONStudents are considered leaving class without permission if they do not have permission from the teacher to leave the classroom.

POSSESSION/USE OF AN ILLEGAL SUBSTANCENo pupil shall purchase, possess, attempt to possess, use, be under the influence of, sell, or transfer any of the following on or about school property, at any location of a school-sponsored activity, or en route to or from school or a school-sponsored activity:

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Alcoholic beverages; Controlled drug substances, prohibited drugs and substances and drug paraphernalia;

and Substances that “look like” a controlled substance. In instances involving look-alike

substances, there must be evidence of the students’ intent to pass off the item as a controlled substance.

In addition, students shall not possess prescription drugs for the purpose of sale or distribution.

Students who violate Board Policy 09.423 will receive a minimum of 5 to 10 days Out of School Suspension, alternative placement, and/or referral to the superintendent for possible expulsion. Law enforcement shall be contacted promptly as required by law.

POSSESSION/USE OF TOBACCO PRODUCTSStudents shall not be permitted to use or possess any tobacco product on property owned or operated by the Board, inside Board-owned vehicles, on the way to and from school, and during school-sponsored trips and activities. Students who violate these prohibitions while under the supervision of the school shall be subject to penalties set forth in the Student Handbook.

The use of tobacco products in school buildings, on campuses, and on parking lots is prohibited. Adults are not permitted to smoke where students are present.

POSSESSION/USE OF WEAPONS AND DANGEROUS INSTRUMENTS(Board Policy 05.48) Violation of this policy by students shall require that the Principal immediately make a report to the Superintendent, who shall determine if charges for expulsion from the District schools should be filed under Policy 09.435. In addition, when they have reasonable belief that a violation has taken place, principals shall immediately report to law enforcement officials when an act has occurred on school property or at a school-sponsored function that involves student possession of a firearm in violation of the law or assault involving the use of a weapon.

Federal Requirements Regarding StudentsThe penalty for students possessing a firearm at school or bringing a firearm or other deadly weapon, destructive device, or booby trap device to school or onto the school campus/property under jurisdiction of the District shall be expulsion for a minimum of twelve (12) months under Policy 09.435. (See Possession/Use of Weapons and Dangerous Instruments Board Policy 05.48 for further information; page 35.)

SKIPPING CLASSAll students are expected to be in their assigned classroom unless they have permission from an administrator or the teacher. Students tardy to class five (5) minutes or more will be considered as skipping class. Discipline measures will follow.

SKIPPING SCHOOLAll students are expected to attend school every day that it is in session. If it is determined by administration that a student has skipped school, an attempt to notify parents will be made by administration. Discipline measures will follow.

1st Incident: Three (3) days alternative classroom placement and conference with administrator.

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2nd Incident: Five (5) days alternative classroom placement and conference with Director of Pupil Personnel.

3rd Incident: Seven (7) days Alternative Classroom and conference with Director of Pupil Personnel.

NOTE: The Fulton Independent School District does not recognize senior skip day. Violations will result in disciplinary action.

THEFTTheft, or larceny, is the wrongful taking and carrying away of the personal goods or property of another. Each offense will be handled on a case-by-case basis. Disciplinary measures may include, but are not limited to, After School Detention, Saturday School Detention, Alternative Classroom, suspension, notifying authorities, etc.

TRANSITION FROM JUVENILE DETENTION CENTER/DISCIPLINE FROM TRANSFER SCHOOLAny student entering the Fulton Independent School District from a juvenile detention center will begin their days at the FISD in the alternative classroom for a number of days determined by the administration.Any student entering the Fulton Independent School District who has outstanding disciplinary measures from a transfer school will be required to serve the assigned resolution.

VANDALISMVandalism is defined as the deliberate defacing of school property.

VERBAL ABUSE OF A FISD EMPLOYEEVerbal abuse is defined as using profanity and/or inappropriate and/or threatening comments directed toward a teacher.

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DISCIPLINE CHARTThe following chart is a guide for administration, students, and parents. Resolutions for infractions listed are not necessarily in order of the number of consequence. The chart describes the possible resolutions for the infraction listed. The resolution will depend on the severity of the offense. This only serves as a guide.

Infraction ParentNotificatio

n

OT EMD ASD SS AC Sus. Exp.

Academic Dishonesty (Plagiarism/Cheating)

Bullying/Harassment Defiance of Authority Disobedience Disrespect of Staff Member Classroom/School Disruption Dress Code Violation Excessive Talking Failed to Complete Classwork Failed to Return Progress Report Failed to Return Report Card Fighting Forgery Gang Activity Gross/Hostile Profanity Hitting A Student Inappropriate Behavior Lack of Classroom Materials Leaving Class w/o Permission Lying Possession of Forbidden Items Possession/Use of Illegal Substance

Possession/Use of Tobacco Products

Possession/Use of Weapons andDangerous Instruments

Removal from Detention Sexual Misconduct Skipping After School Detention (ASD)

Skipping Class Skipping Early Morning Detention (EMD)

Skipping Opportunity Time (OT) Skipping Saturday School (SS) Skipping School Sleeping In Class Tardiness to Class Theft Threatening Vandalism Verbal Confrontation with Student Verbal Abuse of a FISD Employee

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AWARDS AND RECOGNITION OPPORTUNITIES

ACADEMIC AWARDSThese certificates are presented at Honor’s Day for the middle school and Honor’s Night for the high school.

Honor GraduatesTo be an honor graduate, one must have at least a 3.0 grade point average on a weighted scale taken from the semester grades.

Valedictorian and Salutatorian PolicyTo be Valedictorian/Salutatorian of Fulton High School, one must have completed four semesters of high school work at FHS. Two of those semesters must be the senior year. A best estimate of the cumulative GPA will be calculated using up to and through the fourth nine weeks progress report of the senior year. This calculation will also be used to calculate class rank for graduation purposes. The valedictorian and salutatorian must have met all requirements for the Mastery or Commonwealth diploma as defined in this handbook.

Honors Night SpeakerThe third place honor graduate must have completed a minimum of two years at FHS. Two semesters must be in the student’s senior year. The speaker must have met all requirements for the Mastery or Commonwealth diploma as defined in the handbook and have the third highest average in the senior class.

Honor RollTo be included on the honor roll for either the nine weeks or semester, a student must have all A’s and/or B’s for the grading period.

Citizenship AwardThe Citizenship Award is one of the highest honors in Fulton High School. Presented annually, the Citizenship Award is given to the two most outstanding students of FHS. The faculty selects the recipients of this award based on integrity, service to school, leadership, courage, personality, and academic achievements.

Governor’s Scholars ProgramThe Governor’s Scholars Program is an academic enrichment program for outstanding Kentucky high school juniors. It is a five-week course held on college campuses in Kentucky. Students are selected by a GSP committee based on applications, PSAT scores, essays, and teacher recommendations.

Hugh O’Brian Leadership SeminarOne sophomore is selected each year by a faculty committee to represent FHS at the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Seminar. Selection is based on demonstration of leadership qualities as described in the student’s application. (This is an out of pocket expense for the parent.)

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AREA TECHNOLOGY CENTER All vocational students should be registered in on-campus classes. The vocational school bus will leave promptly at 7:40 a.m. If you miss the bus, your

absence at vocational school will be unexcused. You will not be permitted to drive to the center. The bus will return to the high school by 10:40 a.m.

Any student who misses the bus to vocational school will be required to make up the time missed in alternative classroom completing vocational school assigned work. The student will spend this time working on his/her academic assignments.

State Law prohibits smoking, dipping or chewing tobacco on the bus. The bus will not stop to pick up passengers after departing the high school in route to the

center and shall not make stops until back at school on the return trip.

o Cursing or other abusive language to passengers or the bus driver is subject to disciplinary action.

o Horseplay of any type (such as scuffling, fighting, picking, and so on) shall be grounds for disciplinary action.

o Passengers shall remain in their seats at all times. Keep arms and head inside the bus at all times. Do not lean over, walk, or stand in the aisle.

o When you need your car worked on at the vocational center, a Driver’s Permit must be presented to the principal prior to leaving for the center and upon returning.

o Any complaints of drivers, students, or parents, not specified in the above regulations, shall be reported promptly to the principal.

o The bus driver is in full charge of the bus and students. Students shall obey the directions of the driver promptly and courteously.

o In the event that the conduct of a student on the bus endangers the safety of others and the offending student fails to cease such conduct when directed by the bus driver to do so, the driver may stop the bus and ask another student to go to a phone and call an administrator for assistance. Students may not be ordered to leave a bus except by a school administrator.

Students returning from vocational school are to go to the commons area or to their fourth period class. Do not go to the parking lot or enter any other part of the building until after the bell sounds ending the period.

The vocational center will supply the high school with class assignments to assign to student when the vocational school is not in session but FISD is in session. Students not attending vocational school for non-punitive reasons will report to the library.

SECTION 504The Fulton Independent Board of Education ensures full compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, for eligible students aged three to twenty-one. The district does not discriminate in the admission, access to, participation in, or employment under its programs and activities receiving Federal financial assistance (as stated in the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.)

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FAMILY EDUCATION RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. These rights are:

The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the school receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal or appropriate school official] a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The school will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

The rights to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate or misleading. Parents or eligible students may ask the school to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the school principal [or appropriate official], clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the school decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate education interests. A school official is a person employed by the School as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the school Board; a person or company with whom the School has contracted to perform a task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the school discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.

The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the school to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:

Family Policy Compliance OfficeU.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SWWashington, DC 20202-4605

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law, requires that the school district, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s educational records. However, the district may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written consent, unless you have advised the district to the contrary in accordance with district procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the school to include this type of information from your child’s education records in certain school publications.

Examples include: A playbill, showing your student’s role in a drama production; The annual yearbook; Honor roll or other recognition lists; Graduation programs; and Sports activity sheets, such as for football, showing weight and height of team members.

Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory information categories - names, addresses and telephone listings - unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent. If you do not want the school to disclose directory information from your child’s education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the principal in writing annually within thirty (30) days of enrollment. The school district has designated the following information as directory information:

Student’s name Participation in officially recognized activities and sports Address Telephone listing Weight and height of members of athletic teams Photograph Degrees, honors, and awards received Date and place of birth Major field of study Dates of attendance Grade level The most recent educational agency or institution attended

Parents or students over 18 years of age who do not desire the release of the directory information as listed above, must notify school administration within 30 days after the student’s enrollment in the school district.

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POSSESSION/USE OF WEAPONS AND DANGEROUS INSTRUMENTS

Board Policy 05.48 This policy applies to students, staff members, and visitors to the school.

Weapons ProhibitedExcept where expressly and specifically permitted by Kentucky Revised Statute, the carrying, bringing, using, or possessing any weapon or dangerous instrument in any school building, on school grounds, in any school vehicle or at any school-sponsored activity is prohibited.

Violation of this policy by staff members shall constitute reason for disciplinary action, including possible termination.

Violation of this policy by students shall require that the Principal immediately make a report to the Superintendent, who shall determine if charges for expulsion from the District schools should be filed under Policy 09.435. In addition, when they have reasonable belief that a violation has taken place, principals shall immediately report to law enforcement officials when an act has occurred on school property or at a school-sponsored function that involves student possession of a firearm in violation of the law or assault involving the use of a weapon.

Violations by visitors shall be reported to a law enforcement agency.

Exceptions: An exception may be made for students participating in an authorized curricular or extracurricular activity

or team involving the use of firearms and to those persons listed in KRS 527.070. Law enforcement officials are authorized to bring weapons onto school property in performance of their

duties.

Federal Requirements Regarding StudentsThe penalty for students possessing a firearm at school or bringing a firearm or other deadly weapon, destructive device, or booby trap device to school or onto the school campus/property under jurisdiction of the District shall be expulsion for a minimum of twelve (12) months under Policy 09.435. However, the Board may modify such expulsions on a case-by-case basis. Any case-by-case modification of the one (1) year expulsion requirement, including those made for students with disabilities to meet the requirements of IDEA and Section 504, shall be in writing and may be based upon a recommendation of the Superintendent/designee.

Any student who possesses a firearm at school or brings to school a firearm or other deadly weapon, destructive device, or booby trap device shall be referred to the criminal justice or juvenile delinquency system.

Although students are subject to disciplinary action for violating any restriction in this policy, the twelve (12) month expulsion penalty mandated by the Federal Gun-Free Schools Act does not apply to a firearm lawfully stored in a locked vehicle on school property.

State Posting RequirementsThe Superintendent shall post the following notice in prominent locations in the schools, including, but not limited to, sports arenas, gymnasiums, stadiums, and cafeterias. The notice shall be at least six (6) inches high and fourteen (14) inches wide and shall state:

UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF A WEAPON ON SCHOOL PROPERTY IN KENTUCKY IS A FELONY PUNISHABLE BY A MAXIMUM OF FIVE (5) YEARS IN PRISON AND A TEN THOUSAND DOLLAR ($10,000) FINE.

The above penalty shall not apply to those persons listed in KRS 527.070 (3).

State Reporting RequirementsEmployees of the District shall promptly make a report to the local police department, sheriff, or Kentucky State Police, by telephone or otherwise, if they know or have reasonable cause to believe that conduct has occurred which

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constitutes the carrying, possession, or use of a deadly weapon on the school premises or within one thousand (1,000) feel of school premises, on a school bus, or at a school sponsored or sanctioned event.For state reporting purposes, a deadly weapon shall be defined as:

a weapon of mass destruction; any weapon from which a shot, readily capable of producing death or serious physical injury, may be

discharged; any knife other than an ordinary pocket knife or hunting knife billy, nightstick or club; blackjack or slapjack; nunchaku karate sticks; shuriken or death star; or artificial knuckles made from metal, plastic, or other similar hard material.

Employees who receive information from a student or other person regarding conduct required to be reported shall report the conduct in the same manner as stated above.

EnforcementIn the enforcement of this policy, principals may authorize, if they have reasonable suspicion, searches in compliance with applicable Board policies.

Kentucky law 528.070 states that the crime of unlawful possession of a weapon on school property is for knowingly carrying, bringing, using, or possessing any weapon or dangerous instrument in any school building, on school grounds, in any school vehicle, or at any school-sponsored activity. According to Board Policy 05.48 of the Fulton Independent School District any student who is determined to have brought a weapon, destructive devise, or booby trap device shall be referred to the criminal justice or juvenile delinquency system. The student will be recommended to the superintendent for possible expulsion. Law enforcement shall be contacted promptly as required by law.

SEARCH AND SEIZUREA student in the Fulton Independent School District has the constitutional right to be secured in his/her person from all unreasonable searches and seizures. No student’s clothing, pockets, or his or her personal effects shall be searched by authorized school personnel unless there are reasonable grounds to believe the search will reveal evidence that the pupil has violated or is violating a school rule or law. School property, such as lockers and desks, are jointly held by the school and pupil. School authorities have the right to conduct general inspection of all such property on a regular basis. Students should not expect privacy to items left in such locations. A single desk or locker can be searched if reasonable grounds exist to believe that evidence of a violation of the law or a school rule is contained therein.

Strip searches are strictly prohibited by school personnel. Illegal items (e.g. weapons, drugs, etc.) or other possessions reasonably determined by proper school authorities to be a threat to the pupil’s safety or to others’ safety and security may be seized by school officials. Board policy 09.436 is available upon request

Attendance Requirements – Compulsory Attendance Board Policy 09.122

All children in the district who have entered kindergarten or who are between the ages of six (6) as of October 1, and sixteen (16), except those specifically exempted by statue, shall enroll and be in regular attendance in the schools to which they are assigned.Exemptions from Compulsory AttendanceThe Board shall exempt the following from compulsory attendance:

1. A graduate from an accredited or approved 4-year high school2. A pupil who is enrolled in a private or parochial school,3. A pupil who is less than sever (7) years old and in regular attendance in a private kindergarten nursery

school,4. A pupil whose physical or mental condition prevents or renders inadvisable, attendance at school or

application to study,

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5. A pupil who is enrolled and in regular attendance in private, parochial, or church school programs for exceptional children, or

6. A pupil who is enrolled and in regular attendance in a state supported program for exceptional children.

Physician’s Statement RequiredThe Board, before granting an exemption, shall require a signed statement as required by law unless a student’s individual education plan (IEP) specifies that placement of the child with a disability at home or in a hospital is the least restrictive environment for providing services.

Exemptions to Presence at SchoolStudents must be physically present in school to be counted in attendance, except under the following conditions:

1. Students shall be counted in attendance when they are receiving home/hospital, institutional, or court-ordered instruction in another setting.

2. Participation of a pupil in 4-H activities that are regularly scheduled and under the supervision of a county extension agent or designated 4-H club leader shall be considered school attendance.

3. Students may participate in co-curricular activities and be counted as being in attendance during the instructional school day, provided the Principal/designee has given prior approval to the scheduling of the activities. Approval shall be granted only when co-curricular activities and trips are instructional in nature, directly related to the instructional program, and scheduled to minimize absences from classroom instruction.

4. Students participating in an off-site virtual high school class or block may be counted in attendance in accordance with requirements set out in Kentucky Administration Regulation.

5. Students having an individual education plan (IEP) that requires less than full-time instructional services shall not be required to be present for a full school day.

6. Students who attend classes for moral instruction at the time specified and for the period fixed shall be credited with the time spent as if they had been in actual attendance in school, and the time shall be calculated as part of the actual school work required by law. Students shall not be penalized for any school work missed during the specified moral instruction time.

7. Student participating as part of a school-sponsored interscholastic athletic team, who compete in a regional or state tournament sanctioned by the Kentucky Board of Education or KHSAA, that occurs on a regularly scheduled school day shall be counted and recorded present at school on the date or dates of the competition, for a maximum of two (2) days per student per school year. Students shall be expected to complete any assignments missed on the date or dates of the competition.

ACCEPTABLE USER POLICYWorkstations:

Students are not permitted on teacher workstations. Students are not permitted to bring/load software from home. Students are not allowed to change backgrounds, colors, desktop themes, or set screen savers. Students are not allowed to change the mouse settings. Students are not allowed to play games (including solitaire and minesweep). Students are not allowed to alter/change any system file. Students are not allowed to send messages to other computers via a messaging service (e.g. winpopup). Students are not allowed to work on or troubleshoot computers without specific permission from the

teacher.Internet:

Students are not allowed to open/send personal email at school. Students are not allowed to go to questionable sites on the Internet (including chat rooms). Students are not allowed to download ANYTHING to a workstation or electronic storage device without

getting the teacher’s permission first. Students are not allowed to print ANYTHING without getting the teacher’s permission first. All print jobs

should be educational in nature, not personal, and should not exceed 5 pages. Printing song lyrics is specifically not allowed.

The Internet is monitored through a proxy server and students violating these policies will be caught and will be punished.

*NOTE: Students are prohibited to use another student’s password or log in information. Students are also prohibited from giving their log in information to other students for their use.

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Penalties for violations include any or all of the following: Loss of Internet and computer lab privileges Detention Alternative classroom placement Cost to repair/replace damaged parts plus labor costs

Computers are to be used for instructional purposes only. Any use of computers for purposes other than instructional will be construed as a violation of these policies.

Board Policy 08.2323 (Acceptable Use Policy)The Board supports reasonable access to various information formats for students, employees and the community and believes it is incumbent upon users to utilize this privilege in an appropriate and responsible manner.

Safety Procedures and GuidelinesThe Superintendent shall develop and implement appropriate procedures to provide guidance for access to electronic media. Guidelines shall address teacher supervision of student computer use, ethical use of electronic media (including, but not limited to, the Internet, e-mail, and other District technological resources), and issues of privacy versus administrative review of electronic files and communications. In addition, guidelines shall prohibit utilization of networks for prohibited or illegal activities, the intentional spreading of embedded messages, or the use of other programs with the potential of damaging or destroying programs or data.

Students shall be provided instruction about appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other individuals on social networking sites and in chat rooms and cyber-bullying awareness and response.

Internet safety measures shall be implemented that effectively address the following: Controlling access by minors to inappropriate matter on the Internet and World Wide Web; Safety and security of minors when they are using electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct

electronic communications; Preventing unauthorized access, including “hacking” and other unlawful activities by minors online; Unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal information regarding minors; and Restricting minor’s access to materials harmful to them.

The District shall provide reasonable public notice of, and at least on (1) public hearing or meeting to address and communicate, its Internet Safety measures.

Specific expectations for appropriate Internet use shall be reflected in the District’s code of acceptable behavior and discipline including appropriate orientation for staff and students.

Permission/Agreement FormA written parental request shall be required prior to the student being granted independent access to electronic media involving District technological resources.

The required permission/agreement form, which shall specify acceptable uses, rules of on-line behavior, access privileges, and penalties for policy/procedural violations, must be signed by the parent or legal guardian of minor students (those under 18 years of age) and also by the student. This document shall be kept on file as a legal, binding document. In order to modify or rescind the agreement, the student’s parent/guardian (or the student who is at least 18 years old) must provide the Superintendent with a written request.

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INDEXAcademic Awards.........................................................................................................................................33Acceptable User Policy.................................................................................................................................38Accident Reports for Student Injury at School or School Events............................................................16Alternative Classroom..................................................................................................................................21Area Technology Center..............................................................................................................................34Attendance and Tardy..................................................................................................................................11Attendance of 95%.......................................................................................................................................13Backpacks......................................................................................................................................................19Beliefs...............................................................................................................................................................3Bulldog Academy/Dual Credit.......................................................................................................................8Cafeteria Information and Food Regulations............................................................................................15Calendar of Events.........................................................................................................................................4Cell Phones and Electronic Devices............................................................................................................24Check In.........................................................................................................................................................13Check In/Check Out Procedure..................................................................................................................13Check Out......................................................................................................................................................13Citizenship Award........................................................................................................................................33Class Favorite (Grades 7-12).......................................................................................................................10Class Officers..................................................................................................................................................9Classroom Disruption/School Disruption...................................................................................................24Competitive Food Regulations.....................................................................................................................16Compulsory Attendance (Board Policy 09.122).........................................................................................37Computers and Electronic Media/Access to Electronic Media................................................................19Contact Information.......................................................................................................................................2Corporal Punishment...................................................................................................................................22Credit Recovery..............................................................................................................................................6Criminal Violations......................................................................................................................................24Defiance of Authority/Disobedience............................................................................................................25Detentions......................................................................................................................................................21Diploma Types................................................................................................................................................8Discipline Chart............................................................................................................................................32Disrespect.......................................................................................................................................................25Dress Code.....................................................................................................................................................25Educational Enhancement...........................................................................................................................12Emergency Drills..........................................................................................................................................16End of Course Exams.....................................................................................................................................5Enrollment and New Student Registration Forms....................................................................................14Entering Unauthorized Areas......................................................................................................................26Exams ............................................................................................................................................................5 Excused Absences.........................................................................................................................................12Extra- Curricular Opportunities ................................................................................................................ 9 Faculty and Staff.............................................................................................................................................2FERPA...........................................................................................................................................................35Fieldtrips........................................................................................................................................................18Fighting..........................................................................................................................................................27Forbidden items at School or School Events..............................................................................................28Forgery...........................................................................................................................................................28Gang Activity................................................................................................................................................28Governor’s Scholars Program.....................................................................................................................33Grade Point Average .....................................................................................................................................5Grade Reporting...........................................................................................................................................5 Grading Policy................................................................................................................................................4Graduation......................................................................................................................................................7Grievance Procedure....................................................................................................................................23Gross/Hostile Profanity................................................................................................................................28Handbook Purpose.........................................................................................................................................3

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Harassment and Bullying.............................................................................................................................28Home/Hospital...............................................................................................................................................12Homecoming Court......................................................................................................................................10Homework Policy............................................................................................................................................6Honor Graduates..........................................................................................................................................33Honor Roll.....................................................................................................................................................33Honors Night Speaker..................................................................................................................................33Hugh O’Brien Leadership Seminar............................................................................................................33Leaving Class Without Permission.............................................................................................................29Library Media Center..................................................................................................................................15Lockers...........................................................................................................................................................18Lost/Damaged Materials/School Debt........................................................................................................19Medication.....................................................................................................................................................16Middle School Promotion/Retention.............................................................................................................6Miscellaneous Elected Criteria/Procedures.............................................................................................10 Mission Statement..........................................................................................................................................3 Mr./Miss FHS................................................................................................................................................10Non-Discrimination Statement......................................................................................................................4Personal Items...............................................................................................................................................19Philosophy.......................................................................................................................................................3Physical Exams/Immunizations...................................................................................................................16Plagiarism .......................................................................................................................................................7Possession/Use of an Illegal Substance........................................................................................................29Possession/Use of Tobacco Products...........................................................................................................30Possession/Use of Weapons and Dangerous Instruments.........................................................................30Possession/Use of Weapons or Dangerous Instruments (Board Policy05.48).........................................36Promotion Requirements...............................................................................................................................6Publication of Student Photo.......................................................................................................................19Rules and Regulations..................................................................................................................................20Scheduling.....................................................................................................................................................8 School Office Hours......................................................................................................................................14Search and Seizure.......................................................................................................................................37Section 504.....................................................................................................................................................34Senior Who’s Who........................................................................................................................................10Severe Weather/School Closing.....................................................................................................................4Skipping Class...............................................................................................................................................30Skipping School.............................................................................................................................................30Sports/Extra Curricular Participation.......................................................................................................17Sportsmanship Expectations/Athletic Chain of Command......................................................................17Student Code of Conduct.............................................................................................................................20Student Council...............................................................................................................................................9Student Discipline.........................................................................................................................................20Student Expectations....................................................................................................................................20Student Fees..................................................................................................................................................18Student Government......................................................................................................................................9Student Insurance...........................................................................................................................................4Suspension/Expulsion...................................................................................................................................22Tardiness.......................................................................................................................................................13Theft...............................................................................................................................................................31To the Parents................................................................................................................................................1 To the Students..............................................................................................................................................1 Transition from Juvenile Center.................................................................................................................31Truancy..........................................................................................................................................................12Unexcused Absences.....................................................................................................................................12Use of Office/Classroom Phone...................................................................................................................15Valedictorian and Salutatorian Policy........................................................................................................33Valedictorian/Salutatorian Policy ................................................................................................................8Vandalism......................................................................................................................................................31Vehicles..........................................................................................................................................................14

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Verbal Abuse of a Fulton Independent Employee.....................................................................................31Vision Statement............................................................................................................................................3 Visitors & School Visitation...........................................................................................................................4Welcome.........................................................................................................................................................1

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