Southside High School 2361 School Drive

Southside, AL 35907 Office: 256.442.2172

Fax: 256.442.2183

sshs.ecboe.org School Colors: Crimson and Black Mascot: Panther

Alma Mater

At dear old Southside High

We recall days gone by

When we were young and

Our dreams were new.

Our future plans are high

As we look to the sky,

Our hopes and prayers are

For Southside High

Chorus

As bells ring the end we sigh

In our hearts we cry,

Now as we say goodbye,

We think of years gone by,

And all our friends

At dear Southside High

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Principals Message To Students

I would like to welcome all our students back for the new school year.

This year looks to be an exciting year, full or high expectations and goals.

We encourage you to see one of our staff members if you have any needs

or concerns. In order for this year to be successful, you must take

ownership in this school. This handbook is a guide to help facilitate that

ownership. Please know that we adhere to this handbook, and the Code

of Conduct from the County Board, to the highest degree. Please take the

time to read over it and understand it. If you have questions, again, don’t

hesitate to contact us.

Good Luck to every student on this upcoming year. And as always……

GO PANTHERS

Chris Winningham

Principal

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2017-2018

Faculty and Staff

Mr. Chris Winningham, Principal

Mr. Jeremy Edwards, Assistant Principal Mrs. Julie Tucker, Assistant Principal

Mrs. Suzanne Vice – 9th/10th Counselor Ms. Denisse Lumpkin – 11th/12th Counselor

Abernathy, Harold; Custodian Bell, Mary; Custodian Blackwell, Sonya; Science Blume, Zack; Math, Bowling, Tennis Boatwright, Dru; Distance Learning Bozeman, Jason; English, Theater, Journalism Cargill, Tiffany; Resource, Girls Soccer Carter, Katie; FACS, Yearbook Chumley, Patrick; Resource Clark, Cassie; Media Specialist Clevenger, Kenny; English Couch, Rachael; English Daugherty, Ron; PE, Football Davis, Robby; Science Davis, Yvette; Math Evans, Leslie; Math Farabee, Marcia; English Freeman, Leslie; Science French, Cheryl; Visual Art Fry, Genia; History Gibbs, Anita; CNP Hammock, Rebekah; Band Hanson, Katie; Math Hassell, Christine; CNP Holderfield, Chad; History, Basketball Hughes, Mandy; Spanish Hull, Renee; Paraprofessional Kip Williams; SRO Lamb, Michael; PE, Baseball Leftwich, Jason; Paraprofessional Liggan, Jennifer; Business McGlaughn, Tony; Custodian

Mince, Robin; CNP Mobbs, Brandi; English Moore, Madison; General Science Nails, Charles; PE Nelson, Skylar; Business Nichols, Jake; History Noah, Donna; Math Patton, Lewis; Science Reeves, Kelley; Nurse Rich, Gina; Bookkeeper Rich, Shirley; Secretary Richey, Kathy; Resource Roberts, Blake; Agriscience Rogers,, Annie; CNP Routon, Kyle; History, Wrestling, Softball Russell, Elizabeth; English Russell, Jason; Science Sanders, Angie; Ath. Director, ISS Santos, Tammy; CNP Manager Simmons, Walt; Cooperative Education Simms, Lela; CNP Smith, Byron; Math Smith, Ginger; Resource Smith, Zane; History Stapleton, Ashley; English Strickland, Elizabeth; FACS Vice, Randy; History, Boys Soccer Vinson, Lee; Drivers Education Weaver, Matt; Band Williams, Tammy; Math Yancey, Brett; Health

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Our School Philosophy

The faculty and staff of Southside High School, along with the administration and our community leaders, have accepted the

responsibility of providing a quality educational program for our students. Our efforts are combined to present the knowledge, skills, methods, and values needed by our students to successfully pursue

their goals in life and to contribute to our American democracy productively.

We seek to work cooperatively with other community forces that

are a part of our students’ lives; home, church, government, business, and the changing demands of our society. We aim, further, to meet the

individual needs of our students through varied technology methods, materials, and extra curricular activities which, not only meet their educational needs, but also instill in them a sense of self-worth and

acceptance of the value of each individual.

We believe that we best serve our students and community by combining our resources to develop well-rounded students – mentally, physically and socially – who can assume responsible roles after high

school.

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Bell Schedule

Regular 7 Period Schedule

BLOCK SCHEDULE

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ANNOUNCEMENTS AND

BREAKFAST

7:45 – 7:55

1st 7:55 – 8:43

2nd 8:48 – 9:36

AM BREAK 9:36 – 9:46

3rd 9:51 – 10:39

4th 10:44 – 11:32

5th 11:37 – 12:52

6th 12:57 – 1:45

PM BREAK 1:45 – 1:52

7TH 1:57 – 2:45

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

PERIOD PERIOD ODD BLOCK EVEN BLOCK PERIOD

ODD BLOCK

1ST 7:45 – 9:10

BREAK 9:10 – 9:20

3RD 9:25 – 10:50

5TH 10:55 – 12:40

PANTHER 12:45 – 1:35

BREAK 1:35 – 1:45

7TH 1:50 – 2:45

EVEN BLOCK

2ND 7:45 – 9:10

BREAK 9:10 – 9:20

4TH 9:25 – 10:50

6TH 10:55 – 12:40

PANTHER 12:45 – 1:35

BREAK 1:35 – 1:45

7TH 1:50 – 2:45

Guidance Counselors

Room 122 Telephone: 256.442.2172

9th and 10th grade: Mrs. Suzanne Vice 11th and 12th grade: Ms. Denisse Lumpkin

The guidance office seeks to encourage an atmosphere of helpful communication among educators, students and parents. The counselors are willing to listen and help with valuable services. They are also available to assist with progress reports, illness assignments, and parent/teacher conferences.

Important information

▪ Progress reports will be sent home at the mid-point of the nine (9) week grading period. If you do not receive one, or your child did not receive one, please contact the Counselor’s office. You are also able to access this information online. Please call the front office if you need help with online Parent Portal.

▪ 24 hour notice should be given before a parent/teacher conference can be scheduled. We encourage parents to meet with the teacher during their preparation if at all possible.

▪ If your child is absent only one day, we ask that you allow them to get make-up work when they return to school with a written excuse from you or your doctor.

▪ Please give the teachers until the end of the school day before you pick up missed work assignments in the Guidance Office. It takes awhile to compile the work from each teacher.

▪ Contact the Guidance Office and/or school Nurse if your child has any illness/condition that should be noted on his/her permanent record. If school personnel should be made aware of this, the counselor will do so. Otherwise, this and all other information will be held with strict confidentiality.

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The Student Government Association (SGA)

The SGA is made up of the executive officers, which are elected by the

student body. Our representatives from each grade are elected by that particular grade. Its purpose is to develop leadership and citizenship, to maintain and establish a high moral standard, to insure a spirit of democracy, to create a respect and ambition for higher scholastic attainments, to encourage cooperation and participation of students in all school activities.

The SGA maintains a code of ethics that challenges each student to be their best. It serves as a guide, a direction, and a pattern to follow. The Association sponsors a social program that considers the entire student body.

The main responsibilities of the SGA are to act as mediator between the student body and administration and to promote activities that contribute to the general welfare of the school.

To view a copy of the SGA Constitution, please view our school

website or contact Genia Fry.

2017-2018 STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION

SPONSOR – MRS. GENIA FRY

PRESIDENT – CHAD MORGAN

VICE PRESIDENT – ADDIE CARDWELL

SECRETARY – SETH TUNSTALL

TREASURER – GAVIN ORR

CHAPLAIN – TRISTAN RIGGAN

REPORTER – GAVIN GRIFFIN

PARLIAMENTARIAN – MYLES HENDRICK

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COMMUNICATION WITH THE SCHOOL It is essential that students and parents make every effort to communicate

openly and frequently with the teachers, counselors, and administrators of Southside High School in order for us to meet the needs of the student. Southside High will communicate through our reporting procedures, formal parent-teacher communication, and iNOW parent portal. It is important that parents and students inform teachers of any developments that may influence the student’s performance at school. Parents can contact the school to receive a password and pin number to access their child’s information from home.

Parents should not hesitate to contact Southside High School if they are uncertain about anything. If parents visit the school they must check in at the Main Office. Your involvement with your child’s education along with any information you share will enable us to successfully serve the educational needs of your child.

The Southside High School staff desires to work with parents to achieve academic success while providing a safe and disciplined learning environment. Please understand that unless your concern involves a threat to the safety of your child and/or other students, the educational well-being of all students is best served by contacting Southside High School at 256.442.2172 or by email, to make an appointment with a teacher, counselor or administrator. By making an appointment in advance, you ensure that the person you want to see will have the appropriate information readily available for you and will be able to address your concerns in a timely manner without interruption to the instructional program.

DEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION Parents and students must immediately inform Southside High School of any changes of demographic information such as changes of address and home, cell, and work telephone numbers. Also, parents must update the student’s Medical Information history whenever necessary. This information is critical because the school may need to communicate with parents for academic or emergency reasons.

Non Discrimination Policy

The ECBOE has adopted a policy which prohibits discrimination in all educational programs and activities and in employment and promotion practices within the Etowah County School System. The Board policy applies specifically to non-discrimination on the basis of sex, race, color, age, religious belief, national origin or ethnic group and provides thaotherwise qualified handicapped individual shall, solely by reason of the handicapping constitution, be subject to discrimination.

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STEPS TO TAKE WHEN ABSENT

Alabama law requires all children between the ages of six (6) and seventeen (17) to attend school. The law further provides that a parent, guardian, or other person having control or charge of a school-aged child is responsible for that child’s regular attendance and proper conduct. board. Parents failing to enroll students and ensure their proper behavior and attendance are subject to fines and imprisonment under state law. (Code of Alabama 1975 §16-28-12, §, 16-28-40). School administrators are required, under the state of law, to enforce compulsory school attendance laws. All students are expected to attend school regularly and to be on time for a class in order to receive the greatest benefits from our instructional program at SHS. Parents will be contacted by an automated phone system on the days their students are absent one (1) or more class periods. Students must be present for 51% of each period to be counted present for that day.

1. According to the ECBOE Policy:

A written excuse will be required of all students. If an acceptable reason for excusing the absence is not presented within three (3) days of return to school, the absence will be coded as unexcused. Only three (3) parental/guardian notes (written excuses) will be accepted per semester. Any other absences must be documents with a written doctor’s excuse. Exceptions may be made by the school principal for extenuating circumstances. Students who have three (3) unexcused tardies will be counted absent one day. Students must present an excuse to the office. You have THREE (3) days to bring the excuse to the office. NO EXCUSES WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER THREE (3) DAYS.

2. It is the student’s responsibility to ask teachers for the assignments or tests that have been missed. You have three (3) days, from your return to school to complete daily and homework make up work.

3. Tests and long term assignments will be made up at the discretion of the teacher. It is advised for any student who knows he or she will be absent on the due date of a long term assignment to make prior arrangements with the teacher.

4. After five (5) unexcused absences or habitual tardiness, the ECBOE Attendance Supervisor will be notified and an Early Warning session at the Juvenile Probation Office will be scheduled. Any student enrolled at SHS must attend with parents if contacted by the Attendance Supervisor.

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Tardies

It is very important for students to arrive at school on time. School begins each day at 7:45 a.m. and all students should be in their assigned 1st block class at that time. When tardy, a student must sign in with the front office and receive a pass to class. Students who are continually tardy will be subject to disciplinary action.

Tardy to School Policy 3rd Tardy – Warning 4th Tardy – Detention 6th Tardy (and any tardy following) – student will remain in ISS until a parent can come to the main office to sign student into school 8th Tardy (in addition to above) – one week loss of parking space 10th Tardy (in addition to above) – 3 days ISS *One week break detention if the student does not drive

School Attendance Requirements for School Dances Coronation Dance (Grades 9-12) – A student with 5 unexcused absences, per class, may not attend the dance. PROM (Grade 11-12) – A student with 8 unexcused absences, per class, may not attend the dance. *3 tardies = 1 absence; You must be present for 51% of a class to be considered present. Please remember this regarding your check-in/check-out.

Principal Excuses Principal Excuses will only be issued for school sponsored activities. 2 college visits for seniors may be principal excused. Student must bring proof of collegiate visit to principal. No student will be considered for a Principal Excuse with more than 4 unexcused absences.

Mid-Term Exemptions In addition to the ECBOE mid-term exemption policy, Southside High students that earn an 88 semester average will also be exempt from their mid-term exam.

Final Exam Exemptions In addition to the ECBOE final exam exemption policy, Southside High students that earn an 88 yearly average will also be exempt from their final exam. *AP Exams are not included in the exemption policy.

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CHECK-IN/OUT POLICY 1. All check-outs will be done through the MAIN OFFICE. All check-ins

will be conducted through the office as well. 2. A student checking in school (arriving after 8:30) will be required to

have a parental note (which is subject to verification) and/or a valid doctor’s excuse or the check in will be unexcused. A parent will be contacted for any student checking in unexcused after 8:30.

3. All check-outs must meet the requirements of the Alabama Absentee Code in order to be termed EXCUSED.

4. A student will be allowed to leave school ONLY if a parent, guardian, or member of the immediate family comes for him/her at the MAIN OFFICE.

5. Only persons listed on the student’s approved check out list will be allowed to check out the student.

6. This person will be asked to show proof of identification. 7. Telephone requests or notes from home will NOT be accepted under

any circumstances, unless authorized by the PRINCIPAL for emergency reasons only.

8. NO FAXES ARE ACCEPTED 9. Students must notify the teachers listed on their course schedule of

their check out. 10. ECBOE urges all school personnel to discourage the practice of taking

students away from school and classes before the end of the day. 11. Students MUST leave campus immediately after being cleared through

the MAIN office. 12. When checking in, the student should go immediately to the MAIN

office. Once the student has been checked into school, the student is required to report directly to the appropriate class.

13. Students may not check themselves out of school. If a student needs to be checked out of school, they must use the telephone in the Main office, not a cellular phone, to call their parent/guardian.

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CODE OF CONDUCT

Refer to the Etowah County Schools Code of Student Conduct book. The following are intended as further guidelines for student conduct at Southside High School. The following offenses are subject to disciplinary action:

1. Southside High School will adhere to Etowah County Code of Student Conduct pertaining to cellular phones and other electronic devices as outlined in the BYOD policy.

2. Selling or trading items at school. 3. Enticing other students to create a disturbance. 4. Engaging in any act, including horseplay, that endangers the safety of others. 5. Turning in papers with forged parent signatures or refusal to return signed

papers. 6. Being disrespectful to an Etowah County Board of Education (ECBOE)

employee (including substitute teachers) is strictly prohibited. 7. Sexual harassment is defined as verbal, physical or unsolicited and

unwelcome sexual overtures or conduct. Such behavior may result in disciplinary action up to and including expulsion.

8. Possession of tobacco products, lighters, or matches is prohibited 9. No gum is allowed at school. 10. Snacks may ONLY be purchased and eaten during break. 11. No outside food or drinks are allowed in the classroom. 12. Students are not allowed out of assigned class without a pass. 13. Failure to follow dress code will result in disciplinary action. 14. Verbal or written use of inappropriate, malicious, suggestive, or vulgar

language will result in disciplinary action. 15. Any action that interferes with the learning environment or threatens the

safety of other students or staff is not allowed. 16. There shall be no inappropriate touching among students or displays of

affection. 17. Theft is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action. The student

may also be required to pay restitution for the item(s) stolen and could face legal prosecution.

18. Students should not bring excessive amounts of money to school. Students should also refrain from bringing valuable items to school. Neither Southside High School nor the ECBOE accepts responsibility for student money/valuables.

19. Playing cards or gambling devices are not allowed on campus. 20. Students are not allowed to bring friends (visitors/non-students) to campus.

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21. Any dancing at any school function (Homecoming Dance, “sock hops”, Coronation, Prom, etc.) considered inappropriate by the administration or faculty will result in the expulsion from the event and other punishment deemed necessary by the administration.

22. Students are expected to exhibit appropriate and respectful behavior at all times. This includes all musical, sporting, academic, and school-sponsored events on the SHS campus, as well as other locations. This includes fighting, booing opponents, heckling, littering, or intimidation of other individuals.

23. Sports bags must be taken directly to the classroom of the teacher/coach in charge of your particular sport.

24. Students using their electronic devices to record, incite, or instigate rule violations will be subject to disciplinary actions.

Lunchroom Our school lunchroom, “The Panther Pit”, is operated in accordance with the Federal Child Nutrition Program (CNP). It is required that students who wish to bring their lunch from home eat in the lunchroom where they may buy milk or drink. Teachers will escort students from the classroom to the lunchroom and will remain in the lunchroom for their assigned lunch period. Teachers will also escort students back to their classrooms when their lunch period is over. Students are expected to conduct themselves properly while in the lunchroom by following the Discipline Code and remembering these additional cautions:

1. Soft drinks, bottles (glass or plastic), water bottles, thermos type containers, etc. are not to be brought to school.

2. No drinks or snacks may be purchased from the vending machines and carried to the lunchroom.

3. Loud talking and moving from table to table is prohibited. 4. Areas around the tables are to be kept clean and the student must

clean any food spilled. 5. According to ECBOE regulations, students are not allowed to charge

their lunch in the lunchroom. No exceptions. Parents are responsible for maintaining student meal accounts.

6. If a student has a special dietary requirement, please notify the school immediately by submitting a doctor’s note that describes the necessary dietary modification in detail.

7. Follow your teacher’s rules regarding restroom rules before and after lunch.

8. Choosing to stay in the classroom and not go to lunch is NOT an option for any student.

9. Meals purchased from outside sources (restaurants) are not allowed in our school lunchroom.

10. Students are not to leave the lunchroom during their lunch period. 13

11. Food/Drink is not to be taken out of the lunchroom. This applies to breakfast and lunch.

Health Services A registered nurse is employed as a school nurse by the ECBOE to coordinate health services for students in grades K-12. Health screenings including vision, hearing, and scoliosis are done regularly as required by State regulations. These will also be provided for any student on an individual basis as requested by a parent, student or by a teacher. The school nurse serves as a liaison between the school and the community to provide agency referrals, health education, and medical information. All medications must go through the nurse’s office.

Schedule Change Class load, books, teacher load, technology and accreditation requirements must be considered when requests are received for a change in the student’s schedule. Schedules will be changed only when there is an extreme emergency such as graduation requirements, which must be met, or when approved by the principal. A schedule change request will be placed in a file outside the counselor’s office for students who want to apply for a change of schedule. Students will write down their request and the reason(s). The counselor will inform the student of the necessary changes to the student’s schedule.

Deliveries to School Florists are not allowed to make deliveries to pupils while students are in school. Flowers in glass containers or balloons delivered to pupils at school by parents or friends will not be allowed on buses because of visibility and distraction issues. All flowers and balloons will remain in the office until the end of the school day.

Lost and Found All objects that are lost may be reported to the main office or to the assistant principal’s office. All found objects should be turned in to the main office.

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PARKING RULES

VIOLATIONS AND CONSEQUENCES

1. A $30.00 parking fee will be required of any student wishing to park at SHS. 2. There is no free parking on campus. EVERY student who drives must have a

valid parking tag/decal. 3. When purchasing a parking tag/decal, you will be required to show your

driver’s license and proof of insurance. 4. You may not give or sell your parking tag/decal to another student. 5. Place your parking tag on the rearview mirror of your vehicle. Be sure the

tag is facing forward so the numbers are visible from outside the vehicle. If you change cars you must transfer the tag to that vehicle.

6. Students may park only in their assigned parking space. DO NOT park in another parking space.

7. If someone parks in your assigned space, you should park in the gravel parking lot and notify a school administrator, the SRO, or Coach Vinson that someone is parked in your space.

8. DO NOT park in the designated VISITOR parking spaces or in the spaces designated for school personnel.

9. Upon arrival to school, you must park your car, and immediately enter the building. You are not allowed to remain in your car for any reason.

10. Students will not be allowed to return to their cars until the end of the school day without permission from a school administrator. When possible, an administrator or the SRO will accompany the student to the car.

11. If you have not purchased a parking tag, you will need to park in the gravel parking area and see Ms. Mathis immediately to purchase a valid parking tag.

12. Never drive across the walking track or on the grass/gravel when entering or exiting the parking lot.

13. Parking lot speed limit is 10 mph. 14. No flags or banners will be allowed to be flown on vehicles while on school

property.

Consequences of Rules Violations 1st violation of parking rules will be five (5) days suspension from driving

on campus.

2nd violation of parking rules will result in suspension of campus driving

privileges for the remainder of the school year. No warnings will be given

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LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER Mrs. Cassie Clark, Media Specialist

1. The library is open during school hours. Students who enter the media center should sign in and out on the clipboard near the entrance.

2. Books are checked out for a period of fourteen (14) days. You must pay a fine of $0.05 per school day for overdue items. The library is NOT responsible for notifying you when a book is due.

3. Students will be issued a library card which will be used to check out books and to use the computer lab. If a student loses his/her card, the replacement fee is $3.00.

4. A student owing fines may not check out additional books or materials until the fine is paid, but may use the library materials while in the library.

5. Lost books must be paid for or replaced at current replacement value. 6. Magazines, encyclopedia, and other reference materials are not to

circulate outside of the library. 7. Any student going to the library during a class must have a permit signed

by the sending classroom teacher, stating time/date and purpose for their visit. When the student is dismissed to return to the classroom, the pass will be initialed by the Media Specialist or her designee and a time will be written on the pass.

8. A student will be dismissed and sent back to the classroom for any Class I, II, or III offense and for eating, chewing gum, or misbehavior.

9. Any student in possession of a library item, outside of the library, that has not been checked out will be considered to have stolen the item.

10. Do not walk out of the library for any reason without first obtaining a pass.

11. Come to the library to use the library resources such as: research materials, books, magazines, technology (computers, internet), newspapers, etc. By doing so you will use your time wisely and efficiently.

12. The Media Specialist has the right to refuse any student the use of the internet if a signed technology agreement is not on file.

13. A student who breaks a technology agreement in subject to loss of access, legal action (if applicable), and/or additional disciplinary action.

14. The media specialist has the right to refer any student with outstanding fines and/or books to the Assistant Principal. This violation will be considered a Class I offense (Failure to follow instructions) which carries punishment of a home referral, or detention. If the fine is not paid or the book is not returned after this action, the violation moves to Class II (Defiance of School Board Employee) which could result in more serious disciplinary action and/or suspension.

15. Seniors owing fees, fines or who have lost books will not be issued a graduation cap and gown until cleared by Mrs. Clark.

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DRESS CODE The dress code is developed with the best interests of the school community in mind. Although certain styles may be in trend and worn in other public places, they may not be appropriate for an educational setting. If a student is in doubt about a particular article of clothing, he/she should not wear the clothing in question. Students will not be allowed to attend class until clothing is appropriate. If a parent or guardian cannot bring a change of clothes, the student will remain in ISS for the day. If any question as to the appropriateness of any attire arises, the ADMINISTRATION of the school has the final authority.

1. Dress neatly and modestly. 2. Shorts may be worn to school, but can be no shorter than 3” above the knee. 3. Gym shorts, sweatpants and pajama type pants are not permitted. 4. Physical Education teachers will designate appropriate clothing to be worn

during the Physical Education class ONLY. 5. Length of dresses and skirts should be no shorter than 3” above the knee in

front and back. 6. Spandex leggings, leotards, jeggings, etc., may be worn only when the

shirt/skirt/dress is worn with them is no shorter than mid-thigh in front and back.

7. Clothing that is too tight, too short, bare at the midriff, bare at the sides, sundresses, tank tops, spaghetti strap style tank tops, off the shoulder tops, low cut front or back tops, sheer or see through clothing, etc., will NOT be permitted.

8. Proper undergarments must be worn at all times and must not be visible at anytime.

9. No sagging or dragging of pants or shorts is permitted. Pants worn too low, too long, too large, too tight or too loose are not permitted. Belts should be worn.

10. Any article of clothing containing obscene language, offensive music, alcoholic beverages, tobacco advertisements, or suggestive slogans is prohibited.

11. Sunglasses, hats, bandanas, toboggans, and any other accessories that may be distracting are prohibited.

12. Clothing should be in good repair. Shredded or ripped clothing is not allowed.

13. No holes in jeans/pants above the knee. 14. Cut off or see through apparel is not permitted. All blouses and shirts must

be long enough to cover the belt band or belt loops of pants and skirts when arms are raised. Any clothing/jewelry that causes distraction, disturbances, or is a safety risk,

is not allowed. Multiple earrings or gauged earrings are not permitted.

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15. No facial piercing/jewelry allowed. No spacers or Band-Aids to cover piercings will be allowed.

16. Gear and athletic bags for school sponsored extracurricular activities, must remain in designated areas.

17. No oversized book bags/backpacks are allowed in classrooms. 18. Any clothing designed for outdoor wear, such as heavy outer coats and

jackets, is not to be worn inside the building. Outdoor wear should be of a design that can easily be stored in the student’s locker.

19. Students may not wear hair dyed in unnatural or multi colors (blues, greens, etc…), spiked hair, shaved head areas, “Mohawks”, and shaved head patterns. Hair must be worn in such a manner that is not considered unkempt, unclean or impairing of vision. Visible “body piercing” is not appropriate for a high school setting and will not be permitted. Extreme facial make up painted in a distracting manner will not be allowed.

20. Students are prohibited from wearing metal chains, metal spiked apparel, or accessories.

21. Students are to wear clothing in the manner it is designed to be worn, i.e. clothing worn backwards or inside out in not allowed.

22. Students are prohibited from wearing any sign, symbol, logo, or garment which has become synonymous with any gang, cult, Satanism, or unauthorized club or organizational activity.

23. Students must wear shoes at all times. 24. Students are encouraged to show their school spirit by wearing approved

clothing promoting Southside High School and its activities. 25. Students will not be allowed to attend class if clothing is determined to be

inappropriate. No student will be allowed to leave school to get appropriate clothing.

26. The dress code as described in the ECBOE Code of Student Conduct will also apply. Violation of any part of the dress code will be subject to disciplinary action and the student’s parents will be called to provide the student with additional, appropriate clothing.

***The Administration reserves the right to determine whether any clothing is appropriate or inappropriate.***

Evaluation of dress not covered by the above specific regulations will be

conducted on an individual basis through referral to the school’s administration.

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School Dances / Extra-curricular Activities Any school dances and/or activities held at the school or an off campus facility will be sponsored by a club or organization affiliated directly with SSHS. The Code of Conduct is in effect at all school activities.

Students inviting guests from outside of SSHS must complete the SSHS Activities Contract and have it approved by administration. Students and guests are required to abide by all school rules and regulations at school events. Guests will be admitted at the discretion of the school administration and on the basis of procedures prescribed by them. School officials reserve the right to deny entry to any person. All persons attending are required to abide by school rules. Only students adequately progressing in academia and are in good standing while attending Southside High School and their approved guests are allowed at these functions. This includes but is not limited to a student’s academics, attendance, and discipline as determined by the principal. *See attendance requirements page 9.

Returned Checks A $30.00 additional charge will be added for any check returned to the school for insufficient funds. Should two checks drawn on the same account be returned, we reserve the right to refuse to accept future checks on that account.

Participation in Field Trips Field trips are a privilege and not a requirement for any academic class. Therefore any field trips are contingent upon a student’s discipline and academic status. Students with excessive referrals, absences or failing grades may not be allowed to participate in extracurricular activities or field trips.

Transcript Requests All official transcript requests and transcript exchanges are handled through Parchment Management Exchange. All transcripts will be sent electronically. Information on requesting transcripts can be found on the school website. Contact counselor or school office with questions.

Athletic Scholarship Signing Days There will be two designated days during the spring semester for athletes signing national letters of intent to have a signing party.

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INCLEMENT WEATHER

Each year, we face inclement weather that may cause a delay in the start of the school day, in early release/dismissal, or in school closing. Please plan ahead with students so they know what to do in the event that we do have an early release from school. You can easily register to receive weather alerts, information concerning school closure, early release, or delayed arrival by subscribing to E-alerts and view important weather alerts on our school's website: sshs.ecboe.org and on local radio so there should not be any need for a student to call home to make this announcement. Please understand that we must limit phone calls to keep lines open for incoming calls and for emergency information. Radio stations such as WAAX AM 570 will carry school closing announcements due to inclement weather or other emergencies. You may also monitor our system’s website: www.ecboe.org for dismissal/early release announcements. Buses will run regular routes unless we are notified otherwise. There are certain things parents or guardians can do to assist in emergency situations:

1. When the weather conditions appear threatening, monitor our website or turn on your radio or television for instructions. PLEASE do not call the school or the radio stations.

2. Please review with your child what to do if we have early release. Will your child ride the bus home or wait to be picked up?

3. If your child rides a bus and no one is home, where will your child go? Will he/she go to a neighbor’s home or wait at home alone?

4. If your child is a car rider, arrangements should be made to have him/her picked up immediately if there is an early dismissal. Designate family members or a neighbor to check out your child/children. Remember, these individuals must be on your child’s check out list. Please remind this individual of our “Proof of Identification Policy”.

5. During a tornado warning, the school is the safest place for your child to be. We will not allow students to leave while we are under a severe thunderstorm warning, or a tornado warning.

6. DO NOT DEPEND ON A TELEPHONE CALL TO OR FROM THE CHILD’S SCHOOL WHEN SCHOOLS ARE CONDUCTING EARLY RELEASE. The school is flooded with telephone calls during emergency situations to meet the safety needs of the students and staff. The Principal and a sufficient number of school employees will remain on duty until all children are safely dismissed. We assure you that we will do everything possible to protect your child. Your cooperation in carrying out the above suggestions will benefit everyone involved.

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Visitors For the protection of our students and staff, it is REQUIRED that any person entering the building come directly to the MAIN office to sign in and receive a visitor's pass. This directive is posted on each entrance/exit door in our school. Please note this includes assemblies, pep rallies, etc.

Proof of Identity Policy All persons entering SSHS may be required to show proof of identification. A valid driver’s license or other government issued photo ID is acceptable.

Website

Southside High School maintains an accurate and up to date school website, as well as an athletic website. You may access information concerning all areas of our school and athletics. You may subscribe to our website so that updated information can be sent directly to your email or to you by text message. Our school and athletic website addresses are:

sshs.ecboe.org southsideathletics.com

Telephone There is a telephone in the Main office for students to use only in an emergency or other extenuating situation. Students are not allowed to receive personal messages while at school. We cannot take messages to give to your child unless it is an extreme emergency. PLEASE READ THE Etowah County Board of Education CELL PHONE POLICY/BYOD POLICY.

Textbooks

All basic textbooks are loaned to students for their use during each semester. Textbooks are to be kept clean and in the possession of the student to whom they are issued. Students and/or parents are required to pay for lost or damaged books.

Lockers Lockers are available for student use for a nominal donation. Each locker is equipped with a built in combination lock. Combinations for these locks are kept on file in the school office, and are issued to the student using the locker. Combinations are changed after each academic year. Students may not share lockers with other students. Items stolen from a locker that is not locked are not the responsibility of the school or its officials. No writing or suggestive photos are to be placed in/on the lockers. Student lockers can be searched at any time, without their knowledge or permission. Student lockers are property of Southside High School.

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Grading Southside High School and all ECBOE schools operate on a 9 weeks grading period. Progress reports are issued to students during the 4th/5th week of the grading period. Grades are issued using the following grading scale:

90 – 100 A 80 - 89 B 70 – 79 C 60 – 69 D below 60 F

Final Exams Parents should check the approved and published ECBOE calendar before planning any trips or vacations. Final Exams will not be given early to accommodate family vacations.

Cheating/Plagiarism Plagiarism is a Class II discipline offense (cheating). Any student proven to have plagiarized in an assignment or cheated on an assignment is subject to a failing grade on the assignment as well as disciplinary actions for the Class II offense. *(teacher/administrator discretion)

Graduation Ceremony Policy Southside High School graduation ceremony location will be determined by the principal each year. Senior sponsors, along with administration, will plan the ceremony. Candidates for graduation must meet requirements outlined in the ECBOE Student Code of Conduct.

Dress and Conduct: Candidates for graduation must adhere to a strict dress and conduct code. Students who fail to adhere to the codes or who have any outstanding school debts may not be issued a diploma. The graduation ceremony is considered an extracurricular activity and is not a guaranteed event for any student. Participation in this extracurricular activity is based on a student’s behavior and adherence to proper decorum. Any deviation from the prescribed dress/behavior of the activity or the possession of any device that might detract from the ceremony may be viewed as grounds for removal from the activity.

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Hazing Under no circumstances will hazing in any form be tolerated within the scope of the programs (including extra-curricular and co-curricular) sponsored by Southside High School. Student leaders (team captains and members, club officers and members, etc.) are obligated to discourage and report hazing to their coach, teacher, and/or administrator. Hazing is any individual or group activity that willfully or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of another individual or group such as, but not limited to, banter, ridicule, criticism, bullying, humiliation, intimidation, physical activity or brutality, or by extracting unnecessary work or participation in a disagreeable, unpleasant, or illegal activity for the purpose of initiation or maintaining membership. Hazing also includes soliciting, directing, aiding, or otherwise participating actively or passively in any of the described acts and is prohibited on and away from school property.

Southside High reserves the right to limit participation in any extracurricular or co-curricular activity because of inappropriate behavior at any time. Any student participating in hazing activity will be subject to criminal prosecution and/or suspension and/or expulsion by Southside High School and/or ECBOE.

Anti-Harassment/Anti-Bullying Policy

In compliance with Alabama Department of Education requirements, the Etowah County Board of Education has established an anti-bullying and anti-harassment policy. This policy is printed in the ECBOE Code of Student Conduct.

In-School-Suspension (ISS) A student assigned to ISS for an entire school day must report to the main office and wait for an administrator to escort them to their assigned location. Students must have with them all needed books and materials. Students assigned to ISS will remain there under supervision for the specified length of time. The students will perform class work all day. This procedure is in effect for each day of ISS assigned. The students’ teachers will provide work.

Out-of-School Suspension (OSS) Extreme effort is usually taken by the principal to resolve discipline problems without suspending students. However, some conduct violations are such that it is in the best interest of the school to remove the offending student(s). Any student suspended may not participate in athletic and/or extra-curricular activities.

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AP Exams Students who take AP classes will take the associated AP exam at the end of the course. The AP exam cost is $93 per exam, and students are expected to take the exam for each AP course in which they are enrolled.

Technology Donations Each year we ask that students pay a $10 Technology donation. The donation will cover repairs, maintenance, and updating of computers, projectors, and other various technology equipment that are essential for our classrooms. This donation will be collected in homeroom.

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Student Clubs, Organizations & Activities

Adventus (Yearbook) Ambassadors Archery ASTRA Band Choir Class Officers Consumed by Grace FBLA FCA FCCLA

FFA Fishing Key Club LEO NHS SADD Science Quest SGA Spanish Club Theater Visual Arts

Athletics 9th grade Boys Basketball 9th grade Football Bowling Boys/Girls Cross Country Boys/Girls Golf Boys/Girls Tennis Cheerleading JV Baseball JV Boys/Girls Basketball JV Boys/Girls Soccer JV Boys/Girls Track

JV Football JV Softball JV Volleyball Varsity Baseball Varsity Boys/Girls Basketball Varsity Boys/Girls Soccer Varsity Boys/Girls Track Varsity Football Varsity Softball Varsity Volleyball Wrestling

Advanced Placement/Dual Enrollment AP Biology AP Calculus AP Chemistry AP English Language and Composition AP English Literature and Composition AP Government

AP US History DE English 101/102 DE Psychology DE Speech *Other Dual Enrollment options available off campus

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IT’S THE LAW

The following laws relate to civil liabilities and criminal penalties for violence or other misbehavior by students on school property, at school events, on the way to and from school, or against school employees: ATTENDANCE AND CONDUCT (ACT 94-782) Each parent/guardian or other person having control or custody of a child required to attend school who fails to require the child to enroll, to regularly attend school, or to compel the child to properly conduct himself/herself as a pupil in accordance with the written policy on school behavior adopted by the local board of education shall be guilty of a misdemeanor (may be fined up to $100 and may be sentenced to hard labor for up to 90 days). TEACHER ASSAULT (ACT 94-794) A person commits the crime of assault in the second degree (Class C Felony) if the person assaults with intent to cause serious physical injury to a teacher or to an employee of a public educational institution during or as a result of the performance of his or her duty. DRUG DEALING (ACT 94-783) A person who unlawfully sells, or furnishes, or gives a controlled substance to a minor may be liable for injury or damage or both suffered by a third person caused by or resulting from the use of the controlled substance by the minor, if the sale, furnishing, or giving of the controlled substance is the proximate cause of the injury or damage. DRUGS, ALCOHOL, WEAPONS, PHYSICAL HARM, or THREATENED PHYSICAL HARM (ACT 94-784) The school Principal shall notify appropriate law enforcement officials when a person violated local board of education policies concerning drugs, alcohol, weapons, physical harm to a person, or threatened physical harm to a person. If any criminal charge is warranted, the principal is authorized to sign the appropriate warrant. If that person is a student, the local school system shall immediately suspend that person from attending regular classes and schedule a hearing within five (5) school days. If a person is found to have violated a local board of education policy concerning drugs, alcohol, weapons, physical harm to a person or threatened physical harm to a person, the person may not be readmitted to the public school until criminal charges, if any, have been disposed by appropriate authorities and the person has satisfied all other requirements imposed by the local board of education as a condition for readmission.

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WEAPONS IN SCHOOLS (ACT 94-817) No person shall knowingly with the intent to do bodily harm carry or possess a deadly weapon on the premises of a public school. Possession of a deadly weapon with the intent to do bodily harm on the premises of a public school or school bus is a Class C Felony (Note: deadly weapons include, but are not limited to, hand grenade, explosive or incendiary device, a pistol, a rifle or shotgun, or a switch-blade knife, stiletto, sword, or dagger, or any club, baton, bill, black-jack, bludgeon or metal knuckles). VANDALISM (ACT 94-819) The parents, guardian, or other person having control of any minor under the age of 18 with whom the minor is living with and who have custody of the minor shall be liable for the actual damages sustained to school property, plus the court costs caused by intentional willful or malicious acts of the minor. PISTOL POSSESSION/DRIVER’S LICENSE (ACT 94-820) Any person under the age of 14 who is convicted of the crime of possession of a pistol on the premises of a public school, or a public school bus, shall be denied issuance of a driver’s permit or license to operate a motor vehicle for 180 days from the date the person is eligible and applies for a permit or license. If a person over age 14 possesses a driver’s license on the date of conviction, the driver’s license will be suspended for 180 days. DROP-OUT/DRIVER’S LICENSE (ACT 94-280 which amended ACT 93-368 as co-defined in 16-28-40 Code of Alabama 1975) The Department of Public Safety shall deny a driver’s license or learner’s permit to any person under 19 who is not enrolled or has not received a diploma or certificate of graduation. Exceptions are students who are enrolled in a GED program, are enrolled in a secondary school, and are participating in an approved job, training program, are gainfully employed, are a parent of a minor or unborn child, or are the sole source of transportation for the parent.

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Please sign and return this form to your homeroom teacher!!!!

I/We have read and reviewed the SSHS Handbook.

________________________ _______________________ PRINT Student’s Name Homeroom Teacher

________________________ Student Signature

_________________________________

Custodial Parent/Guardian Signature

_________________________________

Date