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West Florence

Knights

Striving for Excellence

STUDENT HANDBOOK 2018-2019

221 N. Beltline Drive

Florence, SC 29501

Office 843-664-8472

Guidance 843-664-8478

Athletic Dept. 843-664-8472

Career Center 843-664-8465

District Office 843-669-4141

This agenda belongs to:

Name _______________________________________________

Address _____________________________________________

City/Town ____________________________ Zip ____________

Phone _______________________________________________

West Florence High School Mission, Vision, and Beliefs

The mission of Florence School District One and West Florence is to

Educate! Prepare! Inspire!

Our vision is for students to be productive and responsible citizens who

are successful in an ever-changing society.

Beliefs:

Learning is a lifelong process.

Cultural diversity changes the learning process.

A challenging curriculum and high expectations promote high levels of

achievement.

The quality of relationships impacts student learning.

Every person in the organization contributes to the success of the

children.

The child is at the center of all decision making.

An informed and educated public is a supportive public.

A safe and orderly environment is essential for learning.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Athletics ............................................................................... 11-12

Attendance .................................................................................. 14-15

Band ........................................................................................... 12-13

Bell Schedule ......................................................................................4

Computer Lab ............................................................................. 10-11

Exams and Exemptions ................................................................... 8-9

Clubs and Organizations ................................................................... 13

Grading Scale/Policies .................................................................... 5-7

Graduation Requirements ...................................................................6

Guidance ....................................................................................... 9-10

Health Services ........................................................................... 15-16

ID Cards ............................................................................................ 16

Lunch ................................................................................................ 16

Media Center..................................................................................... 10

Parking/Driving Policies ................................................................... 16

Policies and Procedures .................................................................... 17

JROTC ...................................................................... 13

SAT/ACT .......................................................................................... 10

School Calendar ..................................................................................4

Telephone Numbers .......................................................................... 18

Websites ............................................................................................ 17

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August 20, 2018

Dear Students:

Welcome to the 2018-19 school year at West Florence High

School! As you start this school year, it should be with anticipation of

all the new experiences that will be yours. Our wish is that you have a

successful year -- one during which you move closer to achieving your

potential. This applies not just to your schoolwork, but also to your

relationships with everyone else in this building -- students, faculty,

staff, and administration. We encourage each of you to begin this year

with an idea of what you want to achieve for yourself, as well as what

you want to achieve for West Florence High School.

This handbook has been prepared as a guide to acquaint you with

policies and procedures that you will be following this school year. As

with any guide, it serves only as a framework in which to plan your

activities. It is not possible to cover every situation in detail, but only to

give you the essentials from which to start. In the absence of specific

instructions, you should comply with the spirit of good citizenship and,

when in doubt, talk it over with your teachers.

You are the most important part of this school. Without you, the

school would cease to exist. Be honest, carry your fair share of the

load, and above all, apply yourself to the task. It is our fondest hope

that your high school days will be inspirational and meaningful, and

prepare you to become a productive member of society.

Again, we hope this is a good year for each of you. Please make a

commitment to live up to your responsibilities and obligations, and we

will do the same. Take full and fair advantage of the many positive

opportunities offered to you at West Florence High School.

GOOD LUCK!

THE ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM

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SCHOOL

CALENDAR

August 20 ......... .. Students’ first day September 3 ................... Labor Day

October 23 .... Staff Development

November 5…..*Parent Conference November 6.Holiday (Election Day)

November 21-23 . …...Thanksgiving

December 19… .. **Early Dismissal Dec. 20 – Jan. 4…..…Winter Break

January 7……….....Classes Resume

January 17…….**Early Dismissal

January 21.…. .M.L.K., Jr., Holiday

February18. .Holiday President Day

March 8…..…....Parent Conference March 18…..…..Staff Development

April 19……Holiday Spring Break

April 22-26…Holiday Spring Break May 27……………..Memorial Day

June 5-6………Half day for students

June 7…………Teacher Work Day June 8…..…….… .…....Graduation

**EARLY DISMISSAL FOR STUDENTS

ACADEMIC

CALENDAR

October 22 ............ End of First Quarter

October 29 ....................... Report Cards

January 16…....End of Second Quarter January 24 ....................... Report Cards

March 26 ............ End of Third Quarter

April 2…………………..Report Cards June 6 ..................... Students’ Last Day

REGULAR BELL

SCHEDULE

1ST LUNCH

1ST BLOCK 8:30 – 10:10

2ND BLOCK 10:15 - 11:45

1ST LUNCH 11:50 - 12:15

3RD BLOCK 12:20- 1:55

4TH BLOCK 2:00 - 3:30

2ND LUNCH

1ST BLOCK 8:30 - 10:10

2ND BLOCK 10:15 - 11:45

3RD BLOCK 11:50 – 12:20

2ND LUNCH 12:20 - 12:50

3RD CONT’D 12:55 - 1:55

4TH BLOCK 2:00 - 3:30

3RD LUNCH

1ST BLOCK 8:30 - 10:10

2ND BLOCK 10:15 - 11:45

3RD BLOCK 11:50 – 12:55

3ND LUNCH 12:55-1:25

3RD CONT’D 1:30 - 1:55

4TH BLOCK 2:00 - 3:30

4TH LUNCH

1ST BLOCK 8:30-10:10

2ND BLOCK 10:15-11:45

3RD BLOCK 11:50-1:30

4TH LUNCH 1:30-1:55

4THBLOCK 2:00-3:30

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0ACADEMIC LETTERS A student may qualify for an academic letter by:

Enrolling at West Florence on August 20, 2018 and remaining an active

student for the entire school year;

Having a cumulative GPA of 4.250; and

Being enrolled in a tenth, eleventh, or twelfth grade with the ability to obtain a

minimum of ten units of credit by the end of the current year. Qualifying students will be presented a letter for the first year and a pin for additional

years.

Course work in Florence School District One is graded as follows: G R A D I N G S C A L E

A 90-100%

B 80-89%

C 70-79%

D 60-69%

F 59% and below

I Incomplete

HONOR GRADUATES Honor graduates are determined using a weighted grading scale.

The valedictorian and salutatorian of each senior class will be recognized during

the graduation ceremony. Honor graduates will be recognized at graduation ceremonies, in alphabetical order by category, as follows:

Board of Trustees Scholars - 4.50000 or higher

Double Cord Graduates - 4.00000 to 4.49999 Single Cord Graduates - 3.00000 to 3.99999

A South Carolina Academic Achievement Honors Award is also presented to

qualifying graduates at this time. If you have questions about this award, see your guidance counselor.

REGISTRATION

Beginning with the 2018-2019 school year, all students must present 3 proofs

of residence when they come to pre-registration.

MINIMUM CLASS LOAD

Students in grade 9 must take 4 credit-bearing classes each semester.

Students in grades 10, 11, and 12 must take a minimum of 3 credit-bearing

classes each semester.

MAKE-UP WORK Work missed due to an absence must be made up within five school days as

scheduled by the teacher(s). If a student has more than one graded assignment to make

up, the student and teachers will agree on a schedule. Failure to make up an assignment

will result in a zero for the work.

Students who sign out of school before a scheduled graded assignment must make

up the assignment the day they return to school, unless otherwise assigned by the

teacher(s).

Students who sign into school after a scheduled graded assignment must make up the assignment that afternoon, unless otherwise assigned by the teacher(s).

Students who are absent all day for a school-sponsored activity must make up

scheduled graded assignments the next day. If the absence is for part of the school day

and the student returns before 3:30 p.m., the assignment must be made up that afternoon,

unless otherwise assigned by the teacher(s).

Students who are absent the day before a scheduled test will take the test on the scheduled day unless new material was covered on the day of the absence. Students will

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then make up the test on the following day. Students who are absent on the day of a previously scheduled book report, paper,

etc., must make up or turn in the assignment upon their return to school.

PROMOTION REQUIREMENTS

To be promoted to the tenth grade, a student must have earned at least five units. These must include one unit in English, one unit in mathematics, and three other units.

To be promoted to the eleventh grade, a student must have earned at least eleven

units. These must include two units in English, two units in mathematics, one unit in science, one unit in social studies, and five other units. A student will not be promoted

from ninth to eleventh grade unless the student was retained in ninth grade previously.

To be promoted to the twelfth grade, a student must have earned at least sixteen units and be able to earn the appropriate units for graduation by the end of the regular

school term.

A student who declares intent to earn six or more units in a specific service occupation area will be eligible to waive one of the required science units. Students will

be promoted to the next grade level only at the end of each semester.

SOUTH CAROLINA DIPLOM REQUIREMENTS

Twenty-four units are required for a high school diploma.

AREA UNITS AREA UNITS

English 4 units Other Social Studies 1 unit

United States History

1 unit Mathematics 4 units

Economics 1/2 unit Foreign Language or Occupational Education

1 unit

American Government

1/2 unit Natural Sciences 3 units

Electives

7 units

Physical Education or ROTC

1 unit

Computer Science (including keyboarding)

1 unit

Note: All students must complete a health requirement prior to high school

graduation.

GRADE POINT AVERAGE The Grade Point Average (GPA) is determined by dividing the total points earned

by the total number of courses. Half-unit courses carry one-half numerical point value.

The GPA will be computed to three decimal places.

CLASS RANKINGS Class rank takes into account the difficulty of a class as well as the grade earned.

Courses carrying Carnegie units will use the numerical grades and assigned weighting for

course levels.

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G R A D E P O I N T C O N V E R S I O N T A B L E

AVER. GRADE COLLEGE

PREP/

TECH PREP

HONORS ADVANCED

PLACEMENT/

INTERNATIONAL

BACCALAUREATE

100 A 5.000 5.500 6.000

99 A 4.900 5.400 5.900

98 A 4.800 5.300 5.800

97 A 4.700 5.200 5.700

96 A 4.600 5.100 5.600

95 A 4.500 5.000 5.500

94 A 4.400 4.900 5.400

93 A 4.300 4.800 5.300

92 A 4.200 4.700 5.200

91 A 4.100 4.600 5.100

90 A 4.000 4.500 5.000

89 B 3.900 4.400 4.900

88 B 3.800 4.300 4..800

87 B 3.700 4.200 4.700

86 B 3.600 4.100 4.600

85 B 3.500 4.000 4.500

84 B 3.400 3.900 4.400

83 B 3.300 3.800 4.300

82 B 3.200 3.700 4.200

81 B 3.100 3.600 4.100

80 B 3.000 3.500 4.000

79 C 2.900 3.400 3.900

78 C 2.800 3.300 3.800

77 C 2.700 3.200 3.700

76 C 2.600 3.100 3.600

75 C 2.500 3.000 3.500

74 C 2.400 2.900 3.400

73 C 2.300 2.800 3.300

72 C 2.200 2.700 3.200

71 C 2.100 2.600 3.100

70 C 2.000 2.500 3.000

69 D 1.900 2.400 2.900

68 D 1.800 2.300 2.800

67 D 1.700 2.200 2.700

66 D 1.600 2.100 2.600

65 D 1.500 2.000 2.500

64 D 1.400 1.900 2.400

63 D 1.300 1.800 2.300

62 D 1.200 1.700 2.200

61 D 1.100 1.600 2.100

60 D 1.000 1.500 2.000

59 F 0.900 1.400 1.900

58 F 0.800 1.300 1.800

57 F 0.700 1.200 1.700

56 F 0.600 1.100 1.600

55 F 0.500 1.000 1.500

54 F 0.400 0.900 1.400

53 F 0.300 0.800 1.300

52 F 0.200 0.700 1.200

51 F 0.100 0.600 1.100

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DESIGNATION OF COURSE LEVELS

Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate/Dual Credit (AP) Skills and

concepts are college level. Upon taking an Advanced Placement Examination, the student

may earn college credit. Honors (H) Skills and concepts are well above those in academic courses. These courses

are designed specifically for students whose aptitude and achievement qualify them for

intense study at an increased pace. College Preparatory (CP) Skills and concepts are generally at grade level.

RETAKING OF A COURSE Only courses in which a grade of D or F is earned may be retaken. The course or

courses in which the D or F was earned may only be taken in the same academic year or

no later than the next academic year. The student’s record will reflect all courses taken

and the grade earned.

There is one exception to the above: Students taking courses for a Carnegie unit

before entering the ninth (9th) grade year may retake any such course during their ninth (9th) grade year. The course must be the same and must be the same level. In this case,

ONLY the ninth (9th) grade attempt will be used in figuring the student’s GPR and

ONLY the ninth (9th) grade attempt will show on the transcript. This applies whether the grade earned is higher or lower than the pre-ninth grade attempt. Students who fail

certain courses will be able to take computer-assisted tutorials in order to obtain credit for

those courses.

WITHDRAWAL FROM A COURSE With the first day of course enrollment as the baseline, a student may withdraw

from a course within three (3) days in a 45-day course, or five (5) days in a 90-day

course. A student who withdraws from a course after the specified time of three (3) days

in a 45-day course, or five (5) days in a 90-day course shall be assigned a WF and the grade will be recorded as a 62. The F will be calculated in the student’s overall grade

point average/ratio.

SCHOOL RECORDS School records are kept in the Guidance Department for the entire four years of

high school study. These records include attendance, final grades in classes, health

records, standardized test scores, class rank, etc. Transcripts are sent to the next place of

study as requested by students.

EXAMS All students enrolled in courses requiring state mandated end-of-course tests will take a first exam that will count 10 percent of the first term grade. At the end of the

course, they will take a state administered end-of-course exam that counts 20 percent of

their overall course grade. Students will not be eligible to exempt the first term exam or the state exam, but are exempt from additional teacher or school final exams in this

subject.

All students enrolled in AP or IB courses must take the term exams, AP or IB exams, but may exempt additional teacher or school final exams if they meet the exam

emption requirements. All students enrolled in dual credit courses with Florence-Darlington Technical College must take exams designated by FDTC.

STUDENT EXEMPTION OF QUARTER /YEAR EXAMS Student evaluation is an integral part of the teaching-learning process. Teacher

communication with the parent/legal guardian regarding individual student achievement

is a central part of the evaluative process. The classroom teacher is responsible for student evaluation, subject to the supervision of the school principal. All current

applicable state laws and regulations will be implemented.

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EOC Courses:

All students enrolled in courses requiring state mandated end-of-course (EOC) exam

will take a mid-term exam that will count 10 percent of the first half of the course grade.

The mid-term exam will be administered at the end of the first quarter and third quarter in semester long courses. The mid-term exam will be administered at the end of the second

quarter in yearlong courses. At the end of the course, students will take a state

administered EOC exam that counts 20 percent of the final course grade. The EOC exam will be administered at the end of second quarter and fourth quarter in semester long

courses. The EOC exam will be administered at the end of the fourth quarter in yearlong

courses. Students will not be eligible to exempt the mid-term exam or the EOC.

Non-EOC Courses:

At the discretion of the department, a midterm exam may be given to students enrolled

in any NON- EOC course. If a department approved exam is given, it will count 10 percent of the first half of the course. If a mid-term exam is given, it is to be administered

at the end of the first quarter and third quarter in semester long courses. At the end of the

course, students will take an instructor administered final exam that will count 20 percent of the final course grade. The final exam will be administered at the end of second

quarter and fourth quarter in semester long courses or at the end of the fourth quarter in

yearlong courses. Only twelfth graders will be eligible to exempt the mid-term exam, but all students will be eligible to exempt the final exam.

AP Courses:

All students enrolled in AP courses will take a mid-term exam that will count 10 percent of the first half of the course grade. The mid-term exam will be administered at

the end of the first quarter and third quarter in semester long courses or at the end of the

second quarter in yearlong courses. Students will not be eligible to exempt the mid-term exam. At the end of the course, students must take the AP examinations. Additional

school or teacher final exams are not required for AP courses.

Quarter Courses:

All students enrolled in quarter courses will take an instructor administered final exam that counts 20 percent of the final course grade. The final exam will be

administered at the end of each quarter. All students will be eligible to exempt the final exam.

Dual Credit Courses:

Students enrolled in Dual Credit Courses must follow the exam policies of the institution for the enrolled course.

EXAM EXEMPTION POLICY To promote and encourage academic excellence and acceptable behavior, students in

grades 9-12 who meet specified criteria may exempt exams. To exempt an examination, a student must meet all of the following criteria:

a grade of 90 or higher in the subject

no out-of-school suspensions for the semester

Student eligibility will be determined two days prior to the administration of the examination and must be based on the cumulative final grade for the course at that point.

Students, who are exempt from examinations but present at school, will report to their

regular scheduled class during the examination period. A student, although eligible for exemption, may forfeit his/her exemption status and take the exam.

Twelfth-grade advisory students not enrolled in AP, IB, or EOC courses may exempt

mid-term examinations.

GUIDANCE SERVICES The Guidance Program at West Florence High School represents a cooperative

effort between students, parents, teachers, counselors, and administrators, as well as

special services and community agencies. Our purpose is to promote and enhance

student learning by enabling students to develop their educational, personal/social, and career strengths to become productive citizens. To make an appointment, please call

(843)758-6557.

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Each counselor is assigned special areas of responsibility and a group of students based on alphabetical list (grade level assignment). Counselors:

H. Jordan 9th Grade

A. Raniszewski 10-12th Grade, Last Names A-F D. Littlefield 10-12th Grade, Last Names G-L

E. Smith 10-12th Grade, Last Names M-R

B. Booker 10-12th Grade, Last Names S-Z

COLLEGE ENTRANCE TEST DATES

Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) Dates:

August 25, October 6, November 3, December 1, 2018, and March 9, May 4, 2019

American College Test (ACT) Dates: September 8, October 27, and December 8, 2018, and February 9, April 13, June 8, 2019

Advance Placement (AP) Examinations: May 06-09, 2019 (U.S. History, English

Literature, European History, Statistics, Calculus, Psychology, World Geography, and Biology) The West Florence High School Code Number for college entrance exams is 410758.

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT HONORS AWARD For a student to receive an Academic Achievement Honors Award, the student must (1)

complete twenty-four units of credit as prescribed; (2) meet the standard on all subtests of

the Exit Examination; (3) receive a minimum grade of “B” for each semester course in grades 9-12 through the seventh semester; and (4) achieve either a score of 710 on the

SAT verbal or a score of 690 on the SAT math, * or an ACT score of 30 on English or 33

on mathematics-or-(1) Each student shall have completed twenty-four units of high school credit; (2) be eligible for graduation with a state high school diploma; (3) have a

combined score of 1400 on the SAT verbal and math sections, or an ACT composite

score of 31.

*This requirement will be revised.

WEST FLORENCE MEDIA CENTER Two certified media specialists and one assistant staff the media center. The hours of operation are 7:55 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. The media center also

has extended hours one day a week, during announced months. Students do not need a

pass to come to the library before school, after school, or during the student’s lunch period. During class time, students must have their agendas with them, filled out by the

classroom teacher. Students must sign in and out of the media center during class blocks.

Early dismissal students must be signed in by an administrator before 3:30.

ID cards are necessary to check out books. Books may be checked out for a two-week

period, except for reference books, which are for in-house use only. Electronic books are also available online for student and teacher use at school or home, and most reference

books are available online as well. A password is required and can be obtained in the

media center. The media center also laminates and binds for students and teachers. http://www.fsd1.org/schools/westflorence/mediacenter/Pages/default.aspx

COMPUTER LAB The computer lab is located directly across from the media center in room 127B.

It is designed to serve the academic needs of students at West Florence High School. The lab assists the classroom teacher in instruction and in the integration of software

programs into the curriculum. The lab has 28 HP computers. The lab is used actively to

engage West Florence students and to supplement classroom activities. Along with

enriching curriculum programs, the lab has the Microsoft Office 2013 package, as well as

internet access. All students, faculty, and staff at West Florence High School, are

welcome to use the computer lab.

A “Student Agreement Acceptable Use Policy for Computer Technology and

Internet Access” must be on file at West Florence High School for students to use any

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school computer. For students’ convenience, printing is available at a cost of $.10 per page.

The computer lab, the media center, and the classrooms are networked, to allow

menu options to be accessed anywhere in the school.

ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT The Athletic Department has developed a program providing a variety of physical

activities for students. Sports are a vital part of our school life, and we make every effort

to provide not only challenging programs, but also the best protective equipment available for all participants.

All students are encouraged to try out for athletic teams. A number of junior

varsity teams are fielded at West Florence High School. Check with the coach of the team in which you are interested, or see the Athletic Director.

Fall Sports

Volleyball .................................................................................................. Denise Carter Boys’ cross country .................................................................................. Jim Fritchman

Girls’ cross country .................................................................................. Jim Fritchman

Girls’ Tennis ............................................................................................ Abby Sullivan Football ....................................................................................................................TBS

Cheerleaders ................................................................................................ Beth Prosser

Swimming .......................................................................................... Janmarie Chatlosh Girls’ Golf ............................................................................................. Chris Wegmann

Winter Sports

Boys’ Basketball ......................................................................................................TBS Girls’ Basketball ........................................................................................ Kim Jackson

Cheerleaders ................................................................................................ Beth Prosser

Spring Sports

Baseball ........................................................................................................ Josh Brown

Softball ................................................................................................. Andrews Perkins

Tennis…………………………………………………………………… Jamie Magee

Boys’ Track .............................................................................................. Jim Fritchman

Girls’ Track .......................................................................................... Marie Lamparter

Boys’ Soccer ............................................................................................ Billy Andrews Girls’ Soccer ...............................................................................................Josh Puryera

Boys’ Golf ................................................................................................. Jason Brewer

ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT ATTENDANCE POLICY

Students are to be in school the entire day in order to participate in practice or a contest that day. Exceptions must have prior approval from an administrator. Students

are also expected to attend school the entire day after an event. If a player is absent the

day after a contest, his/her parent must call an administrator that day and state the reason for the absence, if not the student must sit out the next contest.

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS FOR ATHLETES West Florence adheres strictly to the S.C. High School League rules, which

include, but are not limited to:

To participate in interscholastic athletic activities, students in grades 9-12 must achieve

an overall passing average in addition to the following: 1. To be eligible in the first semester, a student must have passed a minimum of 5

Carnegie units applicable toward a high school diploma during the previous year. At least

2 units must have been passed during the second semester or summer school. 2. To be eligible during the second semester the student must meet one of the

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following conditions: a. If the student met first semester eligibility requirements, then he/she must

pass the equivalent of four, ½ units during the first semester.

b. If the student did not meet first semester eligibility requirements, then he/she must pass the equivalent of five, ½ units during the first semester.

c. Students must satisfy eligibility requirements in the term preceding

participation.

ATHLETIC SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY

First Offense:

Any athlete identified as using, under the influence of, or in possession of alcohol,

drugs, unauthorized controlled substances, or drug paraphernalia, will be placed on probation for one calendar year.

If the violation occurs while the student athlete is not participating on a team,

he/she must sit out 20% of the regular season contest of the next sport that he/she chooses to try out for and he/she may not participate in any pre-season contest, i.e. Jamboree,

scrimmage, etc. While sitting out, he/she will be allowed to practice, however, under no

circumstances will he/she be allowed to dress-out or play in any contest. If the violation occurs while the student athlete is participating on a team, he/she

will be suspended for 25% of the regular season contests. Should the season end before

the suspension is completed, the game suspension will carry over to the next sport played. During the suspension, he/she will be allowed to practice; however, under no

circumstance will he/she be allowed to dress-out or play in any contest.

Second Offense:

Any athlete identified as using, under the influence of, or in possession of alcohol,

drugs, unauthorized controlled substances, or drug paraphernalia, will be suspended

immediately from athletic participation for one calendar year. The student athlete cannot participate in any athletic function (in-season or out-of-season) until his/her suspension is lifted. The student athlete must successfully complete a drug/alcohol

counseling program (at the athlete’s expense) that is approved by the Athletic Director

and Principal.

Third Offense:

The student athlete will be prohibited from any participation on any sport team for

his/her remaining years of eligibility at West Florence High School. This policy became effective March 1, 2000.

WEST FLORENCE HIGH SCHOOL BAND Students in grades nine through twelve with prior experience in band are invited to

participate in the band by registering for one of the four band classes offered. Students

should see the Band Director, Mr. Steve Rummage, to determine which class is best for

them. All students in the band are required to participate in the West Florence Marching Knights as well as the West Florence Concert Band for two credits each year. Other

optional ensembles open to band students include the Jazz Knights and other small

ensembles. The West Florence Marching Knights perform at pep rallies and football games

and compete locally and on the state level against other marching bands during the fall.

This class includes required summer practices, attendance at band camp, after-school practices, and performances at all football games, and Saturday competitions in October.

The West Florence Concert Bands perform throughout the year at school and compete

against other bands for awards in the spring. The Jazz Knights (jazz band class) meet two afternoons a week during the 2nd, 3rd

and 4th quarters of the school year beginning in mid-November. This class is worth ½

credit and open to all students even if they don’t participate in other aspects of the band program.

The West Florence Band is a strong and growing program that is recognized for its

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excellence throughout the city and state. Over the past 24 years the West Florence Band has received numerous “Superior” awards in both marching and concert band. The band

has won the South Carolina Band Directors’ Association Outstanding Performance

Award, the highest award that a band can win in the state of South Carolina, for thirteen of the past twenty-five years.

CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS Students are urged to become actively involved in one or more of these

organizations. Participation will widen student horizons and enrich student transcripts. 4-H Club

Mrs. R. Gardner

Academic Competition

MrPrommasit Art Club

Ms. Kennedy

Band

Mr. Rummage

Beta Club

Ms. Hobgood

Bible Club

Ms. Kirkham

Chess Club

Mr. Duncan

Delta Gems

Ms. J. Howard

Drama Club

Mrs. Volk

Drill/Rifle Team

COL. Anderson

Excalibur

Mrs. Tiwari

F.B.L.A.

Ms. Harrison

F.C.A.

Mr. Chard

F.C.C.L.A.

Ms. Gerald

French Club

Mrs. Alford

Friends of Rachel

Mrs. Jordan

Gospel Choir

Ms. Williamson

Gaming Club

Mr. Files

H.O.S.A.

Mrs. Barrera

Junior Class Sponsor

Mrs. Scipio

Knight Life Newspaper

Mrs. Cimney

Knight Nation

Tiffany Moore

Knight Network

Ms. S. Smith, Ms. Coward

Korean Culture Club

Ms. O’Toole

Leo Club

Mrs. Tiwari

Math Team

Mrs. Proctor

Miss West Florence

TBS

National Honor Society

Mrs. T. Moore, Mrs. Henry

PEARLS

Mrs. Bouchard

Pep Club

Mrs. D. Jordan

Prom

K Byrd

Round Table Readers

Ms. Smith

Senior Class Sponsor

Mrs. S. Dixon

Spanish Club

Mrs. Milligan

Sports Medicine

Mr. Heim

Step Team

Mrs. Gerald

Student Council

Mrs. J. Howard

AIR FORCE JUNIOR RESERVE OFFICER TRAINING CORPS JROTC is an elective course that can be taken in place of one Physical Education

Credit or as an elective. Students receive one academic unit for each semester of JROTC, to a maximum of four units.

JROTC’s goal is to build better citizens for America. To meet this goal, the

ROTC mixes academics and leadership opportunities. Academic instruction includes

aviation history, space exploration, leadership studies, financial management, and career studies. Students participate in physical training once a week, learn to march,

and have many opportunities to take a leadership role in the classroom. Extracurricular

activities include military dances, field trips, ceremonies, drill team, model club, game club, flying with the Civil Air Patrol, and cadet staff activities.

Students who complete multiple courses of JROTC are eligible for advanced pay in the armed forces if they enlist after graduation. Students who complete JROTC

courses and have high academic achievements are very competitive when vying for four-

year college JROTC scholarships or Academy Appointment opportunities.

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NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY The West Florence High School chapter of The National Honor Society consists

of sophomores, juniors and seniors who demonstrate outstanding scholarship, leadership,

and character. Candidates must have attended West Florence for one full semester before being considered for membership. Transfer students who were inducted at other schools

should contact the NHS adviser for information about continuing membership.

Candidates must have a cumulative GPA of 4.250 on the state GPA scale. Leadership is based on the student’s participation in community or school

activities. To meet the service requirements, the student must be active in service

projects in the school and community at large. Character is measured in terms of integrity, behavior, and ethics. Students must have no out of school suspensions and no

in-school suspensions due to cheating, lying or stealing in order to be inducted and to

remain members in good standing. Students eligible for membership will be notified via a letter sent to one of their

teachers around the second week of September. If a student believes that he or she is

eligible for membership but does not receive a letter within the same time frame indicated above, then he or she should contact the NHS adviser. Applications will be reviewed by

the Faculty Council, which consists of a panel of teachers. After the Faculty Council

closes its review period, students will then be notified through a letter sent to one of their teachers to inform them of their acceptance into NHS.

BETA CLUB Beta Club was established at the inception of West Florence in 1970. Beta Club is

a leadership/service organization. Beta Club has the following objectives: 1) to uphold the ideals of our nation; 2) to encourage friendship and cooperation; 3) to reward effort

and achievement; and 4) to inspire honesty and tolerance. Beta Club members are required to complete at least three service projects that focus on involvement in the

school and community. Service projects are designated by the members of the club and

carried out throughout the year. To be eligible for membership in Beta Club, a student:

1) must have a grade point average of 4.0 or better on the state grading scale

2) must be a junior or senior 3) must have 2 teacher recommendations

A teacher/administrator panel reviews and recommends students for acceptance into Beta

Club.

STUDENT INFORMATION ADDRESS CHANGES Students who have a change of address, telephone number, or other vital statistical

information are to report these changes in writing to the main office in order that

computer records may be updated. If repeated failed attempts are made to obtain

updated information from students, this may result in administrative referral.

ATTENDANCE Florence School District One’s attendance policy states that students will not

receive credit for courses if they have more than 10 general absences and/or 10 medical

absences in a semester course. A student may not exceed 7 general absences and/or 7 medical absences in a quarter course. Once a student has lost credit due to excessive

absences, he or she may attend a one-hour attendance recovery session after school.

Students must sign up the day before in the main office. The general absences include absences with parent notes, suspensions, and

absences without a written excuse of any kind (unexcused absences). The medical absences include absences with a written excuse from a physician, dentist, etc. Medical

notes cannot be faxed. Written excuses from parents or physicians must be submitted for

all absences within three days of returning to school. Students with chronic or extended illness should consult the guidance department

regarding homebound instruction.

Excessive absences can lead not only to loss of course credit, but also to truancy

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proceedings in Family Court.

Any student coming to school after 8:30 a.m. will report directly to class. This is

for first block only. All sign-ins are subject to the tardy rules in the Discipline Code.

Students not present in class for at least sixty minutes or 2/3 of the instructional

time will be counted absent in that class. Students will be allowed to sign out of school under the following conditions:

1. Parents or guardians may come to the office to sign the student out. No student

will be signed out between 3:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. unless the parent comes to the office to sign the student out in person.

2. If, before first period, the attendance office receives a note from a parent

requesting that the student be allowed to sign out, arrangements will be made to dismiss the student at the appropriate time. This note must include the student’s full name, the

parent’s signature, and a telephone number where the parent can be reached for

confirmation of permission for the student to leave school. ALL REQUESTS MUST BE VERIFIED. If the parent or guardian cannot be reached, the student will not be allowed

to sign out.

Classes missed for sign-ins and sign-outs are counted as an absence and require a written excuse from a parent or the parent’s signature on the sign-in/sign-out sheet (for

general absences), or a written excuse from a physician (for medical absences).

Students enrolled in study hall can be signed out in person by a parent or guardian. No notes or phone calls are accepted. Students involved in after-school activities must be

present the entire day of the activity in order to participate. These students must be

present in all classes the day after the activity.

CLOSED CAMPUS West Florence High School operates as a closed campus, meaning students who

come on campus must remain on the grounds until the end of the school day or until they

are officially signed out through the attendance office. The parking lot is an unauthorized area, except when the student is coming to or

leaving school. Leaving school grounds without permission will be dealt with in

accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.

DISCIPLINE It is impossible for teaching or learning to take place in a classroom unless good

order is maintained. Students are reminded that they must adhere to a code of good behavior, not only for their own benefit, but also for the benefit of others. The discipline

code is located in another section of this handbook.

EARLY DISMISSAL Only seniors may have early dismissal (2:00 p.m.). Seniors who have early

dismissal must leave the campus within ten minutes of the end of their last class.

HALL PASSES Students are not permitted to be out of class in the hallways, restrooms, mall area,

etc. without their agenda books signed by their teacher. Students are expected to go directly to the destination written in the agenda book and return directly to the classroom

without detours.

HEALTH SERVICES If a student becomes ill during school hours, he or she should report to the office in

order that a nurse or staff member can contact the parent/guardian. Students must go

through the nurse or main office staff about an illness. If a student has a

Temperature of 100 or above, it is District Policy they must go home and must

remain home until they are Fever Free without medication for a 24-hour period. Any medication to be taken during school hours must be left in the health room

with the nurse. In order for the nurse to administer the medication, a physician’s signature is required. The parent’s signature is also required on the medication form.

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Medication forms are available on the Florence District One web site. According to

district policy all medications require a physician’s order, including over-the-counter medications.

If a student is injured or has any type of accident while at school, an accident

report must be made in writing. Students should report such injuries or accidents to the supervising teachers immediately. A copy of the report is sent to the administration and

nurse’s office.

If a student has a temperature of 100 or above, the student must go home and remain home until they have been fever free for 24 hours.

HOMEBOUND INSTRUCTION

Homebound Instruction is available for students who are physically

unable to attend school over a long period of time. Information for this service

is available from your guidance counselor.

IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS AND IDENTIFICATION CARDS Identification numbers are assigned to each student by the state through Power

School (computer program) and remain the same during the student’s enrollment in South

Carolina public Schools. An ID card for use in the cafeteria, library, etc., will be issued during the first few days of school. No student is to use an ID number or card that is not

his own (doing so will be viewed as forgery).

If an ID card is lost, a new card must be purchased from the bookkeeper. The fee is $6.00 for a card and $1.00 for a new lanyard. ID cards must be worn on front of outer

clothing, with name and picture visible at all times. Failure to wear ID appropriately will result in disciplinary action.

LUNCH PROCEDURE Students must use their identification cards to receive lunch. There are four

lunch periods for students. A student’s third block class determines which lunch the student will have.

School Meal Prices

Lunch Full Pay Students $1.90 Reduced $. 40 Breakfast Full Pay Students $1.15 Reduced $ .30

DRIVING/PARKING POLICIES All students who drive to school must display a current parking permit, as

designated by the school, each year that they attend and park on campus. To purchase a parking permit, you are required to show your driver’s license, registration and provide

your license plate number. The cost is $15.00. If you lose your permit, there will be a

$10.00 replacement fee. Students must park only in the designated area in the parking lot at the rear of the

building. Students are required to park and leave their vehicles when they arrive in the

morning and may not return to their vehicles during the day without permission from an administrator until they are ready to leave for the day. Once students reach their cars,

they are expected to get into the cars and leave the parking lot.

All parking areas, including bus areas, are off limits except during arrival and departure.

SCHOOL PROPERTY Students are responsible for the proper care of all books, supplies, and furniture

supplied by the school. Students, who disfigure property, break windows, or do other damage to school property or equipment will be required to pay for the damage or to

replace the item.

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DELIVERIES

West Florence will not accept deliveries from florists, restaurants, or other

retail establishments during the school day. This includes Valentine’s Day,

Christmas and birthdays.

UNAUTHORIZED AREAS

Once students arrive on campus, they are not allowed to leave campus for any reason

unless they are signed out by a parent.

The following areas are off limits to students before 8:20 a.m. and during lunches:

Gymnasium, except for classes or organized meetings

Corridors and classrooms

Upstairs breezeways, except in going to and from class

Upstairs bathrooms, except with a pass

Vocational building

Parking lot, except when coming to or leaving school

Front of school

VISITORS Parents are welcome at West Florence High School. To see a teacher, make

appointments through the guidance department. If a parent wishes to visit a classroom,

please see an administrator. Any person on school grounds who is considered trespassing is subject to arrest

and prosecution.

All visitors must check in with the office upon arrival on campus.

WITHDRAWAL AND TRANSFER

Students who withdraw or transfer from West Florence must do so through the

Guidance Department. Parents must accompany withdrawing students. Clearances from

the attendance clerk, bookkeeper, and others are necessary before school records can be released to another school.

NEED INFORMATION—TRY THESE WEBSITES

West Florence High School www.fsd1.org/westflorence

College Information www.collegenet.com

www.allaboutcollege.com

www.collegeboard.org

Financial Aid Programs www.che400.state.sc.us

www.fafsa.ed.gov www.collegequest.com

www.yahoo.collegescholarships.com

Scholarship Database Programs www.fastweb.com

www.collegeboard.org/fundfinder/bin/

www.scholarshipexpert.com

PSAT/SAT/ACT www.collegeboard.org

www.act.org

Parents can access student grades and attendance by logging on to our website and

clicking on the Power School link. To obtain access, parents must come to the school to

receive their log-ins and passwords. Please bring identification.

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ANY QUESTIONS? IF SO, HERE ARE THE PEOPLE TO ASK:

Athletics ......................................................................................... Mr. Trey Woodberry

Attendance/Sign-In/Sign-Out ....................................................................... Office Staff Band ............................................................................................... Mr. Steve Rummage

Buses ................................................................................................ Mr. Randy Jackson

Career Guidance ...........................................................Career Development Facilitators Club Information ................................................................................. Mrs. Stacey Gore

College or Career Planning ..................................................................... Guidance Staff

ID Cards ....................................................................................................... Office Staff Illness at School .................................................................................................... Nurse

Lost and Found ............................................................................................ Office Staff

Lunch Program .................................................................................Ms. Eva Mae Davis Media Services ..................................................................................... Mrs. Sissy Smith

Newspaper .......................................................................................... Ms. Kim Cimney

Parking Stickers ........................................................................... Ms. Crystal Timmons Personal Problems ......................................................................... Guidance Counselors

JROTC ............................................................................................. Col Walt Anderson

School Yearbook .............................................................................. Ms. Rhonda Tiwari Textbooks ......................................................................................... Mr. Randy Jackson

TELEPHONE DIRECTORY Main Office ................................................................................................. 843/664-8472 Guidance Counselors .................................................................................. 843/758-6557

Athletic Department .................................................................................... 843/758-6577

Music Department ....................................................................................... 843/758-6566 Cafeteria ...................................................................................................... 843/758-6565

Work–Based Leaning ................................................................................. 843/758-6573

Adult Education .......................................................................................... 843/664-8152 Alternative School ....................................................................................... 843/673-5793

Bus Transportation Supervisors .................................................................. 843/679-6750

Career Center .............................................................................................. 843/664-8465 District Office ............................................................................................. 843/669-4141

School Bell Studios ................................................................................. 1-843-421-5308

Josten’s (Class rings/senior supplies) ...................................................... 1-800-468-6655

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ALMA MATER

West Florence High, we laud thy name in noble accolade,

As we reflect on memories of all the bygone days.

Embedded are our fondest thoughts deep within our veins;

Remembrances of all those years forever will remain.

Our Green and Gold we’ll take with us down the path we trod.

Our shield we’ll bear before us; our strength will come from God.

So, West Florence High, we honor thee, and deep within our hearts,

Our love and pride remain in thee, for we shall never part.

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HALLWAY PASS

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