Tonawanda High School2010-2011

Student/Parent Handbook

Tonawanda Middle/High School600 Fletcher Street

Tonawanda, New York 14150716-694-7660

Website: www.tonawandacsd.org

Dr. James P. Newton, PrincipalMr. Larry C. Badgley, Assistant Principal

TBA. Assistant PrincipalDr. Whitney Vantine, Superintendent of Schools

Front Cover Designed By: Sarah BondBack Cover Designed By: Megan Drabek

This School Agenda belongs to:

Name: ___________________________________

Homeroom: ______________________________

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TABLE OF CONTENTSBELL SCHEDULE ……………………………………………….….32010-11 ACTIVITIES CALENDAR………… . …….………………4STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES……………………………………5CODE OF CONDUCT EXCERPTS………...………………………6ATTENDANCE REGULATIONS................................................11 ACADEMIC INFORMATION......................................................12 BOCES......................................................................................12 Interim Progress Updates……………………………………….. .12 Report Cards………………………………………………………. 12 Science Laboratory Responsibilities.........................................12 Standardized Testing Schedule................................................12 Participation in Graduation........................................................13PHYSICAL EDUCATION............................................................13 Grades......................................................................................13 Medical Exemption/Excusals....................................................13 Proper Attire for Phys Ed..........................................................13 Jewelry………………………………………………………………13 Make Ups..................................................................................14 Failures.....................................................................................14Announcements........................................................................14Assemblies................................................................................14Health Services.........................................................................14Lockers......................................................................................15School Medical Examinations..................................................15EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES...........................................15 National Honor Society…………………………………………….15 Sports Offered...........................................................................16PROCEDURES AND REGULATIONS.......................................16 Book Bags/Backpacks..............................................................16 Emergency Closings.................................................................16 Hall Passes…………………………………………………………16 Make Up Opportunities.............................................................16 School Hours………..……………..……………………………….16 Free and Reduced Price Food Services...................................17 Cafeteria Conduct and Courtesy...............................................17 Closed Campus.........................................................................17 Fire Drills...................................................................................17 Lost and Damaged Property.....................................................18 Senior Privileges.......................................................................18 Student Driving Regulations……………………………………....18 Student ID Cards.......................................................................18 Study Halls................................................................................19 Student Fees, Fines and Charges............................................19 Surveillance Cameras……………………………………………...19 Two-Day Cycle...........................................................................19 Use of School Computers..........................................................19 Visitor Permits............................................................................20

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2010-2011 BELL SCHEDULE

Period 1 7:50 – 8:37Period 2 8:41 – 9:23Period 3 9:27 – 10:09Period 4 10:13 – 10:55Lunch A 10:59 – 11:29Period 6/7 11:33 – 12:15Period 8/9 12:19 – 1:01

Period 5/6 10:59 – 11:41Lunch B 11:45 – 12:15Period 8/9 12:19 – 1:01

Period 5/6 10:59 – 11:41Period 7/8 11:45 – 12:27Lunch C 12:31 – 1:01

Period 10 1:05 – 1:47Period 11 1:51 – 2:33

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Enrichment 2:33 – 3:15

ACTIVITIES CALENDAR FOR 2010-20111st Day of School – 9/7/10Class Pictures – 9/9 – 9/10/10Open House – 9/15/10Welcome Back Dance 9/18/10Go Home Emergency Drill – 10/1/10Columbus Day – 10/12/095 Week Progress Report – 10/8/10Local College Fair – 10/11/10Spirit Week – 10/12 – 10/15/10Powder Puff Football Game -- 10/13/10PSAT – 10/13/10TNT Bonfire – 10/14/10Picture Retakes – 10/15/10TNT Pep Assembly and Motorcade – 10/15/10T/NT Football Game – 10/12/10Homecoming Dance – 10/16/10Fall Drama Play Performance – 10/22/10Local College Fair – 11/1/10National Honor Society Induction – 11/4/10SAT – 11/6/10Veteran’s Day – 11/11/10End of First Quarter – 11/12/10Parent/Teacher Conferences – 11/22/10

12:30 - 2:30 p.m. and 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.Thanksgiving Recess – 11/25 – 11/26/2010Grade 6-12 Instrumental Concert – 12/16/1015 Week Progress Report – 12/17/10Christmas For Kids Party – 12/18/10Grade 6-12 Choral Concert – 12/21/10Winter Recess – 12/24/10 – 12/31/10Talent Show – 1/12/11Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – 1/17/11Regents Exams – 1/25 – 1/28/11January Graduation – 1/28/11End of 2nd Quarter – 2/28/112nd Semester Begins – 1/31/11High School Musical – 1/18 – 1/19/11Mid-Winter Recess – 2/21 – 2/25/11Superintendent’s Conference Day – 3/18/11All County Music Festival – 3/18 – 3/19/11Buffalo National College Fair – 3/29 – 3/30/11End of 3rd Quarter – 4/8/11Spring Break – 4/18 – 4/25/11Senior Luncheon – 5/5/11SAT – 5/7/11Senior Citizen Prom – 5/13/201135 Week Marking Period – 5/20/11Grade 6-12 Band Concert – 5/26/11

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Memorial Day – 5/30/11Spring Play – 6/2/11Senior Class Picnic – 6/3/11Grade 6-12 Choral Concert – 6/7/11Regents Exams – 6/15 – 6/23/11Fundraiser Concert – 6/9/11Regents Exams – 6/15 – 6/23/11Senior Prom – 6/23/11Graduation – 6/25/11

EDUCATIONAL MISSIONWe, the staff of Tonawanda High School, in collaboration with all its stakeholders, are committed to:

o Fostering a positive, caring school climateo Ensuring the safety of all studentso Promoting academic excellenceo Encouraging social awareness and emotional well being, with

all students reaching their full potential.

In all we do, we are driven by the belief that students come first!

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/STUDENT RIGHTSThe district is committed to safeguarding the rights given to all students under state and federal law. In addition, to promote a safe, healthy, orderly and civil school environment, all district students have the right to:

Take part in all district activities on an equal basis regardless of race, color, creed, sex, national origin, religion, gender, age, economic status, marital status, or disability. The district compliance officer will coordinate compliance with the nondiscrimination requirements of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Present their version of the relevant events to school personnel authorized to impose a disciplinary penalty in connection with the imposition of the penalty.

Access school rules and, when necessary, receive an explanation of those rules from school personnel.

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIESAll district students have the responsibility to:

Contribute to maintaining a safe and orderly school environment that is conducive to learning and to show respect to other persons and property.

Be familiar with and abide by all district policies, rules and regulations dealing with student conduct.

Attend school every day unless they are legally excused and be in class, on time, and prepared to learn.

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Work to the best of their ability in all academic and extracurricular pursuits and strive toward their highest level of achievement possible.

React to direction given by teachers, administrators and other school personnel in a respectful, positive manner.

Work to develop mechanisms to control their anger. Ask questions when they do not understand. Seek help in solving problems that might lead to discipline. Dress appropriately for school and school functions. Accept responsibility for their actions. Conduct themselves as representatives of the district when

participating in or attending school-sponsored extracurricular events and to hold themselves to the highest standards of conduct, demeanor, and sportsmanship.

EXCERPTS FROM THE DISTRICT’S CODE OF CONDUCT (Complete copies of the Code of Conduct can be obtained at

the Main office, the Board of Education or the District’s website: www.tonawandacsd.org)

STUDENT DRESS CODEThe Board of Education believes that a respectful appearance is an asset to each child and seeks full parental support in the maintenance of our high standards of school dress. School administration and staff reserve the right to determine if student dress is a safety hazard and/or interferes with the educational process.

• Clothing, hairstyles, footwear and all jewelry worn must be safe and not disrupt, offend or interfere with the educational program.

• Skirts, dresses and shorts must reach fingertip length.• Coats and jackets (outerwear) are not to be worn in the building.• Hats, hoods, bandanas, visors, non-functional headgear and

sunglasses are not to be worn inside the school building.• All underwear must be completely covered with outer garments.• Tube tops, halter-tops, spaghetti straps, backless tops, one-

shoulder tops, strapless tops and off the shoulder tops are not allowed.

• Bare midriffs are not allowed. Shirts or tops must cover the waistband of pants, shorts or skirts.

• The wearing of chains and jewelry that may be used or construed as a weapon is prohibited.

• Students are not permitted to carry backpacks or book-bags to classes. Backpacks and book bags shall be stored in lockers or classroom cubbies for health and safety issues. The only exception will be see- through string bags.

• For physical education classes, students must remove all jewelry during contact sports.

PROHIBITED USE OF ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICES WHILE ON SCHOOL PROPERTYStudents are prohibited from using or having on or in an operational mode any paging device, mobile telephone, cellular telephone, camera phone, laser

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pointer or pen or any other type of electronic communication device during normal daily operation hours (the school day), except as expressly permitted in connection with a class assignment. While students are permitted to possess such devices during the school day, they are prohibited from using them in any educational environment which invades the privacy of students, employees, volunteers or visitors. A staff member will take these items immediately upon discovery. Administrators may confiscate the device if it is seen, heard or the administrator has been advised or has knowledge that it has been used during the school day. If a student violates this prohibition, then he/she is subject to discipline under this provision and/or any other provision in this Code that may be applicable to the circumstances involved.

• On the first offense, students will be able to retrieve these items at the end of the school day.

• On the second offense, with the same student a one-hour detention will be assigned with parental contact. The parent/guardian must retrieve the item.

• Any further offense may result in a short or long term suspension being imposed on the student

Failure to comply with the consequences listed above may be construed as insubordination. In addition, usage of any electronic devices while in the locker rooms during after school activities is strictly prohibited. The individual coaches or club advisors will monitor to ensure observance.

Personal ComputersStudents are prohibited from using personal laptop computers or electronic notebooks in school. Individuals are not permitted to access the District Network with equipment that is not owned and operated by the School District.

Electronic Music DevicesAt the High School Level (Grades 9-12), students may be permitted to use personal music/listening devices to listen to music in specific locations and situations, e.g., cafeteria, study hall, (not hallways) and/or if specifically permitted by the individual instructor. If the student's use of these music devices becomes disruptive in any way to the educational process, permission to use said device will be revoked immediately.

Students who attempt to use a music device in a classroom or location where it is not permissible will be subject to the same list of consequences as listed for the use of Electronic Devices while on school property.

Consequences for misconductStudents who are found to have violated the District's Code of Conduct may be subject to the following consequences, either alone or in combination. The school personnel identified after each penalty are authorized to impose that consequence, consistent with the student's right to due process. In each situation, where appropriate, the superintendent or principal may appoint a designee.

• Oral warning – any member of the District staff and bus drivers• Written referral to administrator – bus drivers, hall and lunch

monitors, coaches, school counselors, teachers• Written notification and/or phone call to parent – coaches, school

counselors, teachers, administrator• Detention – teachers, administrator

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• Suspension from transportation – administrator• Suspension from athletic participation – coaches, athletic director,

administrator• Suspension from social or extracurricular activities – club advisor of that

activity, administrator• Suspension of other privileges – administrator• In-school suspension – administrator• Removal from classroom by teacher – teachers, principal/designee• Short-term (five days or less) suspension from school – Principal,

Superintendent, Board of Education• Long-term (more than five days) suspension from school –

Superintendent, Board of Education• Permanent suspension from school – Superintendent, Board of

Education• For any offenses in the LEVEL 3: SEVERE OFFENSES Code of

Conduct will result in an immediate five-day (5) suspension from school, contact with police authorities and a Superintendent's Hearing.

Due ProcessThe amount of due process a student is entitled to receive before a penalty is imposed depends on the penalty being imposed. In all cases, regardless of the penalty imposed, the school personnel authorized to impose the penalty must inform the student of the alleged misconduct and must investigate, to the extent necessary, the facts surrounding the alleged misconduct. All students will have an opportunity to present their version of the facts to the appropriate school official(s) prior to the imposition of the consequence. Students who are to be given consequences other than an oral warning, written warning or written notification to their parents are entitled to additional rights before the penalty is imposed. These additional rights are explained below. The following flow chart details the responsibilities of a teacher and Principal when a disruptive student is removed from the classroom.Stud e nts w ho are repea t edly s u bst an tially disru p tive of the e ducatio n al p rocess or r e peatedly s u bst a ntially interfere w i t h the tea c h e r's authority over the c l assroom

Any student, other than a student with a disability, who repeatedly is substantially disruptive of the educational process or substantially interferes with the teacher's authority over the classroom, will be suspended from school for at least five days. For purposes of this Code of Conduct, "repeatedly is substantially disruptive" means engaging in conduct that results in the student being removed from the classroom by teacher(s) pursuant to Education Law Section 321(3-a) and this Code on four or more occasions during a semester, or three or more occasions during a trimester. If the proposed penalty is the minimum five-day suspension, the student and the student's parent will be given the same notice and opportunity for an informal conference given to all students subject to a short-term suspension. If the proposed penalty exceeds the minimum five-day suspension, the student and the student's parent will be given the same notice and opportunity for a hearing given to all students subject to a long-term suspension. The Superintendent has the authority to modify the minimum five-day suspension on a case-by-case basis. In deciding whether to modify the penalty, the Superintendent may consider the same factors considered in modifying a one-year suspension for possessing a firearm.

Referrals

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CounselingThe School Counselor's Office shall handle all referrals of students to counseling.

PINS PetitionsThe District may file a PINS (person in need of supervision) petition in Family Court on any student under the age of 18 who demonstrates that he or she requires supervision and treatment by:

• Being habitually truant and not attending school as required by part one of Article 65 of the Education Law.

• Engaging in an ongoing or continual course of conduct which makes the student ungovernable, or habitually disobedient and beyond the lawful control of the school.

• Knowingly and unlawfully possesses marijuana in violation of Penal Law Section 221.05. A single violation of Section 221.05 will be a sufficient basis for filing a PINS petition.

• Juvenile Delinquents and Juvenile Offenders• The Superintendent is required to refer the following students

to the County Attorney for a juvenile delinquency proceeding before the Family Court:

• Any student under the age of 16 who is found to have brought a weapon to school, or

• Any student 14 or 15 years old who qualifies for juvenile offender status under the Criminal ProcedureLaw Section 1.20(42).

The Superintendent is required to refer students age 16 and older or any student 14 or 15 years old who qualifies for juvenile offender status to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.

STUDENT SEARCHES AND POLICE INTERROGATIONSThe Board authorizes the Superintendent, Building Principals, the school nurse and District security officials to conduct searches of students and their belongings if the authorized school official has reasonable suspicion to believe that the search will result in evidence that the student violated the law or the District Code of Conduct.

An authorized school official may conduct a search of a student in accordance with New York State Law, so long as the school has legitimate reason for such a search.

An authorized school official may search a student or the student's belongings based upon information received from a reliable informant.Before searching a student or the student's belongings, the authorized school official should attempt to get the student to admit that he or she possesses physical evidence that they violated the law or the District Code, or get the student to voluntarily consent to the search. Searches will be limited to the extent necessary to locate the evidence sought.

Whenever practicable, searches will be conducted in the privacy of administrative offices and students will be present when their possessions are being searched.

Student Lockers, Desks and Other School Storage Places

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The rules in this Code of Conduct regarding searches of students and their belongings do not apply to student lockers, desks and other school storage places. Students have no reasonable expectation of privacy with respectto these places and school officials retain complete control over them. This means that student lockers, desks and other school storage places may be subject to search at any time by school officials, without prior notice tostudents and without their consent.

Police Involvement in Searches and Interrogations of StudentsDistrict officials and their designees are committed to cooperating with police officials and other law enforcement authorities to maintain a safe school environment. Police officials, however, have limited authority to interview or search students in schools or at school functions, or to use school facilities in connection with police work. Police officials may enter school property or a school function to question or search a student or to conduct a formal investigation involving students only if they have:

• A search or an arrest warrant; or• Probable cause to believe a crime has been committed on school

property or at a school function; or

Before police officials are permitted to question or search any student, the Building Principal or his/her designee shall first try to notify the student's parent to give the parent the opportunity to be present during the police questioning or search. If the student's parent cannot be contacted prior to possible police questioning or search, the questioning or search shall not be conducted. The Principal or designee will also be present during any police questioning or search of a student on school property or at a school function.

Students who are questioned by police officials on school property or at a school function will be afforded the same rights they have outside school. This means:

• They must be informed of their legal rights.• They may remain silent if they so desire.• They may request the presence of an attorney.

EnforcementAll staff members shall be responsible for enforcing the conduct required by this Code.

When the staff member sees an individual engaged in prohibited conduct, which in his/her judgment does not pose any immediate threat of injury to persons or property, the staff member must tell the individual that the conduct is prohibited and attempt to persuade the individual to stop and/or inform building administration. The principal or designee shall also warn the individual of the consequences for failing to stop. If the person refuses to stop engaging in the prohibited conduct or if the person's conduct poses an immediate threat of injury to persons or property, the Principal or his/her designee shall have the individual removed immediately from school property or the school function. If necessary, local law enforcement authorities will be contacted to assist in removing the person. The District must initiate disciplinary action against any student or staff member, as appropriate, with the "Consequences" section above. In addition,

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the District reserves its right to pursue a civil or criminal legal action against any person violating the Code.

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ATTENDANCE REGULATIONSThe Board of Education, in accordance with the Compulsory Attendance Law, requires that each minor from six through the end of the school year in which they turn sixteen years of age shall regularly attend school full time, unless he/she has completed a four-year high school course of study.

Attendance is important! It is each student’s basic responsibility as a member of the school community. In addition, regular attendance is directly related to academic and career success. Every student is expected to be on time and attend all classes, except in those instances listed below. Attendance is taken by teachers each day. The attendance office makes daily telephone calls to parents to report unauthorized absences, and regular attendance reports are sent to parents.

The parent(s) shall be regularly notified by staff when a student misses class work due to continued absences. Student absences from each class will be recorded on quarterly report cards and 5-week interim progress notices.

Students without acceptable excuses will not be allowed to participate in any extracurricular activity taking place on the day they are absent from school. Students with acceptable excuses must be in attendance for one half of the school day (by or until 11:00 AM) in order to participate in extracurricular activities that day. Refer to BOE Policy 7110 for detailed information on our Comprehensive Student Policy.

STUDENT ABSENCE EXCUSESThe following excuses for student absences from school are recognized as acceptable by the Board of Education:

1. personal illness2. illness or death in the family3. impassable roads or weather making travel unsafe 4. religious observance5. attendance at a medical clinic6. approved school-sponsored trip or activity7. quarantine8. required court appearances

In addition, college visitations, which are approved in advance by the front office, are considered important enough to excuse a student’s absence for this reason.

Any other absence is considered illegal. It is the parent’s responsibility to call 694-7678 on the morning of each absence. A written excuse must be submitted within 48 hours of a student’s return to school. Such excuses should contain the reason and date of absence(s).

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TARDY POLICYStudents are expected to be in school on time, which means in attendance in their first period class by 7:50. If, however, a student arrives late to school, he/she must sign in at the main entrance.Students, who arrive late/tardy to school, should be accompanied by a legal excuse (listed below). If an excuse is not handed in within 2 school days, the tardiness will be considered “unexcused”.

Failure to produce a note for being late/tardy may result in any of the following situations; telephone call home, detention, meeting with guidance counselor, meeting with parents, Saturday detention, meeting with administrator, in-school suspension.

The following reasons for a student tardiness to school are recognized as legal by the Board of Education: personal illness, illness or death in family, impassable roads or weather making travel unsafe, religious observance, doctor or dental appointment, required court appearance, school-sponsored sporting event.

ACADEMIC INFORMATIONREPORT CARDSStudents will receive report cards 4 times during the school year. Student progress will be reported to parents with numerical grades.

INTERIM PROGRESS UPDATESAt the midpoint of each marking period (approx 4-5 weeks) academic progress reports will be mailed home listing all courses the student is taking and noting their current average, attendance and teachers’ comments.

BOCESOccupational education courses are offered at the Harkness and Ken-Ton Centers. Students enrolled in an occupational education program remain regular students at THS in such subjects as English, Social Studies, Mathematics, Science, and Physical Education.

Successful completion of the occupational courses earns credit toward high school graduation. Occupational education programs at BOCES are of one or two years duration. These courses are, for the most part, designed to prepare students for entry to employment in the area of their training. At anytime the Principal can remove a student from a BOCES program for poor attendance, academics or code of conduct violations.

SCIENCE LABORATORY RESPONSIBILITIESSecondary level New York State Regents science courses have laboratory requirements. Laboratory assignments must be satisfactorily completed by the date designated by the teacher. Failure to satisfy laboratory requirements will result in exclusion from the final examination.

STANDARDIZED TESTING SCHEDULEPSAT Sat. October 13, 2010SAT Sat. November 6, 2010SAT Sat. May 7, 2011

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PARTICIPATION IN GRADUATIONStudents who have not satisfactorily met all requirements for graduation will not be allowed to participate in commencement exercises.

PHYSICAL EDUCATIONEach student in grades 9-12 must successfully complete the physical education course during each year of attendance in school in order to qualify for graduation. Two units of P.E. (1/4 unit per semester) are mandated by the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education, and these units are in addition to those credits necessary for a Regents or local high school diploma.

The physical education program at Tonawanda Senior High School incorporates physical development, psychomotor development, fitness and skill development in individual and team sport activities. Physical fitness and personal wellness are a major part of the student’s instruction.

Individual and lifetime sport programs are emphasized. Required for graduation – ¼ credit per semester x 8 semesters = 2 credits.

GRADESStudents will earn a numerical grade in physical education. Students will receive a daily grade, based on a 4-point rubric. Students will receive a final grade in physical education with 90% of their grade based on a participation rubric and 10% based on assessment of the activity. The student’s grade will be averaged into their GPA.

MEDICAL EXEMPTION/EXCUSALSAll students with a medical excuse will have the excuse on file in the high school nurse’s office. The physical education teacher will work with the student in developing a program designed for the specific needs of the student with limited participation capabilities. If the medical excuse limits the student totally, the student will be assigned to research a sport or recreation activity.

PROPER PHYSICAL EDUCATON ATTIREA complete change of athletic clothing must be worn, including t-shirt or sweatshirt, shorts or sweatpants, socks and athletic shoes. No jean, strapless tops or camis tops will be permitted. No school clothes should be worn over or under physical education clothes.

JEWELRY POLICYStudents must remove all jewelry during contact sports or any activity where they are required to change their clothes. The specific activities will be determined and clarified by the building administration and physical education department members.

LOCKERS AND LOCKER ROOMSStudents are encouraged to bring in a combination lock not a key lock, to secure all of their belongings during the class period. All students are provided a locker to use for the period.

Valuable belongings must be locked in a locker during class at all times. Leaving valuables lying around is only inviting theft. The physical education staff will not be responsible for lost or stolen items.

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EXCUSALSParents who wish to have their student excused from physical education class because of sickness or a minor injury must send a note to the instructor the day the class is scheduled. Notes should be dated, signed and state the reason for requesting excusal from class participation. Students should have a note for each day he/she is to be excused. After 1 week of parent excuses the student will be required to submit a note from a physician. This physical education class must be made up to avoid losing credit for that absence.

MAKE UPSStudents will have opportunities to make up classes for which they are absent, unprepared, or excused. Make ups will be permitted after school. Make ups will be held after school. Please see the Physical education department for the makeup schedule.

FAILURESPE credit will be by semester (2nd quarter grades are averaged). Grades are calculated into student’s marking period averages. Students not completing the physical education requirement are not eligible to graduate.

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ANNOUNCEMENTSAnnouncements are read over the PA system during homeroom or via live television. A printed list of announcements will be posted daily outside the main office.

ASSEMBLIESAssemblies are held periodically in the auditorium or gymnasium. Teachers will provide instruction as to where students are to sit. Whether the program is school-sponsored or presented by an outside organization, courteous behavior is expected.

HEALTH SERVICES – Absence Phone #694-7678The Health Office is located in the Art/Technology Wing for emergency access from the outside, utilize parking from the Hinds Street entrance. If a student becomes ill or injured, he/she should obtain a pass from the classroom teacher to report to the Health Office for examination.

Athletic injuries should be reported to your coach and the school nurse.

By New York State regulations the school nurse is prohibited from dispensing medication, including aspirin, unless a special medication distribution form is completed by your doctor and on file with the Health Office. The school nurse may not administer any medical treatment other than first aid and treatment for minor cuts and burns classified as needing first aid.

Students should make sure the school has a telephone number where a parent or guardian can be reached in the event of a medical emergency, as well as an “alternate” adult person’s name and telephone number – someone who has the authority to make decisions about your child’s health and who is readily available to do that in case we cannot reach you. Each September the Pupil Inventory Form is sent home. Please return it promptly to us.

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SCHOOL MEDICAL EXAMINATIONSEducation law requires medical examinations of pupils upon entrance to school, at grades K, 2, 4, 7, and 10 and of those who are handicapped and of those who participate in interscholastic athletic competition. In the absence of a medical report from a family physician your child will receive a health examination by the school physician.

Parents will be contacted if any medical concerns are noted as a result of the health examination.

LOCKERSEach student will be assigned a locker. Periodic inspections may be made to see that they are kept neat and orderly. Use only the locker assigned to you and keep it locked at all times. All personal items and books, when not in use, are to be kept in lockers. Do not tamper with other lockers or give your combination to any other students. The locker is a possession of the school district and as such may be subject to search.

MONEY, MERCHANDISE AND VALUABLES SHOULD NOT BE LEFT IN LOCKERS!!! THE SCHOOL IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LOST OR STOLEN PROPERTY.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIESBook Club Chorus Club Mock TrialClass of 2011 Club Model UNClass of 2012 Club National Honor SocietyClass of 2013 Club S.A.D.DClass of 2014 Club School NewspaperDrama Club Science ClubEnvironmental Club Ski ClubFBLA Student CouncilFrench Club YearbookMentor Club Youth CourtMusical Production

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETYOne of the most honored positions for juniors and seniors is membership in the National Honor Society. Students are chosen for high standards of scholarship, character, leadership, and service.

To qualify on scholarship a student must have at least 90% average. Students selected for induction into the National Honor Society are chosen by the Faculty Advisor Council. All teachers in the senior high school vote on eligible candidates, but it is the Faculty Council that makes the final decision. Criteria for selection into the National Honor Society are based on academic performance, leadership, service and character. The National Honor Society is a viable, functioning organization that services students and teachers and contributes to the entire school community.

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SPORTS OFFERED FOR 2010-2011Fall Sports

Boys GirlsV & JV Football V & JV CheerleadingV & JV Soccer V & JV Girls SwimmingGolf V & JV Girls SoccerCross Country V & JV Girls Volleyball

V & JV Girls TennisCross Country

Winter SportsV & JV Boys Basketball V & JV Girls BasketballV & JV Wrestling V & JV CheerleadingBoys Bowling Girls BowlingV & JV Boys Swimming

Spring SportsV & JV Baseball V & JV SoftballBoys Tennis Girls TrackBoys Track

PROCEDURES AND REGULATIONS

SCHOOL HOURSAll students must be in first period class when the bell rings at 7:50 a.m. The school day ends at 2:33 p.m..

EMERGENCY CLOSINGSInformation regarding school closings during the winter season should be obtained from WBEN 930, WGR 550, WBUF-FM 93, STAR102, KISS 98.5.

HALL PASSESStudents are NOT permitted in the halls during class periods unless they have an assigned pass from an authorized staff member.

MAKE UP OPPORTUNITIESStudents who are absent will be given reasonable time to make up assignments missed during their absence. Classroom teachers will determine the appropriate assignments for purposes of making up work missed. Assignments may be sent home and a teacher or teacher assistant will be available to provide assistance. Students whose misconduct is directly related to the student’s academic performance (for example, planning an absence from class or school – “skipping” – in order to gain more study time for a test) may be denied the opportunity to make up work.

It is the student’s responsibility to request all make-up assignments from subject teachers during or following an absence from class. The student must request assignments early enough to allow adequate time for completion prior to the end of the marking quarter.

BOOK BAGS/BACKPACKS Students must keep backpacks and book bags in their lockers periods 1-11. Since computers have been added to each classroom we have less student

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space in each room. Backpacks and book bags take up too much floor space. This has become a health and safety issue.

CAFETERIA MEAL PRICES

BREAKFAST: $1.00 LUNCH : $1.25 REDUCED : $.25

Students must wear ID tags properly in order to purchase a school lunch. Students who forget lunch money will be allowed to “charge” up to $5.00 ($1.25 per day for lunch only). After this amount student will not be allowed to purchase a lunch until the negative balance is paid, but will be provided a peanut butter & jelly or cheese sandwich.

FREE AND REDUCED PRICE FOOD SERVICESThe nutrition of district students is an important factor in their educational progress. The school therefore participates in federally-funded school breakfast and lunch programs, and shall provide free or reduced price food services to qualified district students. The high school main office will provide further information upon request.

CAFETERIA CONDUCT AND COURTESYIt is expected that students will maintain a safe, orderly and pleasant cafeteria. Care for the sanitary and aesthetic appearance of the cafeteria is a student responsibility. Unacceptable cafeteria behavior may result in loss of cafeteria privileges. The student will be assigned a separate room for lunch.

Students are to observe the following:1. Food is not to be taken from the cafeteria.2. Students are to take a seat and conduct themselves with thoughtfulness

and courtesy.3. Clean up your area, tables as well as floors, return your tray

and place papers in the trash can.

New York State Education Law prohibits the sale of pop and candy from the beginning of the school day until the end of the last lunch period. Any fundraising activity involving candy is not allowed to be sold during regular school hours.

CLOSED CAMPUSTonawanda Senior High School operates under a closed campus philosophy. Students do not have permission to leave the building unless they are excused through the office with an excusal request from a parent. Students do not have permission to go home for lunch. The closed campus policy does not interfere with seniors who are excused early for work have earned Senior Privileges.

FIRE DRILLSTeachers will inform students as to specific drill instructions. When the fire alarm rings, students should be quiet and move quickly in an orderly fashion to the designated exit.

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LOST AND DAMAGED PROPERTYStudents who find lost articles are asked to take them to the office where they may be claimed by the owner. Most of the instructional materials, including textbooks, are furnished to the students free of charge.

SENIOR PRIVILEGESEligibility:

1. Level 1: A senior may leave the school premises during a lunch period only. Level 1 will be issued to seniors with an average between 75-84.

2. Level 2: A senior may leave the school premises during a lunch or study hall. Level 2 will be issued to seniors with an average of 85 or higher.

3. Grades and attendance will be checked every 10 weeks.4. Students must have a signed permission form. The permission

form must be signed by a parent/guardian witnessed by a school official (Mrs. Sesnie, Mr. Sesnie or school administrator)

Rules:1. Any student who has been suspended (in-school or out-of school)

will be ineligible for the following marking period.2. Any student who is late to class twice upon returning to the building

from privileges will be ineligible for the next marking period.3. Any student reaching 5 absences in a marking period will

be ineligible for the next marking period. In the event of the death of a student’s immediate family member, 5 bereavement days will be granted, and not counted in the total days absent for that marking period.

4. Any student tardy to any given class 3 times during a marking period will count toward 1 of the 5 absences in that period.

5. Eligible students will be issued a Level 1 or Level 2 Eligibility ID card. This card must be presented with the student School Picture ID card at sign-out and sign-in.

6. Eligibility Level will be distinguishable by different color Eligibility ID cards, to be re-issued for each eligibility period.

7. Level 2 students with consecutive study halls and/or lunch periods do not have to sign-in and out between said periods.

8. NO food or beverages from external vendors may be brought back into the building.

9. Administration may revoke privileges from a student if deemed necessary.

10. The Board of Education reserves the right to revoke these privileges at any time due to problems created by these privileges. The senior privilege policy will be reviewed by the BOE at the end of every school year.

STUDENT DRIVING/PARKING REGULATIONS Students are not allowed to transport other students during the school

day or for any school sponsored activity. All students must complete a parking application to receive a THS

parking permit. These are available in the main office. Juniors may request parking on a space available basis. Students must park in the designated rows Parking in the designated staff area is strictly prohibited. The speed limit on school grounds is 5 MPH Cars should be kept locked. The school is not responsible

for theft or damage to automobiles or motorcycles.

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Students who wish to drive automobiles to BOCES must have written permission from a parent or guardian. Permission slips must be approved by the BOCES center principal.

Driving privileges can be suspended or revoked for parking improperly, illegally, or in other than designated areas, reckless driving or illegal or chronic tardiness. Students may also lose their privilege to park on the school property for leaving school grounds in a vehicle without proper authorization.

STUDENT ID CARDS/AGENDA PLANNERSStudents will be issued ID cards and agenda planners at the beginning of the school year. ID cards are necessary to purchase school lunches, sign-out library materials, bus passes as well as for school security. ID cards are not to be transferred from one student to another.

If a student misplaces their ID card or agenda planner a new ID card or planner will be issued and the student will be charged accordingly.

STUDY HALLSAll students have the right to a quiet place to study. Talking in structured study halls are to be kept to a minimum. The teacher in charge makes the decision whether or not to allow students to work together.

STUDENT FEES, FINES AND CHARGESStudents are expected to exercise reasonable care in the use of school equipment and textbooks. Any damage incurred to library books, textbooks or other school equipment due to misuse or negligence must be paid for by the student. Lost or damaged textbooks will be immediately reported to the office for payment. Other school equipment, which is damaged, should be reported to the Building Principal, who will determine if negligence on the part of the student was the cause of the damage.

SURVEILLANCE CAMERASThe secondary campus employs video surveillance equipment for security purposes. This equipment may or may not be monitored at any time. No cameras will be located in private areas such as rest rooms or locker rooms.

TWO-DAY CYCLEWe will use a two-day rotation schedule for the 2009-2010 school year. Students will be assigned to some study halls and physical education every other day. Science labs will be scheduled every other day. Student schedules will indicate an A or B assignment.

USE OF SCHOOL COMPUTERSThe Board of Education considers computers to be a valuable tool for education, and encourages the use of computer-related technology in district classrooms.

The district has established rules and regulations governing the use and security of the district’s computer network. Failure to comply with district policy and regulations for use of the computers will result in disciplinary actions as well as suspension and/or revocation of computer access privileges.

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VISITOR PERMITSStudents are not to bring a guest or visitor to school without receiving permission in advance. Permission must be given by the Principal or Assistant Principal. Don’t embarrass your guest or yourself by bringing someone unannounced. All visitors must report to the office when they enter the building and obtain a visitor’s pass.

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