The Tallassee City Board of Education believes that instruction should occur in an environment that is conducive to learning, and that effective instruction requires orderly disciplinary standards, rules, and procedures. The intent of furnishing this handbook is to foster a safe, friendly and business‑like atmosphere in which students and school personnel work cooperatively. The policy of the Tallassee City Board of Education is to require the administrators, faculty members, students, and parents and guardians to adhere to and to comply with this Board of Education‑approved Code of Student Conduct. Violations of the Code of Student Conduct which break criminal laws will initiate the appropriate disciplinary action for the offense according to the Code of Student Conduct and will be reported to the appropriate law enforcement officials.
As students progress in the public schools, it is reasonable to assume that an increase in age and maturity will result in the Students' assumption of greater responsibility for their actions. Although it is true that differences in age and maturity require different types of disciplinary action, the expectation of positive student behavior will apply to all students in grades kindergarten through twelve. These differences will be recognized in taking disciplinary action to maintain an environment that is conducive to teaching and learning.
There is no greater resource for good student behavior than the students themselves. Students are encouraged to be involved in school‑related activities. Participation in extracurricular activities may require higher standards of conduct. All students are expected to show respect, follow rules, and demonstrate good citizenship.
It is the policy of the Tallassee City Board of Education that no student will be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination in any program or activity on the basis of sex, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, or disability.
Tallassee City School students are subject to the rules and regulations of the Tallassee Board of Education during the school day, while in attendance at school‑related activities, and while being transported to and from school or school‑related activities in school vehicles. In addition, students may be disciplined in those instances where conduct at other times and places is deemed to have a direct and immediate impact or effect on the health, safety, discipline, or general welfare of the school community.
Under Alabama law, local school systems are required to inform parents and guardians of their education‑related responsibilities. Parents and guardians are responsible for the child's attendance and conduct in school. Under Alabama law, parents or guardians who fail to compel their child to regularly attend school or fail to compel the child to properly conduct himself or herself as a pupil in accordance with the written policy on school behavior adopted by the Board of Education shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be fined not more than $100 and may be sentenced to hard labor for the county for not more than 90 days. (Code of Alabama, §16‑28‑12)
•· Responsible and required to appear at school when requested by an appropriate school official for a conference regarding acts of a child and/or the discipline of a child.
•· Required to see that a child is enrolled in school according to state law.
•· Required to see that the child regularly attends school and abides by the system's rules and regulations related to attendance.
•· To abide by laws and local board of education and individual school rules and policies regarding rules of conduct.
•· To document receipt of the Student Code of Conduct with his/her signature.
•· To be informed of laws and local board of education and individual school rules and policies regarding rules of conduct.
•· To be informed as to the specific grounds of the violation(s) of the local board of education's Student Code of Conduct.
The intention of the Tallassee City Board of Education is to afford due process when the procedures contained within the Code of Student Conduct handbook are implemented. The principals are to familiarize their staffs with the applicable procedures and provide each staff member with a copy of this handbook.
1. School rules should be clearly stated and related to the educational purposes of the school.
2. School rules should be fair and specific enough for students to know what they may or may not do.
3. Students, parents and guardians should be informed of the rules affecting behavior and discipline.
4. When disciplinary action is involved, school personnel and students should comply with required procedure.
5. Any student who has been identified as ability impaired under the provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act; Americans with Disabilities Act; and/or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is subject to the provisions of the Code of Student Conduct and may be suspended or expelled. However, all procedural safeguards set forth in the above mentioned applicable laws will be followed.
The proper channeling of complaints or grievances is as follows: 1) the teacher; 2) the principal; 3) the superintendent; 4) the Board of Education.
1.01 Disruption in the classroom, assemblies, and other instructional settings
1.07 Failure to obey directions in hallways, assemblies, etc.
1.10 Inappropriate or unauthorized use of any electronic resources or improperly restricting or inhibiting other users from using electronic resources
1.11 Any other violation that the principal may deem reasonable to fall within this category after consideration of extenuating circumstances.
2.04 Intentionally touching or striking another student against his/her will, or inciting a fight or confrontation
2.17 Engaging in interactive games, simulations, IRC (chat rooms), or E‑Mail programs on the INTERNET unless under the direct supervision of a teacher or administrator
•2.19 Inciting or encouraging physical altercations between other students.
•2.20 Cheating on Tests, homework, or other classroom requirements to enhance a grade or allowing others to cheat from your work.
•2.22 Possession of over-the-counter medication that has not been properly registered with the school
•2.23 Possession of prescription medication for which the student has a valid prescription but which has not been registered with the school
•2.24 Any other violation that the principal may deem reasonable to fall within this category after consideration of extenuating circumstances
Parental contact, disciplinary probation and any of the following disciplinary actions:
Parental contact, disciplinary probation and any of the following disciplinary actions:
•§ Any third Class II offense will be treated as a Class III offense.
Special circumstances may warrant a recommendation for more severe disciplinary action, including recommendations for alternative programs or expulsion. Students may be assigned to in‑school suspension a maximum of three times per semester and to suspension a maximum of three times per year before more severe disciplinary action is taken.
3.01 Unauthorized possession and/or use of drugs, drug paraphernalia or alcoholic beverages or being under the influence of same
3.05 Trespassing with intent to commit an offense when school premises are closed
3.10 Preparing, possessing, or igniting explosives; possessing or igniting fireworks, firecrackers or smoke bombs
3.17 Violating the security of any electronic resource or undermining its integrity
•3.18 Transmission of material, information, or software in violation of any local, state, or federal law (such as copyrighted material, software piracy, etc.) via any electronic resource
3.20 Any other offense that the principal may deem reasonable to fall within this category after consideration of extenuating circumstances
Parental contact, disciplinary probation and any of the following disciplinary actions:
•§ Expulsion: Expulsions can be for up to one calendar year from the date the Board of Education takes action on the Superintendent's recommendation
4.01 Selling, dealing, furnishing, and/or giving unauthorized drugs or substances purported to be drugs
•§ Expulsion: Expulsions are for one calendar year from the date the Board of Education takes action on the Superintendent's recommendation
DEFINITIONS RELATED TO DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
Alternative School
The principal may refer students who have not been successful in maintaining appropriate behavior to an alternative school. The setting for this program will differ from the regular school classroom setting. Work assignments may be included as a part of the alternative school. Students are not allowed to participate in extracurricular activities while in the alternative school. The hours for alternative school are regular school hours.
Corporal Punishment
Reasonable corporal punishment may be administered after consultation with and approval by the principal and or designee, and only in the presence of another professional staff member. Corporal punishment shall be administered only as a last resort in the most unusual circumstances and after reasonable corrective measures have been used without success.
Detention
The principal has the authority to assign students to a designated area (detention hall) on campus before or after the regular school day or on Saturday for a specified period of time as a disciplinary action. Students will be given a one‑day notice of their detention hall assignment. An attempt will be made to notify the parent or guardian of the student's assignment to detention hall. The parent or guardian is responsible for providing transportation in these cases.
Disciplinary Probation
The principal has the authority to place a student on disciplinary probation for specified periods of time. Disciplinary probation is a period of time specified by the principal during which a student must correct his/her behavior while abiding by all regulations that govern student behavior. The staff members involved in the action will assist in monitoring the student's adjustment to the school environment.
Expulsion
The Board of Education has final and exclusive authority over the expulsion of students. An expelled student may not loiter or appear on school property or attend any school-sponsored activity at school or away from school.
In‑School Suspension Program
The principal has the authority to assign students to the in-school suspension program for specified periods of time. In-school suspension shall not be considered under regular suspension guidelines. In‑school suspension is a structured disciplinary action in which a student is isolated or removed from regular classroom activities but is not dismissed from the school setting. The student is responsible for all regular school assignments and shall receive appropriate credit. Work assignments may be included as a part of the in‑school suspension program. Students are not allowed to participate in extracurricular activities while in in‑school suspension.
Physical Restraint
A School Board employee has the authority to use reasonable physical force to restrain a student from abusing or attempting to abuse himself, or others. This action may be taken when it is necessary to maintain discipline or to enforce school rules.
School Bus Suspension
The principal has the authority to deny a student the privilege of riding a school bus for a specified period of time based on the misconduct of the student.
Suspension
The principal has the authority to suspend students from school for specified periods of time. A suspended student may not loiter or appear on school property or attend any school-sponsored activity at school or away from school.
Time Out
The principal has the authority to assign students to time out. Time out is a space for students to sit alone, free from distractions for short periods of time, to regain control of behavior, emotions, and/or concentration.
Work Assignment
The principal has the authority to assign supervised activities related to the upkeep and maintenance of school facilities as a disciplinary action for a specified period of time.
PROCEDURES FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION
A student recommended for suspension will be made aware of the charges and will be given an opportunity to respond. Any time a referral that warrants suspension or expulsion is submitted, a reasonable effort will be made by school officials to contact the parent(s) or guardian by a telephone call made during school hours or by written notice delivered by the student or the U.S. Mail. The student is responsible for notifying his/her parent(s) or guardian of all written communications from school. Failure to do so may result in further disciplinary action.
SUSPENSION OF STUDENTS
Authority
The school principal has authority to suspend students from school.
Notification
Prior to suspension the student will be made aware of the charges and given an opportunity to respond to them. Written notice will be sent to the superintendent and parent(s) or guardian stating the reason(s) such action was taken. Immediate suspension of a student is justified when the student's presence would threaten other students or himself, endanger school property, or seriously disrupt the orderly educational process. Principals have the authority to request assistance from law enforcement authorities to remove uncooperative students.
Length
1. Suspensions are normally for one (1) to three (3) school days
2. Suspensions of more than five (5) school days require prior approval of the superintendent or his/her designee.
3. The suspension of a student should not exceed ten (10) school days.
4. If an incident or violation leads the principal to recommend the expulsion of a student, the suspension shall remain in effect until such time that final action upon the recommendation for expulsion is taken.
Terms
1. During the suspension period, suspended students may not attend school functions or enter upon school property or premises for any reason.
2. When a student is suspended, the absence will be unexcused. The student's teacher must be notified concerning the date of suspension and the number of days of the suspension.
3. Only nine weeks' tests, semester exams, and culminating activities may be made up for credit.
4. A student who has been suspended from any school, regardless of school system, is not eligible to enroll in the Tallassee City School System until such time as he/she is eligible to be reinstated in the school from which he/she was suspended.
Readmission
Before a student returns to school after suspension, the principal must have a conference with the parent(s) or guardian unless otherwise approved by the principal. Upon completion of the conference, the student is readmitted by the principal and is given a readmission slip to return to class.
EXPULSION OF STUDENTS
The Tallassee City Board of Education has final and exclusive administrative authority over the expulsion of students. A student may be expelled for any act classified as a Class II, Class III, or Class IV offense. The school principal has primary authority to determine whether expulsion may be warranted for a Class II or III offense. The principal will recommend an expulsion hearing for any Class IV offense. Any student who is the subject of an expulsion will receive due process in the form of the right to a hearing, the right to counsel, the right to hear the alleged charge(s), the right to question all evidence, the right to be heard and offer evidence in his/her own behalf and the right to receive a full explanation of the code violation used to charge the student.
The following steps will be observed in all expulsion actions:
1. The local school principal will consult with the superintendent concerning the student's infraction(s).
2. The superintendent will, by letter, notify the parent or guardian of a conference that may include the student, the parent or guardian, the principal and the superintendent. Failure of the parent or guardian and/or student to attend shall not nullify the process.
3. If the decision to recommend expulsion is made by the superintendent, the parents or guardian will be notified by letter of the time and place of an expulsion hearing before the Tallassee City Board of Education, and the student will remain under suspension until the hearing is held. This notice will be given a minimum of five calendar days before the hearing is held unless mutually agreed upon.
4. The student or the parent or guardian may request that the hearing be held in private. Failure of the student and/or the parent or guardian to appear shall not nullify the process.
5. If a decision to expel the student is made, normally the expulsion will not exceed the length of time remaining in the current school year plus the next succeeding school year. The superintendent will, by letter, notify the parent/guardian of the Tallassee City Board of Education's decision within ten days after it is made.
6. Any student who has been identified as ability impaired under the provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act; Americans with Disabilities Act and/or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 subject to the provisions of the code of conduct and may be suspended or expelled. However, all procedural safeguards set forth in the above mentioned applicable laws will be followed.
STUDENT ATTENDANCE POLICY
It is the belief of the Tallassee City Board of Education that regular school attendance is important to all students and to the school system. It is further believed that course content and grading procedures should be structured so that regular attendance is necessary in order to successfully complete course requirements. School administrators are required under state law to enforce compulsory school attendance laws. Parents or guardians are responsible for their children's attendance. Administrators and teachers will make every effort to promote regular attendance by students and solicit assistance from parents and guardians in accomplishing this objective. Parents or guardians are responsible for sending a note of explanation to the school the day the child returns to school. An absence is defined as non‑attendance in a regularly scheduled class or activity regardless of the reason for such non‑attendance. Students involved in school related activities sanctioned by school administrators are counted as attending. To participate in extracurricular activities after school, students must have been in attendance at school that day.
Student Responsibilities Are:
- To abide by laws and local board of education and individual school rules and policies regarding attendance.
- To be punctual and regular in attendance.
- To promptly request and complete make-up assignments for excused absences or tardiness.
Student Rights Are:
- To be informed of laws and local board of education and individual school rules and policies regarding respect for person, privacy, and property.
- To retain privacy of personal possessions on his/her person, in lockers, or in vehicles, unless school personnel have reasonable suspicion to believe the student possesses any item which is prohibited by law or local board of education policy.
Noncompliance Attendance (NCA)
Any student absent twelve (12) or more days during a semester shall be subject to loss of credit for the semester's work. A student who has been retained or who has lost credit(s) because of noncompliance with attendance policies shall receive a notation of Noncompliance Attendance (NCA) on his report card and cumulative record for that semester or year. The principal shall make the determination of retention or loss of credit due to noncompliance with attendance policies (NCA). In such cases, a parent or guardian and/or student may request a hearing with the principal. This request must be in writing, dated and signed, within five days of the notification of the loss of credit. A written appeal for a hearing with the superintendent may be made within five (5) days following the ruling of the principal regarding the loss of credit or retention. Failure of parent or guardian and/or student to request a hearing shall be sufficient basis for sustaining the loss of credit or retention. Credit which is lost because of absences will be made up in the same manner as academic failures.
Withdrawal from School
In accordance with state law, whenever a student 16 years of age or older withdraws from school, the school shall notify the Department of Public Safety of the withdrawal. Withdrawal shall be defined as more than 10 consecutive or 15 days total unexcused absences during a single semester.
Excused Absences
1. Illness
2. Legal requirements
3. Emergencies or other circumstances which are approved by the principal
Absence for reasons other than those listed shall be considered as unexcused.
Make‑Up Work
If a student is absent for any excused reason, the student should make arrangements with the teacher the day he/she returns to school to make up missed work. In making arrangements for make‑up work, the teacher should consider the type of any illness, the length of time absent, and the amount of make‑up work due in all the student's classes. Long‑term assignments, such as research papers or special projects, are due on or before the due date even if the student is absent on the date the assignment is due. In unusual cases, extenuating circumstances may be given consideration, at the discretion of the principal.
Check‑Ins and Check‑Outs
Any student who arrives after school has begun must go to the office and check in. Students who have a valid need to leave school before the dismissal bell must be checked out through the office. Students must be signed out by the parent or guardian in accordance with school procedures.
The principal has the responsibility of making decisions relating to checkouts. Such decision shall be made in the best interest of the student when emergencies or unusual circumstances arise.
RESPECT FOR PERSON, PRIVACY, AND PROPERTY
Student Responsibilities Are:
- To abide by laws and local board of education and individual school rules and policies regarding respect for person, privacy, and property.
- To respect the recognized privacy rights of others.
- To attend school and related activities without bringing items prohibited by law or local board of education policy or which detract from the educational process.
- To respect the property rights of those at school and the general public.
Student Rights Are:
- To be informed of laws and local board of education and individual school rules and policies regarding respect for person, privacy, and property.
- To retain privacy of personal possessions on his/her person, in lockers, or in vehicles, unless school personnel have reasonable suspicion to believe the student possesses any item which is prohibited by law or local board of education policy.
TRANSFER STUDENTS
A student must be in good standing and must have no disciplinary action pending against him/her in the school he/she is leaving in order to be eligible to enroll in any school in the Tallassee School System.
STUDENT RECORDS
Parents or guardians have the right to inspect and review all official records, files, and data directly relating to their children including the permanent record folder. This right is conferred upon the student when the student becomes 18 years of age. A request to review such records must be made to the school principal.
SPECIAL EDUCATION
It is the responsibility of the Board of Education to provide appropriate educational services for all eligible students residing within the city limits.
PRIVACY AND PROPERTY RIGHTS
Federal and state laws provide persons with a reasonable expectation of privacy in addition to freedom from unreasonable search and seizure of property. Such guarantees are not unlimited and must be balanced by the school's responsibility to protect the health, safety and welfare of all students.
The right to use textbooks and library media resources may be discontinued when related fines are unpaid.
Student Lockers
Students are given the opportunity to use lockers provided by the Tallassee City Schools. These lockers are property of the Board of Education and are subject to search at any time at the discretion of school officials. Students are responsible for the contents of their lockers and should keep them locked at all times. Each student will be financially responsible for any damage to his/her locker. Graffiti and stickers are prohibited. Students may use only the locker assigned to them and may not swap lockers unless approval is given by the principal.
Student Vehicles
Students are permitted to park vehicles in designated areas on the school campus. A vehicle is subject to search by school officials when there is reasonable cause to believe that such vehicle contains material or objects prohibited by law or Board of Education policy. Students operating a vehicle in an unsafe manner on the school campus may lose their privilege of having a vehicle on the campus. Safety helmets are required for motorcycle riders.
ADDITIONAL POLICIES
Bus Discipline
The Tallassee City Board of Education is vitally concerned about the safety and welfare of the students riding buses. In an effort to inform students and parents or guardians of acts that can threaten safety and welfare, bus rules and regulations have been adopted. The driver, together with the supervisor and the school principal, shall have full authority for discipline on buses.
1. Students shall behave in an appropriate and orderly manner.
2. Students must ride the bus to which they have been assigned.
3. Students are to remain seated at all times, face the front of the bus, and refrain from extending head, arms, or any part of the body out the window.
4. Students shall obey the driver willingly and promptly. The driver is in full charge of the bus and students and has the right to assign seats as he/she deems necessary.
5. Students are to help keep the bus clean by not throwing trash on the floor. Students shall not throw any refuse from the windows.
6. Any damage done to bus or equipment must be paid for by that individual.
7. With the approval of the principal, activity sponsors may establish other regulations as deemed appropriate for the activity.
ELECTRONIC RESOURCES
The use of electronic devices and networks in the Tallassee Schools is a privilege, not a right. Electronic resources may include, but are not limited to, computer workstations (stand alone and networked), any telecommunication devices, televisions, CD players, laser players, VCRs, videos and digital cameras, or any devices that support the resources (network parts, routers, hubs, transceivers, cabling systems, software, etc.). The misuse of electronic resources is a violation of the Code of Student Conduct with offenders subject to disciplinary action as outlined in the Code, and additionally, offenders may be subject to loss of all user privileges to electronic resources as well as legal action when applicable. The unauthorized possession or use of a pager and or a cellular phone is prohibited and a violation of a Class II offense (2.16).
Honor Code
The administration and faculties of Tallassee Schools are dedicated to teaching academic skills as well as fostering integrity among students and staff. Since today's students are tomorrow's leaders, students must be encouraged to recognize, understand, and practice ethical behavior.
Sexual Harassment
The policy of the Tallassee City Board of Education forbids sexual harassment of or by any of its students or employees.
•A. General Prohibitions and Definitions
•1. Unwelcome Conduct of a Sexual Nature
•a. Conduct of a sexual nature may include verbal or physical sexual advances, including subtle pressure for sexual activity; touching, pinching, patting, or brushing against; comments regarding physical or personality characteristics of a sexual nature; and sexually-oriented "kidding", "testing", double entendres, and jokes.
•b. Verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature may constitute sexual harassment when the allegedly harassed student has indicated, by his or her conduct, or otherwise, that is unwelcome. In order to avoid ambiguity and uncertainty, students who consider conduct by other students or school board employees to be unwelcome are encouraged to advise the alleged harasser in writing that such conduct is unwelcome.
•c. A student who has initially welcomed such conduct by active participation or otherwise must give specific notice to the alleged harasser that such conduct is no longer welcome in order for any such subsequent conduct to be deemed unwelcome. In order to avoid ambiguity and uncertainty, students are encouraged to give such specific notice in writing.
2. Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature constitute sexual harassment if the conduct substantially interferes with a student's educational performance, or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment.
3. It is a violation of the Code of Student Conduct for a student to sexually harass or subject another student to any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature. Students or School Board employees who engage in such conduct shall be subject to sanctions as described below.
•B. Reporting and Sanctions
1. Reporting
•a. Students or their parents or guardians who reasonably believe that other students or School Board employees in the Tallassee City School System are guilty of sexual harassment as defined in this policy are encouraged to report such to the principal of their school and/or to the civil rights compliance administrator. Such repots should be made in writing. Report forms are available through the main office in each school.
•b. Students or their parents or guardians are also urged to report any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature by fellow students or School Board employees, whether or not such conduct interferes with the student's educational performance or creates a hostile or offensive educational environment. Such reports should be made in writing. Report forms are available through the main office in each school.
•c. Confidentiality will be maintained and no reprisals or retaliation will be allowed to occur as a result of the good faith reporting of charges of sexual harassment. Students or School Board employees who retaliate against one who has filed such charges are subject to the sanctions below.
•2. Sanctions
Any student found to have engaged in sexual harassment shall be subject to sanctions, including, but not limited to, warning, suspension, or expulsion subject to applicable procedural requirements.
Weapons
Board policy prohibits all persons, other than law enforcement personnel, from bringing or possessing any deadly weapon or instrument on school property. Under Alabama law, possession of a deadly weapon with the intent to do bodily harm on the premises of a public school or school bus is a Class C felony. The term "deadly weapon" means a firearm or anything manifestly designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of inflicting death or serious physical injury, and such term includes, but is not limited to, a bazooka, hand grenade, missile, or explosive or incendiary device; a pistol, rifle, or shot gun; or a switch‑blade knife, stiletto, sword, or dagger, or any club, baton, billy, blackjack, bludgeon, or metal knuckles.
"No Fight" Policy
The Board is obligated to provide a safe and orderly environment that is conducive to teaching and learning. Therefore, it is the policy of this school system that fighting in school buildings, on school grounds, at any school event, or on a school-owned/maintained vehicle will not be tolerated. A fight is defined as any conduct falling within the Alabama Statutes defining "Assault, Menacing and Reckless Endangerment, or Criminal Coercion."
The Superintendent, working cooperatively with the local police and/or sheriff, the district attorney, and the juvenile court, shall enforce this no fight policy at all middle/intermediate, junior, and senior high schools.
These procedures will be followed:
•1. Fighting in a school building, on school grounds, at any school-sponsored event, or on a school-owned/-maintained vehicle shall be classified as a major violation of the Student Code of Conduct.
•2. The principal or designee shall investigate the fight and take the appropriate action as identified in the Student Code of Conduct.
•3. The principal or designee shall secure the cooperation of witnesses to the fight and secure written statements from all witnesses.
•4. The principal or designee shall secure reliable witnesses for court appearances.
•5. The principal or designee shall call the police and file a complaint/petition with the juvenile court.
•6. A reasonable attempt shall be made to notify the parent(s) or guardian(s) if the student is to be removed from the school by police officers.
THE RIGHT TO LEARN
Student Responsibilities Are:
- To abide by laws and local board of education and individual school rules and policies regarding the right to learn.
- To take advantage of appropriate opportunities provided for learning.
- To avoid hindering the teaching process.
- To seek assistance, if needed, to aid learning.
- To obey rules regarding attendance, conduct, free speech, student publications, assembly, privacy, and participation in school programs and activities.
Student Rights Are:
- To be informed of laws and local board of education and individual school rules and policies regarding the right to learn.
- To be provided a safe school environment free of illegal drugs, alcohol, or weapons.
- To be provided appropriate instructors, instruction, materials, and equipment to take advantage of the opportunity to learn.
- To be provided with the opportunity to express concerns regarding the operation of the school.
FREE SPEECH
Student Responsibilities Are:
- To abide by laws and local board of education and individual school rules and policies regarding free speech.
- To be courteous of the views of others.
Student Rights Are:
- To be informed of laws and local board of education and individual school rules and policies regarding free speech.
- To express disagreement in a constructive manner taking into account the rights of others, consistent with the established education process.
STUDENT PUBLICATIONS
Student Responsibilities Are:
- To abide by laws and local board of education and individual school rules and policies regarding student publications.
- To communicate in a respectful manner consistent with good education practices.
- To seek accurate and complete information on the topics approved for publication.
- To observe the accepted rules for responsible journalism under the guidance of faculty members.
Student Rights Are:
- To be informed of local board of education and individual school rules and policies regarding student publications.
- To participate, as part of the educational process, in the development and or distribution of student or school publications consistent with that educational process.
ASSEMBLY
Student Responsibilities Are:
- To abide by laws and local board of education and individual school rules and policies in regards to assembly.
- To seek approval, plan, and conduct meetings consistent with local board of education rules.
Student Rights Are:
- To be informed of laws and local board of education and individual school rules and policies regarding assembly.
- To assemble in a lawful manner for a lawful purpose with prior approval by local school officials.
PARTICIPATION IN SCHOOL PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES
Student Responsibilities Are:
- To abide by laws and local board of education and individual school rules and policies regarding school programs and activities.
- To be courteous and responsible at all school programs and activities.
- To complete assignments related to his/her participation in school programs and activities.
Student Rights Are:
- To be informed of laws and local board of education and individual school rules and policies regarding school programs and activities.
- To develop or participate in student programs and activities consistent with local board of education and individual school policies.
- To seek office in any student organization.
Policy Regarding Prescribed Student Dress Code
The Tallassee City Board of Education believes that good grooming and personal appearance are essential elements in the teaching and learning processes. Therefore, it is expected that students dress in such a manner that will ensure health and safety, and not detract from the learning environment. Furthermore, dress and personal appearance are not to be disruptive or interfere with the educational interest and welfare of the students or the purposes of public school education.
Students should comply with the following guidelines:
1. Students must be neatly dressed, clean, and well-groomed while at school.
2. Shoes or sandals must be worn.
3. Hair must be clean and well groomed, not in the eyes, and not of length dangerous around equipment.
4. Clothing or paraphernalia related to or associated with gang affiliation or activity is prohibited. Clothing with pictures, symbols, or writing conveying a general or personal message rather than a specific message on a public matter is prohibited.
5. With approval of the principal, activity sponsors may establish different rules for dress and grooming as a prerequisite for membership and participation in specific activities.
6. Hats, head wear or head coverings, and sunglasses are not to be worn inside school buildings.
Any students violating the dress code may be suspended for the remainder of the school day and may receive unexcused absences in the classes missed. The principal or his/her designated person(s) has the authority to determine inappropriate dress.
Repeat offenders are subject to further disciplinary action as deemed appropriate by the principal/designee.
Model Policy Regarding Metal Detectors
To provide and maintain a safe and secure environment for students, staff, and authorized visitors, the (of local school system Board of Education may employ the use of metal detectors. Stationary and/or mobile metal detectors may be used. Training shall be provided for authorized persons on the use, maintenance, and storage of said equipment and on laws and procedures for conducting searches. Particular circumstances may call for private, hand-held metal detector searches. All metal detector searches shall be conducted by school board employees or law enforcement officers. Any information obtained through the use of metal detectors shall be used only for school disciplinary or law enforcement purposes. The board shall establish the schedule for use of detectors but individual schools may implement a more stringent schedule if approved by the board. These policies shall be communicated annually to all school personnel, students, and parents.
DRUG POLICY FOR STUDENTS PARTICIPATING IN
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AND FOR STUDENT ATHLETES
•I. POLICY STATEMENT
The Tallassee City Board of Education values students and their participation in athletics and other extracurricular activities. These students, as role models for other students, are keys to our goal of providing the best possible education program for all students. To achieve our goal and to maximize the skills and talents of our students, it is important that every student, and each employee, of our school system understand the dangers of tobacco use, drug, and alcohol abuse.
This statement clarifies our position on student tobacco, drug, and alcohol use as it pertains to extracurricular participation. For the purposes of this policy, Appendix A lists the extracurricular organizations that are subject to this policy and the drug testing program. This includes students in Grades 7 through 12. Participation in extracurricular activities is a privilege that can be taken away for failure to comply with this policy. The Board reserves the right to depart from this policy where it deems appropriate except where departure is specifically prohibited by law. Any extracurricular students who violate the Code of Conduct involving tobacco, alcohol, or drugs are also subject to this policy. The Board reserves the right to change the guidelines contained within this policy at any time. Students subject to this policy will be informed of any changes.
II. POLICY OBJECTIVES
- To create and maintain a safe, drug-free environment for all students participating in extracurricular activities and students that drive on campus.
- To deter drug, tobacco, and alcohol use among students participating in extracurricular activities.
- To encourage any extracurricular activity student with a dependence on, or addiction to, tobacco, alcohol or other drugs to seek help in overcoming the problem.
- To reduce the likelihood of incidents of accidental personal injury and/or damage to students or property.
- To minimize the likelihood that school property will be used for illicit drug activities.
- To protect the reputation of the school system and its students.
Substance abuse is a serious threat to the school system, its students, visitors, and employees. It is the belief of the Board that the benefits derived from the policy outweigh the potential inconvenience to students who participate in extracurricular activities. The Board earnestly solicits the understanding and cooperation of all school staff, students, and parents, especially those involved with extracurricular activities, in implementing this policy.
The Board expects all extracurricular students to remain tobacco, alcohol, and drug free, and it reserves the right to require all students who participate in extracurricular activities to submit to drug tests in order to assure these expectations and in order to maintain safety and security.
The Board acknowledges and understands that there are students involved in extracurricular activities who have legitimate medical conditions and who possess legitimate prescriptions for those conditions. Should a student test positive for a prescription drug for which he/she possesses a valid prescription in his/her name, the parent or guardian of that student will have an opportunity to give the Medical Review Officer (MRO) a copy of that prescription. The opportunity to provide the prescription will come after the positive urine test result has been released to the Board's Medical Review Officer (MRO), but before that information is released to the Board's Drug Testing Coordinator (DTC) who will be a representative of the Tallassee City School System. A student taking over-the-counter or prescription drugs for which there is a valid prescription in the student's name will not be penalized for producing a positive test result if that positive result is for the prescription drug only (see Item V., C.).
III. ENFORCEMENT
The Board has developed its student testing program to follow, as appropriate, the process of 49 CFR Part 40 and the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991. The Board encourages, and may require, its employees to be trained in tobacco, alcohol, and drug usage recognition skills.
Pursuant to Board policy and regulations, students who participate in extracurricular activities, with appropriate student and/or parental consent, may be tested prior to beginning a seasonal activity, during the season of the activity, or on any random schedule without advance notice. Failure to provide student and/or parental consent when that consent is requested will result in a student's suspension from the activity or activities and will render a student ineligible from any activity for the duration of the school year.
When Board officials (school employees) have reasonable suspicion to believe a student participating in extracurricular activities has violated its drug policy, they may require the student to undergo drug testing. Failure to submit to testing will result in suspension from the activity or activities and will render a student ineligible for the duration of a school year. This failure to comply with the drug policy will render the student ineligible for the activity or activities in which he/she is currently participating and from any other activity or activities for the duration of the school year. (See Appendix A for a list of included activities.)
A student who has tested positive for tobacco, alcohol, and/or other drugs and who has had the positive test result confirmed by the Board's Medical Review Officer (MRO) will be governed by the consequences outlined in this policy. The student's, parent's or guardian's refusal to cooperate with the Board, with Board representatives, and/or with medical personnel during the course of collecting the clean and unadulterated sample, reporting information about the sample, or enforcing the penalties and required counseling associated with a positive sample shall result in immediate suspension from the sport or activity for the duration of the school year.
No student athlete testing positive, refusing to test, refusing to cooperate with testing or being in violation of this policy will be penalized academically. Information, including testing positive, will not be released to criminal or juvenile authorities unless under compulsion by valid state or federal laws.
IV. CONSEQUENCES OF POSITIVE DRUG TEST
Consequences for a positive drug test are as follows:
First Occurrence of Positive Test Results
•1. The student, student's parents, legal guardians or custodial adult, the principal, the person responsible for counseling, and the sponsor or coach shall be notified of the positive test by the Tallassee City Board's Drug Testing Coordinator (DTC).
•2. Within 72 hours of notification of test results, the student's parents or legal guardians may request a re-test of a portion of the original sample taken from the student. (The original test splits the original urine sample into two portions. One of the portions is sent to the lab. It is this second portion, collected at the time of the initial portion, that a parent may request be re-tested.) Any such re-test shall be at the lab approved by the Board. The parent or guardian requesting a re-test shall pay the cost for any such re-test in advance. If the re-test produces a negative result, the parent or guardian will be reimbursed by the Board; and the student will be allowed to return to participation without penalty.
•3. The penalty for a positive test result has three parts. All three parts must be satisfied before a student can return to participation.
A. The student must enter the counseling program prescribed by the board and must be released from that counseling program or receive verification from the counselor that he/she is actively participating in that counseling program before he/she can resume any sport or activity.
B. The student must re-test negative before he/she can resume any sport or activity. The MRO and the DTC will release the student once results have been confirmed.
C. The student must complete a term of suspension. The student will be suspended from all extracurricular activities in which he/she is currently participating for approximately 25% of the total regular season's activities or for a six week period beginning no earlier than the opening game/performance for that sport or activity and beginning with the game/performance that follows the notification from the DTC. Specific suspension periods for various extra-curricular activities are set out in Appendix "A". In cases not specifically addressed by Appendix "A" (such as when an extra-curricular activity is not specifically listed or when a suspension period stretches over two or more extra-curricular activity periods) the principal of the school the student attends shall impose the exact period of suspension in accordance with the spirit and general guidelines of these rules.
If the student participates in more than one sport or activity and both or all are in season at the time of the positive test and notification from the DTC, then that student will be suspended from both activities or all activities for the prescribed term.
If the student is not participating in any in-season sport or activity, he/she will serve a suspension no earlier than the opening game/performance of the next season in which he/she participates, however, the counseling portion (2A above) of that student's penalty and the re-testing portion (2B above) of that student's penalty will begin immediately.
If a student who is penalized from an activity serves a portion of his/her penalty within one sport or activity but then reaches the end of all games, meetings, performances within that sport or activity, that student will roll over whatever percentage of his/her penalty remains into his/her next in-season sport or activity.
If a student who is penalized from a sport or activity serves a portion of his/her penalty within that sport or activity but then reaches the end of all games, meetings, performances within that sport or activity and does not belong to any other sport or activity through which he/she may complete the penalty, that student's remaining penalty will roll over to the first in-season activity or sport in which he/she participates in the next school year.
The counseling portion of that student's remaining penalty and the re-testing portion of that student's penalty will begin immediately.
•4. Once a student has tested positive, his/her name will be removed from the random pool of names and placed on a list of students who will be subject to testing every time drug testing is conducted for one calendar year.
Second Occurrence of Positive Test Results
- The student, student's parents, legal guardians or custodial adult, the principal, the person responsible for counseling, and the sponsor or coach shall be notified of the positive test by the Tallassee City Board's Drug Testing Coordinator (DTC).
- Within 72 hours of notification of test results, the student's parents or legal guardians may request a re-test of a portion of the original sample taken from the student. (The original test splits the original urine sample into two portions. One of the portions is sent to the lab. It is this second portion, collected at the time of the initial portion, that a parent may request be re-tested.) Any such re-test shall be at the lab approved by the Board. The parent or guardian requesting a re-test shall pay the cost for any such re-test in advance. If the re-test produces a negative result, the parent or guardian will be reimbursed by the Board; and the student will be allowed to return to participation without penalty if the result is negative.
- The penalty for a positive test result has three parts. All three parts must be satisfied before a student can return to participation.
A. The student must enter the counseling program prescribed by the Board and must be released from that counseling program or receive verification from the counselor that he/she is actively participating in that counseling program before he/she can resume any sport or activity.
B. The student must re-test negative before he/she can resume any sport or activity. The MRO and the DTC will release the student once results have been confirmed.
C. The student must complete a term of suspension. The student will be suspended from all extracurricular activities in which he/she is currently participating for approximately 50% of the total regular season's activities or for a six week period beginning no earlier than the opening game/performance for that sport or activity and beginning with the game/performance that follows the notification from the DTC. Specific suspension periods for various extra-curricular activities are set out in Appendix "A". In cases not specifically addressed by Appendix "A" (such as when an extra-curricular activity is not specifically listed or when a suspension period stretches over two or more extra-curricular activity periods) the principal of the school the student attends shall impose the exact period of suspension in accordance with the spirit and general guidelines of these rules.
If the student participates in more than one sport or activity and both or all are in season at the time of the positive test and notification from the DTC, then that student will be suspended from both activities or all activities for the prescribed term.
If the student is not participating in any in-season sport or activity, he/she will serve a suspension no earlier than the opening game/performance of the next season in which he/she participates, however, the counseling portion (2A above) of that student's penalty and the re-testing portion (2B above) of that student's penalty will begin immediately.
If a student who is penalized from an activity serves a portion of his/her penalty within one sport or activity but then reaches the end of all games, meetings, performances within that sport or activity, then that student will roll over whatever percentage of his/her penalty remains into his/her next in-season sport or activity.
If a student who is penalized from a sport or activity serves a portion of his/her penalty within that sport or activity but then reaches the end of all games, meetings, performances within that sport or activity and does not belong to any other sport or activity through which he/she may complete the penalty, that student's remaining penalty will roll over to the first in-season activity or sport in which he/she participates in the next school year.
The counseling portion of that student's penalty and the re-testing portion of that student's penalty will begin immediately.
- Once a student has tested positive, his/her name will be removed from the random pool of names and placed on a list of students who will be subject to testing every time drug testing is conducted for one calendar year.
Third Occurrence of Positive Test Results
- The student, student's parents, legal guardians or custodial adult, the principal, the person responsible for counseling, and the sponsor or coach shall be notified of the positive test by the Tallassee City Board's Drug Testing Coordinator (DTC).
- Within 72 hours of notification of test results, the student's parents or legal guardians may request a re-test of a portion of the original sample taken from the student. The original test splits the original urine sample into two portions. (One of the portions is sent to the lab. It is this second portion, collected at the time of the initial portion, that a parent may request be re-tested.) Any such re-test shall be at the lab approved by the Board. The parent or guardian requesting a re-test shall pay the cost for any such re-test in advance. If the re-test produces a negative result, the parent or guardian will be reimbursed by the Board; and the student will be allowed to return to participation without penalty.
- The penalty for a third positive occurrence has three parts. All three parts must be satisfied before a student can return to his/her sport or extracurricular activity.
A. The student must enter the counseling program prescribed by the Board and must be released from that counseling program or receive verification from the counselor that he/she is actively participating in that counseling program before he/she can resume any sport or activity.
B. The student must re-test negative before he/she can resume any sport or activity. The MRO and DTC will release the student once results have been confirmed.
C. The student must complete a term of suspension. The student will be suspended from all extracurricular activities for one calendar year from the date of notification by the DTC of the third positive test.
4. Once a student has tested positive, his/her name will be removed from the random pool of names and placed on a list of students who will be subject to testing every time drug testing is conducted for the duration of his/her participation in extracurricular activities within the Tallassee City School System.
If a student is completing his/her one year suspension and again tests positive, he/she will be removed from extracurricular activities for the remainder of his/her school years within the Tallassee City System. Counseling, however, will remain available to the student even when he/she is no longer a participant in extracurricular activities.
If a student has completed his/her one year suspension and is again a participant and again tests positive, he/she will begin at the First Occurrence penalty; however, the student will be subject to testing as prescribed in Number 4 immediately above.
All information, interviews, reports, statements, memoranda, and test results, whether written or otherwise, received by the Board through its drug, alcohol, and tobacco testing program are confidential communications and may not be disclosed, obtained in discovery, or otherwise disclosed in any public or private proceedings except in the following or FERPA procedures.
A. As directed by the specific, written consent of the parent/guardian authorizing release of the information to an identified person.
B. To a decision-maker in a lawsuit, grievance, or other proceeding initiated by or on behalf of the participating student.
C. Information, including testing positive, will not be released to criminal or juvenile authorities unless the Board is compelled to do so under valid state or federal laws.
The penalties for First, Second, and Third Occurrences constitute a Board mandated minimum punishment. Coaches and Sponsors may not violate this policy by refusing to enforce its minimum penalties.
V. PROCEDURES
A. General Policy
Practical experience and research have proven that even small quantities of narcotics, abused prescription drugs, or alcohol can impair judgment and reflexes and thereby create unsafe conditions for students. Even when not readily apparent, this impairment can have serious results for students engaged in activities. Drug-using students are a threat to other students and to themselves and may make injurious errors. It is for these reasons along with those reasons stated in this policy's objectives that the Board has adopted this policy.
B. Prohibitions
Students participating in extracurricular activities shall not use tobacco, illegal or illicit drugs, alcohol and other prohibited substances, either during or away from school. Using, possessing, distributing and/or manufacturing controlled substances during and away from school is illegal and prohibited.
This policy neither circumvents nor is intended to be used in place of Board Policy and School Rules pertaining to the use, possession, distribution of illegal or illicit substances as addressed in the Tallassee City Schools' Code of Conduct.
This policy and the Code of Conduct are to be construed in pari materia; in other words, they are construed in conjunction with one another and are not mutually exclusive.
C. Use of Prescription and Non prescription Drugs
The Board prohibits the misuse of prescribed or over-the-counter medications.
Students taking prescription drugs are required to take them in accordance with the prescribing doctor's dosage and directions. For a prescription to be considered valid, it must be an unexpired prescription that is being taken in accordance with the prescribing doctor's prescription regimen.
Students taking prescribed medications should be able to provide proof of that prescription in his/her name with an original date on the prescription that pre-dates the positive drug-screening test.
Students taking over-the-counter (OTC) medications are required to take them in accordance with the directions/dosages that appear on the packaging.
If a student is taking prescribed or OTC medication that results in a positive drug test, he/she will be given an opportunity to verify that with the MRO. (See V. Procedures, D. Testing, Item 9 Evaluation and Return of Results)
D. TESTING PROCEDURES
- Random Testing
The Board will conduct baseline testing initially, followed by random, unannounced screening of students who participate in extracurricular activities by submitting their names to a screening pool. The student information in the pool will be updated periodically. Baseline testing is defined as testing all students participating in extracurricular activities.
Students who transfer into Tallassee City Schools and are participants in these activities will be entered into the pool upon admission. These students are subject to baseline testing.
- Test Day Check-Outs, Check-Ins, or Absences
A student who is subject to random testing and is absent on the day of the random drug screening will not be penalized in any way should his/her name be on the random list for testing that day; however, his/her name will be included in the next screening.
A student who is subject to testing and is absent when the random drug screening process begins but checks in before the process is complete will be subject to a drug test at the time of check-in should his/her name be on the list of randomly generated names for that day.
A student who possesses a check-out note that was generated by his/her first period teacher in conjunction with a note from a parent or guardian and that specifies a time and date when a student should be permitted to check out will be permitted to check out at the pre-determined time. Should his/her name be on the randomly generated list for testing on that day, he/she will not be penalized; however, his/her name will be included in the next screening.
A student who wishes to call his/her parent to come and check him/her out after the drug testing agency has come on campus will be penalized should his/her name be on the randomly generated list of students to be tested. Leaving campus without submitting to testing will be seen as a refusal to test, and the penalties will be the same as those penalties for a student who refuses to test.
- Rehabilitation and Other Such Drug Counseling Services
All students who participate in extracurricular activities who undergo a counseling or rehabilitation program or who are suspended under the rules of the Code of Conduct for abuse of substances covered under this policy will be subject to unannounced testing for at least a twelve-month period. (This differs from the counseling a student receives when he/she tests positive. This portion of the policy refers to a student who has not tested positive under the guidelines of this policy but is seeking drug counseling, being served in a rehabilitation facility, or is being/has been punished for a violation of the Code of Conduct that involved a substance covered under this policy.)
- General Guidelines
The Board and its lab shall rely, when practical, on the guidance of the federal Department of Transportation Workplace Drug Testing Programs, 49 C.F.R. Parts 40.1 through 40.39, and on the further guidance of the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act provided in 49 C.F.R. Parts 382, 391, 392, and 395.
- Substances Tested For
The Board will maintain a list of substances for which students may be screened. That list is subject to review and change without advance notice. This list may include, but not be limited to the following: alcohol, ecstasy (MDMA), marijuana, amphetamines, cannabinoids (marijuana and its derivatives), cocaine, opiates, anabolic steroids, tobacco, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, cocaine metabolites, LSD, marijuana metabolites, methadone, methaqualone, nicotine, phencyclidine, propoxyphene, inhalants, ketamine, gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), gamma-butyrolactone (GBL), and rohypnol.
Any illegal or illicit drug may be included on the list, and any student who is included in the screening pool is subject to being tested for all or any combination of drugs on the screening profile without advance notice.
- Testing Procedures
The Board reserves the right to utilize blood, hair, breath, saliva, or urinalysis testing procedures. Urinalysis will be utilized in random
testing. All testing will be done using methods and technologies generally accepted as reliable by the scientific community.
- Collection Site
The Board will designate collection sites where individuals may provide specimens. Such designation will be determined by the Drug Testing Coordinator, subject to the review and approval of the Superintendent and the Board.
- Collection Procedure
The Board and the approved laboratory are responsible for developing and maintaining a documented procedure for collecting, shipping and accessing specimens. A tamper-proof sealing system, identifying numbers, labels, and sealed shipping containers will be used for specimen transportation.
The Board and the laboratory will utilize a standard Urine Custody and Control Form for all testing. The company and the laboratory will utilize a standard Breath Alcohol Testing Form for all student alcohol testing.
Any student governed by this policy will be required to complete a student Consent Form.
- Evaluations and Return of Results to the School Board
The testing agency will transmit by fax, mail, or computer, but not orally, the results of all tests to the Board's Medical Review Officer (MRO) who will be responsible for reviewing the test results. Prior to making a final decision and prior to contacting the Board's Drug Testing Coordinator (DTC), the MRO will notify the parent or guardian of a positive result and give the individual the opportunity to discuss the result.
The parent/guardian or student will be given an opportunity to submit a valid prescription that may have produced such a positive result. (A valid prescription is defined in Item C.) After final review, the MRO will, promptly and in a confidential manner (such as a sealed, tamper-proof envelope) transmit to the DTC the name of any student who tests positive. The report shall be opened by a committee of not less than three people (the DTC and two people designated by the Board), who will verify its contents.
After being informed of a positive test result, the DTC will schedule a conference between the student and his/her parents or guardians to discuss the test result and the consequences. If the parent/guardian refuses or delays the conference, penalties shall be imposed without such a conference.
- Request for Re-test
A student who participates in extracurricular activities may, together with his/her parents, request a re-test of the split specimen collected on the original testing date. (This request must be made within 72 hours of notification of the final test results. Written requests must be submitted to the DTC.) The parent/guardian will be required to pay the costs associated with the re-test in advance, but he/she will be reimbursed if the result of the re-test is negative.
- Release of Test Results
All information, interviews, reports, statements, memoranda, and test results, whether written or otherwise, received by the Board through its drug, alcohol, and tobacco testing program are confidential communications and will be strictly confidential and not disclosed, except when compelled by legal process, or as directed by the specific, written consent of the parent/guardian authorizing release of the information to an identified person. Information, including testing positive, will not be released to criminal or juvenile authorities unless the Board is compelled to do so under valid state or federal laws.
All extracurricular students will be required to execute a Policy Consent/Release Form permitting the Board or its designee to release test results and related information to the school officials, who need to know such as Board, Superintendent, School Principal, the coach or sponsor of the activity or activities from which the student is suspended, and the counselor or counseling agency responsible for mandated counseling. Refusal to execute a form will result in release from the activity as has been indicated in the Policy heretofore.
The DTC will inform parents/guardians of a positive test result as is outlined in Item D.9. above.
The MRO will retain the individual test results for five (5) years.
- Reasonable Suspicion
When there are observable circumstances which provide reasonable suspicion to believe a student who participates in extracurricular activities has used tobacco, alcohol, and/or other drugs, that student may be required to submit to drug testing at a Board approved laboratory. Determination that reasonable suspicion exists must be based on specific, contemporaneous, articulable observations concerning the appearance, behavior, speech or body odors of the student.
The school official requiring testing shall complete and sign written documents explaining the circumstances and evidence upon which he/she relied within 24 hours of the testing, or before the results of the test are released, whichever is earlier.
VI. NOTICE REQUIREMENTS
The basic provisions of this policy and/or any modifications of this policy shall be made available to students by school officials in a timely manner. In addition, certified employees shall, at the beginning of the school year, create scheduled discussions of the Policy and be ready to inform student participants and parents/guardians with the specific provisions of the Policy. The discussions shall include but not be limited to the following topics: purposes of the policy, random sampling procedures, sample collection procedures, reporting procedures, and confidentiality requirements.
TALLASSEE CITY SCHOOLS
BOARD OF EDUCATION
POLICY CONSENT/RELEASE FORM
ATHLETICS AND EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
We have read the Board's Tobacco, Alcohol, and Drug Policy and agree to abide by such policy. We agree that the below signed student will submit to tobacco, alcohol, and drug tests at any time as a result of his/her initial or continued participation in extracurricular activities. We authorize any laboratory or medical provider to release test results to the Tallassee City School Board or its designee and its Medical Review Officer (MRO). We authorize the Medical Review Officer to release final test results to the student, parent/guardian, and DTC. We authorize the DTC to release information to school officials who have the need to know such as the Board, Superintendent, school principal, the coach or sponsor of the activity or activities from which the student is suspended, and the counselor or counseling agency responsible for mandated counseling.
We also expressly authorize the DTC or MRO to release any test-related information, including confirmed positive results, in accordance with the FERPA policy.
(A) As directed by the parent or guardian's specific, written consent authorizing release of the information to an identified person.
(B) To the parent or guardian's decision-maker in a lawsuit, grievance, or other proceeding initiated by or on behalf of the student-participant.
We understand that this agreement in no way limits the below-named student's right to terminate athletic or extracurricular activity participation or to be terminated from such activity participation by the Coach or Sponsor.
REFUSAL TO SUBMIT TO THIS POLICY WILL DISQUALIFY THE STUDENT FROM ATHLETIC OR EXTRACURRICULAR PARTICIPATION.
___________________________________ ______________
Athletic or Extracurricular Student Date
____________________________________
Student ID Number (Social Security Number)
________________________________ ______________
Parent or Legal Guardian Date
TALLASSEE CITY SCHOOLS' DRUG POLICY APPENDIX OF PENALTIES
APPENDIX A
School and Activity | Approx Season Dates | Number of Games/ Performances Activities in Regular Season | Occurrence 1 Penalty 25% | Occurrence 2 Penalty 50% | |
THS Football | Aug-Dec | 10 | 3 games | 5 games | |
THS Volleyball | Aug-Nov | 15 | 4 playing dates | 8 playing dates | |
THS Swimming | Aug-Nov | 8 | 2 playing dates | 4 playing dates | |
THS Wrestling | Nov-Feb | 14 | 4 playing dates | 7 playing dates | |
THS Boys Basketball | Oct-Mar | 20 | 6 playing dates | 10 playing dates | |
THS Girls Basketball | Oct-Mar | 20 | 6 playing dates | 10 playing dates | |
THS FB Cheerleading | Aug-Mar | 10 | 3 playing dates | 5 playing dates | |
THS BB Cheerleading | Aug-Mar | 20 | 6 playing dates | 10 playing dates | |
THS WR Cheerleading | Aug-Mar | 14 | 4 playing dates | 7 playing dates | |
THS Golf | Mar-May | 14 | 4 playing dates | 7 playing dates | |
THS Track | Mar-May | 10 | 3 playing dates | 5 playing dates | |
THS Baseball | Feb-May | 20 | 6 playing dates | 10 playing dates | |
THS Softball | Feb-May | 20 | 6 playing dates | 10 playing dates | |
THS Band | Aug-May | Fall 20 | 3 perform dates | 6 perform dates | |
THS Band | Aug-May | Spring 6 | 2 perform dates | 2 perform dates | |
THS Girls Chorus | Aug-May | Fall 10 | 2 perform dates | 2 perform dates | |
THS Girls Chorus | Aug-May | Spring 3 | 2 perform dates | 2 perform dates | |
| First Priority | Aug-May | | 4 week suspension | 6 week suspension |
| | | | | | | | | | | |
School and Activity | Approx Season Dates | Number of Games/ Performances Activities in Regular Season | Occurrence 1 Penalty 25% | Occurrence 2 Penalty 50% |
THS Concert Chorus | Aug-May | Fall 3 | 1 perform date | 1 perform date |
THS Concert Chorus | Aug-May | Spring 3 | 1 perform date | 1 perform date |
THS Key Club | Aug-May | | 4 week suspension | 6 week suspension |
THS National Honor Society | Aug-May | | 4 week suspension | 6 week suspension |
THS FBLA | Aug-May | | 4 week suspension | 6 week suspension |
THS FFA | Aug-May | | 4 week suspension | 6 week suspension |
THS FCCLA | Aug-May | | 4 week suspension | 6 week suspension |
THS Scholar's Bowl | Aug-May | | 4 week suspension | 6 week suspension |
SMS Football | Aug-Nov | 8 | 2 playing dates | 4 playing dates |
SMS Volleyball | Aug-Oct | 8 | 2 playing dates | 4 playing dates |
SMS Boys Basketball | Oct-Feb | 16 | 5 playing dates | 10 playing dates |
Student Council | | | 4 weeks suspension | 6 week suspension |
SMS Girls Basketball | Oct-Feb | 16 | 5 playing dates | 10 playing dates |
SMS Cheerleading | Aug-Feb | Fall 3 | 1 playing date | 2 playing date |
SMS Cheerleading | Aug-Feb | Winter 16 | 5 playing dates | 5 playing dates |
SMS Band | Aug-May | | 3 week suspension | 6 week suspension |
SMS Chorus | Aug-May | | 3 week suspension | 6 week suspension |
Spanish Club | | | 4 week suspension | 6 week suspension |
Any new extracurricular activity will be added to this list | | | | |
Note:
In sports where there is all-day tournament play or double-headers or all-day meets (any situation where more than one game or event occurs on a calendar day) that day will count as one play date using the penalties prescribed above.
A student's suspension will affect whatever activities he/she belongs to that is currently in season AS LONG AS that student DOES BELONG to one or more activities.
If the student does not belong to ANY activities that are in season at the time of the positive test, that student's penalty will be delayed until the beginning of an extracurricular season, possibly into the next school year. (Counseling and re-testing, however, will begin immediately.)
If a student belongs to more than one activity at the time of his/her positive test result, that student will be suspended from all of those activities, as the above-posted penalties require.
If a student belongs to an activity and is serving a suspension from that activity and the season ends before he/she has served his/her entire sentence, the remainder of the sentence may roll over into the next sport or activity in which the student participates in the school year.
If a student belongs to a sport or activity and is serving a suspension from that sport or activity and the season ends before he/she has served his/her entire sentence and the student does not belong to any other sports or activities through which the penalty can roll over, that student will serve the remaining percentage of his/her penalty in the first in-season activity in the next school year to which he or she belongs.
Some activities will require a six-week suspension from the date of notification. A six-week suspension means that a student participating in this activity will not be able to attend meetings or participate in any other activities of this organization whether those activities occur before, during, or after school.
Exception: The student will be expected to attend class if the activity coincides with a class, and he/she will be expected to participate in the activities of the class for a grade just as any other student would be expected to do. If the activity from which the student is suspended issues grades as the result of a performance, it is the responsibility of the student to work with the teacher and make other arrangements for the grade. (Example: Chorus or band concert where a grade is issued for participation in the performance.)
The body of the policy makes reference to the regular season when prescribing the term of penalties. The number of games in the regular season is the number used to derive the penalty number. However, if a season extends to include tournament play and a student has not completed his/her penalty, tournament or other such games or play dates shall be used as penalty games or play dates.
SOURCE: Board of Education, Tallassee, Alabama
DATE: June 2003;
AMENDED: October 11, 2004
AMENDMENT:
Change the penalty for the first positive test of nicotine to be 10% suspension for the second offense to be 20%, the third to be 25% and the fourth offense to be one year. With this change the student would still receive counseling and treatment and must test negative prior to participating in an extracurricular activity. The penalty would be separate from any other drugs for which the student may have tested positive.
No Child Left Behind Act of 2001-Parents' Right-to-Know
In compliance with the federal law, it is our responsibility at the beginning of each school year to notify parents of each student attending any school receiving funds under this part (Title I, Part A) that the parents may request, and the agency will provide the parents on request (and in a timely manner), information regarding the professional qualifications of the student's classroom teachers, including, at a minimum, the following:
(1) Whether the teacher has met State qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction.
(2) Whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which State qualification or licensing criteria have been waived.
(3) The baccalaureate degree major of the teacher and any other graduate certification or degree held by the teacher, and the field of discipline of the certification or degree.
(4) Whether the child is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications.
Additional information:
A school that receives funds under this part shall provide to each individual parent:
(1) Information on the level of achievement of the parent's child in each of the State academic assessments as required under this part; and
(2) Timely notice that the parent's child has been assigned, or has been taught for four or more consecutive weeks by, a teacher who is not highly qualified.
If you have questions or need further assistance, or if you wish to receive the above mentioned information, parents may contact Margaret Miller at the Board of Education Office at (334) 283-6864.
Dear Parent/Guardian:
Tallassee City Schools has a tradition of positive education experiences for its students. This is evidenced in our Stanford Achievement Scores and DIBELS Scores. Tallassee City students' achievement scores are in the middle to above range when compared to scores from Tallapoosa County and Elmore County.
In the past two years, there have been some challenges related to student achievement in Reading and Math. While the school met goals in 13 areas, it did not achieve adequate yearly progress (AYP) in Reading and Math for minority students and students who receive free/reduced lunches. According to our state's accountability plan, aligned with the No Child Left Behind Act of 200l, Tallassee City Schools has been identified for school improvement.
In light of this identification, the school will be taking the following steps to improve its status. Faculty and staff will work to strengthen classroom strategies related to raising student achievement and will introduce strong strategies for parental involvement in the school improvement process.
We encourage you to become involved in helping your child to be successful in school. Examples of how you may be more involved include asking about homework assignments, reading to your child every day, attending back-to-school nights to meet teachers, and volunteering when possible.
As a Title I School Improvement School, Tallassee City Schools is required to offer Supplemental Educational Services (SES), free tutoring to all students in the school. The purpose of this tutoring service is to help students increase their academic achievement in reading, language arts, and/or mathematics. Tutoring sessions will be provided after school and will be in addition to the instruction that the student receives during the school day.
All Tallassee City Schools students are eligible to receive supplemental services, but if the demand for services exceeds available funds, priority will be given to the lowest-achieving students.
Parents of eligible students will be invited to an SES Provider Fair to be held at Tallassee City Schools in the cafeteria on December 15 from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. At that time, an overview of the SES tutoring program will be presented and parents will have opportunities to select from a number of SES providers who are able to tutor students in our area. If parents of eligible students are unable to attend the SES Provider Fair, they may also select a tutoring program.
SES providers for our area have agreed to provide services that are in line with the instructional program of the school district and state. They have also agreed to provide parents and the eligible student's teacher(s) up-to-date information on his/her progress in the program.
Parents will be asked to cooperate with the providers and the school in the development of learning goals for each student and to encourage the child to attend every scheduled tutoring session. Should parents request assistance in determining the right SES provider, the school will be happy to assist in the selection of an SES provider.
EARLY WARNING TRUANCY PREVENTION PROGRAM
Dear Parents/Guardians:
The Tallassee City Board of Education acknowledges the importance of consistent attendance. Students must attend school regularly to achieve at the pace of their classmates. Schools, especially high schools, have a tremendous problem with drop-outs. The major causes of these drop-outs are poor attendance, truancy, and students repeating one or more grades. Today's society demands that our children be educated for the high technology of the 21st century world of work.
The Alabama compulsory attendance laws require children between the ages of 7-16 to attend school. The laws also state that parents or guardians having control over school-age children are responsible for the child's regular attendance and proper conduct. Parents and/or guardians must provide to the child's teacher and/or attendance officer an explanation of each absence.
We recognize the primary responsibility for assuring children's regular attendance at school belongs to the parents/guardians. Also teachers, administrators, and the Juvenile Court have the responsibility of monitoring the student's attendance and that Alabama Attendance laws are followed.
In order to maintain an attendance level which allows students to benefit from the offerings of the schools, the EARLY WARNING TRUANCY PREVENTION PROGRAM implemented in the Tallassee City Schools since 1989-90 school years will remain in effect. A few changes have been included. The guidelines regarding school attendance are listed below:
TRUANCY DEFINITION
A parent, guardian, or other person having charge of any child officially enrolled in Alabama public schools (K-12) shall explain in writing the cause of any and every absence of the child no later than three (3) school days following return to school. A failure to furnish such explanation shall be evidence of the child being truant each day he is absent. The child shall also be deemed truant for any absence determined by the principal to be unexcused based upon the State Department of Education's current School Attendance Manual. Seven (7) unexcused absences within a school year constitute a student being truant for the purpose of filing a petition with the Court. The Interagency Committee on Youth Truancy Task Force recommendations known as the Early Truancy Prevention Program timeline for reporting truancy shall define the truancy status of any student as follows.
1. FIRST TRUANCY/UNEXCUSED ABSENCE (WARNING)
a. Parent/guardian shall be notified by the school principal or his/her designee that the student was truant and the date of the truancy.
b. Parent/guardian shall also be provided with a copy of Alabama's compulsory school attendance laws and advised of the penalties that can be applied and the procedures that shall be followed in the event other unexcused absences occur.
2. NO EARLIER THAN THE FIFTH UNEXCUSED ABSENCE (CONFERENCE)
a. The parent, guardian, or person having control of the child shall (1) attend a conference with the attendance officer and the principal or his/her designee and/or (2) participate in the early warning program provided by the juvenile court.
b. Attendance at one of these conferences shall be mandatory except where prior arrangements have been made or an emergency exists.
c. Failure to appear at the school conference and/or appear at the early warning program shall result in the filing of a complaint/petition against the parent under the Code of Alabama(1975) , §16-28-12(c) (failure to cooperate), or a truancy against the child, whichever is appropriate.
3. NO EARLIER THAN SEVENTH UNEXCUSED ABSENCE, BUT WITHIN
TEN (10) SCHOOL DAYS (COURT)
File complaint/petition against the child and/or parent/guardian, if appropriate .
4. CHILD UNDER PROBATION
a. The school attendance officer should be notified by the juvenile probation officer of all children in the school system under probation supervision by the juvenile court as consistent with state statute, Code of Alabama (1975), §12-15-100 and 105.
b. Where a child under probation is truant, the school attendance officer should immediately notify the juvenile probation officer.
Underlined information contains recommendations from the State Superintendent of Education Advisory Committee; excerpted from recommended Policies and Procedures for Court/School Truancy Prevention Programs.
EXCUSED ABSENSES
B] The following procedures will be used for Excused Absences:
1] On the fifth (5th) excused absence, the home room teacher (each school campus) will send a letter home to parents/guardians.
2] On the tenth (10th) excused absence, the Attendance Supervisor will contact parents/guardians by phone and/or letter.
3] On the twelfth (12th) excused absence, the Attendance Supervisor will set up a meeting with parents/guardians and student (if Attendance Supervisor deems necessary) at the Tallassee City Board of Education.
4] On the fifteenth (15th) excused absence, the Attendance Supervisor will set up a meeting with Juvenile Court (compulsory school age 7-16) or meeting at the Tallassee City Schools Board office with others to discuss possible withdrawal procedures.
NOTE:
The Attendance Supervisor will use his/her discretion in reporting to Juvenile Court students who are absent and can provide a signed excuse from appropriate medical personnel.
PARENTS PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING
INFORMATION CAREFULLY
The Juvenile Court System and the Tallassee City Board of Education realize this letter will not be necessary for all parents. Most parents/guardians make a great sacrifice to see that their child is in school every day and conduct themselves properly, but we have the responsibility to make every effort to protect all children and enforce the law. Therefore we feel we must share the following legislation with all parents/guardians to have an effective truancy prevention program.
ALABAMA'S COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE LAWS
Section 16-28-3 of the Code of Alabama, 1975, provides in part that:
"Every child between the ages of seven and sixteen years shall be required to attend public, private, or church school, or be instructed by a competent private tutor for the entire length of the school term in every scholastic year..."
Section 16-28-12 of the Code of Alabama, 1975, requires that:
"Any parent/guardian who enrolls a student in school be responsible for the students' regular attendance and proper conduct. Also, parent/guardian who fails to compel each child to regularly attend and to properly conduct himself as a pupil, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be fined not more than $100.00 and may also be sentenced to hard labor for the county for not more than 90 days.
If you have any questions with this policy, please feel free to contact Woody Weaver at the Tallassee City Board of Education 283-6864.
I have received a copy of the Tallassee City Schools Early Warning Truancy Prevention Program.
___________________________ ____________________________
STUDENT HOMEROOM
___________________________ ____________________________
PARENT/GUARDIAN SCHOOL
________________________
DATE
PLEASE RETURN THIS FORM TO YOUR HOME ROOM TEACHER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
The Family Educational and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age ("eligible students") certain rights with respect to the student's education records. These rights are:
•(1) The right to inspect and review the student's educational records within 45 days of the day the School receives a request for access.
Parents or eligible students should submit to the School principal (or appropriate school official) a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The School official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
•(2) The right to request the amendment of student's education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of the student's privacy rights under FERPA.
Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the School to amend a record should write the School principal (or appropriate school official), clearly identify the part of the record they want changed and specify why it should be changed. If the School decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent of eligible student, the School will notify the parent of eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.
Free and Reduced Lunch
Your children may qualify for free or reduced price meals if your household income falls within the limits on this chart. Applications for Free & Reduced Priced Meals are sent home with student at the beginning of the school year and are available at each school.
FEDERAL INCOME CHART For School Year _2007-2008___ |
Household size | Yearly | Monthly | Weekly |
1 | 18,889 | 1575 | 364 |
2 | 25,327 | 2111 | 488 |
3 | 31,765 | 2648 | 611 |
4 | 38,203 | 3184 | 735 |
5 | 44,641 | 3721 | 859 |
6 | 51,079 | 4257 | 983 |
7 | 57,517 | 4794 | 1107 |
8 | 63,955 | 5330 | 1230 |
Each additional person: | 6,438 | 537 | 124 |
Privacy Act Statement
The Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act requires the information on this application. You do not have to give the information, but if you do not, we cannot approve your child for free or reduced price meals. You must include the social security number of the adult household member who signs the application. The social security number is not required when you apply on behalf of a foster child or you list a Food Stamp Program, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Program or Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) case number or other FDPIR identifier for your child or when you indicate that the adult household member signing the application does not have a social security number. We will use your information to determine if your child is eligible for free or reduced price meals, and for administration and enforcement of the lunch and breakfast programs. We MAY share your eligibility information with education, health, and nutrition programs to help them evaluate, fund, or determine benefits for their programs, auditors for program reviews, and law enforcement officials to help them look into violations of program rules.
Non-discrimination Statement: This explains what to do if you believe you have been treated unfairly. In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington DC 20250-9410 or call 202-720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
CHILD FIND NOTICE
The Tallassee City School System is launching its annual campaign to assist children - birth to age 21 - who have disabilities and may need special services. The campaign urges parents, service providers and concerned citizens to contact Child Find, a program to locate, identify and evaluate children with disabilities or children who are believed to have disabilities.
The Tallassee City School System wishes to notify you of the availability of special education services in our public schools. If you have questions regarding our programs, or if you wish to refer a student, please contact Jan Williamson at the Tallassee City Board of Education office at (334) 283-5675. Please have the following information available when you call:
1) Student's name
2) Age / Birth date
3) Address
4) Grade and current school
5) Suspected disability
After this initial contact, we will schedule a meeting to discuss possible services.
Building Based Student Support Team
Each school in the Tallassee City School System has a school-based team composed of teachers and administrators who provide assistance for students who exhibit a chronic pattern of failure. To receive further information on how to access the services provided by the Building Based Support Team contact a counselor or the principal at the school the student attends.
TECHNOLOGY
Tallassee City Network, the network of computers for Tallassee City Schools, puts enormous power at the fingertips of all members of the Tallassee City Schools community - students, faculty, and staff. As such, it also places a responsibility on all users of the network. The purpose of this document is to spell out some of the ethical issues, and describe how Tallassee City Schools rules and standards apply to Tallassee City users. Since we live in a community of computer users we have simple rules by which we make it easier for all of us to get along with each other in sharing our computers. You must agree to abide by these rules or you may not use the Tallassee City network.
10 Requirements of Acceptable Computer Use
•1. All files and programs on the computer belong to someone. You may not erase, rename, or make unusable anyone's files or programs.
•2. You may not authorize anyone else to use your name or files for any reason (except with the approval of a faculty or staff member). You are responsible for all uses of your accounts.
•3. You may not use the Tallassee City system or any Tallassee City Schools computers or accounts for any purposes other than legitimate learning purposes. You must also not use your computer or accounts for unlawful purposes, such as the illegal copying and installation of software.
•4. You may not attempt to discover another user's password, either at Tallassee City Schools locally or at a remote location.
•5. You may not copy, change, or transfer any software provided by Tallassee City Schools without authorized permission from the Tallassee City Administrator.
•6. You may not illegally copy the copyrighted software provided by Tallassee City Schools. The use of illegally copied software is considered a criminal offense and subject to criminal prosecution by the Software Publishers of America or law enforcement authorities.
•7. You may not intentionally, write, produce, generate, copy, propagate, or attempt to introduce any computer code or program designed to self replicate, damage, or otherwise hinder the performance of any computer, file system, or software. Such software or programs are commonly called computer viruses, bugs, worms, or similar name.
•8. You may not deliberately use the Tallassee City network or its computers to annoy others. For example, sending or making accessible any obscene, abusive, or threatening messages is not permitted.
•9. You may not intentionally damage the Tallassee City system; intentionally damage information not belonging to you; intentionally misuse system resources; or allow others to misuse system resources.
•10. You may not tamper with computer systems, printers, or other hardware or other associated equipment except as directed by a teacher, or faculty member.
General Rules Regarding
Computer Use
We expect you to have consideration for the personal and material rights of others. In other words, bullying others, destroying property, and stealing from others are totally unacceptable behaviors. In order to apply this to Tallassee City, we need only remember that information is a form of property, and electronic mail (E-mail) is a form of speech. In this light, it should be clear that electronic mail cannot be used to harass others. It should also be obvious that obtaining a password or rights of another's directory or E-mail on the network is a form of theft just as real as using a stolen key to enter someone's room. Taking advantage of a student who inadvertently leaves a computer without logging out is no different from entering an unlocked room and stealing, reading a personal letter, or destroying their property.
The rules of conduct concerning the use of electronic mail require some special attention. Tallassee City Schools treats electronic mail similar to ordinary paper mail. We respect the entire Tallassee City Schools community to respect the privacy of E-mail messages - both for students and faculty. No one will read personal mail unless the recipient gives permission. On the other hand, the recipient of an E-mail message may choose to share it with others. As a matter of manners, one should not, however, share an E-mail message with a wider audience unless the author has agreed. Similarly, the contents of one's files on the network will be considered private. Tallassee City Schools reserves the right to inspect user directories and/or e-mail. "Junk mail" or other nuisance electronic mail should be deleted and not re-sent to other members of the Tallassee City Schools community.
Consequences
The violation of these rules concerning the use of Tallassee City will result in the same disciplinary actions that would result from similar violations here at Tallassee City Schools. In addition, misuse of the Tallassee City network may also result in a loss of network and/or computer privileges.
Clarifications and Specifics of Computer Use
While we believe that this document and the above sections contains all the principles necessary to determine what is appropriate and permissible use of the network, it may be helpful to identify some specific rules to avoid any misunderstanding.
•1. Users must log in using their given login name. They may not use the name of another user unless specifically granted to do so by a faculty member. In general, any attempt to circumvent security provisions (rights, login identification, hardware identification, disk usage, etc.) is considered improper and will be treated as a disciplinary matter. This is true even if there is no malicious intent.
•2. Users may not try to obtain additional rights beyond those granted by default. This includes access to subdirectories, etc.
•3. For various reasons, it may be necessary to grant users write access to various locations on the server. These are to be used for the intended purpose only. Users may not place data or programs in that directory, even temporarily. The personal or "home" directory for each student and faculty member has been established so that each user of Tallassee City may have an appropriate place to store his or her data and files.
•4. No hardware is to be connected to the network unless it is obtained through the school or cleared with the Tallassee City administrator. No software is to be installed on the Tallassee City system without authorization by the Tallassee City administrator.
These rules are intended to make the network more reliable and consistent for the 2,000+ users who depend upon it daily. They are also intended to minimize the burden of administrating the network, so that more time can be spent enhancing the services. If there are genuine needs that cannot be met by following these rules, please let us know. We pledge to make every effort to accommodate legitimate needs (including experimentation). We look forward to enhancing the learning environment at Tallassee City Schools High School by the effective and appropriate use of these technologies.
Guidelines for Internet
Tallassee City Schools students and faculty will be granted full or supervised access to the Internet, including E-mail and the ability to access computers at other locations. As a new right, this brings new responsibilities and risks. When using the Internet through the Tallassee City connection, you are a representative of Tallassee City Schools. In that role, you must comport yourself in a way that is not hurtful to others or their property. In short, all of the restrictions described above, and the Tallassee City Network also apply to the use of computers and E-mail across the Internet. Violations of these rules may result in suspension of network privileges or other disciplinary actions as outlined by the Tallassee City Schools Code of Conduct.
There are risks involved in on-line access of the Internet as well. Among the millions of Internet users, just as among the millions who live in a city, there are people who are dangerous. We require that all Internet users not give out personal information to other users on bulletin boards, chat boards, or other systems, just as you would not give your address to a stranger.
In the short time that Tallassee City Schools has had access to the Internet, we have already received great benefits. Students and faculty are using the resources well, are meeting people with similar interests from around the globe, and are advancing their own education. These guidelines are intended to assist in maintaining and improving on this record.
School Web Page Group Picture
The Tallassee City Board of Education has established guidelines for appropriate use of school web pages. One important guideline is that no individual pictures of students are allowed, in order to protect the identity of your child. Group pictures are acceptable, but students are not to be personally identified in any way. This will be done only with parent permission. To allow your child to be in group pictures displayed on your school web site, you must complete and return the Tallassee City Technology Agreement. If you have any questions you can either call your school principal or Mr. Jim Davis, system technology coordinator at 283-6864.
Tallassee City Technology Agreement
In order to make sure that all members of the Tallassee City Schools community understand and agree to these rules of conduct, all students are required to sign an agreement each academic school year. No computer use is allowed to any member of the Tallassee City Schools community without agreeing to these basic standards of acceptable computer use.
I, ________________________________ (print name), have read and understand the school rules as they apply to the Tallassee City Network. I will abide by them in letter and spirit, and understand that violating them will result in disciplinary action by the school system, up to and including payment for any and all damages incurred through any irresponsible or prohibited use of Tallassee City Schools' computer systems.
Signed this ________ day of ____________ in the year ________________
__________________________________________________
(Student signature)
Internet Usage (check one)
____ My child may use the Internet while at school according to the rules outlined.
____ My child may NOT use the Internet while at school according to the rules outlined.
E-Mail Usage (check one)
____ My child may use e-mail while at school according to the rules outlined.
____ My child may NOT use e-mail while at school according to the rules outlined.
Student Pictures (check to indicate your approval)
_______I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and agree to the Tallassee City Board of Education Web Page Student Picture Procedures; and I give permission for my child to be included in group pictures only, knowing that my child will not be personally identified in any way. I further understand that this agreement will be kept on file at the school.
__________________________________________________
(Parent/Guardian signature)
Gifted Education
Tallassee City Schools accepts referrals for students seeking placement in the gifted education program. Anyone knowledgeable of the student and his/her abilities may make a referral by calling Jan Williamson at (334)283-5675.
The current state definition of gifted is:
Intellectually gifted children and youth are those who perform at high levels in academic or creative fields when compared with others of their age, experience, or environment. These children and youth require services not ordinarily provided by the regular school program. Children and youth possessing these abilities can be found in all populations, across all economic strata, and in all areas of human endeavor.
For each student referred, information is gathered in the following three areas (1) Aptitude. This is assessed through an individual or group test of intelligence or creativity. (2) Characteristics. A behavior rating scale designed to assess gifted behaviors is completed by a classroom teacher. (3) Performance. At least three indicators of performance at a gifted level such as achievement test scores, grades, products, work samples, and/or portfolios (above grade level work). The scores from the assessments/items used are entered on a matrix where points are assigned according to established criteria. The total number of points earned determines if the student qualifies for gifted services.
