Alternative Education Center Student Handbook

2014-2015

Please access our web site at: http://tinyurl.com/bcpsaec School closings and announcements: (540) 586-1045 *333

Ms. Tracy M. Piestrak, M.Ed. Supervisor of Alternative Education 600 Edmund Street Bedford, VA. 24523 Phone: (540) 586-3517 Fax: (540) 586- 7791

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Table of Contents

Introduction page 3 2014-2015 School Calendar page 4-5

SECTION 1: Overview of Daily Procedures Alternative Education Center Agreement page 6 Student Attendance Expectations page 7-9 Health and Wellness Information page 9-11 Changes in Address and/or Phone Number page 11 Transportation Procedures and Expectations page 11-13 Breakfast and Lunch Information, Procedures, and Expectations page 13-15

SECTION 2: Student Instruction and Transition Guidance page 16 Computer Use & Expectations page 16 Computer Procedures page 16 Work Environment & Classroom Behavior page 17-18 Academic Achievement & Progress page 18-22

SECTION 3: Student Discipline Dress Code page 23-24 Suspension page 24 Care of School Property page 24 Gum Policy page 24 Water & Sport Drink Policy page 24 Hallway Procedures & Expectations page 24-25 Restroom Procedures page 25 Use of AEC Telephones page 25 Use of AEC Printers and Copiers page 25 Displays of Affection page 25 Tobacco Policy page 25-26 Drug/Alcohol Policy page 26 Weapons Policy page 27

SECTION 4: Safety & Security Crisis Management at School page 28-29 School Resource Officer page 29

SECTION 5: Notices Student Records page 30 FERPA page 30-31 Directory Information page 31-32 Protection of Student Rights page 32-33 Grievance Procedure page 33 Lost, Broken, Destroyed, or Unreturned School Property Reimbursement page 33 Work Permits page 33

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Introduction It is my pleasure to welcome you to the Alternative Education Center (AEC) for Bedford County Public Schools. The Alternative Education Center team is dedicated to helping your child achieve success, and we look forward to working with you as your student strives to meet his or her highest potential. Our student handbook is designed to provide each family with important information regarding policies, procedures, and practices. It explains the way we do things at the Alternative Education Center, and it is expected that you will become familiar with the contents of the Student Handbook. Please read this handbook in full and in conjunction with The Code of Student Conduct to gain a complete understanding of the policies, procedures, and expectations while studying at the Alternative Education Center (AEC). Changes and updates may be necessary as state laws, State Board of Education Bylaws, or Bedford County Board of Education Policies and Regulations that are enacted after the publication of this Student Handbook shall supplant statements and references contained within this document. Therefore, we may make changes to our policies and procedures from time to time. The most current version of our Student Handbook is maintained on our web site at http://tinyurl.com/bcpsaec and parents/guardians will be notified of any changes to the Student Handbook in a timely manner. If you have any questions about the contents of this Student Handbook or the information contained on the Alternative Education Center web site, please feel free to contact me. I look forward to working with each of you.

Sincerely, Ms. Tracy Piestrak Supervisor of Alternative Education

Equal Opportunity The School Board Members of the BCPS affirm their commitment to a policy of providing educational opportunities for all pupils commensurate with their needs, abilities, and diverse cultural backgrounds. The Board believes that essential to this policy is a climate in which good human relations can flourish. Such a climate can be fostered only by communication among all the groups in the district: students, parents, certified and non-certified staff, administrators, and community members. The Board endorses the principle of equal educational and employment opportunities for all people regardless of race, color, sex, religion, ancestry, national origin, or age; and directs the Superintendent of Schools to develop systematic programs in operation and the initiation, through affirmative action plans, of new programs or procedures, where appropriate, to insure equality for all employees and students in the district. The Alternative Education Center does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, political affiliation, sex, religion, age, or disability in the admission to, participation in, or employment of programs, services, or activities. The school division’s Director of Human Resources has been designated as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance Coordinator. For information concerning the ADA, call the ADA Coordinator at (540) 586-1045, Ext. 231 or

write to Bedford County Public Schools, P.O. Box 748, 310 S. Bridge Street, Bedford, VA 24523.

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Approved 2014-2015 School Calendar

DATES DESCRIPTION

August

12 Open House: 12:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

14 First Day of School

September

1 Labor Day Holiday: School and office are closed

October

16 End of 1st 9 Weeks

17 Teacher Individual and Team Planning Day (School is closed for students)

24 Report Cards Go Home

November

4 Election Day/Conference Day (School is closed for students) Conferences: 12:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

26 Two Hour Early Dismissal

27-28 Thanksgiving Holiday: School and office are closed

December

16-19 Mid-Term Exams

19 End of 2nd 9 Weeks and End of 1st Semester

22-31 Winter Break: School and office are closed

January

1-4 Winter Break: School and office are closed

12 Report Cards Go Home

19 Martin Luther King Holiday: School and office are closed

March

9* Teacher Individual & Team Planning Day (School is closed for students)

10 End of 3rd 9 Weeks

17 Report Cards Go Home

April

6-10 Spring Break (School is Closed for Students)

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May

19-22 Final Exams

22 Last day of school

23 Graduation

*Dates marked by an asterisk (*) are holidays but will be used to make up days missed due to inclement weather beyond the first 5.

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SECTION 1: OVERVIEW OF PROCEDURES 2014-2015 Alternative Education Center Agreement

1. I understand that my child will attend the Alternative Education Center until he/she is eligible to return to his or her base school.

2. I understand that it is my responsibility to transport my child to and from the Alternative Education Center or to a

designated satellite bus stop.

3. I understand that enrollment and continued participation in the Alternative Education Center Program are conditioned upon the student being of good behavior, fully adhering to the Code of Student Conduct, making appropriate academic progress, and being of regular attendance. Failure to adhere to these conditions shall result in the student no longer being permitted to participate in the Alternative Education Center Program.

4. I agree to a release of information agreement between Bedford County Public Schools and any agency or

organization generating reports on my child, including but not limited to social services, court services, and counseling centers, for the purpose of evaluating and monitoring my child’s progress. I will be notified of any release of information to these agencies.

5. I understand that my child will not be permitted to participate in organized sports sponsored by Bedford City or

Bedford County Recreation Departments on city, county, or school property while attending the Alternative Education Center.

6. I understand that my child will not be allowed to participate in or attend any school activities on Bedford County

School property or that involve a Bedford County School.

7. I understand that my child and any belongings he/she brings to the Alternative Education Center will be searched in order to provide for the safety of the staff and other students.

8. I understand that my child may not bring a backpack to the Alternative Education Center for any reason.

9. I understand that my child must follow the Bedford County dress code. Students attending the Alternative

Education Center are not permitted to wear hoodies or any protruding facial piercings in class.

10. I understand that my child is not allowed to possess a cell phone or other personal electronic devices in the classroom while attending the Alternative Education Center.

11. I understand that the Alternative Education Center staff and Bedford County Public School employees are not

responsible for the theft or loss of any personal items.

12. I understand that lunch will not be ordered if my child arrives to the Alternative Education Center after 10:00 a.m. I further understand that my child may pack a lunch and bring it from home. This lunch is subject to both the search guidelines outlined in #7 above and the drink guidelines outlined in #13 and #14 below.

13. I understand that water or sports drinks are the only beverages that may be brought to the Alternative Education

Center for consumption during lunch or breakfast. I further understand that any commercial drink container my child brings to the Alternative Education Center must remain unopened until breakfast or lunchtime. Any drink container arriving at the Alternative Education Center opened (i.e. the seal on the lid has been broken) will be confiscated and disposed of.

14. I understand that my child may not bring soft drinks, carbonated beverages, or outside snacks to the Alternative

Education Center without a written doctor’s note.

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Student Attendance Expectations It is important that every student attend school on time each day of the school year in an effort to minimize disruption in the student’s education. Students arriving by private transportation should be dropped off no earlier than 8:15 a.m. and no later than 8:45 a.m. Any student arriving after our last bus unloads will be marked tardy. Students and parents are expected to familiarize themselves with the procedures below and to comply with them when it is necessary for a student to be absent or tardy. A reasonable effort will be made to contact a parent/guardian of each absent student every day to obtain an explanation for the student’s absence, and a log will be kept of all call attempts. This contact does not replace the need for the parent/guardian to send a signed written excuse note for each student absence or late arrival, as described below. Please also note that our school day ends at 2:30 p.m. for all students. Students who travel by private transportation are expected to be picked up no earlier than 2:30 p.m. and no later than 2:45 p.m. Absentee Procedures Students who are absent from school must bring a valid excuse note stating the reason for the absence upon returning to school. The excuse note must be signed by a parent, guardian, or doctor and is to be brought to Mrs. Phillips' office upon the student's return from his/her absence. Students who do not bring a written and signed note within five days of returning to school will be marked unexcused. After fifteen (15) excused absences by parental note; a doctor’s note will be required for the absence to be excused. Notification for Absences: When a student is absent from school for an entire day, or for one or more class periods, a parent or guardian must notify the school in a written, faxed, or emailed note within five (5) days of the student’s returning to school. The notification should contain the following: · the date the note is written; · the student’s full name; · the reason(s) for the absence(s); · the date(s) of the absence(s); and · the parent’s or guardian’s signature (acceptable by email if address can be verified by school). Medical documentation is required to verify doctor’s appointments and may be required to verify illnesses. The principal will be the judge of the validity of any excuses. Excused Absences: Students shall not be tardy to school or absent without an acceptable excuse. Absences due the following conditions will be considered excused if documented within five (5) days of the student’s returning to school: 1. Death in the immediate family 2. Subpoenaed court appearance 3. Medical condition (as documented by the parent and/or physician) 4. Religious holiday (if such holiday is verified and the school is notified in advance) 5. Other good and just cause as approved by the principal To be considered as excused in any of the above categories, the parent must be aware of and support the absence. No absence will be considered as excused that is in violation of any court order.

Students Who Arrive Late to School: Students shall attend school for a full day unless otherwise excused. Students arriving late to school must report with a written note from a parent/guardian or a doctor’s visit excuse. Each late arrival will be issued a tardy slip from his/her teacher. A student who arrives late for any reason must have a note on file in the office within five (5) days for the tardy to be counted as excused. The note shall also be required for students who are 18 years old and still living at home. Students who establish a pattern of being tardy to school without an excuse will be subject to disciplinary action.

Early Dismissal Requests and Procedures: Students who need to leave school early must bring a written note signed by a parent or guardian. The student shall present the note to his or her teacher upon arrival at school. Phone calls for early dismissals (i.e. from the parent/guardian) should only be made in the case of an emergency.

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Student Release: Students will be released early from school only at the request of a parent or guardian. Students will be released only to a parent/guardian or a parent’s designee noted on the student’s emergency card. The school secretary may ask to see photo identification from the person picking up the student from the Alternative Education Center. Written documentation for absences due to the early dismissal of a student is also required. Students are expected to follow the daily release procedures established at the time of Alternative Education Center orientation. Students should not have to call parents/guardians or family members to secure transportation home from school. If the parent/guardian finds they are in need of alternative transportation for their child, the school office shall be notified of the change in transportation prior to 2:00 p.m. It is the sole responsibility of the parent/guardian to secure that transportation for the student and notify the AEC office in a timely manner. The school secretary may ask to see photo identification from any person picking up the student from the Alternative Education Center. In the case of an emergency, a student will be released to his or her parent or guardian. If the parent or guardian cannot pick up the student, the student may be released to a person the parent or guardian has designated in writing or by phone. The school secretary may ask to see photo identification from the person picking up the student from the Alternative Education Center.

Absences Without Documentation: In instances where students are absent from school and the parent is unaware or cannot provide adequate documentation to support the student’s absences and a reasonable effort to notify the parent has failed, school personnel shall take the actions described below: Day Five: 1. Notify the parent in person, by telephone or by letter 2. Develop a written plan to resolve the student’s non-attendance issues 3. Maintain a copy of the plan in the student’s attendance record and enter the date of the plan into Power School Day Six: 1. Notify the parent directly in person, by telephone, or certified letter 2. Notify the school resource officer to resolve issues related to non-attendance as identified in the plan 3. Sign the Truancy Notification form and provide a copy to the parent 4. Refer the student to Bedford County’s Truancy Prevention Specialist to be reviewed by the Truancy Review Team Day Seven: Notify the school resource officer who shall, with appropriate documentation, (i) file a complaint with the juvenile and domestic relations court alleging the student is a child in need of supervision (CHINSUP) or (ii) institute proceedings against the parent pursuant to §18.2-371 or §22.1-262 of the Code of Virginia. In filing a complaint against the student, the school principal/designee shall provide written documentation of the efforts already undertaken to resolve the pupil’s absence. If the student’s parents have joint physical custody pursuant to § 20-124.2 and the school has notice of the custody arrangement, then both parents shall be notified at their last known addresses. Absences with Documentation: Students who are absent from school more than nine days in a nine weeks or ten days in a semester with documentation may also be referred to an administrator or to the school social worker. Action will be taken by the school if the absences are: 1. Not documented by a licensed physician or other authorized professional; 2. Suspected to be invalid or display a pattern; or 3. Impeding the academic progress of the student. Day Nine or Day Ten in a Semester: 1. Notify the parent in person, by telephone or by letter. 2. Refer to the school nurse to investigate the nature of the medical condition in undocumented medical absences. Day Twelve: 1. Notify the parent directly in person, by telephone or by letter. 2. Schedule a conference with the parent, student, and other appropriate school personnel (e.g. visiting teacher or school resource officer). 3. Develop a written plan to improve attendance.

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4. Sign the Truancy Notification form and give to the parent. Day Fourteen: 1. Refer the student to Bedford County’s Truancy Prevention Specialist to be reviewed by the Truancy Review Team. At any time, an administrator or school social worker may seek immediate compliance with the compulsory school attendance laws. Compulsory School Attendance and Alternative Education Attendance: A student for whom an individual student alternative education plan has been granted and who fails to comply with the conditions of such plan shall be in violation of the compulsory school attendance law, and the division superintendent or attendance officer of the school division in which such student was last enrolled shall seek immediate compliance with the compulsory school attendance law. Compulsory School Attendance as defined by the Code of Virginia, Section 22.1-254 "Every parent/guardian or other person in the Commonwealth having control or charge of any child who will have reached the fifth birthday on or before September 30 of any school year and who has not passed the eighteenth birthday shall, during the period of each year the public schools are in session and for the same number of days and hours per day as the public schools, send such child to a public school or to a private, nondenominational, or parochial school or have such child taught by a tutor of qualifications prescribed by the board of education and approved by the division superintendent or provide for home instruction of such child."

Nonattendance and Denial of Driving License by Court Action: According to § 46.2-323(E) of the Code of Virginia and BCPS Policy JED, if a student who is under 18 years of age has 10 or more unexcused absences from school on consecutive school days, the principal may notify the juvenile and domestic relations court, which may take action to suspend the student’s driver’s license.

Possible Court Action Regarding Truancy and Driver’s License: If a court finds that a child at least 13 years of age has failed to comply with school attendance and meeting requirements as provided in § 22.1-258, the court shall order the denial of the child's driving privileges for a period of not less than 30 days. If such failure to comply involves a child under the age of 16 years and three months, the child's ability to apply for a driver's license shall be delayed for a period of not less than 30 days following the date he reaches the age of 16 and three months. If the court finds a second or subsequent such offense, it may order the denial of a driver's license for a period of one year or until the juvenile reaches the age of 18, whichever is longer, or delay the child's ability to apply for a driver's license for a period of one year following the date he reaches the age of 16 and three months, as may be appropriate. Any child who has a driver's license at the time of the offense or at the time of the court's finding as provided in subsection A1 shall be ordered to surrender his driver's license, which shall be held in the physical custody of the court during any period of license denial (§16.1-278.9, Code of Virginia).

Non-Custodial Parent Rights: The General Assembly added section 22.1-279.4 to the Code of Virginia that specifically allows non-custodial parents to participate in school related activities. The law states that unless there is a court order to the contrary, non-custodial parents cannot be denied the opportunity to participate in school activities such as lunch breaks, parent-teacher conferences, and extracurricular activities. The law states that non-custodial parents should be allowed to participate in any activity that is supported or encouraged by school policy. If there is a court order denying access, it is the responsibility of the custodial parent to provide a copy of that order to the school.

Health and Wellness Information 1. Immunizations: Before entering a public school, every pupil shall furnish a certificate certifying that the pupil has

been immunized against communicable diseases as required by the Code of Virginia, has begun receiving the first series of all such vaccinations, or is exempt as provided elsewhere in BCPS Policy JHCB. Conditional Enrollment: A student may be enrolled for a period of 90 school days contingent upon the student's having

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received at least one dose of each of the required vaccines and the student's possessing a plan, from a physician or local health department, for completing his or her immunization requirements within the ensuing 90 school days; except that a student who has not yet received a second dose of measles (rubella) vaccine must receive such second dose pursuant to the State Board of Health minimum immunizations required for school attendance. Exemptions: 1. When the parent or guardian has an objection on the grounds that the administration of immunizing agents conflicts with his or her religious tenets or practices and provides the principal with a written statement of such objection, unless an emergency or a disease epidemic has been declared by the State Board of Health. 2. When the parent or guardian presents a statement from a physician that states that the physical condition of the child is such that the administration of one or more of the required immunizing agents would be detrimental to the health of the child. Evidence of Immunization: Evidence acceptable for proof of required immunizations must include the month, day, and year each dosage was administered on forms developed by or approved by the State Department of Health. All students for whom dates cannot be provided (month, day, and year) will be referred to the local health department or their private physicians to update their records before entering school.

2. Emergency & Medical: Parents are expected to complete an emergency information card during the first week of

school. Parents are required to keep the information on this card up-to-date. In addition to the emergency information card, the parent/guardian of a child with any chronic health issue is also asked to complete a second form regarding the health issue health issue.

3. Medication Rules & Procedures Prescription Medications: Bedford County Public School personnel may give prescription medication to students only with a physician’s written order and written permission from the student’s parent or guardian (i.e. the completion of the “Authorization To Administer Medication” form). Such medicine must be in the original container and delivered to the Supervisor of Alternative Education or her designee by the parent/guardian of the student immediately upon arrival on school premises.

Non-Prescription Medications: Bedford County Public School personnel may give nonprescription medication to students only with the written permission of the parent or guardian(i.e. the completion of the “Authorization To Administer Medication” form). Such permission shall include the name of the medication, the required dosage of the medication, and the time the medicine is to be given. Such medicine must be in the original container and delivered to the Supervisor of Alternative Education or her designee by the parent/guardian of the student.

Self-Administration of Medication: Is not allowed for any medicine unless it is for epi-pen, inhaler or for diabetes management and the proper paperwork and doctors orders must be on file in the school clinic.

Self-Administration of Asthma Medication: Students with a diagnosis of asthma are permitted to possess and self-administer inhaled asthma medications in accordance with this policy during the school day or while on a school bus. In order for a student to possess and self-administer asthma medication, the following conditions must be met: 1. Written parental consent that the student may self-administer inhaled asthma medications must be on file with the school. 2. Written notice from the student’s primary care provider must be on file with the school, indicating the identity of the student, stating the diagnosis of asthma and approving self-administration of inhaled asthma medications that have been prescribed for the student; specifying the name and dosage of the medication, the frequency in which it is to be administered and the circumstances which may warrant its use; and attesting to the student’s demonstrated ability to safely and effectively self-administer the medication. 3. Information regarding the health condition of the student must be disclosed to school board employees complying with state and federal law governing the disclosure of information contained in student scholastic records. Permission granted to a student to possess and self-administer asthma medications will be effective for a period

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of one school year, and must be renewed annually. However, a student’s right to possess and self- administer inhaled asthma medication may be limited or revoked after appropriate school personnel consult with the student’s parents. Student Medication: Students requiring the use or possible use of medication during the time they are under the supervision of the school must have a written request from the parent or physician on file in the school office. The request shall include the name of the medication, purpose, dosage, how it is to be administered, and other appropriate information.

Medication and related paraphernalia shall be kept and administered under the supervision of the Alternative Education Supervisor or her designee except when the Supervisor of the AEC, under the recommendation of a medical doctor, gives written permission to a student to possess and administer medication to himself/herself.

Records shall be kept of all medication deposited in the school office and approved for student possession and use. The unauthorized possession and use by students of nonprescription drugs or medication during the school day may result in disciplinary actions against the students.

Sharing, borrowing, distributing, manufacturing, or selling any medication is prohibited. Permission to self-administer medication may be revoked if the student violates this policy, and such student may be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the Code of Student Conduct.

4. Student Illness at School: Students who become ill at school should ask their teacher for permission to go to the

clinic. The student may be sent home after Mrs. Phillips or an administrator notifies the student’s parent/guardian. Changes in Personal Information: Any change to the parent/guardian address or phone number should be reported to Mrs. Phillips immediately. In the case of student illness or an emergency, it is imperative that the AEC office maintains current contact information for each parent/guardian.

Transportation Expectations and Procedures: The standards of behavior outlined in the Code of Student Conduct shall apply to students on their way to and from school and while waiting at the bus stop. Students riding Bedford County Public School buses shall follow the additional rules outlined in this section. Riding a school bus is a privilege that may be revoked temporarily or permanently when the general conduct of the student is detrimental to the safety and comfort of others on the bus.

At the Bus Stop When the Bus Arrives

● Be at your bus stops at least ten (10) minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.

● While on the way to the bus stop, exercise safe pedestrian practices (be aware, cautious, and respectful of traffic).

● Wait for your bus in a safe place, clear of traffic, away from the road.

● Ensure your behavior at the bus stop is comparable to behavior expected at school (i.e. no smoking is permitted at the bus stop).

● Respect private property.

● Before boarding the bus, wait until the bus has come to a complete stop (never run alongside a moving bus).

● Be certain that the bus warning lights have been activated.

● Be certain that traffic in all directions has stopped.

● Be sure the bus driver sees you before you board the bus (make sure you can see the bus driver’s eyes).

● When boarding the bus, be aware of and avoid the “danger zone,” the ten (10) foot area immediately surrounding the stopped school bus.

● When crossing a road to board the bus, walk to point ten (10) feet or more in front of the bus and wait for a signal from the bus driver to cross the road.

● Remember to cross only in front of the bus. ● Walk promptly to the front door of the bus (do not

run or jump).

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On the Bus Exiting the Bus

● Remember, the bus driver is in charge of all passengers, has the authority to assign seats, and may make any other arrangements deemed necessary to maintain a safe and orderly environment.

● You are required to obey the directives of the driver.

● Be respectful and courteous to the bus driver and all passengers.

● Talk quietly and politely. ● Use language appropriate to the school setting. ● Keep the bus neat and clean. ● Do not eat or drink while on the bus. ● Stay in your seat facing forward. ● Keep the aisles and exits clear. ● Only bring items onto the bus that can be held in

your lap. ● Do not extend your head, arms, or objects out of

bus windows. ● Do not throw any object out of the bus window. ● Do not spit out of the bus window. ● You are not to tamper with the emergency door or

other bus equipment. ● Do not engage in any behavior on the bus that

might distract the driver or cause a safety hazard. This includes any form of misbehavior, rule violation, loud talking or laughter, or talking to the bus driver while the bus is in motion (except in an emergency).

● Remember that all school rules still apply when you ride the school bus. For example, use or possession of tobacco, alcohol, and drugs is not allowed.

● Remain seated until the bus comes to a complete stop.

● Leave the bus in an orderly manner with students in the front seat leaving first.

● Exit at your assigned bus stop. ● Before exiting the bus, double check that traffic

in all directions has stopped. ● When safe to exit, do so promptly (do not run or

jump). ● If you need to cross the road after leaving the

bus, you must walk to a point ten feet (10) or more in front of the bus and wait for a signal from the driver to cross the road. You should cross only in front of the bus. Remember to cross promptly after double checking that traffic in all directions has stopped (do not run or jump).

● While walking to your home from the bus stop, exercise safe pedestrian practices.

● Go directly home after exiting your bus. Parents/guardians of students in pre-school through the third grade, remember you or your designee must be at the bus stop each afternoon to receive your child. If your designee is not present to receive your child, then the bus driver will bring your child back to school. Should this happen repeatedly, then your child will lose bus transportation services.

Additional Bus Information: Students are under the authority of the School Board from home to school and back home, while waiting at the bus stop, and while riding school - provided transportation. Parents are requested to accompany their young children to and from the bus stop. Each student is required to ride his/her assigned bus and get on and off at his/her designated stop. A student may be allowed to ride a bus other than the assigned bus and/or get on or off at a stop other than the designated stop if the student has written permission from the parent or guardian, approved in advance by the school principal and/or designee. Parents are responsible for the supervision and safety of students from home until they board the bus and from the bus stop to home. Consequences for Violations Related to Bus Transportation: After a student has demonstrated a pattern of disruptive behavior, such as being out of his/her seat or making loud noises, the bus driver will warn the student verbally. A Bedford County School Bus Conduct Report will be filled out by the bus driver when a student violates bus regulations or displays unacceptable conduct. Students may receive bus conduct reports for actions witnessed by the driver or filmed by the video camera.

● Pre-School -5th Grades: Students receiving referrals at these grade levels may be subject to the following guidelines as consequences to their inappropriate behavior as the school administrator sees fit.

● 6th -12th Grades: Students receiving referrals at these levels will be subject to the following guidelines as

consequences to their inappropriate behavior. Any changes to this process will be at the administrator’s discretion.

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Offense/Violations Consequences for violations may include, but may not be limited to, the following:

1st Offense – Step 1 Student conference with Supervisor of Alternative Education or her designee and parent contact.

2nd Offense – Step 2 Student is suspended from the bus ONE DAY and parent contact.

3rd Offense – Step 3

Student is suspended from the bus THREE DAYS – Parent and student must meet with the Supervisor of Alternative Education or her designee before student may ride the bus again.

4th Offense – Step 4

Student is suspended from the bus FIVE DAYS – Parent and student must meet with the Supervisor of Alternative Education or her designee before the student may ride the bus again.

5th Offense – Step 5

Student is suspended from the bus TEN DAYS – Parent and student must meet with the Supervisor of Alternative Education or her designee and the bus driver before the student may ride the bus again. A plan of action will be written.

6th Offense – Step 6

Parent and student meet with the superintendent or his designee before the student may ride the bus again. Student may be suspended from riding the bus for the remainder of the school year.

● Detention, School Service, In-School Suspension, and Out-of-School Suspension may also be used as consequences.

● Some behaviors necessitate immediate suspension and students will be placed at the appropriate step. ● For students with disabilities, administrators should consult special education case managers to ensure

compliance with local, state, and federal guidelines.

Some behaviors necessitate immediate suspension and students will be placed at the appropriate step. Students on any of the above steps who do not have referrals for thirty school days may drop back a step. For students with disabilities, administrators should consult special education case managers to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal guidelines. Video Cameras: Several of the school buses are equipped with video cameras. These tools monitor the passenger area of the bus. The purpose of this equipment is to provide an extra tool to assist the driver in managing student conduct on school buses which is important for passenger safety. Breakfast and Lunch Information, Procedures, and Expectations The menu at the Alternative Education Center changes with each season. The school food-service staff works hard to plan menus that are nutritious and good to eat. Breakfast and lunch are offered at the Alternative Education Center. Please note that lunch orders are taken each morning during the breakfast hour, and breakfast orders are taken during lunch for the next school day. Our breakfast service begins with the arrival of our first bus at approximately 8:45 a.m. and will be served until all students arriving on the last bus arrive (i.e. this is approximately 9:30 a.m.) Once the service to the last bus student is complete, hot breakfast service is over. As defined in the School Attendance Section of the handbook, if your student arrives at school later than 9:30 a.m. he/she will be marked as tardy and hot breakfast service will not be provided.

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Our first lunch service will run from 11:40 a.m. until 12:10 p.m. and our second lunch service will run from 12:10 p.m. until 12:40 p.m. As each new menu becomes available it will be sent home to parents/guardians and posted on our website. The Fall menus are as follows:

BREAKFAST

MONDAY Sausage Biscuit

Juice Milk

TUESDAY Cereal Juice Milk

WEDNESDAY Chicken Biscuit

Juice Milk

THURSDAY Eggo Mini Pancakes

Juice Milk

FRIDAY Steak Biscuit

Juice Milk

LUNCH

MONDAY 1. Cheese Burger 2. French Fries 3. Tossed Salad 4. Fresh Fruit 5. Milk

TUESDAY 1. Chicken Patty on a Whole Grain Bun 2. Pinto Beans 3. Steamed Broccoli 4. Fresh Fruit 5. Milk

WEDNESDAY 1. Turkey & Cheese Sandwhich 2. Baked Chips 3. Fresh Baby Carrots 4. Fresh Fruit 5. Milk

THURSDAY 1. Pizza 2. Steamed Mixed Veggies 3. Fresh Fruit 4. Milk

FRIDAY 1. Chicken Nuggets 2. Roll 3. Vegetable Choice 4. Fresh Fruit 5. Milk

2014-2015 SCHOOL MEAL PRICES ELEMENTARY PRICES:

Paid Breakfast: $1.00 Reduced Breakfast: $0.30 Paid Lunch: $2.35 Reduced Lunch: $0.40

MIDDLE & HIGH SCHOOL PRICES:

Paid Breakfast: $1.00 Reduced Breakfast: $0.30 Paid Lunch: $2.10 Reduced Lunch: $0.40

ADULT PRICES:

Breakfast: $1.30 Lunch: $3.00

**ADDITIONAL MILK PRICE: $0.60 STUDENT CHARGES: If a student has no money on his/her cafeteria account, the student may “charge” his/her meal. The cafeteria staff may offer the student either a peanut butter and jelly sandwich or a deli sandwich. Students may only charge the equivalent of three (3) total meals throughout the course of the school year; these three meals are inclusive of breakfast and lunch (i.e. three total meals, not three breakfasts and three lunches). FREE & REDUCED LUNCH INFORMATION: At the opening of school, every student is given an application form for free/reduced price meals. If the student’s parent/guardian plans to apply for free/reduced meals, they are to complete one application per family, even though all children may bring home an application. Applications are to be brought to the cafeteria manager and will then be sent to Karen Arthur, Supervisor, School Nutrition Program. Parents/Guardians may mail the application form directly to Karen Arthur at P.O. Box 748, Bedford, VA 24523 to determine eligibility. Please direct all questions pertaining to this process to (540) 586-1045, ext. 224. When applications are approved or denied, families are notified in writing, and schools are notified. Meal benefits start promptly for those who are approved. Students approved for free and reduced meals in the previous school year may continue to receive free and reduced meals for the first 30 days of the new school year. At that time, a new application must be submitted for the new school year.

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A LETTER FROM THE BCPS SUPERVISOR OF NUTRITION: Online Meal Payment System Available! MySchoolBucks® is your online payment portal; giving you a quick and easy way to manage and add funds to your student’s meal account. You can review recent purchases along with seeing the current balance, plus receive low balance alerts… all for FREE! You can also add money to your student’s account using Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card, American Express or debit cards for a small service fee of $2.50 per transaction. Many parents have already signed on and are using some of the advanced features of mySchoolBucks. The most popular is the “Set it and forget it” payment option, which automatically adds funds to your student’s meal account. Funds can be added weekly, monthly or when the balance runs low, (simply choose the “Setup a payment schedule” option during the checkout). MySchoolBucks® provides… • Safety. Your child will no longer need to carry cash to school. • Convenience. Make payments* when it’s convenient for you, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! • Control. Set low balance alerts, view account activity, recurring payments & more! • Efficiency. Make payments for all your children in one easy step- even if they attend different schools within the district. • Flexibility. Make payments using VISA, MasterCard, Discover Card, American Express or Debit Card. Enrollment is easy! 1. Go to www.mySchoolBucks.com and register for a free account. A confirmation email will be sent to the email address you provide; click on the link included in the email to activate your account. 2. Activate your account and begin adding your students. You will need their school name and student ID. If you do not know this number you can contact your child’s school or call the school nutrition central office at the number listed below for assistance. 3. Add funds* to your students’ accounts with your Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card, American Express or debit card . You do not have to use the online payment option. You can simply register for the free account to monitor your child’s balance, review purchase history and receive low balance email notifications. *Security is a priority at mySchoolBucks. The system is secure, providing the highest level of protection for your information. A convenience fee of $2.50 per transaction will apply to payments made to your student accounts. You will have the opportunity to review any fees (and cancel, if you choose) before you are charged. Money deposited into lunch accounts can take up to 12 hours to post. If you have any questions, you can email support@myschoolbucks.com or call 1-855-832-5226. Or you may call the Bedford County Public Schools Nutrition Office at 540-586-1045. Thank you, Karen Arthur, School Nutrition Supervisor, Bedford County Public Schools Additional Cafeteria Guidelines:

1. The buying, selling, loaning, or trading of lunches among students is strictly prohibited. 2. During lunch periods, students must remain in the cafeteria unless approved to leave by administration. 3. All students should leave the cafeteria on dismissal and go straight to class. 4. The Bedford County School Board has contracted with Envision Payment Solutions for the electronic collection of

checks returned for insufficient funds. Checks that are sent into the Alternative Education Center cafeteria must contain a valid phone number. Checks written to the cafeteria that are returned for insufficient funds are sent directly to Envision for collection and are no longer handled by the School Nutrition Program.

5. Parents are not to arrange any type of party for students during lunch (e.g. birthday and pizza). 6. Parents are discouraged from checking their child out of school for their lunch period. 7. Food and/or drink shall not be removed from the cafeteria for any reason.

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SECTION 2: STUDENT INSTRUCTION AND TRANSITION Guidance Our guidance counselor’s office is located in the back of room 14. Mrs. Fisher welcomes the opportunity to talk to students and their parents. Parents may request a conference by calling the school at (540) 586-1270. Students may request a conference by signing the appointment pad outside the counselor’s door or by speaking with Mrs. Fisher directly.

“Opt-out” Procedures for Counseling Activities: Unless court ordered, no student is required to participate in any counseling program to which the student’s parent objects. Parents are urged to contact the guidance counselor to review any materials used in the counseling program. Counseling “opt-out” forms are available from Mrs. Fisher. If parents elect for their child not to participate, the forms must be completed and returned to the Alternative Education Center within 30 days of enrolling in the Alternative Education Center. Parents who wish to add to, modify or withdraw an “opt-out” form are to notify the Alternative Education Center in writing of their desire to withdraw the “opt-out” request.

Computer Use & Expectations All use of the Bedford County Public Schools’ Computer System shall be consistent with the School Board’s goal that seeks to prepare our students to be productive and responsible citizens in our community and the world. Bedford County's Computer System promotes instruction in 21st Century skills, research, and communication, and supports opportunities for collaborative work. The BCPS Computer System is maintained for the mutual benefit of all users, and adherence to the following policy is necessary for continued access to the school's technological resources. The use of the Bedford County Public School (BCPS) Computer System is a privilege, not a right, and this policy is designed to establish clear guidelines for all students who have access to the BCPS Computer System. Student use of the Computer System shall be in furtherance of BCPS educational objectives and shall be in accordance with this policy and the Code of Student Conduct. Individual users of the BCPS computer system are responsible for their behavior and are expected to abide by the Acceptable Computer Use Agreement. Users should not expect privacy when using school-owned equipment and facilities. School personnel may review files and equipment to maintain system integrity and ensure that users are using the same responsibly and for school business. Anything produced on school computers can, and shall be, the property of the BCPS. Each student user and the parent/guardian of each student shall sign the Acceptable Computer Use Agreement before using the division’s computer system. Failure to comply with this agreement may result in loss of computer system privileges, disciplinary action, and/or appropriate legal actions. Attempts to disrupt and damage the network are prohibited. Attempts to enter the restricted areas of the network are also prohibited. Restricted areas of the network include areas designated for teacher and administrative use only. Any attempts of this nature will result in disciplinary action and/or legal action. Internet computer services are provided to support students and other users in their communications, research, and instructional endeavors. Any misuse of the Internet for illegal, inappropriate or obscene purposes or any purpose not expressly designated as a class activity is prohibited and will result in discipline measures and/or legal actions.

Computer Procedures All students at the Alternative Education Center will be assigned a computer.The student will only use his/her computer. If the student moves to another location (i.e. ISS or the All-Purpose Room), the student will use the computer assigned to him/her in that location. All computers will be inspected for damage daily and while normal wear and tear is anticipated, students will be charged for any damage that results from intentional defacing, intentional removal of keys, horseplay, or neglect. Students are expected to close all programs at the end of each school day, but the computer is not to be turned off. All students assigned to work on laptops will leave the monitor of the laptop in the upright position. As each laptop is inspected, the monitor will be lowered by the teacher to the closed position. Students assigned to desktop computers will leave the monitor powered on and the teacher will turn the monitor off after the computer has been inspected.

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Students are expected to adhere to the BCPS Acceptable Computer Use Agreement. Therefore, no student may visit a site that is not approved by his/her teacher and choosing to visit unapproved sites will result in disciplinary action that may include suspending student computer privileges.

Work Environment & Classroom Behavior As in other settings of the student's life, students are expected to practice appropriate self-discipline and follow rules at school. For effective results, the educational process must be conducted in an atmosphere conducive to learning, free of disruption and threat to person and property, and supportive of individual rights. At times, however, some students may exhibit behaviors that interfere with effective learning. Any student who displays behavior that affects another student's ability to profit from instruction or that infringes on the rights of others warrants disciplinary action. The intent of the applied disciplinary action is to bring about a positive change in the student's unacceptable behavior. Therefore, the rules and regulations recorded in the district’s policy manual, the BCPS Code of Student Conduct, and the rules specific to the Alternative Education Center, as stated in this Student Handbook, are both important and necessary. It is the responsibility of each student to be familiar with and to abide by these expectations. Pledge of Allegiance: The Pledge of Allegiance, as established in 4 U.S.C. §4, shall be recited daily in each classroom of the Bedford County School Division. The Pledge of Allegiance shall be said in the morning. During the recitation of the Pledge, students shall stand and recite the Pledge while facing the flag with their right hands over their hearts or in an appropriate salute if in uniform. No student shall be compelled to recite the Pledge if he, his parent or legal guardian objects on religious, philosophical, or other grounds to his participating in this exercise. Parents who do not wish their children to participate in the recitation of the Pledge are to have a note on file in the office. Students who are exempt from reciting the pledge shall quietly stand or sit at their desks while others recite the Pledge and shall make no display that disrupts or distracts from those who are reciting the Pledge. Appropriate accommodations shall be made for students who are unable to comply with the procedures described herein due to disability. Moment of Silence: The Bedford County School Board recognizes that a moment of silence before each school day prepares students and staff for their respective work or school days. Therefore, each teacher shall observe a moment of silence at the beginning of the first class of each school day. The teacher responsible for each class shall make sure that each student: (1) remains seated and silent and (2) does not disrupt or distract other students during the moment of silence. The moment may be used for any lawful silent activity, including personal reflection, prayer, and meditation. However, the teacher responsible for each class shall not influence, in any way, students to pray or meditate or not to pray or meditate during the moment of silence. Students and employees are prohibited from praying aloud during the moment of silence.

Please Note: 1. Due Process: All disciplinary procedures shall be handled in accordance with the student’s right to due process of

law, which assures the student that he or she will be given: a. Oral or written notice of the charges brought against him/her. b. An opportunity to hear the evidence the authorities have and an opportunity to present his or her side of

the story. c. Written notice of the action to be taken in cases of suspension or expulsion. d. An opportunity to appeal the disciplinary disposition if any of the first three components of due process

have been violated. 2. Students are expected, at all times, to act in a respectful manner toward all teachers, school officials, and fellow

students. 3. Students who sexually harass others will be disciplined accordingly. Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome

sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature: a. of school personnel by students; b. of students by students; and c. of students by persons other than students.

4. Students are expected to demonstrate respect for all school materials including but not limited to computers, laptops, printers, writing instruments, calculators, notebooks, and classroom furniture.

5. Students may not apply make-up, lotion, cologne, or perfume, or style hair while present at the Alternative Education Center.

6. Students may not leave the building when going to the restroom, nor may they travel upstairs to BSTC in order to visit or get a snack from the vending machines.

7. Students are to remain seated in their assigned seat unless otherwise instructed by the teacher.

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8. Students are to go directly to the cafeteria upon morning arrival and are to remain there until dismissed to class. Upon cafeteria dismissal, all students are to travel quietly down the hall to class.

9. Students are expected to follow the BCPS Dress Code at all times. Slippers, house shoes, lounge pants, and/or pajamas may not be worn to the Alternative Education Center.

10. Students may not use any unauthorized electronic device while in attendance at the Alternative Educational Center.

11. Students may not enter and area within the Alternative Education Center posted as “Employees Only.” 12. Students may not use profanity or engage in any bullying tactics. “Bullying” involves threatening acts or

comments toward others that generate an unwelcome, discomforting feeling in the victim. Students may not engage in cyberbullying. This includes using school technology in order to cyberbully.

13. Students may not leave campus for any reason unless they have been signed out by a parent or an emergency contact and have followed the correct procedures for dismissal.

Academic Achievement & Progress Standards of Learning Requirements: The Virginia Standards of Learning Tests (SOL) are assessments designed to evaluate the extent to which students have learned the content and skills specified by the Virginia Board of Education. These academic standards adopted by the State Board of Education were established to facilitate and ensure rigorous and challenging educational programs in all schools. At the secondary level, the SOL Assessments are administered as end-of- course tests for Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry, World History I, World History II, VA and US History, and English 11 (reading and writing). To earn a high school diploma, students must meet End of Course SOL testing requirements. These requirements vary with the type of diploma. The district’s Program of Studies has a complete listing of requirements. A standard unit of credit is awarded for a course in which the student successfully completes the objectives of the course. A verified unit of credit is awarded for a course in which the student earns a standard unit of credit and achieves a passing score on a corresponding end-of-course SOL test or a substitute assessment approved by the Board of Education. Students Seeking a Standard Diploma: Students must earn 22 standard units of credit and six verified credits. Students are required to earn two verified units of credit in English (one each in reading and writing), one verified unit of credit in mathematics, one verified unit of credit in science, one verified unit of credit in history/social science, and one in the subject of the student’s own choice. Students must successfully complete the Economics and Personal Finance class. Students earning a Standard Diploma must successfully complete two sequential electives. Sequential electives may be in any discipline as long as the courses are not specifically required for graduation. All diplomas require one standard unit of credit in fine arts or Career and Technical Education. Standard Diploma students who complete at least 4 CTE (Career and Technical Education) credits in a CTE field are eligible to receive the Standard Technical Diploma. Beginning with students entering the ninth grade for the first time in 2013-2014, a student must also:

● Earn a board-approved career and technical education credential to graduate with a Standard Diploma; and ● Successfully complete one virtual course, which may be non-credit bearing

Students Seeking an Advanced Studies Diploma: Students must earn 26 standard units of credit and nine verified credits. Students are required to earn two verified units of credit in English (one each in reading and writing), two verified units of credit in mathematics, two verified units of credit in science, two verified units of credit in history/social science, and one verified unit of credit in a subject of the student’s own choice. Students must successfully complete the Economics and Personal Finance class. All diplomas require one standard unit of credit in fine arts or Career and Technical Education. Advanced Studies Diploma students who complete at least 3 CTE (Career and Technical Education) credits in a CTE field are eligible to receive the Advanced Technical Diploma. Beginning with student entering the ninth grade for the first time in 2013-2014, a student must also successfully complete

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one virtual course, which may be non-credit bearing. Students Seeking a Modified Standard Diploma: This diploma is intended for certain students at the secondary level with an identified disability who do not meet the credit requirements for a Standard Diploma. Students must earn 20 units of credit and pass literacy and numeracy competency assessments. The student’s Individual Education Program (IEP) team and the student’s parents determine eligibility and participation, at any point after the student’s 8th grade year. Students must reach the passing cut off score for the 8th grade English (Reading, Literature, and Research) and mathematics Standards of Learning tests to meet the literacy and numeracy requirements. Students may substitute a higher-level Standards of Learning test. Students earning a Modified Standard Diploma must successfully complete two sequential electives in the same manner as required for the Standard Diploma. Sequential electives may be in any discipline as long as the courses are not specifically required for graduation. All diplomas require one standard unit of credit in fine arts or Career and Technical Education. The State Board of Education has developed the Alternative Assessment for students who have traditionally been exempted from state assessment programs. The Alternative Assessment is designed for students who are pursuing a functional curriculum within an Individualized Educational Plan. The special education staff should be contacted for information about this assessment option. Nine Week, Semester, and Final Grades Because the purpose of grading student work is to communicate and foster student achievement, the following practices are called for:

● Formative assessments, including quizzes, checklists, teacher observations, “quick checks,” and other brief assessments, should be administered at least once per week. Collectively, they may be weighted at no more than 40% of an overall grade. Within this category, daily homework that is considered a formative assessment may count no more than 10% of the overall grade. Summative assessments, including tests, projects, writing assignments, and other assessments, will be weighted at least 60% of an overall grade.

● A single test/assignment cannot account for more than 25% of the nine-week grade, and an exam cannot account for more than 10% of the semester grade.

● Teachers are encouraged to use grading practices that limit the impact of “outlier” grades on quarter averages and that recognize student learning over time.

● Teachers should give specific comments about student learning and behavior (if necessary) on report cards. High School (Grades 9-12): 1. All students will be issued an interim at the end of the fourth week of the grading period. Students who are performing below a C will receive a second interim at the end of the seventh week. 2. Nine-week grades for all courses will be figured using a percentage scale.

Letter Grade

Numerical Equivalent

Performance Assessment

A 89.5 – 100 Outstanding

B 79.5 – 89.4 Above Average

C 69.5 – 79.4 Average

D 59.5 – 69.4 Below Average

F Below 59.5 Unacceptable

I Incomplete work

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3. A semester grade will be determined by averaging the two nine-week grades and the exam grade, which may not count for more than 10%. When determining a semester average, any nine-week average below 40 will be converted to a 40. The final course grade will be determined by averaging the two semester grades. Incomplete Grades: Students with excused absences who receive a grade of Incomplete may make up work according to BCPS Policy IKB, Homework. If work is not made up in accordance with BCPS Policy IKB, the individual assignment grade will become a zero. Report Cards and Progress Reports: Report cards are issued four times each year, at nine-week intervals. Report cards will be given to students on the fifth school day following the end of each nine weeks. Final report cards will be mailed to students.

Progress reports will be issued at the end of the fourth week of the grading period. Students who are performing below a C will receive a second progress report at the end of the seventh week. Failing progress reports must be signed by the parent/guardian and returned to the teacher within three days.

Report Cards will be sent home on the following dates: First Nine Weeks (by students).......................................... October 24, 2014 Second Nine Weeks (by students)....................................... January 12, 2015 Third Nine Weeks (by students)..........................................March 17, 2015 Fourth Nine Weeks (by mail)..............................................June 1, 2015 Additional reports are available upon parent request to the school counselor. PowerSchool Parent Portal: Parents may access their student’s grades through Parent Portal. Please contact Ms. Piestrak if your account has not been set up. Edgenuity Parent Portal: Parents may access their student’s progress in Edgenuity through this separate Parent Portal. Please contact Ms. Piestrak if your account needs to be set up. Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA): For the purpose of determining a student’s cumulative grade point average (GPA), each final course grade will be assigned the corresponding point value or the weighted grade point value, if appropriate, and averaged.

Grade Grade Point Value

A 4.0

B 3.0

C 2.0

D 1.0

F 0.0

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Weighted Grades: Grades for Advance Placement courses, Governor’s School courses, and dual enrollment college courses will have the following weighted point values for the purposes of final grade point averaging.

Grade Grade Point Value

A 5.0

B 4.0

C 3.0

D 2.0

F 0

Grades for Pre- AP courses will have the following weighted point values for the purposes of final grade point averaging.

Grade Grade Point Value

A 4.5

B 3.5

C 2.5

D 1.5

F 0

Grading for Students with Disabilities ● Assignments and Test Grades: The teacher shall provide modified assignments, tests, quizzes, exams, and other

performance measures as necessary to accommodate the student’s disability according to the student’s IEP. The classroom teacher shall report regularly to the special education teacher on the student’s grades and progress.

● Nine-Week, Semester, and Final Grades: The teacher responsible for course instruction shall assign grades in consultation with other instructional and special education staff.

● Failing Grades: A student shall not receive a failing nine-weeks, semester, or final grade based upon poor performance due to a disability which accommodations have not fully supported. A student may receive a failing grade based on non-disability-related factors and/or failure to participate in class activities with accommodations prescribed by the student’s IEP. When it is determined that a student with a disability is earning a failing grade, the classroom teacher will immediately notify the special education teacher and parent in writing. A failing grade can be assigned only after documentation and specific reasons and examples are reported to an administrator. If a failing grade is related to a student’s disability, it may be appropriate to convene an IEP meeting to discuss the student’s academic progress and to amend the IEP.

Locally Awarded Verified Credits: Students may be eligible to receive locally awarded verified credits. No more than four locally awarded credits may be received in the areas of science and history/social sciences. To earn a locally verified credit, a student must meet the following criteria:

● pass the high school course and not pass the related Standards of Learning test; ● take the Standards of Learning test at least twice; ● score within a 375-399 scale score range on any administration of the Standards of Learning test; and ● demonstrate achievement in the academic content through the appeal process as described below.

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Appeal Process: The Bedford County School Board shall appoint a review panel comprised of at least three educators. Different panels may be appointed for individual schools or groups of schools. The local review panel will review information that provides evidence of the student’s achievement of adequate knowledge of the Standards of Learning content. That information may include, but is not limited to, results of classroom assignments, division wide exams, and course grades, as the panel deems appropriate. Based on the evidence it reviews, the local review panel may:

1. award the verified credit, 2. deny the verified credit, or 3. require participation in a remedial program and retesting.

The decision of the local review panel will be final. Testing Programs:

1. Standards of Learning (SOL) Testing – Will be administered at the end of the following courses: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry, World History I, World History II, VA and US History, and English 11 (reading and writing). These tests will be given during the months of March and May.

2. Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) – This test is administered in October and is strongly recommended to sophomores and juniors who are interested in going to college. This test is also strongly recommended to sophomores who are interesting in applying to Governor’s School for their junior & senior years. There is a charge for this test. Juniors who take the PSAT have their scores entered into the National Merit Scholarship Competition, a nationwide scholarship program.

3. Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) – This test is used by most colleges & universities as a portion of the basis for admission. Information on registering online and preparing for the SAT is available in Guidance. Specific test dates and deadlines will be announced and posted by our guidance counselor.

4. American College Test (ACT) – The ACT is an alternative college admissions exam, accepted at most colleges and universities nationwide. Students should check college websites and admissions departments to see if the ACT or SAT is required or preferred for the schools of their choice. Specific test dates and deadlines will be announced by our guidance counselor.

5. Advanced Placement (AP) Examinations – These tests will be given during the month of May, and offered to students taking AP classes. Qualifying scores of 3,4, or 5 can earn college credit at many colleges & universities. A cost is required for students to take an AP exam.

6. Fee waivers are sometimes available to students who cannot afford the cost of a PSAT, SAT, ACT or AP test. Students who believe they may qualify for a waiver should speak to our guidance counselor to request this assistance.

Graduation Ceremony Participation: Seniors must meet all graduation requirements to participate in graduation. This includes all course requirements, all SOL requirements and culminating senior project. Seniors completing the requirements to graduate during the summer will be allowed to participate in the summer school graduation ceremony. Students participating in the graduation ceremony must dress in the manner designated by school officials for the ceremony and conduct themselves in accordance with school rules during the ceremony. Students will be provided with detailed information regarding dress for the graduation ceremony and given an opportunity to purchase a cap and gown from the school provider. Any student who cannot afford to purchase appropriate clothing or a cap and gown should speak to the administrator to request assistance. Students having financial obligations to the school division may not participate in the graduation ceremony. Financial Obligations: It is the policy of the School Board to charge student fees and to recover funds for the loss of or damage to School Board property in accordance with the Code of Virginia. The School Board shall provide free of charge such textbooks and workbooks as are required for courses of instruction for each child attending public schools. The school board may take action against a pupil or the pupil’s parent for any actual loss, breakage, or destruction of or failure to return property owned by or under the control of the School Board, caused or committed by such pupil in pursuit of his studies. Such action may include seeking reimbursement from a pupil or pupil’s parent and all financial obligations must be met before a student may participate in the graduation ceremony.

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SECTION 3: STUDENT DISCIPLINE Dress Code In order to promote an orderly and safe learning environment while preparing students for success in the world of work, dress guidelines have been established. Students are expected to give proper attention to personal cleanliness and to dress appropriately for school. This means that a student’s dress, grooming, and appearance, including hairstyle, jewelry, and makeup shall be safe, appropriate, and shall not disrupt or interfere with the educational process. Dress that is disruptive, distracting, revealing, or interferes with the educational process will not be acceptable. Administrators will enforce the following dress code standards. The Bedford County Public School Dress Code prohibits the wearing of any of the following:

● Bedroom slippers, pajamas, or lounging pants ● Clothing or accessories that advertise, glorify, or symbolize any illegal substance, alcohol, drugs, tobacco,

e-cigarettes, or illegal acts ● Clothing or accessories that contain vulgar, derogatory, violent, or suggestive diagrams, pictures, words, or

slogans ● Clothing or accessories with gang insignia or symbols ● Dresses, skirts, shorts, and skorts shorter than five inches (the length of an index card) above the knee cap when

standing ● Exposed undergarments ● Fishhooks ● Flip flops or backless shoes (for elementary students) ● Halter tops ● Hats, bandannas, head covers, sweatbands, sun visors, and sunglasses (unless prior arrangements are made with

the principal for medical or religious reasons) ● Heavy chains worn as jewelry or belts and free swinging chains ● Heelies or footwear with wheels ● Leggings/Jeggings without a dress, skirt, or shorts ● Oversized clothing that causes sagging pants, skirts, shorts, or skorts ● Pants, skirts, shorts, or skorts worn low on the hips so that undergarments or bare skin is exposed ● Revealing, immodest necklines three or more inches from the lower part of the collarbone (the width of a 3 x 5

inch index card) ● Sheer or transparent clothing ● Slits, splits, cuts, and holes in clothing shall not exceed 5 inches above the top of the knee ● Spiked jewelry, clothing, and accessories ● Strapless tops or any top with shoulder straps less than three inches (the width of a 3 x 5 inch index card)

(students in grades K-4 may wear tops with straps less than three inches, but may not wear spaghetti straps) ● Tops that are cut so short that bare skin in the midriff area is exposed ● Tops with large arm holes such as tank tops, basketball jerseys, muscle shirts, mesh shirts, athletic undershirts,

and cut out shirts (these types of shirts may be worn over a shirt with sleeves) ● Trench coats ● Wallet chains that exceed six inches

*Note: Shoes must be worn at all times Student Dress Code and Special Circumstances:

● Some classroom activities and curriculum may require specific dress guidelines (e.g., physical education). Any such changes will be explained by the teacher and addressed in the course syllabus/parent letter.

● Administrators, coaches, and sponsors may suspend portions of the dress code and allow students to wear other appropriate attire at special activities. Such activities may be related to field days, theme days, field trips, physical education, cheerleading, and band.

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Dispositions (One or More May Apply): ● Option to alter the inappropriate dress to meet the dress code ● Student conference ● Parent contact ● Referral to school counselor ● Referral to a school administrator ● Detention ● In-School Suspension (ISS) ● Dress Code Discipline Packet

Suspension In-School Suspension (ISS): Certain cases of misconduct may require an alternative to out-of-school suspension. These circumstances may result in a student being assigned to an isolated controlled environment within the school under the supervision of school personnel. Students assigned to ISS will abide by the following rules:

● Students must report to ISS as soon as they arrive on campus. ● Students are not to talk unless specifically asking a curriculum-related question. ● Students may not leave their assigned seats. ● Students may not leave the ISS room without being accompanied by Alternative Education Center faculty. ● Students will receive credit for their work completed in ISS. All work assignments must be completed. ● Students must complete the full ISS assignment time in order to fulfill the suspension. Missed time will be

reassigned. ● Students in ISS are counted as present for school. ● Infractions of ISS rules may result in additional time in ISS, out-of- school suspension, or the cancellation of

Alternative Education Center services. ● Students making no effort to work or complete assignments while in ISS will be assigned an additional day of ISS.

Out-of-School Suspension (OSS): A student suspended out of school is trespassing if he or she comes on any school property without permission during the OSS period and may have petitions filed for trespassing. If school is closed due to inclement weather during the OSS period, OSS will be in effect for the next scheduled school day. Care of School Property The equipment and building of AEC were designed to give students maximum educational benefits. The appearance of our school reflects the character of those who use it. Anyone caught willfully damaging property shall be required to pay for damages incurred and shall face disciplinary action. Gum Policy Students may not be in possession of gum on school buses or in the Alternative Education Center.

Water and Sport Drink Policy Water or sports drinks are the only beverages that may be brought to the Alternative Education Center for consumption during lunch or breakfast, and they may only be consumed in the cafeteria. Any commercial drink container brought to the Alternative Education Center must remain unopened until breakfast or lunchtime. Any drink container arriving at the Alternative Education Center opened (i.e. the seal on the lid has been broken) will be confiscated and disposed of.

Hallway Procedures & Expectations To be out of the classroom during class time, a student must either:

● Be in possession of a signed and detailed clinic pass, or ● Must be accompanied by a school employee, a counselor, or some other authorized school-related personnel.

Hallway Expectations:

● Students are not to run in the hallways. ● Students are not to throw paper or other trash on the floor. ● Students are not to prop their feet against the walls or mark on the walls.

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● Students are not to deface the bulletin boards. ● Students are not to tamper with fire extinguishers, exit signs, etc. ● Students are not to engage in unnecessary boisterousness, yelling, unacceptable language, etc. ● Students are not to set off smoke bombs, firecrackers, etc. Violators will be suspended to the Superintendent and

reported to the School Resource Officer for this illegal action. ● Students must obey instructions from any faculty members in the hallway. ● Student materials are maintained in each classroom, so students shall not travel through the hallway with

computers, pencils, or paper (i.e. with the exception of the paper clinic pass)

Restroom Procedures 1. All students will be accompanied to the door of the restroom by an Alternative Education faculty member of the same gender. 2. Students will only be permitted to use the restroom facility one person at a time. 3. The restroom will be checked for horseplay or vandalism after each student visit.

● Students are not to loiter in the restrooms. ● Students are not to mark on the walls, stalls, etc. ● Students are not to vandalize any restroom fixtures.

Students who choose to deface or vandalize school restroom facilities will be disciplined according to the guidelines established by the Bedford County Public Schools Code of Student Conduct.

Use of Alternative Education Center Telephones

Students should have little need to use the Alternative Education Center telephone, as all travel arrangements are the responsibility of the parent and students are expected to bring written notice of any alternative travel arrangements upon entering the Alternative Education Center during morning arrival. Students are required to turn written notification of alternative travel plans specifically into the Alternative Education Center Office. This will provide the Alternative Education secretary ample time to contact parents or guardians to seek answers to any existing travel question. In the event that a student demonstrates a valid need to use the Alternative Education Center telephones, he or she will be accompanied by a faculty member to the Alternative Education Center Office. The faculty member will remain with the student through the duration of the telephone conversation and will accompany the student back to his or her appropriate classroom.

Use of Alternative Education Center Printers and Copiers Students may only retrieve a document from the printer that is housed within the immediate classroom (i.e. the classroom to which the student is assigned a computer and/or a desk). Students are prohibited from entering the teacher workroom to retrieve any document from either the color printer or the Copy/Scan printer located in that room. Displays of Affection The inappropriate public display of affection is not permitted. Students are expected to exercise self-control, self-respect, and respect for the reputation of others. Students failing to follow this policy will be disciplined according to the guidelines established by the Bedford County Public Schools Code of Student Conduct.

Tobacco Policy The possession, use, or distribution of any tobacco product by students is prohibited on school property. For purposes of this policy:

1. “School property” shall mean all properties owned, leased, rented, or otherwise used by a school, including but not limited to the following:

a. All interior portions of any building or other structure used for instruction, administration, support services, maintenance, or storage.

b. Any indoor facility or portion of such facility owned or leased or contracted for and used for the provision of regular or routine health care, day care, or early childhood development (Head Start) services;

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c. All vehicles used by the division for transporting students, staff, visitors, or other persons. d. All outdoor facilities including those used for instruction, extra-curricular activities, and parking. e. All property surrounding buildings and structures, parking lots, or any other outdoor property owned,

leased, or rented by the school. 2. “Tobacco” includes cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco, bidi, snuff, chewing tobacco and all other kinds and forms of

tobacco prepared in such a manner as to be suitable for chewing, dipping, and/or smoking. “Tobacco” also includes cloves or any other product packaged for smoking.

3. “Tobacco possession” means having tobacco while on school property, grounds, or at school-sponsored events or activities on or off campus at any time, including non-school hours.

4. “Tobacco use” means the lighting, chewing, dipping, inhaling, or smoking of any tobacco product while on school property, grounds, or at school-sponsored events or activities on or off campus at any time, including non-school hours.

5. “Smoking” means the carrying or holding of any lighted pipe, cigar, or cigarette of any kind, or any other lighted smoking equipment, or the lighting, inhaling, or exhaling of smoke from a pipe, cigar, or cigarette of any kind.

6. “Distribution” means giving or selling to another person a tobacco product on school property, grounds, or at any school-sponsored event or activity off campus.

Students found to be in violation of this policy shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary action as outlined in the Code of Student Conduct.

Drug/Alcohol Policy

The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, use or being under the influence of alcohol, anabolic steroids, or any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana or other controlled substance as defined in the Drug Control Act of Chapter 34 of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia and as defined in 21 USC section 812, imitation controlled substances or drug paraphernalia while on school property, while going to and from school, or while engaged in or attending any school-sponsored or school approved activity or event, is prohibited and will result in an automatic recommendation of expulsion. “Drug Paraphernalia” shall mean those items described in section §18.2-265.1 of the Code of Virginia and “imitation controlled substance” shall mean pill, capsule, tablet, or other item which is not a controlled substance, and alcoholic beverage, anabolic steroid, or marijuana, but which by overall dosage unit appearance, including color, shape, size, marking or package, or by representations made, is intended to lead or would lead a reasonable person to believe that such pill, capsule, tablet or other item is a controlled substance, and alcoholic beverage, anabolic steroid, or marijuana. In accordance with §22.1-277.08 of the Code of Virginia, a student who has brought a controlled substance, imitation controlled substance, or marijuana as defined in §18.2-247 onto school property or to a school-sponsored activity must be recommended for expulsion. However, the School Board may determine that under the facts of the particular case, special circumstances exist and another disciplinary action is appropriate. In addition, the superintendent or his designee is authorized to conduct a preliminary review of the matter and determine whether disciplinary action other than expulsion is appropriate. Prevention and Intervention: Any student who violates this policy shall participate in the prevention and intervention activities identified in Bedford County school division’s drug and violence prevention plan. The School Board may require any student who is in possession of or under the influence of drugs at school or school-sponsored activities to: (1) undergo evaluation for drug abuse and (2) participate in a drug treatment program if recommended by the evaluator and if the student’s parent consents. Required Reporting to Parents and Local Law Enforcement: The Principal shall report a violation of this policy to parents and local law enforcement as required by Policy CLA.

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Weapons Policy: The possession or use of weapons is prohibited. Possession or use of a weapon, whether operable or inoperable, including, but not limited to, knives, firearms, explosives and flammables, or any item that can be or is used as a weapon or to start a fire, in a school building, on school property, at a school-sponsored activity, or going to or from school, is prohibited. Students who violate this prohibition will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. A violation will also be reported to law enforcement officials. In accordance with state and federal law, a student who brings or possesses a firearm as defined in section 22.1- 277.07(E) of the Code of Virginia or other weapon or device prohibited by section 22.1-277.07(A) of the Code of Virginia onto school property or to a school sponsored activity must be expelled for a minimum of 365 days. The School Board may determine, based on the facts of the particular case, that special circumstances exist and that another disciplinary action is appropriate. Nothing herein shall prohibit the Board from permanently expelling such student. In addition, the superintendent or his designee is authorized to conduct a preliminary review of the matter and determine whether disciplinary action other than expulsion is appropriate. The following weapons on school property or at school-sponsored events require an automatic recommendation of expulsion: 1. Any firearm. “Firearm” means any weapon, including a starter gun, that will, or is designed or may readily converted to, expel single or multiple projectiles by the action of an explosion of a combustible material or the frame or receiver of any such weapon. "Firearm" does not include any pneumatic gun, as defined in subsection E of § 15.2-915.4. 2. Any firearm muffler or firearm silencer. 3. Any pneumatic gun. "Pneumatic gun" means any implement, designed as a gun, that will expel a BB or a pellet by action of pneumatic pressure. "Pneumatic gun" includes a paintball gun that expels by action of pneumatic pressure plastic balls filled with paint for the purpose of marking the point of impact. 4. Any destructive device. "Destructive device" means (i) any explosive, incendiary, or poison gas, bomb, grenade, rocket having a propellant charge of more than four ounces, missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than one-quarter ounce, mine, or other similar device; (ii) any weapon, except a shotgun or a shotgun shell generally recognized as particularly suitable for sporting purposes, by whatever name known that will, or may be readily converted to, expel a projectile by the action of an explosive or other propellant, and that has any barrel with a bore of more than one-half inch in diameter that is homemade or was not made by a duly licensed weapon manufacturer, any fully automatic firearm, any sawed-off shotgun or sawed-off rifle as defined in § 18.2-299 or any firearm prohibited from civilian ownership by federal law; and (iii) any combination of parts either designed or intended for use in converting any device into any destructive device described in this subsection and from which a destructive device may be readily assembled. "Destructive device" does not include any device that is not designed or redesigned for use as a weapon, or any device originally designed for use as a weapon and that is redesigned for use as a signaling, pyrotechnic, line-throwing, safety, or other similar device, nor shall it include any antique firearm as defined in subsection G of § 18.2-308.2:2.

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SECTION 4: Safety & Security Crisis Management at School The Alternative Education Center, in conjunction with BSTC, has developed a Crisis Management Plan that is updated yearly and is submitted to the School Board Office for review. A school safety audit is also performed each year by Mr. Gary Lowry, our Safety and Security Manager. Evacuation/Bomb Threat/Lock Down/Tornado Drills: Fire Drills: State regulations require that fire drills be held periodically during the school year. The following regulations apply to fire drills:

● Every fire drill is to be regarded as if there were a real fire. ● The signal for a fire drill or actual fire is continuous short blasts of a fire horn. In case of a power failure, the

administration will use bull horns/whistles as the alarm signal. ● Fire drills may take place at any time. ● Students are to become familiar with the emergency exit routes of the building. A copy of the emergency exit

route has been placed on the wall near the classroom exit door in all classrooms. ● All students must vacate the building immediately during a fire drill, and they must leave the building in a quiet

and orderly manner. Students are to move rapidly, maintain silence and good order, and are not to run. ● All doors must be closed and lights turned out. ● Students must follow their teachers to the designated area, answer to roll, and remain in the designated area

until given other instructions by school officials. ● An announcement will be made by the administration as a signal to return to the building. Students are to move

quickly and roll will be taken again after students return to the classroom. To turn in a false alarm is a criminal offense and will result in criminal charges and suspension to the superintendent that could lead to expulsion from all Bedford County Public Schools.

Bomb Threat Drills: The following regulations apply to bomb drills: ● The signal for a bomb threat will either be an announcement over the Intercom or an announcement over the

classroom 2 way radio. ● Students are to move rapidly, maintain silence and good order, and are not to run. ● If a window is open, it is not to be closed. If lights are on, they are not to be turned off. If doors are open, they

are not to be shut. ● Students are to leave all possessions. ● No one is to use a cell phone or any electronic device. ● Students must follow their teachers to the designated area outside the building, answer to roll, and remain in the

designated area until given other instructions by school officials. ● An announcement will be made by the administration as a signal to return to the building. Students are to move

quickly, and roll will be taken again after students are in the classroom. To make a bomb threat is a criminal offense and will result in criminal charges and suspension to the superintendent that could lead to expulsion from all Bedford County Public Schools. Lock Down Drills: Lock Down Drills will be announced over the intercom or through the classroom 2 way radio. The message will be, “At this time, we are going into lock down. Please implement lock down procedures.” Students are to then go to the nearest classroom and teachers are to lock their doors. No student is to be released without administrative approval until an announcement is made by an administrator that we are now resuming a normal schedule. Civil Disturbance: In the case of a civil disturbance, students will remain in regular classes and will not be allowed to leave for any reason whatsoever. An announcement will be made for all doors to be locked. Tornado Drills: Tornado drills will be held periodically during the school year as directed by state regulations. The signal for a tornado drill or warning will be a WORBLE sound (a unique siren that sounds like a European Police Siren), an announcement over the school’s intercom system, an announcement over the classroom 2 way radio, or in the hallway by an administrator. Fighting: For safety reasons, students who engage in physical altercations will be suspended. The student who tried to

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avoid the confrontation and tried to walk away may not be suspended if this action can be verified. Any student instigating a fight will be subject to the same discipline as the students involved in actual fighting. All incidents of fighting will be turned over to the School Resource Officer (SRO) for the evaluation of possible charges. Identification of Self: For school safety reasons, students are to provide their first and last names to any Alternative Education Center or BSTC staff member who asks. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action. School Resource Officer

Bedford County has implemented a School Resource Officer Program in the high schools of the county. The School Resource Officer (SRO) will help reduce incidents of nonattendance, disorder, vandalism, and violence in the schools and provide for the safety and security of students and school personnel.

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SECTION 5: Notices Student Records Bedford County School Board has adopted Management of Student’s Scholastic Records in the Public Schools of Virginia (Revised,1989) as the formal procedure and regulations regarding the management of all student records. Any questions regarding the management, access, or release of student information should be directed to the principal or the Bedford County Office of Student Services. Every student will have a cumulative folder that is housed in the base school. Many students will have confidential folders housed in the Central Office with copies as part of their permanent records. Student records shall be available to help plan the education of the child, and authorized school personnel shall have access to these records. The student’s teacher shall use these records carefully for the benefit of the student. Under no circumstances shall third parties view the student’s records without written consent of the pupil’s parent or legal guardian and the building principal’s knowledge and consent. Upon appointment, the parent or legal guardian may see his/her child’s cumulative folder with authorized school personnel present. By the time a pupil reaches his/her tenth year in school, he/she may view his/her permanent record under supervision of authorized personnel. Any student 18 years old and older has access to his/her records. The fee for copies of student records will be $.25 per page, which will be charged along with any requested postage. Bedford County Public Schools shall not charge for search and retrieval of the records. Bedford County Public Schools shall not charge a fee for copying an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or for a copy of the verbatim record of a hearing conducted in accordance with the State Board of Education’s Regulations Governing Special Education Programs for Children with Disabilities in Virginia. Notification of Rights Under FERPA for Elementary and Secondary Schools The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (eligible students) certain rights with respect to the student’s scholastic records. They are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s scholastic records within 45 days of the day the school division receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal or his/her designee a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The school official will arrange 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 the student’s scholastic records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate or misleading or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy under FERPA.

a. Parents or eligible students may ask Bedford County Public Schools to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the school principal, 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 or eligible student, the school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

3. The right to provide written consent before the school discloses personally identifiable information (PII) contained in the student’s education record, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

a. FERPA permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the school division as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement personnel); a person serving on a School Board; a person or company the school division has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review the scholastic records in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

b. Upon request, the school will disclose scholastic records without consent of the parent/guardian or other person having control or charge of the student, to officials of another school, school system, or institution of postsecondary education where the student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled

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if the disclosure is for purposes of the student’s enrollment or transfer. Whenever a student transfers from Bedford County Public Schools, a copy of the scholastic record, including disciplinary records will be transferred to the school division the students transfers to upon request from the receiving school division. Disciplinary records include school records related to disciplinary action taken against a student for violating School Board rules or policies on school property or at school-sponsored events.

c. Reference Bedford County Public Schools Policy JO – Student Records for additional exceptions that FERPA authorizes disclosure of personally identifiable information without consent.

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

Family Policy Compliance Office U. S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D. C. 20202 Notice for Directory Information The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law, requires that Bedford County Public Schools (BCPS), with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child's education records. However, BCPS may disclose appropriately designated "directory information" without written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary in accordance with District procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the BCPS to include this type of information from your child's education records in certain school publications. Examples include:

● School yearbooks ; ● Graduation, theater, athletic, and music programs; ● Video of performances, school activities, and athletic events; ● Articles about school activities and events; ● Lists of those receiving honors, awards, and scholarships; ● Team rosters and class lists.

BCPS produces and participates in television, video, and audio recordings, websites, and still photograph productions that may use your child’s name, likeness, or voice. Your child may be photographed or video recorded by BCPS staff members or by vendors working for BCPS for use within BCPS for BCPS education- related activities, for example, student identification pictures or video recordings of classroom activity used for teacher training or student evaluation purposes. In addition to these internal uses, BCPS may disclose photographs of your child to the public as directory information for such uses as school yearbooks. BCPS also may disclose your child’s image, name, or voice in BCPS photographic productions or other BCPS- sponsored publicity. Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent's prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory information categories - names, addresses and telephone listings. Directory information will be released to institutions of higher education that request this information. The high schools will provide a form to parents/students 18 years and older to opt out of disclosure to military and higher institutions if requested. If you do not want Bedford County Public Schools to disclose directory information from your child's education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the District in writing by September 30, 2014. Bedford County Public Schools has designated the following information as directory information:

● Student’s name, including nickname ● Name of parent or guardian with whom student lives ● Address

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● Telephone listing ● Grade level ● E-mail address ● Photographs and other images that feature the student ● Date and place of birth ● Major field of study ● Dates of attendance ● Participation in officially recognized activities and sports ● Height and weight of members of athletic teams ● Degrees, honors, and awards received ● Most recent educational agency of institution attended

Student ID number, user ID, or other unique personal identifier used to communicate in electronic systems that cannot be used to access education records without a PIN, password, etc. (A student's SSN, in whole or in part, cannot be used for this purpose.)

Notification of Rights Under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) PPRA affords parents and students who are 18 or emancipated minors (“eligible students”) certain rights regarding our conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These include the right to: Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education – 1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent; 2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family; 3. Sex behavior or attitudes; 4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior; 5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships; 6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers; 7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; or 8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility. Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of – 1. Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding; 2. Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and 3. Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others. Inspect, upon request and before administration or use – 1. Protected information surveys of students; 2. Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and 3. Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum. Bedford County Public School District has adopted policies regarding these rights, as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of protected surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes (Reference: BCPS Policy KFB, School – Community Relations). Bedford County Public Schools will notify parents and eligible students of these policies at least annually at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes. Bedford County Public Schools will notify parents and eligible students of the specific or approximate dates of the activities or surveys if the District has identified them at the start of the year. For surveys and activities scheduled after the school year starts, parents will be provided reasonable notification of the

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planned activities and surveys listed below and will be provided an opportunity to opt their child out. Parents will also be provided an opportunity to review any pertinent surveys. The following are covered under this requirement: · Collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales or other distribution; · Administration of any protected information survey not funded in whole or in part by ED; · Any nonemergency, invasive physical examination or screening as described above. Parents/eligible students who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with: Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20202 Grievance Procedure The following guidelines have been established as a local Grievance Procedure for prompt and equitable resolution of both employee and student complaints of sex discrimination in the Public Schools of Bedford County: Step 1. In the event that a student, parent, or employee believes that there is a basis for a grievance that could not be handled at the local level, he/she shall present the alleged grievance, in writing and on a standard form supplied by the Director of Human Resources, to the Director of Human Resources or appropriate principal within twenty days after its occurrence. Step 2. If the action of Step 1 fails to resolve the grievance to the satisfaction of the affected party, the aggrieved shall, within five working days, submit such grievance in writing to the Superintendent for his resolution. The Superintendent shall reply in writing within five working days after the initial presentation of the grievance. Step 3. If the action of Step 2 fails to resolve the grievance to the satisfaction of the affected party, the aggrieved shall, within five working days, submit such grievances to the school board for resolution. The School Board shall review the grievances and hold a hearing, if necessary, no later than the next regular meeting day. The School Board will reply to the grievances in writing fifteen days thereafter, and the decision of the School Board shall be final. Lost, Broken, Destroyed, or Unreturned School Property Reimbursement Notice Code of Virginia § 22.1-280.4 Policy JN (Student Fees, Fines, and Charges) Students and their parents are responsible for any school property used by the student in the pursuit of his/her studies that is lost, broken, destroyed, or not returned to the school. The student’s parent must reimburse the school for any outstanding bills due to lost, broken, destroyed, or unreturned school property before the student is allowed to participate in graduation ceremonies. Parents and students with financial needs may discuss a payment plan and special needs with the school principal. Work Permits Child Labor Permits can now be filled out on the Department of Labor and Industry’s website: www.doli.virginia.gov

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Alternative Education Center Student-Parent Handbook

Certification I, , a(n) ______________ grade student at the Alternative Education Center, hereby acknowledge having received a copy of the Alternative Education Center Student-Parent Handbook. I realize that I will be responsible for knowing and following procedures and regulations outlined in the handbook. I will also take the handbook home for my parents to read in order for them to understand the procedures and regulations of the school. Student Signature__________________________________________

Date ___________________

Parent Signature ___________________________________________

Date ___________________

Return this signed form (i.e. the last page of this handbook) to your homeroom teacher by August 30, 2014.

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