VELMA-ALMA PUBLIC SCHOOL

STUDENT HANDBOOK

2016-2017

Providing educational opportunities for tomorrow’s leaders.

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION

Raymond Rice, Superintendent

Mike Thompson, MS /High School Principal

Shannon Williams, Elementary Principal

BOARD OF EDUCATION

Wade Williams-President

Bobby Southerland -Vice President

Jimmy Nichols-Clerk

James Layn -Member

Andy Mcguire -Member

FOREWORD

This handbook has been prepared to help you and your parents become better acquainted with

your school. It is the wish of the administration and your teachers that you use the handbook to

become well informed about your school and to be challenged to make an honest effort to live up

to the high ideals and standards of Velma-Alma Public Schools.

THE AMERICAN’S CREED

“I believe in the United States of America as a government of the people, by the people, for the

people, whose just powers are derived from the consent of the governed; a democracy in a

republic; a sovereign nation of many sovereign states; a perfect Union, one and inseparable,

established upon those principles of freedom, equality, justice and humanity for which American

patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes.”

THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it

stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

MISSION STATEMENT

“Our Mission is to produce a self-sufficient, responsible, confident, and productive citizen

working for a better tomorrow.”

SCHOOL COLORS

Maroon and Gray

SCHOOL EMBLEM

Comet

SCHOOL SONG

Hail to thee our gallant colors

Hail to grey and wine

Guardian of our love and laughter

And the days gone by.

Ever faithful, ever watchful

True to thee we’ll be

Hail to thee our alma mater

Velma-Alma High.

2016-2017 SCHOOL CALENDAR

Professional Days………………………………………. August 8-9

School Begins…………………………………………… August 10

Labor Day………………………………………………. September 5

Parent Teacher Conf………………………………… October 10-11

End of 1st 9 weeks……………………………………… October 13

Fall Break…………………………………………… October 14-17

Discretionary Day…………………………………………October 18

Thanksgiving Holiday……………………………… November 23-27

End Second Nine Weeks……………………………… December 16

Christmas Vacation Begins…………………………… December 19

School Resumes………………………………………..……January 2

Professional Day………………………………………… January 16

Professional Day………………………………………… February 20

End Third Nine Weeks…………………………..….…………March 7

Parent Teacher Conf…………………………………….. March 7&9

No School…………………………………………………… March 10

Spring Break…………………………………………… March 13-17

Discretionary Day……………………………………………. April 7

Discretionary Day.……………………………………….…… May 5

Discretionary Day………………………………………… May 12

Last Day of School…………………………………………… May 18

Graduation…………………………………………………… May18

Professional Day……………………………………………... .May 19

Velma-Alma Public Schools Non-discrimination Policy

Velma-Alma Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national

origin, sex, or disability in providing educational services, activities, and programs including

vocational programs and career technology in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Right Act of

1964 as amended; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; Section 504 of the

Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. Inquires should be directed to the High School

Principal’s Office at 444-3356.

Absences and Tardies - The Velma-Alma Board of Education believes that attendance in

regularly scheduled classes is a key factor in academic success. Thus, any absence from those

classes represents an educational loss to the student. State law requires that students be in

attendance for 80% of the school semester. For students who do not meet that requirement,

credit will not be earned for that semester.

Absences may be excused at the discretion of the principal for medical, court, or emergency

reasons. An absence will only be excused for the reasonable time necessary for the absence.

(Ex. Optometrist appointment at 10:00 a.m. will not be an excused absence for the afternoon

classes.)

Documentation for excusing absences must be presented to the principal before the student

receives an admit slip to reenter class, or the absence will not be excused.

A student who is absent without valid excuse four or more days, or parts of days within a four-

week period, or is absent without valid excuse for ten (10) or more days or parts of days within a

semester will be considered truant and reported to the student’s parent or guardian and the

Stephens County District Attorney. The Velma-Alma Board of Education will notify, in writing,

the Department of Human Services of the name of any student who is absent twenty percent

(20%) of the semester without valid excuse. (70 O.S. 24-120)

The parent/legal guardian of the student may also incur legal liability regarding their failure to

compel the student to attend school. (70 O.S. 10-106) Any parent or guardian who neglects or

refuses to compel their child to attend school will be referred to the Stephens County District

Attorney. (70 O.S. 10-1-5)

Students who are absent without a valid excuse are subject to disciplinary action by the

principal’s office. On the 3rd unexcused absence and every subsequent unexcused absence, the

student will be restricted to campus for a period of 5 days per offense.

Tardies 1 Tardy=1 day detention 2 Tardies= 3 days detention

For three (3) tardies, the student will be restricted to campus for the lunch period for five (5)

days.

Upon receiving the fourth (4th) tardy and each subsequent tardy, the student will be given five (5)

days of In-School Detention.

Exemptions – All students whose scholarship, conduct, and attendance meet the following

requirements may be exempt from semester tests:

A. Students who have an “A” for each nine weeks grades, and with not more than 6

absences prior to the exemption day.

B. Students who have a “B” or better for each nine weeks grade, and not more than 3

absences prior to exemption day.

C. Students who have a “C” or better for each nine weeks grade, and not more than 1

absence prior to exemption day.

Activity Absences (10 Days) - A student shall not be absent for activities from any class period

more than 10 days in one school year. The following activities are exempt: State and National

levels of school-sponsored competitions which have the approval of the Board, field trips,

interscholastic meets, serving as a page in the State Legislature, and school assemblies. A

student must present his or her student planner to each of the student’s teachers prior to being

absent from school for the activity absence for class assignments. Sponsors of school activities

will be responsible for checking student planners to be certain each student has assignments from

classes that will be missed while attending the activity. No student may take an activity absence

beyond 10 days unless the absence has been pre-approved by the Board. Absences taken beyond

the 10 days without Board approval will be unexcused absences. The Board will not approve

absences beyond 10 days that have been taken without pre-approval from the Board.

Announcements - The principal or designee must approve all materials for distribution or

display on Velma-Alma School property. Petitions may not be circulated without the approval

of the superintendent. All messages to students must be delivered to the office. The student will

be given the message at the earliest opportunity least disruptive to the educational setting.

Student and personnel publications, including the school newspaper and other school-sponsored

materials that represent the district, are to be submitted to the principal for review for accuracy

and compliance with district policies before publication.

Bus Transportation – Students participating in a school sponsored activity off-campus must

ride to and from the activity on transportation provided by the school. Exceptions may be made

for students who ride with their parents upon written permission of the principal or

superintendent.

Checking Out of School – Students must check out of school through the office. (Failure to do

so may result in lunch detention/campus lunch or ISD.) Students may only check out of school

with the personal permission of their parent or guardian. Permission must be given in person or

on the phone before the student may be approved to leave school grounds.

Closed Campus – Campus is closed for students in grades K-5.

School Closing (Bad Weather) – Announcements regarding school closings and delays due to

bad weather will be made on local television and radio stations. Stations include TV stations 7,

9, and 10 and radio station KFXI 92.1 FM.

College Days – A senior student will be allowed a reasonable number of days (limit 3) to visit

post-high school institutions. These days may also be used to complete college entrance exams.

The college day visit must be pre-approved by the principal to be excused. A student who visits

a post-high school institution without receiving prior permission from the principal will receive

an unexcused absence. A student must demonstrate a bona fide interest in the institution to visit

the institution.

Eligibility - A student must maintain academic eligibility to participate in any authorized school

activity. For academic eligibility purposes, authorized school activities include, but are not

limited to the following: competitive events against other schools, field trips, student activities

outside the normal school day, and non-classroom activities. A student who is ineligible will not

suit up, travel with the team, group, or organization, nor sit on the bench or stand on the sidelines

of the event. Ineligible students will be confined to campus during their lunch period and will

report to the cafeteria.

The student must be passing all courses in which the student is enrolled following the week of

academic probation or the student will be academically ineligible to participate in any authorized

school activity. The student remains ineligible until the student receives a passing grade in all

courses. A student regains academic eligibility on the Monday of the following week in which

the student receives a passing grade in all courses.

Probation- A student must receive a cumulative passing semester grade in all courses at the end

of the fourth nine weeks of each semester, and each week thereafter, or the student will be placed

on Academic Probation for the following week. A student may participate in authorized school

activities during the week the student is on academic probation.

Academic Probation and Ineligibility

1. Failing any courses after the 4th week of the semester = Probation

2. Failing any courses 2 consecutive weeks = Ineligible.

3. Student remains ineligible until the student is passing all subjects for 1 week.

When the student is again eligible, steps 1 and 2 are repeated if necessary.

Emergency Drills - Fire Signal: 1 long ring. Storm Signal: Series of short rings.

Homework - Student homework assignments may be given per the teacher’s classroom policy.

Students will be allowed a minimum of a “day for a day” to turn in homework when the student

has been absent from school with permission. (Ex. A student who is absent for 2 school days

due to an excused absence has 2 school days to turn in assignments for the classes missed.)

Students absent without permission or approved documentation will receive a grade of zero (0)

for missed class assignments including homework.

Immunizations - No student shall be allowed to enter Velma-Alma Public Schools until

certification is presented to the principal or designee that the student has received or is in the

process of receiving immunizations against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, haemophilus influenzae

type B (HIB), measles (rubeola), rubella, poliomyelitis, varicella, and hepatitis A and B or is

likely to be immune as a result of the disease.

If a student cannot be immunized for medical reasons, the student or parent must present a

certificate signed by a U.S. licensed physician that states that, in the doctor’s opinion, the

immunization required would be harmful to the health and well-being of the student or any

member of the student’s family or household. This certificate must be renewed yearly unless the

physician specifies a lifelong contraindication.

If the student’s religious beliefs conflict with the requirement that the student be immunized, the

student must present a statement signed by the student, or by the parent if the student is a minor,

that states that immunization conflicts with the beliefs and practices of a recognized church or

religious denomination of which the student is an adherent or member.

Insurance – Student health and accident insurance is available through the school at the

student’s expense. Student insurance application forms may be obtained during enrollment or at

any time from the principal’s office.

Library – Library procedures and policy are under the direction of the librarian. Fees or fines

will be assessed for damaged, lost, and overdue books and materials. Students may be liable for

destroying or failure to return library materials. (21 O.S. 1739)

Lockers and School Property – Lockers are the property of the school and are assigned to the

students for use. Students hold neither expectation of privacy in their lockers nor any other

school property. Students are to use their assigned locker only. Students leave articles of value

in lockers at their own risk. School officials have the authority to search all school property,

including lockers, at any time without notice, and to seize any property prohibited by law or

school policy.

Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse or Neglect – Schools officials must report incidents of

child abuse or neglect to the proper legal authorities. (25 O.S. 846 A (1)(c).

Medication – The school does not provide medication (prescription or non-prescription) of any

type. Medication, provided by the student or parent/guardian of the student shall only be

dispensed to a student with written parental/guardian permission and written dispensing

instructions. Students or parent/guardian shall bring mediations to the office. Medications will

be kept only in the office.

Promotion and Retention of Elementary Students – It is the intention of this policy that

students will be placed at the most appropriate grade level. This determination is to be based

upon documental evidence as to the student’s ability, level of academic achievement, social and

emotional characteristics. Students will normally spend one year in each grade.

It is believed that the utilization of immediate and thoughtful corrective actions will benefit and

remediate most deficiencies in achievement. However, there may be students, who for reasons

consistent with their ability, or due to excessive absences, would benefit by repeating a grade.

Factors to be considered for repeating an elementary grade are as follows: (1) academic

achievement, (2) chronological age, (3) social maturity, (4) physical development, (5) work and

study habits, (6) attendance record.

Schedule Changes – No schedule changes will be permitted after the 5th day of each semester

without express consent of the principal and teachers involved.

Student Records (Family Education Rights and Privacy Act, FERPA) – Parents and students

over 18 have the following rights under FERPA: (1) The right to inspect and review the

student’s educational record. (2) The right to exercise limited control over other people’s access

to the student’s educational record. (3) The right to seek to correct the student’s record, in a

hearing, if necessary. (4) The right to report violations of the FERPA to the U.S. Department of

Education. (5) The right to be informed about FERPA rights and procedures. The district will

arrange to provide translations of this notice to non-English speaking parents/legal guardians in

their native language. Copies of student records are available to the parents/legal guardians, or

students over 18, at a cost per page. Parents may be denied copies of a student’s records after the

student reaches 18 years of age, when the student is attending an institution of post-secondary

education, or if the parent fails to follow proper procedures and pay the copying charges.

Non-directory Educational Records are private or confidential records maintained by the

school regarding a current or former student.

Student Directory Information – The following student directory information may be released

by any school official without violating the FERPA or the Oklahoma Open Records Act (51 O.S.

24A.16):

1. Student name and address

2. Telephone number

3. Date and place of birth

4. Major field of study

5. Participation in officially recognized activities and sports

6. Dates of attendance

7. Degrees and awards received

8. The public or private school most recently attended by the student

Parents or students who do not want this information to be released must submit a request

in writing to the principal within 10 days of the time the handbook is issued to the student.

Telephone Use at School – Students may only use the telephone with the permission of the

principal or designee for necessary, school-related business. Phone messages will be delivered

to the students at an appropriate time.

Vehicles – A student driver must show proof of a valid Oklahoma Driver’s License and

Insurance Verification for the vehicle the student is driving to school. Students may only

drive to school, during lunch, and away from school at the end of the school day unless

otherwise authorized by the principal. Students may not remain in their vehicle after the vehicle

has been parked.

Students found to be driving in a reckless manner or violating other provisions of this

policy will have their driving privileges restricted or suspended for a period of time

commensurate with the offense. Reckless driving will be reported to the proper authorities.

Visitors – All visitors, including parents and guardians, must check in at the principal’s office

immediately upon entering the building and sign the visitor’s log. Students must receive prior

permission from the principal before inviting a guest to school.

Activities

Class Activities – Class Officers: Pres., Vice-Pres., Sec., Treas., Reporter, 2 Student Council

Representatives.

Eligibility – 2.00 GPA with no grade below a “C” for the previous school year.

Student Council Eligibility – 3.00 GPA with no grade lower than a “C” for the previous school

year.

Junior-Senior Banquet/PROM – The Banquet and PROM will be held near the end of the

school year. Attendance at the prom is limited to Jr. and Sr. class members and their pre-

approved dates. Dates who are not members of the Jr. or Sr. classes must have prior approval of

the principal. It is the responsibility of the class member to request the approval. No students

below the 9th grade may attend the Velma-Alma school prom.

Student Council – Membership includes 2 representatives elected by each class. Beginning in

the 2006-2007 school year, candidates for office in the student council must have a minimum

GPA of 3.25 with no grade below a “C” for the prior school year and submit 2 letters of

reference from teachers. The Council serves pursuant to rules promulgated by the Council

subject to administrative approval.

Curriculum

Concurrent Enrollment – Velma-Alma High School students in the 11th and 12th grades may

concurrently enroll at Velma-Alma High School and a college or university in the Oklahoma

State System of Higher Education as a special student if the student meets the required criteria.

Information about concurrent enrollment may be received from the counselor.

Course Offerings – All students must enroll in a full school day schedule unless they are

concurrently enrolled or enrolled at a career technology center, or unless other arrangements are

made with administrative approval.

Graduation Requirements for the Graduating Class of 2016-2017 – 25 Credits

Language Arts – 4 Units, Science – 3 Units, Mathematics – 3 Units, The Arts – 2 Units,

Social Studies – 3 Units (must include American History 1 ½, Oklahoma History ½, and

Government ½ )

10 Elective Credits

Grades – No grade above 100 points shall be given for a 9 weeks grade. Each 9 week’s grade is

final. All grades shall be calculated to the nearest one-hundredth place. GPA’s will be

calculated using the 4 point letter grade scale below for honors, (honor rolls and societies,

valedictorian/salutatorian.) Numerical grades will be used for class ranking and graduation

purposes.

Grading Scale A = 90-100

B = 80-89

C = 70-79

D = 60-69

Failing = 59 or below

Weighted “A” for Advanced Placement and Honors Classes

AW = 94-100

A = 88-93

Make-up Work – The teacher may allow work to be turned in after a due date for legitimate

reasons as determined by the teacher and the principal. The late work may receive less credit

after the final school day for each 9 week grading period (3:00 p.m.). Ex. Late work for the 1st

nine weeks may not be turned in during the 2nd nine weeks.

Proficiency Based Promotion (PBP) – PBP tests may be taken in December and May each

year. The student must notify the principal at least 30 days in advance of the test of the request

to take the PBP test. PBP tests may be taken in Social Studies, Language Arts, the Arts,

Languages, Mathematics, and Sciences. The student must score a minimum 90% on the test to

receive credit. Limit 2 tests per semester. The student should contact the counselor for

additional information.

Retaking a Course – A student may not retake a class or course for credit, or to receive a higher

grade for the course, if the student has previously taken the course and received a passing grade

for the course. If a student retakes a course the student has previously failed, the student will

receive the grade the student earns upon retaking the course. The previous grade, however, will

not be removed from the student’s transcript.

Special Education – Students with disabilities who are residents of Oklahoma have available to

them a free appropriate public education as mandated by the Individuals with Disabilities

Education Act (IDEA), P.L. 101-476. Velma-Alma Public Schools has a comprehensive child

identification district plan to identify, locate, and evaluate those children with disabilities, birth

through 21 years of age, who are in need of special education and related services.

Career-Tech – Career-Tech education is available for students in the 11th and 12th grades.

Contact the high school principal or counselor for more information.

Oklahoma Honor Society – Students in the top 10% cumulative GPA of Velma-Alma High

School are eligible for membership in the Oklahoma Honor Society.

Superintendent’s Honor Roll – A student must receive no grade lower than an “A” for the

grading period. Grading periods include the Fall and Spring semesters of the calendar school

year. (Ex. Students on the Superintendent’s Honor Roll have made “As” in all subjects during

the Fall 2005 and Spring 2006 school semesters.)

Principal’s Honor Roll – A student must receive no grade lower than a “B” for the grading

period. Grading periods include the Fall and Spring semesters of the calendar school year. (Ex.

Students on the Principal’s Honor Roll will have made no grade lower than a “B” in all subjects

during the Fall 2005 and Spring 2006 school semesters.)

Discipline Policy

Corporal Punishment – Corporal punishment may only be given to a student who has a

permission form, signed by the parent/guardian, for corporal punishment to be administered to a

student. The form must be on file in the principal’s office. Swats will be given and witnessed by

certified personnel in a school office. No more than 3 swats will be given in a school day. The

swats will be given with reasonable force by a wooden paddle on the buttocks of the student.

Lunch Detention – Noon Campusing – Lunch detention includes noon campusing. The student

will not leave the campus for the lunch period. Detention will be assigned by the principal. A

student who is absent from or tardy to lunch detention will be subject to the policy for

Failure/Refusal to Serve Assigned Discipline.

In-School Detention (ISD) – ISD is an alternative form of discipline for breach of more serious

issues for which the student is removed from the regular educational environment, yet continues

to attend school and receive instruction. ISD is during the regular school day in the assigned

room. A student must serve the ISD on consecutive school days. A student in ISD may

participate in extra-curricular activities that occur outside the regular school day at the discretion

of the extra-curricular coach, sponsor, and principal. Teachers will turn ISD assignments into

the office before 8:00 a.m. on the day the student is to begin ISD. Those assignments will be

graded as in the regular classroom. Students are not penalized academically in ISD.

ISD Rules

1. Remain in assigned seat.

2. No talking/communication with others.

3. No sleeping.

4. Work on assignments. The ISD teacher will give additional assignments if the student

completes the regular teacher’s assignments.

5. Students will take drink/restroom breaks and lunch on a regular schedule as directed by

the ISD teacher that prohibits contact with students in the regular educational setting.

Failure to comply with these rules will result in additional ISD or up to 10 days out of school

suspension per the circumstances.

Out of School Suspension – The principal has the authority to suspend a student for a period of

up to, and including, 10 school days. Suspensions may be longer for serious infractions. To

ensure that all students are treated fairly, a multi-level appeals process may be used by students

and their parents/guardians to appeal an out of school suspension.

Upon the discovery of an infraction and the determination that out of school suspension is the

most appropriate form of punishment, the building principal will conduct an evidentiary hearing

with the student and his/her parent/guardian, unless agreed upon by all parties not to do so.

Students suspended for 10 days or less may appeal the suspension to the superintendent. The

decision of the superintendent shall be final and may not be appealed to the Board of Education.

Students suspended for more than 10 days may appeal to the superintendent. Notice of intent to

appeal to the superintendent should be made in writing to the superintendent’s office within 3

days following the meeting with the principal where the discipline was assigned.

The final level of appeal for suspensions of more than 10 days may be made to the Board of

Education. The parent/guardian shall notify the superintendent’s office in writing of notice to

appeal to the Board of Education within 3 days following the appeals meeting with the

superintendent.

The decision of the Velma-Alma Board of Education shall be final.

REGULATION

SUSPENSION ACTIONS AND PROCEDURES

The principal shall have the authority to suspend any pupil who is guilty of any of the

following acts while in attendance at such school or in transit (by school transportation or under

school supervision) to or from school, at any school function authorized by the (This) School

District, or when present on any facility under the control of the school district.

The district may also discipline a student for behavior that occurs in other places if a

relationship exists between the behavior and the school, especially if the behavior may indicate a

possible impact on the safety of the school district and its students.

Suspension Actions

This listing is examples of some of the infractions that a student might encounter prior to

receiving suspension. It is not all inclusive and does not limit either offenses or possible

disciplinary actions a student might encounter.

1. Immorality or profanity

2. Truancy

3. Violation of written school rules, regulations or policies

4. Assault upon another student or person

5. Possession or being under the influence of any narcotic drug, stimulant,

barbiturate or alcohol.

6. Possession, threat, or use of a dangerous weapon as defined by State Statue

(except where permitted by statue)

7. Use and/or possession of any tobacco product

8. Conduct which disrupts the operation of the school

9. Conduct which jeopardizes the safety of others

10. The willful disobedience of the request of any school official in the performance

of such school official’s duties

11. Failure to attend an assigned detention class without prior approval

12. Failure to comply with State immunization law

13. Vandalism or theft

14. Excessive tardies

15. Fighting on school premises

16. Verbal or physical abuse

17. Illegal use of parking permits

18. Unauthorized entry to buildings and/or campus

19. Unauthorized departure from campus and/or class

20. Failure to attend assigned class while on campus without prior office approval

21. Gambling

Suspension Procedures

If at any time it is concluded that the nature of the offense or accumulation of offenses

warrants a suspension, one of the following will occur:

1. Short Term Suspension (Four days or Less)

a. Brief the student on the offense, giving the nature of the offense and the

intended punishment.

b. Give the student the right to present his/her defense and tell his/her side of the

story.

c. Notify the parent or guardian by mail or telephone that the student is to be

suspended, giving a definite commencement and ending date.

d. If the student denies the violation, an explanation of the evidence should be

given.

e. Assignments will be given in the core units.

f. all work is due upon returning to class.

g. Students may not participate in or attend extra curricular or co-curricular

activities while suspended.

h. The principal may, within the law, immediately remove a student from school

when the conduct disrupts the academic atmosphere of the school, endangers

fellow students, teachers, and officials or damages property. Except in cases of

disruption where circumstances make it vital that one or several pupils be

removed from school property immediately, no pupil shall be released by the

school without notifying the parents or guardians in person or by telephone.

2. Suspension exceeding four days

a. Within 24 hours, written notice of the reason for the student’s removal from

school shall be given to the student and parent/guardian. The proposed

suspension must also be given in the notice.

b. If the parent/guardians decide to exercise their rights and appeal the suspension

they must notify the building principal before the suspension begins. The

principal will contact the superintendent to arrange a meeting with the parents.

If the parents are not satisfied with the decision of the superintendent, they have

the right to appeal before the board of education. The superintendent shall

schedule the hearing before the school board and notify the parent of the time

and date. They also have the right to be represented by legal counsel. The board

of education may appoint a hearing officer to conduct the hearing and render

the final decision. The decision of the board or board-appointed hearing officer

will be final.

c. Assignments will be given in the core units.

d. Work will be due generally each Monday or when suspension is completed,

which ever occur first or according to the student’s educational plan.

e. Students may not participate in or attend extra curricular or co-curricular events

3. In-School Suspension (Detention)

a. Students will be allowed to do their daily work and tests scheduled that day.

The student will be placed in a designated area. Visitation and socialization

with others will be prohibited. The student may bring his/her lunch or the

cafeteria lunch will be brought to the detention room.

b. If a student receives in-school detention two times during the year an if the

student commits a 3rd violation of rules; he/she may be suspended out of

school.

c. Students may not participate in or attend extra curricular or co-curricular

activities while in ISD.

d. Students back in school following an out of school suspension or while

attending alternative school may not participate in or attend extracurricular

or co-curricular activities.

Due Process

The Constitutional rights of individuals assure them the protection of due process

of law; therefore, the administration of discipline in this school district shall be guided by legally

sound procedures.

Students on an Individual Education Plan will be disciplined pursuant to state and federal law.

Alcohol/Chemical Abuse – Attending class alert and ready to learn is a prime responsibility of

students at Velma-Alma Public Schools. The inability to function in class may occur because of

illness, injury, or drug use, prescribed or illegal. A student

may be referred to the principal’s office after demonstrating one or more of the following

behaviors: sleeping in class, drowsy or listless, slurred speech, poor general health (red eyes,

flushed skin, etc.), odor of smoke, abnormal or erratic behavior, inability to concentrate, wearing

jewelry or clothing which promotes drugs, alcohol or tobacco use, fighting, possession of an

illegal drug, alcohol, or tobacco.

First Offense – A student found to be in use, possession, or distribution of alcohol will be

suspended for 8 school days per Velma-Alma Board of Education policy (F-92).

Second Offense – A student will be suspended for the remainder of the current school semester,

plus the following school semester.

Possession of Illegal Drugs - A student found possessing, distributing, or using illegal drugs on

school grounds or any school-sponsored activity will receive out of school suspension for the

remainder of the semester plus the following school semester. The offense will be reported to

law enforcement authorities.

Reentry to Velma-Alma Public Schools may be contingent on appropriate counseling and

parental intervention.

Arson – Out of school suspension for the current semester and the following semester.

Assault and Battery – Assault – Intentional creation of a reasonable apprehension in the mind

of the victim of imminent bodily harm. Includes verbal threats. 1st Offense: corporal

punishment, ISD or out of school suspension up to 10 days per the circumstances. Principal’s

discretion. Subsequent Offenses: Out of school suspension for a period of time appropriate for

the offense. Report to the authorities on the first of subsequent offenses where appropriate.

Battery: Offensive, unconsented touching of another’s person. Includes fighting and throwing

objects. 1st and subsequent offenses: corporal punishment, ISD, out of school suspension

commensurate with the offense including the current semester and the following school

semester. Principal’s discretion. Report to the authorities.

Assault on a School Employee – A school employee shall mean any duly appointed person,

employed by or employees of a firm contracting with the Velma-Alma school system for any

purpose, including such personnel not directly related to the teaching process and board members

during board meetings. Every person who, without justifiable or excusable cause, knowingly

commits any assault, aggravated assault, battery, or aggravated battery upon the person of a

school employee is punishable by imprisonment and/or fine pursuant to 70 O.S. Sections 9-113.

Bus Rules – Students must ride the bus on all school activities unless permission has been given

by the administration. RULES: (1) Be on time. (2) Observe safety practices (check traffic both

ways when boarding or departing the bus). (3) Keep hands inside the bus. (4) Stay in your

seat. (5) Place trash in proper place. (6) No loud or disruptive behavior. (7) Do not throw

objects on or out of the bus. (8) Do not leave items on the bus. (9) In case of an emergency,

remain on the bus unless the driver instructs you otherwise. (10) Be courteous.

1st Offense: Corporal punishment, lunch detention, or ISD. Principal’s discretion.

2nd Offense: 5 days suspension from riding the bus to school or any school activity

Subsequent Offenses: Suspension from riding the bus to school or any school activity for the

remainder of the semester.

Cheating/Plagiarism – A grade of zero (0) will be given for all work resulting for the

cheating/plagiarism for the student and any student who assisted the student in cheating.

1st Offense: Lunch Detention or ISD

Subsequent Offenses: ISD or out of school suspension

Disruptive Behavior – Failing to follow class rules and/or other behavior that disrupts the

educational setting.

1st Offense: Corporal punishment, lunch detention or ISD. Principal’s discretion.

2nd Offense: ISD or out of school suspension, principal’s discretion.

Dress Code – Students at Velma-Alma Public Schools are expected to dress appropriately for

the school setting. Clothing, accessories or hairstyles that in the judgment of the principal create

a foreseeable disruption to the educational environment or create a risk of health or safety to a

person are prohibited at school or any school related activity.

Disallowed clothing includes, but is not limited to the following: clothing that reveals the

midriff or inappropriately exposes other areas of the body (including legs) or undergarments;

jeans with holes above the knee may not be worn; caps/hats (indoors); clothing, accessories or

hair styles that promote (directly or indirectly) alcohol, chemical abuse, criminal behavior; gang

colors or symbols (including “sagging” or “baggy” pants); inappropriate moral conduct; nudity

(partial or whole); obscenity; profanity; any form of violence. Cut-off shorts or pants may be

worn, but there must be a hem above the fringe to prevent fraying. Tank tops may be worn, but

straps should be three fingers in width. Shorts should extend beyond the fingertips when the

student’s arms are straight down at their sides.

Body Piercing: Exposed body piercing is limited to the ears.

Boys will not be allowed to wear earrings.

Electronic Devices – Electronic devices such as tape players, CD players, radios, etc. are

prohibited at school and school activities (excluding vehicles) without prior approval of the

principal or sponsor.

1st Offense: Lunch Detention/noon campusing, or ISD per the circumstances.

Subsequent Offenses: ISD

The student must turn the device into the office and pick it up at the end of the day.

Electronic Telecommunication Devices – Use of Cell Phones, pagers, etc., are prohibited

during school. A student may possess an electronic paging device upon the prior consent of both

a parent or guardian and the principal or superintendent upon showing of medical necessity or in

other appropriate circumstances.

1st offense: 3 days ISD per the circumstances. Parent may pick up device.

2ndoffense: 5 days ISD per the circumstances. Parent may pick up device.

3rd offense: 3 days out of school suspension. Parent may pick up device.

Subsequent offenses: Principal’s discretion. Parent may pick up device.

Extortion – The taking of money/property by anyone who uses threats, or other illegal use of

fear or coercion in order to obtain the money/property, and whose conduct falls short of the

threat to personal safety required for robbery.

1st Offense: Corporal punishment, Lunch Detention/noon campusing, ISD, or out of school

suspension per the circumstances. Principal’s discretion.

Failure or Refusal to Serve Assigned Discipline – If the student fails to serve the discipline

assigned due to circumstances genuinely beyond the student’s control, the student must make up

the discipline. If the student “forgets” to serve the discipline, the discipline is doubled. If the

student refuses to serve the discipline, the student may receive out of school suspension. Upon

returning to school, the student will serve the originally assigned discipline.

Harassment (Bullying) – Harassment includes, but is not limited to the following: Offensive

teasing, un-consented communications with another student, taunting, slanderous remarks

regarding another student, etc.

1st Offense: Corporal punishment, lunch detention/noon campusing or ISD per the

circumstances. Principal’s discretion. Parents will be notified.

Subsequent Offenses: ISD or up to 10 days out of school suspension per the circumstances, and

the student’s parent will be notified.

Hazing – All forms of hazing and/or intimidation are prohibited by the school and school

sponsored activities. ( Including as a part of admission to a club or organization.)

1st Offense: Corporal punishment, lunch detention/noon campusing or ISD per the

circumstances. Principal’s discretion. The student’s parent will be notified.

Subsequent Offenses: ISD or out of school suspension per the circumstances, and the parent will

be notified.

Misinformation – Willfully giving misinformation by commission (lying), or omission (by

remaining silent).

1st Offense: Corporal punishment, lunch detention/noon campusing or ISD per the

circumstances, the student’s parent will be notified.

Subsequent Offenses: ISD or out of school suspension per the circumstances, and the student’s

parent will be notified.

Obscenity/Profanity – Obscene materials including, but not limited to the following:

Illustrations (drawings, paintings, photographs, etc.) and oral or written materials (books, letters,

poems, tapes, CDs, videos, etc.) which are commercially or student produced are prohibited.

Profanity, including but not limited to the following: gestures, symbols, verbal, written, etc. are

prohibited.

1st Offense: Corporal punishment, lunch detention/noon campusing or ISD per the

circumstances. Principal’s discretion. The student’s parent will be notified.

Subsequent Offenses: ISD or out of school suspension per the circumstances, and the student’s

parent will be notified.

Search and Seizure – Student searches may be made based on a reasonable suspicion of a

violation of school rules and/or state or federal law by a student. The search will be made

pursuant to the reasonableness, under all the circumstances, of the search. The search of the

student will be justified at its inception, based on reasonable suspicion and reasonable in scope in

light of the age and sex of the student and the nature of the infraction. Contraband and other

property unauthorized to be on school property or school sponsored activities will be seized for

evidentiary purposes in a school hearing and/or legal hearing. All illegal property seized will be

turned over to the proper authorities.

Theft – 1st Offense: Return of the property may be made to the parents or guardians of the

student, ISD or out of school suspension per the circumstances.

Subsequent Offenses: Return of the property, restitution for the property, and out of school

suspension per the circumstances.

Tobacco and Tobacco Products – Possession of tobacco or tobacco products by students is

prohibited at school or school sponsored activities pursuant to Oklahoma Law (21 O.S. Section

21-1241,1242.) Prohibited tobacco products and paraphernalia include,

but is not limited to the following: cigarettes, cigarette lighters, cigarette paper, cigars, snuff,

chewing tobacco, cigarette holders, tobacco, tobacco related containers and packages, etc. Any

minor in possession of the above materials, being asked by a police officer or teacher where and

from whom such materials were obtained, who shall refuse to furnish such information, shall be

guilty of a misdemeanor.

1st Offense: Confiscation of tobacco products and lunch detention/noon campusing or ISD per

the circumstances.

Subsequent Offenses: Confiscation of tobacco products and ISD or out of school suspension per

the circumstances.

Vandalism/Destruction of School Property or the Property of Others on School Grounds –

1st Offense: Restitution, corporal punishment, ISD, or out of school suspension per the

circumstances. Principal’s discretion.

Subsequent Offenses: Restitution, ISD or out of school suspension.

Weapons – The possession or use of any weapon during the time a student is in attendance in

Velma-Alma Public Schools, or is in transit to or from school or any school sponsored activity

by any form of transportation (including vehicle, walking, etc.) is strictly prohibited. A weapon

includes, but is not limited to the following: guns; rifles; pistols; shotguns; daggers; knives

(excluding normal (folding) pocket knives with a blade of 3 inches or less); razors; clubs; slap

jacks; night sticks; any device which throws, discharges, or fires objects, bullets or shells;

explosive and incendiary devices; hand chains; artificial knuckles; or any other object that can

reasonably be considered a weapon or dangerous instrument. Also prohibited are any facsimile

or counterfeit objects resembling weapons. Knives of any kind are strictly prohibited at the

elementary.

Exempt from this policy are any instruments and devices that may be considered a weapon under

this policy but are specifically authorized (prior to being brought to school) by school personnel

for use in an approved curricular or extra-curricular activity and are used in the appropriate

manner. Any student, who knowingly aids, accompanies and/or assists in the violation of the

policy shall also be considered in violation of this policy and shall be subject to discipline in the

same manner as any student who violates this policy.

A student who violates this weapon policy will be subject to the following: Out of school

suspension for the remainder of the semester in which the violation occurred and the succeeding

semester per the circumstances.

To: All Parents and Guardians of Students

RE: Notification of AHERA

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has required that all public and private schools

inspect all school buildings for presence of asbestos, and further to develop a management plan

which identifies, procedures for managing, and schedules re-inspection of all asbestos present in

the school.

The management plan may be reviewed at your child’s school during normal working hours.

We hereby acknowledge receipt of the Handbook and certify we have read and discussed the

policies covered within.

__________________________________

Parent Signature

_______________________

Date

__________________________________

Student Signature

_______________________

Date

Velma-Alma Public School Handbook

Index

School Administration…………………………………………………………1

Board of Education…………………………………………………………….1

Foreword……………………………………………………………………….1

The American’s Creed…………………………………………………………1

The Pledge of Allegiance………………………………………………………1

Mission Statement……………………………………………………………...1

School Colors…………………………………………………………………..1

School Emblem………………………………………………………………...1

School Song……………………………………………………………………2

School Calendar………………………………………………………………..2

Non-discrimination Policy……………………………………………………...3

Absences and Tardies………………………………………………………….3

Tardies…………………………………………………………………………3

Exemptions…………………………………………………………………….4

Activity Absences……………………………………………………………...4

Announcements………………………………………………………………...4

Bus Transportation……………………………………………………………..4

Checking Out of School………………………………………………………..4

Closed Campus…………………………………………………………………4

School Closing………………………………………………………………….5

College Days……………………………………………………………………5

Eligibility……………………………………………………………………….5

Emergency Drills……………………………………………………………….5

Homework………………………………………………………………………5

Immunizations…………………………………………………………………..6

Insurance………………………………………………………………………...6

Library…………………………………………………………………………..6

Lockers and School Property……………………………………………………6

Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse or Neglect……………………………….6

Medication………………………………………………………………………6

Promotion and Retention of Elementary Students………………………………7

Schedule Changes……………………………………………………………….7

Student Records (Family Education Rights and Privacy Act, FERPA)………...7

Non-directory Educational Records…………………………………………….7

Student Directory Information………………………………………………….7

Telephone Use at School………………………………………………………..8

Vehicles…………………………………………………………………………8

Visitors………………………………………………………………………….8

Class Activities………………………………………………………………….8

Jr./Sr. Banquet and PROM……………………………………………………...8

Student Council…………………………………………………………………8

Concurrent Enrollment………………………………………………………….8

Course Offerings………………………………………………………………..9

Graduation Requirements………………………………………………………9

Correspondence Course Credit…………………………………………………9

Grades…………………………………………………………………………..9

Make-up Work………………………………………………………………….9

Proficiency Based Promotion…………………………………………………..9

Retaking a Course…………………………………………………………….10

Special Education……………………………………………………………..10

Career Tech…………………………………………………………………...10

Oklahoma Honor Society……………………………………………………..10

Superintendent’s Honor Roll………………………………………………….10

Principal’s Honor Roll………………………………………………………...10

Corporal Punishment………………………………………………………….10

Lunch Detention/Noon Campusing…………………………………………...10

In-School Detention…………………………………………………………...11

Out of School Suspension……………………………………………………..11

Alcohol/Chemical Abuse……………………………………………………...14

Possession of Illegal Drugs……………………………………………………14

Arson…………………………………………………………………………..14

Assault and Battery……………………………………………………………15

Assault on a School Employee………………………………………………..15

Bus Rules……………………………………………………………………...15

Cheating Plagiarism…………………………………………………………...15

Disruptive Behavior…………………………………………………………...15

Dress Code…………………………………………………………………….16

Electronic Devices…………………………………………………………….16

Electronic Telecommunication Devices (Cell Phones)……………………….16

Extortion………………………………………………………………………16

Failure or Refusal to Serve Assigned Discipline……………………………..16

Harassment (Bullying)………………………………………………………..17

Hazing………………………………………………………………………...17

Misinformation………………………………………………………………..17

Obscenity/Profanity…………………………………………………………...17

Search and Seizure…………………………………………………………….17

Theft…………………………………………………………………………...18

Tobacco Use…………………………………………………………………..18

Vandalism……………………………………………………………………..18

Weapons………………………………………………………………………..18

Acknowledgement Form……………………………………………………….19