€¦ · Web viewThis Handbook was developed to answer many of the commonly asked questions that...

GROVEPORT COMMUNITYSCHOOL

K-8

2018-2019Parent/Student Handbook

00947674v5 1

Elementary Building 4485 S. Hamilton Rd

Groveport, Ohio 43125Phone: 614-574-4100

Fax: 614-575-4107

Preparatory Building 4085 Venture Pl

Groveport, Ohio 43125Phone: 614-574-0037Fax: 614-836-6063

Groveport Community School2018 – 2019

August 13 - 17 NO SCHOOL – Teacher In-Service August 16 Back to School Night Open House – 5:30 pm to 7:30 pmAugust 20 First day of schoolSeptember 3 NO SCHOOL – Labor DaySeptember 21 Interim Reports Go HomeOctober 18 End of 1st Nine WeeksOctober 19 NO SCHOOL – Teacher In-Service October 26 1st Quarter Report Cards Go HomeNovember 1 NO SCHOOL – Parent /Teacher Conferences 9:00 am – 7:00 pmNovember 2 NO SCHOOL- Teacher Records DayNovember 21 - 23 NO SCHOOL – Thanksgiving BreakNovember 26 NO SCHOOL – Teacher In-Service November 30 Interim Reports Go HomeDec. 24 – Jan. 3 NO SCHOOL – Winter BreakJanuary 4 NO SCHOOL – Teacher In-ServiceJanuary 7 Students Return to SchoolJanuary 11 End of 2nd Nine WeeksJanuary 18 2nd Quarter Report Cards Go HomeJanuary 21 NO SCHOOL – Martin Luther King Jr. DayFebruary 8 Interim Reports Go HomeFebruary 18 NO SCHOOL – President’s DayMarch 15 End of 3rd Nine WeeksMarch 21 NO SCHOOL – Parent /Teacher Conferences 9:00 am – 7:00 pmMarch 21 3rd Quarter Report Cards Go HomeMarch 22 NO SCHOOL- Teacher Records DayApril 18 Interim Reports Go HomeApril 19 - 26 NO SCHOOL – Spring BreakApril 29 Students Return to SchoolMay 22 Last Day of School – Final Report Cards Go HomeMay 23 Teacher In-Service

00947674v5 i

TABLE OF CONTENTS2018-2019

INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................................1

MISSION....................................................................................................................................................1

Statement Concerning State Testing and Compulsory Attendance Law......................................1

ADMISSION..............................................................................................................................................2

PROCESS AND CRITERIA.................................................................................................................2

DAILY PROCEDURES............................................................................................................................2

ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES.............................................................................................................4

PROCEDURES FOR ATTENDANCE ISSUES (TRUANCY)..........................................................5

MANDATORY WITHDRAWAL............................................................................................................6

MISSING CHILD POLICY....................................................................................................................6

ACADEMICS AND THE GRADING SYSTEM......................................................................................6

HOME LEARNING GUIDELINES...........................................................................................................8

CODE OF CONDUCT..............................................................................................................................8

PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES............................................................................................................9

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES.......................................................................................................10

OFFENSES AND CONSEQUENCES..............................................................................................12

DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS (in no particular order).........................................................................16

SUSPENSION.....................................................................................................................................18

EXPULSION........................................................................................................................................19

WEAPONS EXPULSION...................................................................................................................21

STUDENT USE/MISUSE OF TECHNOLOGY................................................................................22

TOBACCO-FREE ENVIRONMENT.................................................................................................24

TRANSPORTATION..............................................................................................................................24

DRESS CODE.........................................................................................................................................26

STUDENT HEALTH...............................................................................................................................28

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS, SERVICES, AND MEDICATION....................................................28

ANTI-BULLYING, ANTI_HARASSMENT AND ANTI-INTIMIDATION POLICY.............................31

REPORTING CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT...................................................................................31

OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION................................................................................................31

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES............................................................................................33

SCHOOL TELEPHONES..................................................................................................................33

VISITOR’S POLICY............................................................................................................................33

VOLUNTEERS....................................................................................................................................34

00947674v5 ii

CHILD FIND POLICY.........................................................................................................................35

ESEA NOTIFICATION.......................................................................................................................36

EDUCATION OF HOMELESS CHILDREN AND YOUTH.............................................................36

OHIO DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION COMPLAINT RESOLUTION POLICY.......................37

PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS AMENDMENT (PPRA) NOTIFICATION............................37

THE FAMILY EDUCATION RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT OF 1974 (FERPA).............................40

OFFICIAL DESIGNATION.....................................................................................................................42

SIGNATURE PAGE................................................................................................................................44

00947674v5 iii

GROVEPORT COMMUNITY SCHOOLKindergarten – 8th Grade

School Hours: 8:30 – 3:30 Before School Kiddie Kare Hours: 6:30 a.m.-8:45 a.m.

After School Kiddie Kare Hours: 3:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m.

INTRODUCTION

This Handbook was developed to answer many of the commonly asked questions that you and your parents may have during the school year. This Handbook contains important information that you are responsible for knowing. Become familiar with the following information, and keep the Handbook available for reference by you and your parents. The term “parent” when used herein means an official care-giver of a minor child, including but not limited to mother, father, stepparent, grandparent, foster parent or court-appointed guardian. If you have any questions about this Handbook, please contact the Principal. The Principal has similar authority and responsibilities as the superintendent of schools for a local district. This Handbook does not constitute a contract between the School and the student/parent, and the School reserves the right at its discretion to change or amend the handbook and the policies and procedures referenced herein at any time in the future.

MISSION

Groveport Community School (the “School”) believes the fundamental purpose of our school is to help all students achieve high levels of learning and personal growth. We are committed to providing an equitable education in a nurturing learning environment that ensures all students will be successful. We will partner with all stakeholders to create a school culture that focuses on the Imagine Shared Values of Integrity, Justice, and Fun and Measures of Excellence.

Statement Concerning State Testing and Compulsory Attendance Law

The School is a community school established under Chapter 3314 of the Ohio Revised Code. The school is a public school and students enrolled in and attending the school are required to take proficiency tests and other examinations that are prescribed by law. In addition, there may be other requirements for students at the school that are prescribed by law. Students that have been excused from the compulsory attendance laws for the purpose of home education as defined by the Ohio Administrative Code shall no longer be excused for that purpose upon their enrollment in the School. For more information about this matter, please contact the school or the Ohio Department of Education (“ODE”).

00947674v5 1

ADMISSION

Groveport Community School will not charge tuition. The School will not discriminate in its pupil admission policies or practices on the basis of intellectual or athletic ability, measures of achievement or aptitude, status as a handicapped person, or any other basis. All students of the School must be residents of the State of Ohio. Admission is open to students on a statewide basis.

Applications are accepted for student admission up to the deadline date for a lottery drawing. Priority for enrollment shall be given to returning students, their siblings and students who reside in the district in which the School is located. If on the deadline date for a lottery drawing the number of applicants per grade level exceeds the number of seats, a lottery drawing is held for those grade levels. The lottery drawing places children in order for possible enrollment into the school. As the School operates and accepts students year round, if other places become available (after the lottery), students are accepted from a prioritized wait list based on the results of the lottery or, if there is no wait list, then on a first come first serve basis. If a lottery is necessary, it shall take place at a public location. All parents of children selected in the lottery will be notified of the selection by certified mail. Parents will have up to seven (7) days from receipt of the call to contact the School regarding their decision. If a parent does not respond within seven (7) days of receipt of the call, the school will select another child from the lottery.

PROCESS AND CRITERIAThe School admits children of any race, color, religion, or sex. Furthermore, there will be no discrimination in the admission of students to the school on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability. For admittance the following will be required: completing and submitting the registration form and such other enrollment materials that the School deems necessary; and submitting copies of the child’s birth certificate, Social Security Card, current immunization record as mandated by law, and proof of residence.

EARLY ADMISSIONEach child who is five years of age on or before September 30 shall be eligible to enroll in kindergarten. Each child who is six years of age on or before September 30 shall be eligible to enroll in first grade. A child who seeks to enroll in kindergarten or first grade whom does not meet the age requirements set forth above, but who will be five or six years old, respectively, prior to the first day of January of the school year in which admission is requested, may be evaluated for early admittance in accordance with the School’s Early Entrance Policy.

DAILY PROCEDURESARRIVALDrop off students should arrive to school no earlier than 8:30 a.m. Bus students will be allowed into the building at 8:30 a.m. Bus students that arrive between 8:30 and 8:45 will need to go to the breakfast room to have breakfast. Drop off and students on buses that arrive at 8:45 or later are to get breakfast from the line and report directly to their classroom. 00947674v5 2

TARDYStudents who arrive on time will have a better chance to achieve. Students who arrive after 9:00 a.m. will be marked tardy. Tardy students must be signed in at the front desk upon arrival. If a student is going to be tardy and will need a school lunch you must notify the office by 9:30am. A tardy will only be excused if a written notice of the reason is provided. See Attendance Process for reasons a tardy/absence will be excused.

ABSENTStudents arriving after 10:30 are marked “absent” for one-half day. See Attendance Process for further information about absences.

BREAKFAST Groveport Community School participates in the National Breakfast Program. Even though each student is able to receive a free breakfast this year, the state of Ohio still requires a completed verification sheet. Please complete the verification sheet and submit it to the Director of Meal Services/ Office Manager as soon as school begins. A new verification sheet is required each year. Only one application per household is required for all students attending Groveport Community School.

Breakfast will start at 8:30 am. We encourage all students to eat breakfast. Breakfast will not be served after 9:00 am with the exception of students arriving on a late bus. Please ensure your child arrives to school prior to 9:00 to take advantage of breakfast.

LUNCHGroveport Community School participates in the National School Lunch Program. Even though each student is able to receive a free lunch this year, the state of Ohio still requires a completed verification sheet. Please complete the verification sheet and submit it to the Director of Meal Services/ Office Manager as soon as school begins. A new verification sheet is required each year. Only one application per household is required for all students attending Groveport Community School.

Students will have a lunch and recess period each day. All students will have the option to get lunch each day, or parents may choose to pack lunches. We place one lunch order each morning. If your child arrives to school after 9:30am, they will not be provided a lunch because the lunch order gets called in at 9:30am. If your child will be tardy, please call the front office to let them know if your child will need a lunch. If you bring lunch to your child during school hours, you must drop the lunch off at the front desk during your child’s designated lunch time. No outside food deliveries (Chinese food, Uber Eats, Pizza, etc.).

PLEASE REMEMBER TO PUT YOUR CHILD’S NAME ON THEIR SACK OR LUNCH BOX IF YOU PACK YOUR LUNCH.

EARLY DISMISSALStudents who leave school early, including during the last 30 minutes of the day, are marked as “early dismissal.” This is part of the attendance record for your child.

00947674v5 3

DISMISSAL AND PICK-UP TIMESStaff will escort students to their appropriate destinations for dismissal by 3:30 p.m. Students must adhere to school-wide rules during dismissal time. Students must have a note if they will not be using the normal means of transportation. See Emergency Changes in Transportation pg. 24 for more information.

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSINGIn case of severe weather, the Principal will notify local TV stations regarding the decision to close school or delay its opening. In addition, an all-call will be made to all students with current phone numbers. Groveport Community School will be closed due to inclement weather whenever Groveport Community School deems necessary. We will consider transportation of students when this decision is made.

If Groveport Community School is open, and your resident school district is closed, it will be an excused absence. However, to receive an excused absence, you must either notify the office by phone or in writing within three days. If your resident district is running a two hour delay, due to inclement weather only, students who ride the bus will not be considered tardy if they arrive by bus. Please make arrangements for your child if you are not home and school must be dismissed early due to an emergency.

The School may be required to make up days in which the school is forced to close due to weather or unforeseen circumstances. If additional days need to be made up the school will contact parents with additional information indicating the date of make-up days. The days may be made up at the end of the year or on any day school is currently not in session (such as spring break).

ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES

Achievement and attendance are highly related. Each student should attend school daily. Rules and regulations regarding excessive absenteeism and tardiness shall be enforced.

1. Students are expected to be in school, on time, every day. Absences may be “excused” or “unexcused”. For an absence to be considered excused, a parent must supply appropriate documentation of the reason of the absence. Any tardy or absences will be unexcused if proper documentation is not received. Absences may be excused for the following reasons:

● Personal Illness. ● Quarantine of the home. (The absence of a child from school under this

condition is limited to the length of quarantine as fixed by the proper health officials.)

● Serious illness or death of a relative.● Observance of religious holidays.● Court subpoena.● Emergency or set of circumstances that, in the judgment of the principal

constitutes good and sufficient cause of absence from school.2. Parents/Guardians must notify the school on the day a student is absent unless

written advance notice of the absence has been submitted to the school. 00947674v5 4

Lacking parental notification of an absence, the principal/designee will notify the parent of the student’s absence by telephone or written notice on the same day the student is absent.

3. If a student is dismissed early for a doctor’s appointment or for another valid reason, the student must bring a note signed by his/her parent or guardian. The parent must meet the child in the school office before the child will be excused.

All other absences are “unexcused” as determined by the principal and include but are not limited to truancy, oversleeping, personal appointments (hairdresser, etc.) and unapproved vacations.

*** Students sent home due to illness or medical necessity may be required to produce a doctor’s note before being readmitted to school. If a required medical excuse is not provided, the student will need to return home (unexcused absence) until the proper documentation is provided.

PROCEDURES FOR ATTENDANCE ISSUES (TRUANCY)Under Ohio law, a child within school age must attend school. Unless a student under the age of 18 has a legitimate excuse for missing school, he or she must attend school.

1. Early dismissals during the last 30 minutes of the day are very disruptive and should be avoided.

2. Habitual tardiness or excessive absences shall be dealt with initially by phone contact from the classroom teacher to the absent student’s parent(s) or guardian. If the teacher is unable to reach the parent or guardian by phone after reasonable effort has been made, communication shall be sent home, and to the administrator's office, advising that attempts have been made to reach them by phone and requesting the parent/guardian to contact the teacher. If this does not result in some degree of improvement, the administration shall mail a letter to the student’s parent(s) or guardian stating the problem and reminding them of their legal responsibility concerning their child’s attendance in school.

● Habitual Truancy: a. Absent 30 or more consecutive hour without legitimate excuse;b. Absent 42 or more hours in one school month without a legitimate

excuse;c. Absent 72 or more hours in one school year without a legitimate

excuse. Excessive Absences:

a. Absent 38 or more hours in one school month with or without a legitimate excuse;

b. Absent 65 or more hours in one school year with or without legitimate excuse.

For “habitual” truants, Groveport Community School will request to schedule a meeting with the parent to develop a plan for the parent and child. In the case a parent fails to attend the scheduled meeting, a written plan will be sent to the parent. If the parent or student fails to follow the plan, Groveport Community School may file a complaint in juvenile court jointly against the child and the parent. The complaint must state that the

00947674v5 5

child is an “unruly child” by virtue of being a “habitual truant” and that the student’s parent violated the School Attendance Law.

MANDATORY WITHDRAWALOhio law requires the withdrawal of any student who, without legitimate excuse, fails to participate in 72 consecutive hours of learning opportunities during any academic year.

MISSING CHILD POLICYThe School shall notify a student’s parent(s) who is the residential parent, custodian, guardian, or legal custodian or any other person responsible for the student within a reasonable time after the determination that the student is absent from school. The student’s parent(s), who is the residential parent and custodian, guardian, or legal custodian or any other person responsible for the student shall provide to the School a current address and telephone number at which said person or persons can receive notice that the student is absent from School.

A student at the time of his or her initial entry to school shall present to the person in charge of admission, any records given to him or her by the school he or she most recently attended and a certification of birth or a comparable certificate or certification issued pursuant to Ohio law. Within 24 hours of a student’s entry into the school, a school official shall request the student’s official records from the school he or she most recently attended. If the school the student claims to have most recently attended states that it has no records of the student’s attendance, or the records are not received within fourteen (14) days of the date of the request, or the student does not present a certification of birth or comparable certificate, the Principal shall notify the law enforcement agency having jurisdiction in the area where the student resides of this fact and the possibility that the student may be a missing child.

The School shall make available to parents and community members in the School’s office copies of informational materials relative to missing children issues and matters acquired or prepared by the Ohio Attorney General’s Missing Children Clearinghouse.

ACADEMICS AND THE GRADING SYSTEM

CURRICULUMThe school will ensure that all core content area curriculum, instructional and educations materials and textbooks are aligned to Ohio’s Learning Standards/Common Core State Standards and update the curriculum alignment if ever revised by ODE. For additional information concerning the school’s curriculum contact the Principal.

PROGRESS REPORTSStudent’s academic progress will be communicated to parents in the form of quarterly report cards in grades K-8, as well as interim reports midway through each quarter. Refer to the school calendar for the exact date report cards and interims will be sent home.

PROMOTION AND RETENTION

00947674v5 6

In general, students who have mastered the curriculum areas will be promoted to the next grade level at the end of each school year. However, retention may be recommended for one or more of the following reasons:

● Non-mastery of the curriculum● Attendance record● Discipline record● Age of the child● Maturity level● Any other factors thought to be appropriate by the principal, teachers and

professional staff● Except as may be required the Third Grade Reading Guarantee, the

school will not utilize a student’s failure to obtain a specified score on any statewide achievement tests as a factor in any decision to deny a student’s promotion to a higher grade level, except that the school may use a student’s failure to attain a score in at least the basic range as a factor in deciding to deny a student’s promotion to the next level on the student achievement assessments established from time to time by the State Board of Education. Furthermore, the school may choose not to promote a student to the next grade level who does not take a required statewide achievement test or makeup test, and who is not exempt from the requirement to take such tests.

Except as may be required under the Third Grade Reading Guarantee, the Principal, after consultation with staff and parents, has the authority to make the final decision relative to the promotion or retention of a student.

Ohio law prohibits the promotion of a student to the next grade level if the student has been absent without excuse for more than 10% of the required school attendance days of the current year and has failed two or more subjects.

State law requires that each school district in Ohio assess reading skills for students in kindergarten, first, second and third grades by September 30, and kindergarten by November 1, of each year to determine whether they are reading at grade level (“On-track”) or not reading at grade level (“Not on-track”). If a student is identified as being Not on-track the school will notify the parent or guardian and the school will immediately provide intervention services to improve the students reading performance. In addition, the school and the parent or guardian will develop a Reading Improvement and Monitoring Plan. Unless the student meets an exception, if the student does not attain an appropriate level of reading competency by the end of Third Grade, they must be retained. For a copy of the complete Promotion and Retention Policy contact the Principal.

STANDARDIZED TESTINGStudents attending Groveport Community School are assessed in the fall and spring of each school year by a computer adaptive test. Results of this test will measure the academic growth of each individual student and will be sent home in the beginning of the following school year.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES

00947674v5 7

Teachers will provide a list of supplies that are needed at school. During the school year, you may be asked to provide other items that will help with learning.

HOME LEARNING GUIDELINES

Home and school must work together to ensure student academic success. Parent responsibility grows even stronger as students move from preschool to kindergarten and through elementary into middle school and beyond. Active parent involvement increases student achievement.

Purpose of assigning home learning:● To reinforce and practice the concepts taught in the classroom.● To extend and enhance the concepts taught in the classroom.● To prepare the students for an upcoming lesson.● To involve parents in the education process.

Home Learning Frames Kindergarten: 10 minutes of home learning and 20 minutes of parental reading

each evening.● 1st grade: 10 minutes of home learning and 20 minutes of parental reading each

evening.● 2nd grade: 20 minutes of home learning and 30 minutes of parental/independent

reading each evening.● 3rd grade: 30 minutes of home learning and 30 minutes of independent reading

each evening.● 4th grade: 40 minutes of home learning and 30 minutes of independent reading

each evening.● 5th grade: 50 minutes of home learning and 30 minutes of independent reading

each evening.● Middle School: 60-75 minutes of home learning and 30 minutes of independent

reading each evening.

Home learning may be graded and may be factored into the students’ final grade. Each teacher will weigh home learning as they see fit, and each teacher must communicate his/her home learning policy in writing to parents and students at the beginning of the school year.

CODE OF CONDUCT

The Code of Conduct contains regulations governing the conduct of students. It has as its central purpose the prevention of actions interfering with the school program. Students, parents, and staff are expected to acquaint themselves with this handbook and building procedures and the Code of Conduct. Every staff member of Groveport Community School is required to enforce this Code of Conduct. The Code of Conduct applies to any behavior that occurs: on school grounds; off school grounds at any school activity, function, or event; traveling to and from school or school activities; or via the internet to the extent it affects the learning environment.

00947674v5 8

INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES EDUCATION IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2004The Code of Conduct applies to all students enrolled in the School; however students with disabilities will be treated in accordance with the provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004, and any subsequent regulations affecting the provisions. This does not necessarily preclude exclusion from school or school bus/vehicles as a result of a crisis or any emergency or as provided by law.

For more information on the rights of students with disabilities, please contact the Department of Educational Services and Resources, or refer to the publication, A Guide to Parent Rights in Special Education. Available at www.ode.state.oh.us.

THE RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF STUDENTS AND PARENTSStudents and parents have rights that Groveport Community School must observe, but also understand that responsibilities accompany individual rights. The individual rights of students will be weighed against the safety and welfare of the majority of students in the school. Above all, Groveport Community School will maintain discipline to support and enable the conduct of a quality educational program.

1. The Right to Due process of Law: Before a student is suspended or expelled, students and parents have the right to be informed about alleged misbehavior and provided with an opportunity to respond to such a charge. Students and parents will receive notice of the reason(s) for proposed disciplinary action and will be given the opportunity to challenge he action. Removal, suspension, expulsion, and appeal procedures are posted at the School and are available to parents and students upon request.

2. The Right to Private-Property of Students: A student’s right concerning searches of personal property will be balanced by the responsibility of the School to protect the safety and welfare of all students. School equipment including lockers, furniture, computers and related accessories are the property of the School. They are on temporary loan to students and are subject to examination by school personnel at any time.

PARENT RESPONSIBILITIESParents have the responsibility to:

1. Support school officials in their efforts to develop and maintain a well-disciplined school.

2. Teach their child socially acceptable standards of behavior.3. Teach their child to have respect for law, authority, and the rights and property of

others.4. Teach their child to be accountable for his/her own actions and help the child to

grow and develop into a self-disciplined citizen.5. Share the responsibility for student conduct with the school.6. Maintain an active involvement in the student’s schoolwork and activities.7. Require prompt and regular attendance at school.8. Attend parent conferences.

00947674v5 9

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIESStudents also have certain responsibilities, both as citizens and as members of the school community. These responsibilities must be met at all school functions whether the student is in the school building, traveling to or from school via transportation provided by the school system, or whenever representing Groveport Community School.

1. Active Participation: Students have the responsibility for actively engaging in the serious business of learning. For example, they will attend school regularly and be on time. They will remain in class until excused, pay attention to instructions, complete assignments to the best of their ability, and make every effort to achieve mastery of the lessons.

2. Obedience to Laws and Rules: The laws of society and school rules have been created to guarantee each individual’s rights and safety. Students will assume personal responsibility for obedience to these laws and rules.

3. Responsible Exercise of Free Speech and Expression: Students will express opinions in a manner that is not offensive, illegal, obscene, or inconsistent with the educational goals of the school. The rights of others will be respected, and there can be no interference with the orderly educational process.

4. Avoidance of Illegal or Dangerous Items: Students will not bring materials, substances or objects prohibited by law or school policy to school or school activities.

EXPECTATIONS FOR STUDENTS

1. Students will follow all responsibilities outlined in this Parent/Student Handbook.2. Students will cooperate with parents in their efforts to ensure regular daily

attendance.3. Students will respect all that are involved in the educational process. This

includes all staff, other students, and parents.4. Students will take grade cards, interim reports, notes, letters, and all other

important information home to parents/guardians.5. Students will complete all academic assignments.6. Students will learn appropriate skills to deal with conflict situations in an effort to

avoid disrespectful and harmful behaviors.7. Students will develop and maintain a positive attitude toward education. They

are to demonstrate those strategies that will enable them to be successful, self-motivated students. These strategies include good study habits, appropriate communication tools, good citizenship qualities, and test-taking skills.

EXPECTATIONS FOR PARENTS/GUARDIANS

1. Parents will be responsible for knowing the expectations as outlined in the Parent/Student Handbook and will send students to school well-equipped, well-rested, in good health, and with a positive attitude.

2. Parents will ensure that students arrive at school on time every school day and inform school personnel when a student is absent.

00947674v5 10

3. Parents will provide the school with updated information to enable school staff to communicate quickly and effectively in the event on an emergency. This information includes the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of those individuals who should be contacted in case of any emergency.

4. Parents will make a special effort to communicate with teachers at least once each grading period in order to monitor student progress on a regular basis.

5. Parents will provide a designated study time and place for students to complete academic assignments in the home.

6. Parents will attend scheduled parent-teacher conferences and support other school-related activities.

7. Parents will meet their child’s teacher(s) at the beginning of each year.8. Parents that contribute to the disruption of the educational environment or

present a risk to the safety or well-being of the School’s students and/or staff may be excluded from the School facility at the discretion of the principal. a. Expected Level of Behavior:

➢ Parents/Guardians and other visitors will treat teachers, students, school administrators, and other school staff, and district employees with courtesy and respect.

b. Unacceptable/Disruptive Behavior:➢ Disruptive behavior includes, but is not necessarily limited to: behavior

which interferes with or threatens to interfere with the operation of a classroom, an employee’s office or office area, areas of school or facility which are not open to parents/guardians and the general public – this includes cell phone usage.

➢ Using loud and or offensive language/gestures, profane language/gestures, intimidating language/gestures, or display of temper – this includes cell phone usage.

➢ Threatening to do bodily or physical harm to a teacher, school administrator, school employee, Board member, or student regardless of whether or not the behavior constitutes or may constitute a criminal violation.

➢ Damaging or destroying school property.➢ Any other behavior that disrupts the orderly operation of a school, a

school classroom, (unannounced visits), or any other Board of Education facility.

➢ Abusive, threatening, and/or obscene communication including but not limited to email and/or voice mail message, direct contact, DoJo message, cell phone usage, and social media.

PHILOSOPHY OF STUDENT CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINEDeveloping a student’s self-discipline is a legitimate and constructive goal of education. Parents, communities, and the schools play key roles in shaping student conduct and ensuring good discipline. An essential element of effective discipline is regular parent communication through telephone calls, conferences, written notes, and school visitations.

00947674v5 11

Schools must be places where effective learning can occur. Schools must maintain standards of conduct and discipline because students and school personnel have a right to a safe and orderly learning environment. Therefore, students are prohibited from engaging in behaviors endangering the safety of others or interfering with the school program. Unacceptable conduct is defined in this document in Offenses below. Prompt and effective disciplinary actions will be taken to address these behaviors.

OFFENSES AND CONSEQUENCESThe following offenses and consequences are guidelines for the school, students and parents. They are not “automatic.” Each offense or series of offenses will be evaluated individually. This is not an all-inclusive list of the offenses for which a student could receive consequences.

If a student’s behavior is unsafe or unruly at dismissal time, the child may be prohibited from riding the bus home. Should this occur, the parent/guardian will be contacted to provide transportation for the student.

Further investigation of a discipline code violation may result in an increase/decrease of the initial consequences.

Guidance on Infractions and Likely Disciplinary ActionAcademic Misconduct

Plagiarizing, cheating, and copying another’s work or internet materials, gaining unauthorized access to material, using, submitting, or attempting to obtain data or answers dishonestly or by means other than authorized by the teacher.

Disciplinary actionActions against school employees

Any action directed toward a school employee including but not limited to assault, battery, physical aggression, vandalism, theft, harassment, obscene profane language/gestures, or threats directed toward a staff member.

Disciplinary action and/orDiscretionary expulsion - Additionally legal action may occur in formal charges

Arson Setting fire to attempting to set fire to school building or property located on school grounds or any property belonging to, rented by, or on loan to the school.

Disciplinary action and/orUp to 1 year mandatory expulsion - Additionally legal action may occur in formal charges

Bodily Fluids Expelling of bodily fluids of any kind (mucous, urine, saliva, fecal matter, blood, etc.) towards any student or staff member.

Disciplinary action and/orDiscretionary suspension or expulsion

Bomb Threat Making a bomb threat to a School building or to any premises at which a School activity is occurring at the time of the threat.

Disciplinary action and/orUp to 1 year discretionary expulsion.

Criminal Act Committing an act while at School, on property owned by the school, at an interscholastic competition, an extracurricular event, or any other school program or activity that is a criminal offense when committed by an adult that results in serious physical harm to persons or serious physical harm to property.


Dangerous weapons and

A student shall not possess, handle, transmit, or conceal any object that would be dangerous to anyone while on school property, at a bus stop, on a school bus, or at a school sponsored

00947674v5 12

instruments activity. Defined as but not limited to, knives and other sharp instruments, metal knuckles, straight razors, chains, clubs, explosives, switch blades, fireworks, incendiary devices (lighters, matches, etc.), noxious irritation or poisonous gases, mace, pepper gas, or like substances, needles, or any item that could be considered a weapon (or look alike) or ammunition for any such weapon. Includes having such items at one’s desk, in a locker, or in a hiding place on school property, including school buses or vehicles. Section 2923.122 of the Ohio Revised Code makes it a felony for any person to knowingly convey, attempt to convey, or possess any deadly weapon or dangerous ordnance onto or any property owned by or controlled by, or to any activity held under the auspices of a school.


Disorderly Conduct

Causing school officials to stop their regular duties to intervene in unruly behavior

Disorderly Conduct is a violation of Ohio Revised Code 2917.11 and legal action may occur in formal charges.

Discretionary expulsion - Additionally legal action may occur in formal chargesDisruptive Behavior

Engaging in any conduct that causes or results in the breakdown of the orderly process of instruction and/or School activities, including but not limited to failure to carry out directions and/or School guidelines, failure to cooperate with School personnel or parent volunteers, verbally harassing other students, and running and/or making excessive noise in the building.

Dress Code Violation

See Dress Code Warning issued; Parent Phone CallGuest seating for the school dayParent required to bring appropriate dress code attire or remove student for the remainder of the school day. Non-compliance with this action will result in student out of school suspension. Fourth and subsequent dress code violations will result in out of school suspension.

Electronic and Other Communication Devices

No Student shall display or possess any electronic devices (cellphones, I-Pods, gaming devices, tablets, electronic reading devices, etc.) without approval on School property from the beginning of the day to the conclusion of School. If a student is caught using their electronic device during school hours, the device will be confiscated, for parent to pick up. Recording anything on School property is grounds for suspension. ** Groveport Community School staff does not assume responsibility for damaged or stolen electronic devices either in student possession or while confiscated. Staff members shall not be held accountable for investigating damage to or theft of electronic devices.

1st time - electronic device will be confiscated and kept in the office until a parent or legal guardian comes to retrieve the item during normal school hours and signs electronic device release log.

2nd time - electronic device will be confiscated and kept in the office for 5 calendar days and then until a parent or legal guardian comes to retrieve the item during normal school hours and signs the electronic device release log.

3rd time - electronic device will be confiscated and kept in the office for a minimum of 30 calendar days and then until a parent or legal guardian comes to retrieve the item during normal school hours and signs the electronic device log.Fourth and subsequent violations shall result in out of school suspension.

Extortion Obtaining or attempting to obtain another person’s property, benefit, or service from another person, either by implied or expressed threatDisciplinary action and/orDiscretionary expulsion

False Fire Alarms Tampering with fire alarm by setting off the alarm when there is no emergency and/or destroying or damaging a fire alarm or fire extinguisher

Setting off a false fire alarm is a direct violation of Ohio Revised Code 2917.32 and also violates Ohio Revised Code 2917.31 for inducing panic. Legal action may occur in formal charges.

Disciplinary action and/orDiscretionary expulsion. Additionally, legal action may occur in formal charges.

False Attempting to use false identification to mislead school personnel, including refusing to identify

00947674v5 13

Identification oneself to school personnel upon request. This includes failure to identify oneself correctly to bus drivers and other supervising adults (chaperones/guides on field trips, etc.)

Disciplinary action

Fighting Mutual participation in an incident involving serious and/or physical contact, including play fighting/horseplay.

Discretionary expulsion. Additionally, legal action may occur in formal charges.

Disciplinary action and/orDiscretionary expulsion. - Additionally, legal action may occur in formal charges.

Firearm Bringing a firearm to the School or onto School property (any Property owned, used, or leased by the School). Bringing a firearm to an interscholastic competition, an extracurricular event, or any other School program or activity that is located at a School or on School property. Possessing a firearm at School, on School property or at an interscholastic competition, an extracurricular event, or any other School program or activity which firearm was initially brought onto School property by another person.

Disciplinary action - 1 year mandatory expulsion.Additionally, legal action may occur in formal charges.

Food Students will have the opportunity to eat breakfast and lunch during designated times. Students eating during other times of the day must have permission from the teacher. Food should not be eaten during instructional or testing time. All food items must be properly stored in the classrooms or lockers until designated eating times. No food shall be stored on the student’s pockets, binders, etc. No student shall throw food in class, in the hallways, or on the school property.No student shall take food from another student/staff/person in school or in transit to/from school. No student shall do anything to make another person’s food inedible (throwing it in the trash, stomping on it, etc.).

Disciplinary actionForgery Falsifying in writing the name of another person, times, dates, grades, addresses, or other

data on school forms or correspondence directed to the school.

Disciplinary actionGang Activity No student shall be involved in initiations, hazing, intimidations and/or related activities of

group affiliations which are likely to cause bodily danger, physical harm, or personal degradation or disgrace resulting in physical or mental harm to Students or Staff. No Student shall wear, carry or display gang paraphernalia or exhibit behaviors or gestures which symbolize gang membership or cause and/or participate in activities which intimidate or affect the attendance of another student.

Disciplinary action and/or Discretionary expulsion.

Home Learning Daily home learning assignments are an extension of, and reinforce class work, and may be assigned Monday through Friday evenings. The amount of home learning and time required for its completion will depend on the grade level of the student and the type of skill or content being developed. All home learning must be completed in a timely manner, as determined by the classroom teacher. Repeated failure to timely complete home learning is of great concern, and may result in appropriate disciplinary measures.

Disciplinary action

00947674v5 14

Household substances/ chemicals and/or dangerous/ hazardous substances/ chemicals

Possession of any household, or other, chemical/cleaner/substance that is not provided by the school for educational purposes.

Inappropriate language/ Obscenities/ Verbal Abuse/ Vulgarities

Using or directing, insulting, degrading, demeaning, obscene, abusive, vulgar, profane, harassing, racial, sexual, religious, or ethnic slurs, written or verbal, toward School personnel or any member of the School community. This shall include use of obscene gestures and signs that willfully intimidate, insult, humiliate or in any other manner, abuse others.

Disciplinary actionInsubordination Verbal or nonverbal refusal to comply with a reasonable request or directive while on School

property or at any School related activity or event.

Disciplinary actionIntimidation/ Threat, Menacing/ Bullying/Cyber-Bullying

Threats, verbal or physical, that inflict fear, injury, or damage. Cyber-bullying is a sub-set of bullying and involves the use of information and communication technologies, including but not limited to e-mail, cell phone picture and text messages, blogs, Facebook, KIK, the Internet, instant messaging, defamatory personal Web sites, and defamatory online personal polling Web sites, and any other social media to supportdeliver or repeat, hostile behavior by an individual or group, that is intended to harm, intimidate or harass others on School time or the School premises, at School events, programs or activities or off School time or School premises if such acts affect other Students or Staff of the School. See also Bullying Prohibition and Prevention.

Disciplinary action and/orDiscretionary expulsion.

Lying Intentionally giving untrue communication.

Disciplinary actionPhysical Contact/Physical Aggression

Participating in unacceptable physical contact, including but not limited to pushing, hitting, pinching, and biting, throwing objects (pencils, erasers, rubber bands, etc.) that strike another student, and/or intentionally hurting other students. Showing offensive physical action towards another student in an unprovoked situation where the other student does not participate in the action.

Disciplinary action and/orDiscretionary expulsion. Additionally, legal action may occur in formal charges

Refusal to Do Classroom Work

The refusal to complete work, labs, projects, or other assignments given by the teacher.

Disciplinary actionMinor Safety Students shall be concerned about their own safety and that of others. Student actions that

may be considered a minor safety risk include, but are not limited to:• Talking during safety drills• Leaving the classroom without permission• Running, pushing, yelling, or other inappropriate behaviors• Any inappropriate playground behaviors • Minor insubordination to adults

Disciplinary actionMajor Safety Behavior that creates a more severe possibility of harm to oneself or others, including but not

limited to • Leaving the school building or grounds without permission• Other acts which could harm the student or others.


Sale of items/materials (for profit)

Selling items/materials to other students on School property.

Disciplinary action

00947674v5 15

Sale, Use, Possession, or Distribution of Alcohol, Drugs, or other Chemical Controlled Substances

Using, selling/purchasing, distributing, possessing, or attempting to possess, mood altering chemicals, or substances (including counterfeit or look-alike substances and paraphernalia), distributing any narcotics, drugs, controlled substances of any kind, or alcoholic beverages, or other intoxicant on School property or at School functions or event.


Sale, Use, Possession, or Distribution of Tobacco Product

Using, selling/purchasing, distributing, possessing or attempting to possess, any tobacco product or paraphernalia, including Vaporizers, E cigarettes.

Disciplinary actionSchool Property Textbooks, computers, and school facilities are available for student use. Proper care and

use of School property is expected. All violations in this area require restoration and/or restitution. Violations include but are not limited to:• Defacing textbooks, library books, and other school materials• Destruction or improper use of school computers, printers, or other technology• Defacing/destruction of School property including desks, walls, lockers, etc.• Failure to respect the property of other students, teachers, school personnel, etc.• Gum chewing on School property• Improper use of restrooms and/or supplies• Stealing

Disciplinary actionSexual or Other Harassment

Unwelcome advances of a sexual nature, requests for sexual favors, and/or other verbal or physical conduct or communication of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment that includes unwelcome physical contact shall be assumed to have the effect of substantially interfering with the victim's employment or educational environment. See Harassment Policies, including the Anti-Harassment, Anti-Intimidation and Anti-Bullying policy.


Sexual Misconduct

Any action or behavior that includes unacceptable exposure of, touching, or making references to private body parts or those of another person verbally, pictorially, or in writing. Included in sexual misconduct are actions involving touching of a sexual nature, with or without consent of the other party and possession of inappropriate sexual materials. This includes “sexting” which is defined as sending, sharing, viewing, or possessing pictures, text messages, emails or other material of a sexual nature in electronic or any form on a cell phone or other electronic device.

Disciplinary action and/orDiscretionary expulsion.

Tardiness To class: The act of a student not being in his/her classroom or seat when class is scheduled to begin as defined in the School schedule.

Disciplinary actionTheft Stealing, attempting to steal, possessing or transferring School or private property, or

participating in the theft or attempted theft of School or private property.

Disciplinary action

00947674v5 16

Toys or Play Objects

School is a place of learning. Distractions cause students to be inattentive. Therefore students are to keep all toys or play objects at home unless the teacher designates a specific day for sharing what a student owns. If a Student chooses to share a toy or other object on such an occasion, the School is not responsible for these items. Violations include but are not limited to:• Bringing toys or distracting objects to school• Creating toys or distracting objects at school

Disciplinary action - possible confiscation of toy or objectViolating Classroom Rules

Not following the classroom rules as determined by the classroom teacher.

Disciplinary action

DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS (in no particular order) Correction, warnings, counseling, confiscation of items, or creative interventions Recess and/or lunch detention Guest seating in alternate classroom Time in office Work projects Alternative school assignment Call or communication sent home to parent After school detention - A student will remain after school hours for a pre-

determined amount of time. A student must complete an assignment reflecting their behavior. If not completed, another detention could be assigned. Students must be picked up promptly at the end of the detention period. Failing to attend an assigned detention, without being excused by administration, may result in suspension.

Parent/teacher conference Behavior Probation and/or Behavior Goal Sheet - Students reported for

consistent unacceptable behavior or a major infraction will have a behavioral contract created to aid in the modification of their behavior. The contract and probationary period are designed to bring about changes in student behavior. Periodic assessment of student behavior will be requested. If a student fails to meet the expectations set forth in their behavioral contract, they may face additional disciplinary action up to and including expulsion if deemed necessary.

Request of parents to come into school to supervise their son/daughter Revocation of privileges (extra-curricular activities, dress down opportunities,

field trips, assemblies, etc.) Searches - Principals and their designees are permitted to search the person,

and personal property (purse, backpack, gym bag, etc.) of a student where there is reasonable suspicion, before a search is conducted, to believe that evidence will be obtained indicating the student’s violation of either the law or school rules. The search of a student’s person or intimate personal belongings shall be conducted by the Principal or his or her designee. This person should be of the student’s gender and conduct the search in the presence of another staff member. However, no strip searches may be conducted by school personnel.

Restitution - Parents of students responsible for defacing or damaging School property and/or staff property could be required to pay the cost of restoring or repairing the property.

In school suspension (in office retention)

00947674v5 17

Emergency removal from school - If a student’s presence poses a continuing danger to persons or property, or an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process, the student can be removed from school without prior notice of hearing. Written notice of the removal and hearing, which must be held within three (3) school days of the student’s removal, shall be provided as soon as practicable. Students are to remain home during school hours and not attend/participate in school sponsored function(s) pending the hearing. Should an out-of-school suspension be warranted, days of removal may be applied to the days of out-of-school suspension.

Out of school suspension Filing of legal charges – Referral to police, courts, or other public agency Discretionary or mandatory expulsion

POSITIVE BEHAVIOR INTERVENTIONS AND SUPPORTSThe Board of Directors (“Board”) has adopted a policy to guide the use of Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS), and the limited use of restraint and seclusion at the School. It is the Board’s belief that every effort should be made to prevent the need for the use of restraint and for the use of seclusion. The use of a non-aversive effective behavioral system such as PBIS shall be used to create a learning environment that promotes the use of evidence-based behavioral interventions, thus enhancing academic and social behavioral outcomes for all students.

Restraint or seclusion shall not occur, except when there is an immediate risk of physical harm to the student or others, and shall occur only in a manner that protects the safety of all children and adults at school. Every use of restraint or seclusion shall be documented and reported in accordance with the Board adopted policy. The School’s policy is available online or from the School office.

The PBIS prevention-oriented framework or approach applies to all students, all staff, and all settings. Research supports the conclusion that PBIS, when integrated with effective academic instruction, provides the support students need to become actively engaged in their own learning and academic success

SUSPENSION Out-of-school suspension is removal of a student from school for a period of one to ten (10) days. During suspension, students are not permitted to participate in extracurricular activities or be on any school property. The student may only enter School facilities when given permission by the Principal or if accompanied by a parent or guardian who accepts responsibility for the student's actions and/or behavior at the facility. While serving an out-of-school suspension, the Board does afford students the opportunity to receive some or all of their homework assignments.

The Principal, assistant principal or principal designee may suspend a student. Prior to suspending a student, the Principal, assistant principal or principal designee must do both of the following:

1. Give written notice of the intention to suspend and the reasons for the intended suspension to the student. If the proposed suspension is based on a

00947674v5 18

violation listed in Ohio Revised Code Section 3313.662(A) and the student is sixteen years of age or older, the notice must contain a statement that the School may seek to permanently exclude the student if the student is convicted of or adjudicated a delinquent child for that violation; and

2. Provide the student an opportunity to appear at an informal hearing before the principal, assistant principal or principal designee and challenge the reasons for the intended suspension or otherwise explain. The hearing can happen immediately and can happen anywhere - the hall, office, classroom, etc.

Within one school day after the time of the student’s suspension, the Principal assistant principal or principal designee shall also provide written notice of suspension to the parent/guardian of the student and the treasurer of the Board of Directors. The notice shall contain:

1. The reasons for the suspension;2. Notice of the right of the student, or student’s parent/guardian/custodian to

appeal to the Board of Directors or the Board’s designee;3. Notice that the student/parent/guardian/custodian has the right to be

represented in all appeal proceedings;4. Notice of the right to be granted an appeal hearing before the Board’s

designee to be heard against the suspension;5. Notice of the right to request that the hearing be held in executive session;

6. Notice that the School may seek the student’s permanent exclusion if the suspension was based on a violation listed in Ohio Revised Code Section 3313.662(A) that was committed when the student was sixteen years of age or older and if the student is convicted of or adjudicated a delinquent child for that violation; and

7. The date and manner by a student or parent/guardian/custodian may notify the Board of Directors of their intent to appeal the suspension. If the student or parent/guardian wishes to appeal the suspension, the request must be submitted, in writing, to the principal within five (5) school days of the written notice of suspension. The principal shall immediately forward this written appeal to the Board of Directors and Board of Directors’ appeal hearing designee.

If there are fewer than ten (10) school days remaining, the out-of-school suspension may not be applied to the following school year, but the Principal may require the student to participate in a community service program or other alternative consequences for a number of hours equal to the remaining period of the suspension.

00947674v5 19

EXPULSIONExcept as specifically provided for by statute, the Principal may expel a student for a period not to exceed the greater of eighty (80) school days or the number of days remaining in the semester or term in which the offense leading to expulsion took place. Students expelled from the school are not permitted to participate in extracurricular activities or be on any school property. The student may only enter School facilities when given permission by the Principal or if accompanied by a parent or guardian who accepts responsibility for the student's actions and/or behavior at the facility. Expulsions may extend into the following school year.

Only the Principal may expel a student. No student shall be expelled unless prior to the expulsion, the Principal does both of the following:

1. The principal shall give the student and parent, guardian or custodian written notice of the intention to expel the student and the reasons for the intended expulsion. The notice shall include the reasons for the intended expulsion, notification of the right of the student, guardian, custodian or their representative to appear before the principal or his/her designee to hear and to challenge the reasons for the intended expulsion or otherwise to explain the student’s actions, and the notification of the time and place to appear. The time to appear shall not be sooner than three (3) nor later than five (5) school days after the notice has been given unless the principal grants an extension of time at the request of the student, his/her guardian, custodian, or representative. If an extension of time is granted, the principal shall notify the student and his/her parent, guardian, custodian, or representative of the new time and place to appear. If the proposed expulsion is based on a violation listed in Ohio Revised Code Section 3313.662(A) and the student is sixteen years of age or older, the notice must contain a statement that the principal may seek to permanently exclude the student if the student is convicted of or adjudicated a delinquent child for that violation.

2. Provide the student and parent, guardian, or custodian an opportunity to appear in person before the principal or the principal’s designee to challenge the reason for the intended expulsion or otherwise to explain the student’s actions.

Within one school day after the time of the student’s expulsion, the Principal shall also provide written notice of expulsion to the parent/guardian of the student and the treasurer of the Board of Directors. The notice shall contain:

00947674v5 20

1. The reasons for the expulsion;2. Notice of the right of the student, or student’s parent/guardian/custodian to

appeal to the Board of Directors or Board designee; 3. Notice that the student/parent/guardian/custodian has the right to be

represented in all appeal proceedings;4. Notice of the right to be granted an appeal hearing before the Board of

Directors or the Board’s designee to be heard against the expulsion;5. Notice of the right to request that the hearing be held in executive session; 6. The date and manner by a student or parent/guardian/custodian shall notify

the Board of Directors of their intent to appeal the expulsion. If the student or parent/guardian wishes to appeal the expulsion, the request must be submitted, in writing, to the Principal within fourteen (14) calendar days of the written notice of expulsion. The Principal shall immediately forward this written appeal to the Board of Directors and Board of Directors’ appeal hearing designee

If the Principal expels a student for more than twenty (20) school days or for any period of time if the expulsion will extend into the following semester or school year the notice shall provide the student and the student’s parent, guardian, or custodian with information about services or programs offered by public and private agencies that work toward improving those aspects of the student’s attitudes and behavior that contributed to the incident that gave rise to the student’s expulsion. The information shall include the names, addresses, and phone numbers of the appropriate public and private agencies.

If at the time an expulsion is imposed there are fewer than eighty (80) school days remaining in the school year in which the incident that gives rise to the expulsion takes place, the Principal may apply any remaining part or all of the period of the expulsion to the following school year.

Expulsion proceedings will be pursued against a student who has committed an act warranting expulsion even if the student has withdrawn from school for any reason after the incident giving rise to the hearing, but before the hearing or decision to expel. If after the hearing, the student would have been expelled for a period of time had the student remained in school, the expulsion will be for the same length of time as on a student who has not withdrawn from school.

An expelled student will be provided with a date for re-entry and the date for the re-entry conference. The expelled student, and parent or guardian of the student must be present in the re-entry conference. The student and parent or guardian of any student will be notified in the event that the student fails to attend the re-entry conference.

WEAPONS EXPULSIONA student must be expelled for one year for:

1. Bringing a firearm to the school or onto School property (any property owned, used, or leased by the School for school, school extra-curricular activities or school related events).

00947674v5 21

A student may be expelled for one year for:1. Bringing a firearm to an interscholastic competition, an extracurricular

event, or any other school program or activity that is not located at the School or on School property.

2. Possessing a firearm at school, on School property, or at an interscholastic competition, an extracurricular event or any other school program or activity which firearm was initially brought onto the property by another person.

3. Bringing a knife to school, onto School property, an interscholastic competition, an extracurricular event, or any other program or activity sponsored by the School or which the School is a participant.

4. Possession of a knife at school, on School property, or at an interscholastic competition, an extracurricular event, or any other program or activity sponsored by the School or which the School is a participant which a knife was initially brought onto the property by another person.

5. Committing an act while at school, on School property, at an interscholastic competition, an extracurricular event, or any other School program or activity that is a criminal offense when committed by an adult that results in serious physical harm to persons or serious physical harm to property.

6. Making a bomb threat to the School building or to any premises at which a School activity is occurring at the time of the threat.

Firearm has the same meaning as provided pursuant to the "Gun Free Schools Act of 1994". At the time this policy was adopted, the above-referenced statute defined a firearm as any weapon (including a starter's gun) which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expect a projectile by the action of an explosive; including the frame or receiver of any such weapon; and any firearm muffler or silencer; or any destructive device. If the definition of a firearm as provided by the "Gun Free Schools Act of 1994" changes, then the definition set forth in this policy shall automatically change to conform to it.

Knife is defined as cutting instrument consisting of a sharp blade or edge, not to include scissors, wire cutters, or other similar tools determined by the principal(s) to be necessary in the school setting at a particular building or grade level, if used only for the necessary purpose.

The specific circumstances under which the Principal may modify a one (1) year expulsion could include:

1. A recommendation from the group of persons knowledgeable of the student's educational needs in accordance with the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act;

2. The student was unaware that s/he possessed a firearm or dangerous weapon or instrument;

3. The student did not understand that the item s/he possessed was considered a firearm or dangerous weapon or instrument;

00947674v5 22

4. The student brought the item to School as part of an educational activity and did not realize it would be considered a firearm or dangerous weapon or instrument; or

5. The student may be eligible for participation in an alternative program.

A student may be expelled for up to eighty (80) days for serious misconduct or rules violations, or for other just cause.

REMOVAL FROM EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES The Board also authorizes the Principal or his/her designee to suspend a student from any or all co-curricular or extra-curricular activities for misconduct or rules violations. The length of suspension shall be determined by the Principal or his/her designee commensurate with the seriousness of the student's misconduct or rules violations in accordance with the Code of Conduct. Participation in extra-curricular activities is a privilege and not a right. Accordingly, students prohibited from participating in all or part of any extra-curricular activity, are not entitled to notice, hearing or appeal rights.

LOSS OF BUS RIDING PRIVILEGES If the Principal or his/her designee determines that a student's behavior on a School vehicle violates School rules, s/he may suspend the student from AM and PM school bus riding privileges for the length of time deemed appropriate for the violation and remediation of the behavior.

SERVICE LEARNING ALTERNATIVES The Board authorizes the Principal the option to require a student to perform community service in conjunction with, or in place of a suspension or expulsion, except when an expulsion is imposed for bringing a firearm to school or onto School property. The Principal shall be responsible for implementing this policy and ensuring compliance with applicable laws.

STUDENT USE/MISUSE OF TECHNOLOGYTechnology can greatly enhance the instructional program. Computers and use of the network or on-line services support learning and enhance instruction. Computer networks allow people to interact with many computers; the Internet allows people to interact with hundreds of thousands of networks.

It is the policy of the school to: (a) prevent user access over its computer network to, or transmission of, inappropriate material via Internet, electronic mail, or other forms of direct electronic communications; (b) prevent unauthorized access and other unlawful online activity; (c) prevent unauthorized online disclosure, use, or dissemination of personal identification information of minors; (d) provide for the safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms and other forms of direct electronic communication; and (e) comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act.

All computers are to be used in a responsible, efficient, ethical and legal manner. Failure to adhere to this policy and the guidelines below will result in the revocation of the user’s access privilege and subject the student to additional penalties.

00947674v5 23

Unacceptable uses of the computer/network include but are not limited to:1. Violating the conditions of state or federal laws dealing with students’ and

employees’ rights to privacy;2. Using profanity, obscenity or other language that may be offensive to

another user;3. Reposting (forwarding) personal communication without the author’s prior

consent;4. Copying commercial software in violation of copyright law;5. Harassing another person;6. Posting false or defamatory information;7. Plagiarizing information found on the Internet8. Using the network for financial gain, for commercial activity or for any illegal

activity; and9. Accessing and/or viewing inappropriate material.10. Damaging technology devices or systems;11. Using technology to disrupt the educational process, or against policy.12. Unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal identification

information; and13. “Hacking” or gaining unauthorized access to other computers or computer

systems, or attempting to gain such unauthorized access.

Students engaging in any of the above behaviors are subject to severe penalties including:

1. Denial of access to computer and network equipment and resources.2. Verbal or written reprimand.3. Detention.4. Suspension.5. Criminal charges.6. Expulsion.

To the extent practicable, technology protection measures (or “Internet filters”) are used to block or filter Internet access to, or other forms of electronic communications containing, inappropriate information. Filtering, or blocking, is applied to visual depictions of material deemed obscene, child pornography, or to any material deemed harmful to minors. The filter serves to block minors from accessing inappropriate matter on the Internet and the World Wide Web. The technology protection measures may only be disabled by an authorized person and only for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.

Additionally, it shall be the responsibility of all members of the staff to supervise and monitor usage of the online computer network and access to the Internet and ensure that the same is in accordance with this policy.

The School will provide age-appropriate training for students who access the Internet using the School’s technology. The training provided is designed to promote the School’s commitment to:

00947674v5 24

The standards and acceptable use of Internet services as set forth herein;a. Safety on the Internet;b. Appropriate behavior while online, on social networking Websites, and in

chat rooms; andc. Cyberbullying awareness and response

Compliance with the E-rate requirements of the Children’s Internet Protection Act.

Parents/Guardians that utilize computers and technology accessible through the School are expected to abide by this policy. Parents that fail to follow this policy will be denied further access to the technology accessible through the School and may be subject to additional consequences as appropriate.

TOBACCO-FREE ENVIRONMENTTo protect the health of students and employees, and in accordance with state law, using tobacco, including Vaporizers and E cigarettes, shall be prohibited on all School property and at any activity supervised by the school.

NONDISCRIMINATION POLICYGroveport Community School will not tolerate harassment against any staff member or student on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, and status as a Vietnam veteran, military status, sexual orientation or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. Any parent or student may file a complaint with the school administration or contact the Imagine Schools Regional Director.

TRANSPORTATION

STUDENT TRANSPORTATION AND PICK UP AUTHORIZATION FORMSTo help ensure the safety and protection of your child, the school requires written authorization for any adult other than the child’s parent or guardian to pick up the student. You will find this form at the school’s front office.

EMERGENCY CHANGES IN TRANSPORTATIONIf your child must change their regular mode of transportation, you are required to send a written notice to your child’s teacher. Should there be an emergency that affects the regularly scheduled means of transportation, Groveport Community School will accommodate requests on a case by case basis. To ensure your child receives the change in transportation information, please inform the school by 1:00 pm. The office MUST be notified by 2:00 pm.

School Bus Code of Conduct and Discipline Students shall abide by the following rules:

1. Students shall arrive at the bus stop before the bus is scheduled to arrive;

2. Students must wait in a location clear of traffic and away from the bus stop;

00947674v5 25

3. Behavior at the School bus stop must not threaten life, limb or property of any individual;

4. Students must go directly to an available or assigned seat so the bus may safely resume motion;

5. Students must remain seated keeping aisles and exits clear;6. Students must observe classroom conduct and obey the driver

promptly and respectfully;7. Students must not use profane language;8. Students must refrain from eating and drinking on the bus except

as required for medical reasons;9. Students must not use tobacco on the bus;10. Students must not have alcohol or drugs in their possession on the

bus except for prescription medication required for a student;11. Students must not throw or pass objects on, from or into the bus;12. Students may carry on the bus only objects that can be held in their

laps. School-related equipment such as musical instruments and athletic uniforms, which cannot be held by passengers in their seats, shall be stored in the rear of the bus. However, placement of such items in the rear of the bus shall not displace students. When it is necessary to transport School-related equipment with students, space shall be provided to comply with this rule without having standees on the bus;

13. Students must leave or board the bus at locations to which they have been assigned unless they have parental and administrative authorization to do otherwise;

14. Students must not put head or arms out of the bus windows; 15. The following cargo is forbidden to be transported on the School

bus: animals, alcoholic beverages, drugs, ammunition, explosives, firearms, knives, or any other dangerous materials, objects or weapons. If there is a question on the transportation of a particular item, the Principal shall be consulted;

16. Guidelines will be formulated for the use and storage of equipment and other means of assistance required by preschool and special needs children;

17. Drivers and bus aides must have access to appropriate information about the child to the degree that such information might affect safe transportation and medical well-being. This information must be available in the vehicle or readily accessible in the main School office. All such information is strictly confidential.

SUSPENSION OF BUS RIDING/TRANSPORTATION PRIVILEGES Students on a bus are under the authority of and directly responsible to the bus driver. The driver has the authority to enforce the established Bus Code of Conduct. Disorderly conduct or refusal to submit to the authority of the driver will be sufficient reason for refusing transportation service to any student. A student may be suspended from AM and PM School bus riding privileges for all or part of a School year for any violation of the Bus Code of Conduct and/or for conduct occurring on the bus in violation of the Student Code of Conduct. Disciplinary suspension periods will be commensurate

00947674v5 26

with the infraction committed as determined by the Principal or his/her designee. This policy regarding the Bus Code of Conduct will be made available to all parents and students.

During a bus suspension, a child is suspended from the AM and PM bus. It is the responsibility of the parent to provide transportation for the student to and from school. Absences from school due to a bus suspension will be unexcused.

Violation of the school bus code of conduct and discipline may result in school disciplinary actions as well.

DRESS CODE

DRESSING FOR SCHOOLGroveport Community School enforces a school dress code policy. Students must adhere to this policy before arriving to school, through dismissal. No students will have permission to change clothing before their bus/pick-up. At Groveport Community School, we believe that appropriate clothing supports a positive learning environment. The school dress code will be for all students:

● Solid color, collared shirt. Shirts may be long or short sleeved and are to be worn buttoned and tucked in at all times. Imagine school logo t-shirts may be worn.

● Cold weather attire may include any appropriate (no inappropriate language, no obscenities, no references to gangs, tobacco, alcohol, or drugs) sweaters, cardigans, or sweatshirts with or without hoods. If a hooded article of clothing is worn, the hood must not be worn up in school. If a student continues to wear his/her hood up after being reminded to remove it, the student will lose the opportunity to wear any kind of hooded article of clothing for the remainder of the school year. Coats are not to be worn in the classroom. Blankets are not permitted in the school building with the exception of pre-approved special dress down days.

● Close-toed shoes and shoes with backs should allow your child to run and play safely during recess and physical education class. (Tennis shoes are preferred.) Tennis shoes are required on days the child is participating in physical education. Shoes may not cause a distraction, have wheels or otherwise be deemed unsafe. No sandal/slipper/slide/flip flop type shoes permitted. There should be no children wearing high heels/wedges higher than one inch. SHOES MUST BE WORN AT ALL TIMES.

● Khaki (tan), black or blue pants, shorts, skorts, skirts, and jumpers are to be worn firmly at the waist. NO SAGGY PANTS EXPOSING SKIN, UNDERGARMENTS, OR SHORTS. Jeans (including skinny jeans, skinny khakis, jeggings) are not permitted, unless it is dress down day. Parents will be notified of scheduled dress down days.

● All shorts, skirts, dresses and skorts must be no shorter than 2 inches above the knee.

● Solid Tights/leggings are only permitted under a uniform skirt, skort, dress, or shorts.

00947674v5 27

● Leggings may not be worn by themselves. ● Hats, bandanas, head scarves, athletic/sweat bands, shower/sleep caps or

coverings, do-rags, winter ear muffs or fabric ear cover bands, tiaras, etc. of any type with the exception of a Hijab are not to be worn in the school.

● Halters, tube tops or other tops that show your child’s midriff are not allowed at school.

● All teachers will check their students for dress code violations and send them to the office if there is a problem.

● Administrators shall have the right to modify specific items in these regulations as school situations and activities merit.

● In situations where a disagreement exists as to whether or not the attire is inappropriate, the building administrator shall have the final decision.

● Violators may be sent home or assigned other discipline. ● At Middle School (Prep) students may not carry purses or book bags in class or

in hallways. Feminine products can be given to the front office staff to keep in the nurse’s room.

Be sure to check the weather, if possible, before sending your child to school. If it is wet outside, send your child with an umbrella or raincoat. If it is cold or snowy, your child should wear a jacket, hat, gloves, and boots (optional.) Remember, recess is outdoors if it is dry and the temperature is not below 32 degrees including the wind chill.

DRESS CODE VIOLATIONStudents who do not adhere to the dress code policy will receive a Dress Code Violation Record Form and receive consequences. The parent or guardian will be required to bring appropriate clothing to school to allow the student to comply with the dress code policy. Additional consequences may apply for students who are out of dress code. Habitual violation of the dress code may result in suspension.

PERSONAL ITEMSThe school will not accept responsibility for lost, stolen or destroyed personal items of students. Students are encouraged not to bring belongings to school, such as basketballs and/or footballs, which are not for education. More specifically, electronic games, toys, CD players, cell phones, mp3 players, other recording devices and/or boom boxes are not permitted unless written permission has been granted by the teacher. However, if the items are brought to the school, it is under the understanding that the school is not responsible for lost, stolen or destroyed personal items. If any items deemed inappropriate are brought to school they will be confiscated and held in the main office until it is properly retrieved by the parent, guardian or caregiver.

STUDENT HEALTH

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS, SERVICES, AND MEDICATIONThe School recognizes its responsibilities to help protect the health of students. Parents are required by state law to fill out an Emergency Medical Authorization Form. These are kept in the front office and used in emergencies.

00947674v5 28

Groveport Community School shall have on file for each student an emergency medical authorization form providing information from the parent(s) or guardian on how they wish the school to proceed in event of a health emergency involving the student and authorization for the school in case emergency action must be taken.

Your child must meet county and state health regulations for entrance to school. All new students are required to submit a copy of their Immunization Records within the first fourteen (14) days that they are enrolled. No student shall be permitted to remain in school for more than fourteen (14) days if the student has not met the minimum immunization requirements established by the Ohio Department of Health which can be accessed at the following website: https://www.odh.ohio.gov.

A pupil may also be exempt if they present a physician’s statement that immunization is medically contraindicated. A signed statement of history of measles or mumps may be substituted for the measles or mumps vaccinations. However, a history of rubella may not be substituted for rubella vaccine.

If a student’s Immunization Records have not been received by the School by the 15th day of enrollment, the student will be released from School and will not be able to attend until he/she can submit his/her medical records from their last school of attendance or primary physician or until he/she can prove that he/she has begun the Immunization process, meaning that the he/she has been immunized against mumps, rubeola, rubella, and chicken pox, and if the student has not been immunized against poliomyelitis, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, hepatitis B, and meningococcal disease, the student has received at least the first dose of the immunization sequence, and presents written evidence to the School administrator of each subsequent dose required to obtain immunization at the intervals prescribed by the director of health.

STUDENT ILLNESSWhen a student becomes ill at school, the parent will be notified to make arrangements to have the child picked up from school immediately. Students will not be permitted to ride a bus home, for the health safety of the other passengers. Any student suspected of having a communicable disease will be asked to see a physician for examination and recommendation for exclusion from school. Readmission will be allowed by a physician’s statement (doctors’ excuse).

A child who is ill will not perform well at school, and may be exposing the other students in the classroom. Please keep your child home if any of these symptoms are present: a fever of 100 degrees or greater, an undiagnosed rash, an earache or draining ear, diarrhea or vomiting, severe sore throat, persistent or severe cough, persistent or severe headache, or a known communicable disease. If your child is sent home with a fever of 100 degrees or greater, they must be fever-free without medication for 24 hours before returning to school.

Please call by 9:00 a.m. on days your child is ill. You may call before the office opens and leave a message. When reporting student absences, please report any of the following communicable diseases: chicken pox, conjunctivitis (pink eye), fifth disease, hepatitis, influenza (fever, upper respiratory infection, headache, and body aches), measles, mumps, meningitis, strep throat, lice, ringworm, and scabies. This information 00947674v5 29

is helpful in the control of illness among students (a medical excuse may be required upon returning to school).

HEALTH SCREENINGSAll kindergarten, first, third, fifth and seventh graders will be screened for adequate vision and hearing. Referral forms will be mailed to parents when further evaluation by a physician is recommended.

HEAD LICEFrom time to time students get head lice. Lice is highly contagious. If your child is found to have lice and/or louse eggs (nits) you are required to pick him/her up immediately. The student must be treated and report to the school office before he/she is allowed back in the classroom. Treatment advice is available through the school office or your doctor. Most children can be treated and return to school within 24 hours.

BED BUG POLICYSince bed bugs are not known to transmit disease, students will not be excluded from school due to bed bugs. If it is suspected that a student has bed bugs, they will be removed discreetly from the classroom so the school nurse or qualified individual can perform an inspection of the student’s clothing and belongings. If bed bugs are found, nonessential items for the school day such as book bags and coats will be put into a large plastic bag and tightly sealed. The parents will be notified immediately by the school nurse or school administration. Further instructions will be given to the parents on how to send the student to school the following day.

ADMINISTERING MEDICATION1. Students needing medication will be encouraged to receive the medication at

home, if possible.● If necessary for the school to administer any prescription or non-prescription

medication, the student’s parent/guardian must present a statement signed by both parent/guardian and physician which includes all of the following information:

i. Name and address of the student;ii. Student’s teacher;iii. Drug name and dosage to be administered;iv. Times or intervals at which each dosage of drug is to be

administered;v. Date on which drug administered begins;vi. Date on which administration of drug ends;vii. Any severe adverse reactions that should be reported to the

physician and one or more telephone numbers at which the person who prescribed medication can be reached in emergencies.

viii. Special instructions for administering drug, including sterile conditions and storage.

● Note: The school does not provide non- prescription drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen or cough drops for students.

It is the student’s responsibility to come to the office to receive medication. New authorization forms must be submitted at the beginning of each school year.00947674v5 30

2. Students who intend on possessing and using a metered dose or dry powder Asthma Inhaler to prevent asthmatic symptoms or an epinephrine injector to treat anaphylaxis must first present a statement from the parent and physician including: the information set forth above; an acknowledgement that the prescriber has determined that the student is capable of possessing and using the injector or inhaler appropriately and has provided the student with training in the proper use of the injector or inhaler; and the following information:

i. Written instructions that outline procedures school personnel should follow in the event that the asthma medication does not produce the expected relief from the student's asthma attack;ii. Any severe adverse reactions that may occur to another child, for whom

the inhaler is not prescribed, should such a child receive a dose of the medication; and

iii. At least one emergency telephone number for contacting the parent, guardian, or other person having care or charge of the student in an emergency;

● The parent/guardian agrees to submit a revised statement signed by the parent/guardian and physician if any of the information originally provided to the school changes.

● Medication will be received at school in the container in which prescribing physician dispensed it or other licensed professional. Medication and dosage listed on the label must be identical to the authorization form. Parents are responsible for keeping a record of the amount of medication at school and for sending more when needed.

● Students who self-administer (carry on their person) asthma inhalers must have the medication authorization form completed by physician and parent stating they may do this.

00947674v5 31

1. The person designated by the school will establish a location in the school to store drugs to be administered. All such drugs shall be stored in that location in a locked storage place. Drugs that require refrigeration may be kept in a refrigerator in a place not commonly used by students.

2. No person who has been authorized by the school to administer a drug and has a copy of the most recent statement which was given prior to administering the drug will be liable for administering or failing to administer the drug, unless such person acts in a manner constituting gross negligence or reckless misconduct.

3. Each medication that is given should be documented on the medication record form for the corresponding student.

4. The person giving medication should review the authorization form prior to administration for special instructions and possible side effects.

5. All school personnel must be informed that the administration of any drug (prescription or over-the-counter) without the order of the physician and the permission of the parent/guardian could be interpreted as practicing medicine and is prohibited by law.

6. All medication remaining in the building after the last day of school will be discarded.

ANTI-BULLYING, ANTI_HARASSMENT AND ANTI-INTIMIDATION POLICY

See attached Exhibit A.

REPORTING CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT

Teachers, administrators and other professionals who may come in contact with students are required to report cases of suspected child abuse or neglect.

Such reports will be made immediately to the County Children Services Board or a municipal or county peace officer in the county in which the suspected abuse or neglect is occurring or has occurred. The principal shall be made aware of suspected abuse or neglect.

OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION

SCHOOL-SPONSORED TRIPSThe School recognizes that School-sponsored trips, when used for teaching and learning integral to the curriculum, are an educationally sound and important ingredient in the instructional program of the School.

For purposes of this policy, a field trip or School-sponsored trip shall be defined as any planned journey by one or more students away from the School premises, which is under the supervision of a professional staff member and an integral part of a course of study.00947674v5 32

Other School-sponsored trips shall be defined as any planned, student-travel activity which is approved as part of the School's total educational program.

The Principal or his/her designee shall approve all trips before taken.

Students on all School-sponsored trips remain under the supervision of the School and are subject to the School's administrative guidelines and policies.

The Board does not endorse, support, or assume liability in any way for any staff member, volunteer, or parent of the School who takes students on trips not approved by the Principal or his/her designee. No staff member may solicit students of the School for such trips within the facilities or on the School grounds of the School without permission from the Principal or his/her designee. Permission to solicit neither grants nor implies approval of the trip. Such approval must be obtained in accordance with the School's Policies.

The School sets forth these guidelines for the operation of both educational and other School-sponsored trips, including athletic trips, which shall ensure the safety and well-being of students, proper planning and follow-up, supervision and the expected behavior of the students.

A copy of each student's Emergency Medical Authorization Form should be in the possession of the staff member in charge on each trip.

Staff shall not change a planned itinerary while the trip is in progress, except where the health, safety, or welfare of the students in his/her charge is imperiled or where changes or substitutions beyond his/her control have frustrated the purpose of the trip.

In any instance in which the itinerary of a trip is altered, the professional staff member in charge shall notify the administrative superior immediately.

The Principal has discretion in determining whether students will be allowed to participate in a non-curricular School-sponsored trip. When a student has been a disciplinary problem and it is reasonably determined that the student would embarrass the School with disrespect or inappropriate behavior, the Student may be denied participation in the trip or required to have his/her parent/guardian be a personal chaperone.

Siblings are not permitted to attend the school sponsored trip.

Signed permission slips must be on file with the teacher for each student for each field trip. All students MUST ride on the bus with their teacher to and from the destination.

ATHLETICS, EXTRACURRICULAR, AND AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIESParticipation in interscholastic athletics, extracurricular, after school, and co-curricular activities is a privilege to those students who meet the academic and character standards of the Imagine Philosophy. All activities will have clear rules and expectations for participation. Eligibility rules, necessary forms and requested information must be completed and signed before students may participate in any extracurricular or athletic activity. Each activity may have different guidelines and participation requirements. 00947674v5 33

HOLIDAY AND BIRTHDAY PARTIESHoliday and birthday parties are held at each individual teacher’s discretion. Each classroom has a sign posted to advise people of any food allergies in the classroom and a notification will also be sent home. Teachers must be notified in advance of items being brought in. Any food items sent in must be store bought, prepackaged, and with an ingredient label. There must be enough for each student in the classroom.

NOTIFICATION OF PESTICIDE APPLICATIONParents/guardians may request prior notification of the applications of pesticides which are scheduled for a time when school is in session. To request such advance notification contact the Principal or school office.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCESParent/Teacher conferences are held each year. During these established times, parent, guardians and/or caregivers are encouraged to schedule a conference. Informal conferences, which must be scheduled by the teacher, can be held before or after school or during the teacher’s classroom special period. Please call or write your child’s teacher to schedule an appointment.

Parents may request a conference with a teacher outside of school designated parent/teacher conference days.

PROOF OF RESIDENCYGroveport Community School may request a new proof of residency at any time. If you do not provide the new proof of residency within the given time, your child will be withdrawn from the school.

RE-ENROLLMENTIf no notice is received from a parent by mid-March as to their intent to send their child back to Groveport Community School for the next school year, it will be assumed that the child will not return and that position may be filled by another student.

SCHOOL TELEPHONESSchool telephones are for staff use only. Students will only be allowed to use the phone during emergency situations.

VISITOR’S POLICYIn order to ensure a safe environment for students, faculty, administrators and the general public, the following criteria are hereby established for visitors to the School:

Visitors are defined as an approved adult on a student contact list or an adult that the custodial parent or guardian has approved of prior to arrival The policy shall apply to all visitors or volunteers to the School including, family members of students and staff and their interactions with any and all persons on or in the School property.

Visitors must proceed immediately to the receptionist upon entry to the building.

00947674v5 34

Visitors must sign the visitor log and indicate the reason for and intended destination in the school.

Visitors must present identification before being given a “Visitors Pass”, which should be worn in a visible place.

Visitors may be required to be accompanied by a School escort while in the building or obtain a background check prior to visiting.

Visitors who are escorting students to class in the morning need to drop students off at the classroom and then sign out at Visitor log before exiting the building (this is not the time to meet with teachers).

Visitors must pre-arrange any meetings or visits with school personnel prior to entering the building (see Communication with Teachers and Administration information below), including Classroom Events (i.e. - celebration, awards ceremony, performance).

Visitation to classrooms may only be permitted if pre-arrangements have been made and permission has been given by the Principal.

Visits will be limited to 30-45 minutes per visit to avoid disruption to the education process.

Visitors must turn in the “Visitors Pass” and sign out before exiting the building. Visitors may be requested to leave the building at any time, due to security

reasons. Visitors must be aware of the evacuation procedures of the school before visiting

a classroom. All persons entering the School property, building or offices must act in a

respectful and nonthreatening manner. Disruptive or threatening behavior will result in a request for that person to leave the school property. In the case of repeated incidents of this nature, such persons may be banned from returning to the school property. In the case of extreme and/or continued disturbances, the local legal authorities may be called and such person may be charged with disorderly conduct.

COMMUNICATION WITH TEACHERS AND ADMINISTRATIONIf you would like to speak to your child’s teacher or any school administrator, please see the front desk of either building and fill out a request for an appointment form. Teachers and administrators will contact you to schedule a time to meet. Unless prior arrangements have been made, teachers will not be answering their classroom phones during instructional time. Please call the front desk if you need to get a message to your child’s teacher or send an email or DOJO message. The focus during the school day is academic instruction for students. If you would like to schedule a conference or check your child’s progress, please call the school. To decrease classroom disruption, we ask that visitations be scheduled and limited to 30 minutes per visit. We ask that you call at least 24 hours prior to your visit. Those without an appointment will not be permitted into the classroom.

VOLUNTEERSThe protection and well-being of students enrolled in Groveport Community School is very important. We are requiring a background check be completed for all Volunteers depending on level of interaction with students. The background check process will be the financial responsibility of the volunteer. Results are to be sent to the school, and

00947674v5 35

volunteers who have no disqualifying events will then be added to our list of volunteers. For more information, please call the school office.

VOLUNTEERINGThere are a number of ways parents/guardians can volunteer and demonstrate their commitment to our school. Possible volunteer opportunities to support the school include:

● Classroom support for academics (reading with students, working with a small group, assisting the teacher etc.)

● School Events (sporting, family nights, open house, book fair, carnival, etc.)● Fundraising activities ● Field trip assistance and supervision● Special events assistance (graduation, concerts, performances, etc.)● Leadership activities such as serving as a parent representative for the parent

advisory council, or participating in other school committees

EMERGENCY RESPONSE/CRISIS MANAGEMENT PLANGroveport Community School strives to provide a safe and secure environment for students and to protect your child should a crisis/emergency occur.

A school wide Safety/Crisis Plan has been developed and provided to school personnel for assisting and responding to various crisis/emergency situations.

Your cooperation is also needed should a crisis arise. For more information concerning a school crisis, please refer to local radio or television stations for updates. PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE SCHOOL DIRECTLY. Calling the school may limit the availability of telephone lines needed to access emergency rescue services.

PARENT ADVISORY COUNCILGroveport Community School does not offer a traditional PTO or PTA. Interested parents may become part of the Parent Advisory Council. This group will meet with teachers and other staff members to give feedback and advice and to help plan activities to involve families in the school.

PARENT AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT IN TITLE I PROGRAMSThe School will provide opportunities for parents to formulate suggestions, interact and share experiences with other parents and participate appropriately in decision-making about the School’s Title I plan and revisions in the parental involvement plan. In connection therewith, the School will hold an annual orientation meeting where parents will meet their child’s teacher and be reassured of their right and responsibility to be involved in their child’s education.

CHILD FIND POLICYSchool districts across the state of Ohio are participating in an effort to identify, locate, and evaluate all children from birth through 21 years of age who may have disabilities. If you have or know of a child who may have a disability, contact your local school for more information and help.

00947674v5 36

Disability, in this instance, means such conditions as hearing impairments, visual impairments, speech or language impairments, specific learning disabilities, emotionally disturbed, multiple disabilities, mental retardation, other health impairments, physical impairments, autism, and traumatic brain injury. Public schools have responded vigorously to federal and state mandates requiring the provision of a free appropriate public education regardless of a child’s disability.

What will happen when you contact your local school?The school will ask for information about the child, asking such questions as: What is the problem? What has already been done about the problem? What background information is available? This information may be collected in several ways including interviews, observation, screening, and testing. This information may be obtained from parents and the student, or from other agencies that have information about the student. This information will be used to decide whether the child has a disability and needs special services.

All information collected will be held in strict confidence and released to others only with parent permission or as allowed by law.

What are your rights as a parent?Parents and students have rights in this process. Parents have the right to:

● Review their child’s records;● Refuse permission to release information (except as required by , or permitted by

law to be released); and● Request that information they believe to be inaccurate, misleading, or in violation

of their child’s privacy or other rights be changed. The school has a process to resolve disagreements about information collected.

Groveport Community School’s policies and procedures for special education are available. Contact the Principal if you wish to review these procedures.

ESEA NOTIFICATIONAs a parent of Groveport Community School, you have the right to know the professional qualifications of the classroom teacher(s) who instruct your child. Specifically, you have the right to know whether your child’s teacher has been licensed or certified by the Ohio Department of Education for the grades and/or subjects he or she teaches or if the Ohio Department of Education has decided that the teacher can teach in a classroom without being licensed or qualified under the state regulations because of special circumstances. You also can request such information as to the teacher’s college major; whether the teacher has any advanced degrees, and if so, the subject(s) of the degrees. You may also ask if any teachers’ aides who provide services to your child have the proper qualifications.

EDUCATION OF HOMELESS CHILDREN AND YOUTHChildren who meet the Federal definition of “homeless” will be provided a free and appropriate public education in the same manner as all other students of the School. To that end, homeless students will not be stigmatized or segregated on the basis of their status as homeless and will be assigned to the school serving those non-homeless

00947674v5 37

students residing in the area in which the homeless child is actually living. Pursuant to the School’s Open Enrollment Policy, any homeless child in the State of Ohio is eligible to attend the School. No homeless student will be denied enrollment based on a lack of proof of residency. No Board policy, administrative guidelines, or practice will be interpreted or applied in such a way as to inhibit the enrollment attendance, or school success of homeless children.

Homeless students will be provided services comparable to other students in the School including:

A. transportation;B. educational services for which the homeless student meets eligibility

criteria including services provided under Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act or similar State and local programs, educational programs for children with disabilities, and educational programs for students with limited English proficiency;

C. programs in vocational and technical education;D. programs for gifted and talented students; andE. school nutrition programs.

McKinney-Vento Homeless Children and Youth Program Overview

The Principal of the School shall serve as the School’s local liaison for homeless children and youth. To the extent that the School receives assistance from the Federal Program for Education for Homeless Children and Youth, it shall comply with requirements to coordinate services for homeless students with local social service agencies and programs, including those funded under the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act.

OHIO DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION COMPLAINT RESOLUTION POLICY It is the policy of the Ohio Department of Education (“ODE”) to investigate all allegations of noncompliance with state or federal law, rules, or regulations. In order to initiate a complaint with the ODE that a school district or the ODE has violated State law or regulations, or federal law or regulations that apply to any covered federal program, a complainant must submit a written, signed complaint that: 1) describes the pertinent facts; 2) identifies the alleged violations of the law; and 3) recommends how the complainant would have the ODE resolve the complaint.

The complaint must be mailed to the ODE. Complainants include any: public agencies, parents, and other individuals or organizations. The ODE will not accept or investigate allegations of violations from anonymous sources. The ODE will strive to resolve all complaints within 60 days of receipt.

PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS AMENDMENT (PPRA) NOTIFICATION

Description of Intent The School follows a philosophy of continuous improvement and honest, objective data analysis. This philosophy requires well-planned and sometimes independent research

00947674v5 38

efforts to determine the effectiveness of the School’s programs and strategies. From time to time, the School will collect and analyze student performance data and various measures of effectiveness. In addition, families may be asked to participate in surveys or focus groups. Such research shall always be undertaken ensuring student privacy is protected and in compliance with the PPRA. For example, the names of the student, Parent/Guardian, and family members will not be revealed, and results will only be reported in the aggregate or by sub-groupings of sufficient size so that anonymity of the participants is safeguarded.

Rights Afforded by the PPRAThe PPRA affords emancipated minors and students of age eighteen (18) and older (Eligible Students) and Parent/Guardians of minors certain rights regarding the School’s conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and conduct of certain physical exams. These rights include the following:

• The right to provide consent before students is required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more 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. Protected areas include the following:

1. political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent2. mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family 3. sex behavior or attitudes4. illegal, antisocial, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior5. critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family

relationships6. legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors,

or clergy7. religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or

Parent/Guardian8. income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility

• The right to receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of the following:

1. any other Protected Information Survey, regardless of funding 2. any nonemergency, 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 law3. activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information

obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others

• The right to inspect, upon request and before administration or use, of the following:

1. Protected Information Surveys of students

00947674v5 39

2. instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes

3. instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum

These rights transfer from the Parent/Guardian to the student if the student is eighteen (18) years old or is an emancipated minor under state law or by court order.

Notification ProceduresThe School will work to develop and adopt policies regarding these rights in consultation with Parent/Guardian. The School will also work to make arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of Protected Information Surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes.

The School will directly notify the Parent/Guardian of these policies annually in this PPRA Notice or after any substantive changes. The School will also directly notify by U.S. mail, e-mail, or other reasonably available method Parent/Guardians of students who are scheduled to participate in the specific activities or surveys described in this PPRA Notice and will provide an opportunity for the Parent/Guardian to opt students out of participation of the specific activity or survey. The School will make this notification to Parent/Guardian near the beginning of the school year if it has identified the specific or approximate dates of the activities or surveys at that time. For surveys and activities scheduled after the school year starts, the Parent/Guardian will be provided reasonable notification of the planned activities and surveys covered by the PPRA and will be provided an opportunity to opt their students out of such activities and surveys. The Parent/Guardian will also be provided an opportunity to review any pertinent surveys. The following is a list of the specific activities and surveys covered under this requirement:

• collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales or other distribution

• administration of any Protected Information Survey funded in whole or in part by U.S. Department of Education

• any nonemergency, invasive physical examination, or screening as described above in the Rights Afforded by the PPRA

Where a Student is scheduled to participate in these activities, the Student will be notified as described above.

Reporting a ViolationThe Parent/Guardian or Student who believes their rights have been violated may file a complaint to the following:

Family Policy Compliance OfficeU.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SWWashington, D.C. 20202-5901

NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION AND GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES00947674v5 40

INCLUDING TITLE II, TITLE VI, TITLE IX, SECTION 504 AND ADAThe School does not discriminate on the basis of religion, race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs, activities, or employment. The Board of Directors will vigorously enforce its prohibition against harassment based on sex, race, color, national origin, religion, disability, genetic information or any other unlawful basis.

Further, it is the policy of the School to provide an equal opportunity for all students, regardless of race, color, creed, age, disability, religion, gender, ancestry, national origin, place of residence, or social or economic background, to learn through the curriculum offered in the School.

The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies of the School or to address any complaint of discrimination:

Jennifer Keller, Regional Representative 4485 Hamilton Road Groveport, Ohio 43125 [email protected]

THE FAMILY EDUCATION RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT OF 1974 (FERPA)

Notice of Rights Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”) and Authorization to Release Student Directory Information

FERPA affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. These rights are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the School receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the School principal [or appropriate school official] a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The School official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate or misleading. Parents or eligible students may ask the School to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the School principal [or appropriate official], clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. 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 consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure

00947674v5 41

without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed, contracted, or volunteering at the School in an administrative, supervisory, academic or support staff position, including but not limited to, school employees (whether employed directly by the Board or by a third party on behalf of the Board);; a member of the school law enforcement unit, which consists of the principal; a person with whom the School has contracted to perform a special task (i.e. Attorney, auditor, outside consultant); a person serving on the Board. A School official has a “legitimate educational interest” in an education record when the official needs to review the record in order to fulfill his or her responsibility on behalf of the School, such as when the official is performing a task that is specified in his or her job description or by a contract agreement or other official appointment; performing a task related to a student’s education; performing a task related to the discipline of a student; or providing a service or benefit relating to the student or student’s family, such as health care, counseling, assisting with the college application procedure; any other purpose that the Board deems necessary as related to a student’s education. Upon request, the School discloses education records without consent to officials of another school or school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.

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

Family Policy Compliance OfficeU.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SWWashington, DC 20202-5901

5. The school intends to forward any and all education records to another school or post-secondary institution at which the students seeks or intends to enroll, upon the condition that the student’s parents be notified of the transfer, receive a copy if so desired, and have an opportunity for a hearing to challenge the content of the record.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) protects the privacy of students’ education records. Under FERPA, most information about our students cannot be made public without the consent of parents/guardians. However, if the School designates information as directory information, FERPA allows the release of student directory information unless the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) inform the School in writing not to release such information.

00947674v5 42

OFFICIAL DESIGNATION

The School must choose one of the following options and mark appropriate lines with an “X”.

This School:_ HAS NOT designated any personally identifiable information as directory information and will not include such information in school publications, recognition lists, programs or student directories or give such information to third parties without parental consent

OR

_______HAS designated the following marked information as directory information (“X” applicable information below):____X____Student’s name________Student’s address________Student’s telephone number________Student’s date and place of birth________Student’s major field of study________Student’s participation in officially recognized activities or sports________the weight and height of members of athletic teams________dates of attendance________awards received________date of graduation

The School will use the designated directory information (if any) in the following manner [school check appropriate lines] all school related publications yearbook honor roll other recognition lists activity programs awards or awards ceremonies graduation programs sports student directory other all of the above

Officially designated directory information can also be disclosed to outside organizations unless parent(s)/guardian(s) have advised the School that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior approval.

00947674v5 43

If you do NOT want the School to disclose directory information from your child’s education records without your consent, you must notify us in writing by within ten days of your receipt of this notice.

If the School has not designated directory information, no directory information will be released (see above).

PARENT AND STUDENT SHOULD KEEP THIS HANDBOOK AND REVIEW THE CONTENTS THROUGHOUT THE SCHOOL YEAR.

This handbook is subject to change at any time without notice.

00947674v5 44

SIGNATURE PAGE

Groveport Community School

Parent-Student Handbook2018 – 2019

Student’s Name (PRINT): Grade:

Parent/Guardian Name (PRINT)

We have received a copy of the Groveport Community School Parent-Student

Handbook for the 2018-2019 School year. We have read and understand the

Handbook and consent, support, and agree to follow the policies, procedures and Code

of Conduct as outlined in the Handbook. We understand that this Handbook overrides

any previously adopted, conflicting School policies and procedures. This handbook is

subject to change at any time without notice.

Agreed to by:

Student Signature Date

Parent Signature Date

This agreement will be placed in the student's file.

00947674v5 45

€¦ · Web viewThis Handbook was developed to answer many of the commonly asked questions that...

Documents

Transcript of €¦ · Web viewThis Handbook was developed to answer many of the commonly asked questions that...