2017-18 Student Handbook COURAGE, POWER, STRENGTH, PRIDE, TRADITION! TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE: ONE HUSKY AT A TIME! Aurora Public Schools Mission Statement: Aurora Public Schools provide learning opportunities for all learners in academics, social interactions, and extra-curricular activities. School District 4R, Aurora, Nebraska, does not discriminate in employment practices or educational opportunities on the basis of sex, age, race, national origin, religion, or handicap. Questions or grievances may be directed to Dr. Damon McDonald, Superintendent of Schools, 300 L Street, Aurora, Nebraska 68818. 402-694-6923.
Transcript
2017-18
Student Handbook
COURAGE, POWER, STRENGTH, PRIDE, TRADITION!
TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE: ONE HUSKY AT A TIME!
Aurora Public Schools Mission Statement:
Aurora Public Schools provide learning opportunities for all learners in academics, social
interactions, and extra-curricular activities.
School District 4R, Aurora, Nebraska, does not discriminate in employment practices or educational opportunities on the basis of sex, age, race, national origin, religion, or handicap.
Questions or grievances may be directed to Dr. Damon McDonald, Superintendent of Schools,
300 L Street, Aurora, Nebraska 68818. 402-694-6923.
NOTICE CONCERNING DISCLOSURE OF STUDENT RECRUITING INFORMATION
The “No Child Left Behind Act of 2001” requires the Aurora Public Schools to provide military recruiters and institutions of higher education with access to secondary school students’ names, addresses, and telephone listings. Parents and secondary students have the right to request the Aurora Public Schools to NOT provide this information (i.e., not provide the student’s name, address, and telephone listing) to military recruiters or institutions of higher education, without their prior written parental consent. The Aurora Public Schools will comply with any such request.
PLEASE CIRCLE YOUR CHOICE:
YES The Aurora Public Schools CAN provide institutions of higher education and
military recruiters with my student’s name, address, telephone listing and transcript.
NO The Aurora Public Schools CANNOT provide institutions of higher education
and military recruiters with my student’s name, address, telephone listing and transcript.
Welcome Students 4 Visitors in the Building 4 Faculty Directory 5 Emergency Procedures 6 Do Not Call School 6 Fire Drills, Tornado Drills, Lockdown Drills 6 Attendance Policy 7
To Report Absences 7 Pre-arranged Absences 7
Student Absenteeism and Make Up Work 7 Attendance Codes 8
Allowed Absences and Credit Loss 9 Readmission to Classes 9 Withdrawal from School 10
Tardies 10 Closed Campus 10 Vehicle Parking 11 Health Information
Physicals, Birth Certificates, Immunizations 12 Board Policy on Health and Diseases 12 Student Insurance 12
Student Appearance, Dress Code, Body Piercing 13-14 Advisory Learning Community (ALC) 14 Academic Integrity 14
Credits for Classification 14 Grading System 15-16
Honor Roll 16 Principal’s Honor Roll 16
Chamber of Commerce Award 17 Distance Education Courses 17
Dual Credit and Work-Based Learning 17-18 Guidance Office 18
Student Lockers 22 Book Bags and Gym Bags 22 Lost and Found 22 Copy Machines 23 Valentine Deliveries 23 Food and Drink in Classrooms 23 Media Center Rules 24-25 Husky Diner Food Service 25 Activity Transportation and Bus Rider Rules 26-27
Technology
Computer Use and Cyber Misconduct 28 Electronic Entertainment Devices/Cell Phones 28
Organizations and Activities 28
National Honor Society Tally Sheet 32 Organization Officers and Royalty 33 Board Policy for Royalty and Elected Offices 33
Academic Eligibility
Academic Eligibility for Activities 34 Interscholastic Competition Eligibility 35
Public Displays of Affection 37 Hazing 37 Student Residency 37 Distribution of Handouts 37 Detention Period Policies 37 Student Exclusions, Suspensions, Expulsions 38
Procedure Long-term Suspension & Expulsion 42 Alternative Education 44 Procedure for Yearly Notification (Non-Discrimination) 46 Grievance Policy Procedure 47 Rule and Standards Governing Activities 48
Sexual Harassment Policy 50 Student Fees Policy 53
Dating Violence Prevention Policy 61 Bell Schedule 62-63 Calendar 64
TO THE STUDENTS OF AURORA HIGH SCHOOL: Welcome to Aurora High School! Through the support of the patrons of District 4R, you have access to an outstanding educational setting. Please take advantage of the opportunities available in the various academic and activity programs in which you participate. Your efforts, guided by parents, teachers, administrators and support staff, will help you build a framework for success. The purpose of this handbook is to serve as a guide to all students, parents/guardians, and staff members. The handbook contains general information as well as specific policies, procedures, rules and regulations. While much of your attention will be centered on grades and percentages, I ask that you make efforts to demonstrate those personal traits of caring, trust, empathy, and kindness as you participate as a member of the Aurora school-community. During the 2017-18 school year, you will meet changes and challenges, you will experience success and encounter setbacks. But in each instance, you will learn. Your greatest challenge is to use your talents to gain and enhance skills needed to reach your goals. I wish you well during the upcoming school year. Sincerely, Doug Kittle, Principal
VISITORS
All visitors must report to the office upon entering the building. Arrangements to contact students must be made through the office. Students are not allowed to bring other students, relatives, and/or friends to the high school to spend part or all of the day (including lunch). Students who wish to enroll must be accompanied by parents/guardians. Students should contact a staff member or office personnel immediately if they see anyone who is not authorized to be in the building.
Note: New Handbook Information is in Red Bold Italics.
EMERGENCY CLOSING OF SCHOOL. DO NOT CALL THE SCHOOL. Information regarding closing of schools and cancellation or postponement of activities will be announced with the following: TV: Cable TV - local Channel 35, KOLN/KGIN, KLKN, KHAS-TV, NTV Radio: KZ100, KROA, KAWL, KRGI
Web Page: http://ahs.aurorahuskies.us/www.HuskyNationNow.com
Infinite Campus Messenger: Parents will receive email or text messages.
Aurora High School @AuroraHuskies FIRE DRILLS Fire drills are held throughout the year without advance notice. The sounding of an electric buzzer is the signal to vacate the building for practice or for a fire. Students must leave their respective classrooms, walk rapidly, but not run. Teachers will provide specific instructions for fire drills. Students must clear the building by at least fifty feet, and must not return to the building until the drill is completed. TORNADO DRILLS The alarm for a tornado drill will be (1) the intercom announcement or (2) a series of short blasts of a whistle. At the alarm, students will follow instructions that pertain to the area of the building in which they are located at that time. Students will move to the designated shelter areas within the building and assume a kneeling position as instructed. At the command of the teacher, the students will assume the cover-up position as instructed. There should be no talking or noise. Quiet must be maintained to enable school officials to give instructions to students and teachers. Remember to keep the center of all hallways open to allow messengers to move freely throughout the building. All teachers will provide instructions to be followed in the event of tornado drills and during an actual tornado. The all-clear signal will be an intercom announcement or a series of long single blasts on a whistle. LOCKDOWN DRILLS If a lockdown occurs, student and staff safety is the top concern. Parents will be notified when the situation is stabilized and communication is available. With the emphasis on safety, parents and/or guardians will not be permitted to enter the buildings, nor will students be allowed to leave the school’s supervision until the unsafe circumstances have passed.
Nebraska Law states that "every person residing in a school district within the State of Nebraska who has legal or actual charge or control of any child not less than seven, nor more than sixteen years of age, shall cause such child to attend regularly the public, private, denominational, or parochial day schools each day that such schools are open and in session..." LB 994 which became law in 1985 states, in part, that secondary students are to attend school for a minimum of 1080 hours each school year.
TO REPORT ABSENCES, PLEASE CALL: Aurora High School Absentee Line:
402-694-6966, press 4 press 1 leave message
If a student is absent, a parent or guardian must call the Aurora High School assistant principal's office that day with the reason for the absence. The call must be made each day a student is absent, unless other arrangements have been made, such as pre-arranged absences or an extended period of absence for the same cause. Please notify the office before 9:00 A.M. For the student to be considered excused and not have the absence count against the maximum allowable absences, additional verification will be required.
As required by law, excessive absences will be turned over to the Hamilton County Attorney’s office. Excessive absences
include all excused and unexcused absences.
Attendance Codes are listed on the following page.
PRE-ARRANGED ABSENCES If a student is going to be absent, that student should present a written parental/guardian request, or call the office of the Assistant Principal, prior to the absence. The student will be given a make-up slip to present to teachers Indicating that advance assignments may be given. The completed slip must be turned in to the assistant principal’s office prior to the absence. STUDENT ABSENTEEISM AND MAKE UP WORK Students who miss school are expected to make up work missed. It shall be the responsibility of the student to contact each teacher for instructions concerning all work to be made up.
ALLOWED ABSENCES AND CREDIT LOSS Students are allowed eight (8) absences per SKINNY (47 minute) class period during the semester. When nine (9) absences have been recorded for a skinny class period, student will no longer receive credit for the class/classes missed. If student is absent more than 15 minutes, it is considered an absence. Students are allowed four (4) absences per BLOCK (85 minute) class period per term (term = 9 weeks). When five (5) absences have been recorded for a block class period, student will no longer receive credit for the class/classes missed. If student is absent more than 25 minutes of a block class, it is considered an absence. When students have exceeded the allowable number of absences for a class or classes during the term, the student will no longer receive credit for the class/classes missed. Students who exceed the above limits (4 or 8) may petition the Attendance Committee to request an exemption from loss of credit for the semester. The form to request a committee hearing will be provided to the parents/guardian of the students who exceed the limit. Included in the information sent to the parents/guardian of the student will be a description and a timeline for the hearing process along with the procedure for appeal of the Attendance Committee decision. When a student has lost credit for a class, he/she may be placed in an alternate setting to begin credit recovery classes.
If family circumstances dictate that a student miss school and this is known in advance, a request for an exemption may be made to the administration in advance of the absence. Absences for participation in school-sponsored organizations or school activities will be exempt. College/Career/Military Visits: Seniors will be allowed three (3) college/career/military visits as exempt absences. Juniors will be allowed one visit as an exempt absence. All college/career/military visits must be arranged one day in advance and verified through the Assistant Principal’s office.
RE-ADMISSION TO CLASSES Following an absence from school, it is the responsibility of the student to present written documentation from a parent/guardian stating the date and reason for the absence. If a student is absent a full school day or more, an admit slip will be issued. Students must complete the admit slip and return it to the Assistant Principal’s office. Students will not need documentation from a parent/guardian for absences as a result of participation in any school-sponsored activity such as field trips, athletic events, music contests, etc.
When a student withdraws from school for any reason, he/she must contact the administration to obtain a withdrawal form. All sections of the form must be completed. Should a student leave school without officially withdrawing from school, subsequent requests for transcripts and/or other records may be denied until the student has successfully completed withdrawal procedures. If a student drops out of school and is under the age of 18, he/she must have a notarized parental signature on a form provided by Aurora Public Schools.
TARDIES
It is an expectation that all students report to classes on time. Students are not to be admitted to class after the tardy bell has rung without a tardy permit from the office. Tardies will be monitored per class period, per term/semester.
The following procedure will be used to address situations of chronic tardiness. Please keep in mind that a pass from the office does not excuse the tardy. 1-4 tardies per class = Teacher imposed consequence as per class syllabus 5+ tardies per class = Teacher imposed consequence as per class syllabus, before/after school detention or lunch detention will be
assigned. 10+ tardies per class = Revocation of 2:00 dismissal on Wednesday or administrator discretion.
CLOSED CAMPUS
The campus is closed during the school day, including lunch break. All vehicles are to remain parked properly in marked stalls until the end of the school day. Students are not allowed to go to the parking lot during the school day without permission from the office. A student leaving school at any time during the day must report to the office of the Assistant Principal to be excused. Students who fail to follow this procedure may serve one day of in-school suspension.
All vehicles driven by students must be parked in designated school owned parking lots. Vehicles are to be parked only in the stalls provided. Do not back into a parking stall. Owners of vehicles parked in designated "No Parking" or "Red Zones" will be contacted to move the vehicle. Vehicles will be towed with each additional infraction. Towing charges will be the responsibility of the driver. The administration and/or staff have the right to inspect any vehicle on school property. Students are not to park in front of the high school, middle school, or in the lot directly east of the middle school. Students may park in the lot directly east of the high school in the north/south stalls only. Students are not to park in designated staff parking areas. Students parking in unauthorized areas will be assigned a parking fine. Grass areas are unauthorized for parking.
Students who ride their bikes to school, need to park their bikes in the bike racks north or south of the high school building. Students who ride motorcycles need to contact the administration for designated parking. Note: Students who park in restricted areas will be subject to a $5 parking fine. Fines for repeat offenders will increase $5 for each additional parking violation.
In accordance with state statutes and school policies, all students enrolled in Kindergarten, beginner grades, or 7th grade within the Aurora Public Schools, or in the event of a transfer from another state, must have a current physical or signed waiver on file within the respective administrative offices. All students, including the aforementioned, must also have an updated immunization record and a certified copy of the child’s birth certificate, or a signed waiver form on file. By state law and school policies, students who do not have the physical, immunizations, birth certificate, or waiver on file in the respective administrative offices, will not be allowed to attend/enroll in school. A physical examination by a physician is required for all kindergarten students within six months of the start of the school year. Health of Students Attending The Aurora Public Schools (Board Policy) The Aurora Public Schools shall examine each student to determine if the student is suffering from (a) defective hearing or sight, (b) dental defects or (c) other conditions as prescribed by the Department of Health and Human Services. If such examination determines that any child has a condition as listed above shall be the duty of the building principal to notify the parents of the child, in writing, of such condition and explain to the parents the necessity of professional assistance for their child. In the event a student attending the Aurora Public Schools shows symptoms of any contagious or infectious disease, the parents will be contacted and the child shall be sent home immediately or as soon as safe and proper means of transporting the student home can be found. The regulations as established by the Nebraska State Department of Health and Human Services shall be followed regarding exclusion from school and the readmitting to the school students with contagious and/or infectious diseases. Any deviation from these regulations shall be on the basis of a written medical report from the student’s health care provider.
INSURANCE Aurora High School does not offer student accident insurance. It is recommended that you contact a local Insurance Agent for student accident coverage. If you would like a listing of agents, please contact the principal’s office.
The Aurora High School Student Council believes that high school students are mature enough to make decisions about appropriate appearance. After considering student input, these appearance guidelines have been established. Students may not wear:
Shirts which expose the midriff, bare shoulders (3 inch minimum strap), or back. As a guide, a shirt should be of length that would allow it to be tucked into the pants, jeans, shorts, etc. Shirts with low neck-lines that expose cleavage will not be tolerated. Shirts with the sleeves cut off are not acceptable.
Pants/shorts that “sag” or have long chains or straps hanging are not allowed. Shorts that expose pockets are unacceptable.
Pants with holes above the knee may not expose skin.
Shorts or skirts that are deemed too short are unacceptable. As a guide, shorts length must be longer than the fingertips when arms at the side. Skirt length must be 4 inches above the knee.
Clothing which promotes alcohol, tobacco/tobacco products or drugs or promotes the use of such substances.
Clothing that displays an inappropriate message.
Caps, hats, hoods or bandannas in the school building.
“Pajama” type pants.
Accessories that are viewed as unsafe.
Winter coats may not be worn in the classroom.
Tights or leggings may only be worn under shorts, skirts, or dresses that fall within the dress code guidelines. If tights/leggings are worn the outer garment (top) must cover front/back using fingertip length as a guide. This includes any tight fitting pants that look like tights or leggings. See-through tights or tights with holes/cut-outs above the knee are not acceptable.
In order to provide a positive learning environment, guidelines are in place to reduce distractions that inhibit learning.
BODY PIERCING All visible body piercing (including tongue piercing) by students of Aurora Public Schools is prohibited, with the exception of ear piercing, which will be in accordance with the Aurora District 4R Board of Education Policy. Students will not be allowed to wear gauged earrings with spikes, jewelry with spikes or clear plugs.
ADVISORY LEARNING COMMUNITY (ALC)
Advisory Learning Community (ALC) will meet every day after the 4nd block of classes. The mission of ALC is to provide academic and social enrichment for AHS students. ALC activities will run according to guidelines provided to students by their ALC teacher.
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
It is the expectation of Aurora High School that all students complete all assignments with integrity. Cheating, plagiarism, and using internet resources in an unethical manner will not be tolerated. The administration and classroom teacher(s) will determine appropriate consequences. Grades students earn are an important evaluation of what has been learned. They become part of a student’s permanent record. Institutions of higher learning, potential employers, and the military services are all interested in high school records.
CREDITS FOR CLASSIFICATION To maintain graduation progress, students must earn a minimum of 70 credits as a sophomore. As a junior, the student must accumulated 130 credits; 180 credits at the start of the senior year.
Students and parents have access to all student grades through the Infinite Campus Parent Portal. Students may print report cards at the end of each grading period if they choose. The grading system is as follows:
A 93-100 P- Passing based on relationship between B 85-92 achievement and ability. C 77-84 D 70-76 F 00-69 Inc- Incomplete. Students must complete
work within a specified amount of time. Grades for dual credit classes taught by Aurora High School instructors will be weighted. Conversion to 4.0 Grading Scale:
4.25 Weighted Scale – courses with this weight are identified on the transcript with ^ - these courses include pre-calculus/calculus, honors classes.
95 = 4.25
94 = 4.15 89 = 3.65 84 = 3.15 79 = 2.65 74 = 2.15
93 = 4.05 88 = 3.55 83 = 3.05 78 = 2.55 73 = 2.05
92 = 3.95 87 = 3.45 82 = 2.95 77 = 2.45 72 = 1.95
91 = 3.85 86 = 3.35 81 = 2.85 76 = 2.35 71 = 1.85
90 = 3.75 85 = 3.25 80 = 2.75 75 = 2.25 70 = 1.75
4.5 Weighted College Scale – courses with this weight are identified on the transcript with + - these courses include honors college American history, college biology, honors college composition & world literature, college algebra, college calculus, college chemistry:
All “incompletes” must be made up within five school days of the end of the grading period. If the incomplete work has not been made up within that time period, the grade will be converted to a failing grade. Exception to this policy will be made in circumstances where student health or an unpreventable situation has resulted in the student receiving an incomplete. In such cases, the principal shall determine the length of time the student shall have in which to remove the incomplete grade. Students have access to all grade book and attendance information through Infinite Campus Student/Parent Portal. Parent portal access will be available to all parents with students in the district. Infinite Campus (IC) provides parents with current attendance and grade book information. If you are not registered for the Parent Portal, please contact the high school office.
HONOR ROLL The Aurora High School Honor Roll will be published at the end of each semester. To earn Honor Roll status, the requirements are: 1. To be eligible for honor roll consideration, a student must be enrolled in a minimum of 30 hours, 25 of which are academic. 2. To be named to the honor roll, the student must maintain a
minimum grade point average of 90.00% (3.5 or above) for each semester.
PRINCIPAL'S HONOR ROLL
The Principal's Honor Roll recognizes those students who exceed those requirements for the regular honor roll and who successfully complete a rigorous college prep sequence of courses. The following requirements must be met for recognition on the Principal's Honor Roll: 1. The student must carry a minimum of 25 credit hours.
2. The student must maintain a grade point average of 93.00% (3.8 or above) or above for each semester grading period. The Principal's Honor Roll will be determined only at the end of the semester.
3. Students must be registered in at least one course in a minimum of three of the five
areas of study listed below. The courses must be appropriate to the grade level of the student.
a. English (seniors must take English)
b. Mathematics (Algebra-based courses only) c. Science d. Social Studies
e. Foreign Language
4. Band/Choir and Physical Education classes are considered academic courses and will be included in overall grade point average and graded on the 4.0 scale.
5. The principal must verify the schedule of each student who is to be considered for the Principal's Honor Roll.
For any student who does not remove an incomplete grade from his/her record within five school days following the end of the grading period will not be on the honor roll for that grading period. In extreme situations where this rule may be unfair to the student, the teacher may explain the situation to the principal and request an extension of time. The principal will grant this extension if the incomplete grade could not have been prevented by the student.
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AWARD To qualify for the Chamber of Commerce Award, the student must be on the Principal's Honor Roll throughout his/her high school career and be enrolled in a minimum of 35 credit hours each semester with 30 academic hours.
DISTANCE EDUCATION COURSES Students may enroll in courses offered through the technology available in the distance education classroom. Courses taken via distance education will count toward graduation requirements, honor roll, Principal’s Honor Roll, and National Honor Society consideration. Students should contact the guidance counselor for detailed information.
DUAL CREDIT Dual credit means a student will receive both college credit and high school credit for the class. The grade earned by the student will be recorded on the high school report card and transcript. To receive college credit, the student must request the college transcript be sent to the college where they are enrolling. It is the discretion of the college to accept or deny those credits. Grades for dual credit classes taught by direct instruction will be weighted.
Students are responsible for all costs associated with the class including tuition, fees, books, etc. A course offering three (3) college credits will receive five/ten (5/10) high school credits. See the Guidance office for available courses.
WORK-BASED LEARNING Students who have reached senior grade classification may request early dismissal for Work-Based Learning. A student may request Work-Based Learning during the last block of each school day. Application for work release must be made to the principal on a school-provided form before the beginning of the semester or upon enrollment. A completed application form will include the student’s signature, parent/guardian signature and employer’s signature verifying that the student will be on-the-job during the time of the work experience. A student must meet graduation requirements, maintain acceptable academic/conduct standing and follow established student guidelines for attendance and behavior.
Work-Based Learning for more than one block of release may be considered if a student’s personal situation warrants such action. Any decision to extend work release beyond one block will be made only after consultation with the student, parent/guardian, guidance counselor and school administration.
Note: Enrollment in Work-Based Learning may jeopardize Principal’s Honor Roll status.
GUIDANCE OFFICE
The guidance office provides information to help each student adjust to his/her present learning environment, take advantage of educational opportunities that meet his/her interests and learning capabilities, and aid the student in personal and career planning. The guidance counselor, in conjunction with parents, faculty members and administrators, carries on the work of this department. Any student may contact the counselor for aid or advice concerning any challenges she/he faces. Any faculty member may refer a student to the guidance department for aid and advice. Meetings with the counselor should be made or scheduled through the guidance secretary during the Advisory Learning Community (ALC) period if possible. Before school and after school are also good times for meetings with the guidance department.
REGISTRATION CHANGES To request a change in schedule, students must contact the guidance counselor or principal during scheduled drop/add days. Changes in registration will be made only for imperative reasons. Schedule changes made after the 2nd day of the term may impact grade point average and appear on student transcripts. Students who are removed from a class after the 2nd day of the semester may be required to complete an online class.
MID-TERM GRADUATION Students interested in applying for mid-term graduation should submit their application to the principal’s office by the last Friday of August. Those students choosing to graduate at semester will receive their diploma at the end of the first semester and will not participate in commencement exercises in May.
GRADUATION CEREMONY ELIGIBILITY Students who are seniors and entering their final semester at AHS are eligible to participate in the graduation ceremony. In order to participate in the graduation ceremony, students must have earned a minimum of 245 graduation credits. If a senior student is more than five credits deficient at the end of the second semester of their senior year, they will not be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony. The student will receive their diploma at the time all graduation requirements are met.
SENIOR PRANKS Seniors who commit acts of vandalism are subject to suspension or expulsion can, at the discretion of the administration, take place on the day of graduation practice and graduation day thus precluding any participation in the ceremonies associated with graduation.
LAUDE SYSTEM (Effective Class of 2018) The following graduation honors recognition system will be implemented with the graduation class of 2018. The school district will recognize the outstanding academic achievement of its graduating seniors in the following manner. Summa Cum Laude – Graduating senior with a cumulative grade point average of 4.0 or higher. Magna Cum Laude - A graduating senior with a cumulative grade point average of 3.8555 - 3.999. Cum Laude - A graduating senior with a cumulative grade point average of
3.8554 - 3.700 Honors recognition status will be the cumulative grade point average at the end of a student’s eighth semester.
GRADUATION SPEAKERS (Effective Class of 2018) Students interested in representing their graduating class as a speaker at graduation shall apply at the designated time during the second semester of their senior year. The application process will require a short written application along with a speaking demonstration. The speakers will be selected by a faculty selection committee as assigned by the high school principal. A maximum of two speakers will be selected.
SCHOLARSHIPS Many seniors are eligible for scholarships offered by post-secondary institutions and various organizations. For information about available scholarships and other forms of financial assistance, students should contact the guidance counselor. Scholarship lists are available on the school website. It is to a student’s advantage to be aware of entrance requirements for college and to process applications for admission as early as possible.
STUDENT RECORDS State laws require that academic records and also those of disciplinary records be treated in a specific manner. It also makes provision for a student and his parents to have access to the student's complete records. It further requires the school to protect the student's rights to privacy by controlling the release of records to outside agencies. Release of records to outside agencies such as colleges, employers, etc., can be made only with the written authorization of parents or guardians for students under 18 years of age, and for students over 18, authorization from the student himself. Students, parents, and guardians must be allowed to examine the student's records upon their request. State law further requires the school to inform the student and the parents of their right to challenge any item of information placed in the student record. Within one year from the date any material is inserted in the student's record, the student or the parents/guardians of the student under 18 years of age may request a hearing to challenge the content of the student's records.
TRANSCRIPTS AND PERMANENT RECORDS Transcripts are accepted from all accredited schools. Transcripts are forwarded to other high schools when necessary. Upon request, all records can be sent to any institution of higher learning or to any prospective employer. Any student wishing to inquire about personal records should contact the guidance counselor, principal, or assistant principal. All students making application for admission to a post-secondary institution must sign a permission form that enables the school to send records when requested by the student.
--- Select one of the following: English III, or Honors College Composition
and Honors American Literature
--- Select one of the following: English IV, or Honors College Composition II
and Honors College World Literature/Honors, College Advanced
Composition
ENGLISH CREDITS REQUIRED 40
SOCIAL STUDIES
World Geography, Global Studies, Personal Finance, American Government,
American History/Honors College Am History
--- 5 Credits from one of the following classes: Sociology, Psychology,
Economics, Current Issues, Leaders in American History
Holocaust Studies
SOCIAL STUDIES CEDITS REQUIRED 40
MATHEMATICS -- Math courses assigned on an individual basis.
Standards Math I, Standards Math II, Pre-Algebra, Algebra I, Algebra II, College Algebra, Basic Geometry, Geometry, Honors Geometry, Trigonometry, Stats-Probability, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, College Calculus
MATH CREDITS REQUIRED 30
SCIENCE --Physical Science, Biology
--- 10 Credits from one of the following courses: Chemistry, Advanced
Biology, Physics, Natural Resources, Horticulture, College Chemistry,
Environmental Ag, College Biology, Animal Science, Greenhouse
Management, Sports Nutrition, Conceptual Biology
SCIENCE CREDITS REQUIRED 30
HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Physical Ed I, Physical Ed II, Weight Training, Family Health
HEALTH/PHYSICAL ED CREDITS REQUIRED 15
ELECTIVES ELECTIVE CREDITS REQUIRED 95
TOTAL CREDITS NEEDED (200 Credits must be academic) 250
TELEPHONE USE Students may use the telephone in the office to make local calls for school business.
MESSAGES/DELIVERIES FOR STUDENTS
Messages and deliveries from home can be left in the office of the Assistant Principal. Students will be called from class only in case of an emergency.
DISCIPLINE NOTICES District 4-R will follow the practice of communicating to parents any major discipline infraction on the part of students. A discipline notice will describe the offense and explain the action taken by the administration.
STUDENT LOCKERS Each student will be assigned a locker. Locks provided by the school must be used. Students should not leave large sums of money in lockers. Lockers are the property of the school and school authorities reserve the right to inspect the locker at any time. The administration and staff will use any and all means available to inspect any locker in the school. Students are to use only their assigned lockers. Students who “jam” their locker will serve before/after school detention time and pay for any damages to the lock/locker. Aurora High School in cooperation with local law enforcement will conduct unannounced random drug dog searches during the school year. In an effort to reduce theft and vandalism, video surveillance may be used. Replacement fee for lost or stolen PE locks will be $5.00.
BOOK BAGS OR GYM BAGS Book bags and/or gym bags may be brought into the building, but are prohibited in classrooms. Book bags, backpacks, gym bags, purses etc. are to be kept in a student’s assigned locker. Students are not to leave their books/book bags/backpacks/gym bags in the hallway or in the office. Students may be assessed a fine for bags left in the hallway.
LOST AND FOUND A lost and found box will be kept in the office. Students who have lost items should check in the office.
COPY MACHINES Students may not use the office copy machines. A copy machine for student use is located in the media center. The cost to use the machine is $.10 per sheet.
VALENTINE GIFTS AND DELIVERIES Due to the educational distractions created by the exchange and deliveries of Valentine gifts, gifts are not allowed to be exchanged at school and deliveries are not to be made to the school on Valentine’s Day.
POP, DRINKS, CANDY, BREAKFAST INFORMATION
School Wellness Policy 5052 outlines standards and Nutrition Guidelines for ALL Food and Beverages sold to students on the school campus during the school day.
POP AND DRINKS ARE PROHIBITED INTO CLASSROOMS AT THE DISCRETION OF
THE CLASSROOM TEACHER. NO BOTTLED WATER OR FOOD IS ALLOWED IN ROOMS:
ROOMS 305, LAB IN 310, 403, 404, 408, 410, 412, MEDIA CENTER
BREAKFAST ITEMS MAY BE PURCHASED IN ROOM 201 FROM 7:50 - 8:15 DAILY.
DO NOT PURCHASE BREAKFAST ITEMS FROM MS COMMONS AREA.
MEDIA CENTER RULES AND REGULATIONS The media center serves both students and staff. The collection consists of print material such as newspapers, magazines (periodicals), books and audio/visual materials. Computers are in the circulation area and adjoining computer lab. An individual student coming to use the media center will need a pass from his/her supervising teacher. Students will need to “clock-in /sign-in” when arriving and “clock-out / sign-out” when leaving. Entire classes must be accompanied by a teacher and do not need to sign-in. Special permission and a pass will be required for students to leave the media center to go to the office, personal lockers, restroom, etc. An entire class use of the media center or lab will be scheduled by the media specialist on a first-come, first-serve basis. Individual students may use the carols and workstations throughout the center as space allows for word processing, research, etc. Magazines and newspapers are available for students to read at their leisure. The most recent issues cannot be checked out. Magazines and newspapers cannot have articles cut out of them, but copies can be made for class work. Saved magazines are available for clipping. Personal copies can be made for $.10. Circulation Procedures: Library Items Checkout Time Renew General collection 2 weeks 3 times Reference collection None (except with special permission) NONE Magazines 1 week 2 times Overdue Materials: All circulation materials are given a 3-day grace period after the due date. At that point, fines are assessed from the date due at $.10 a day. Renewals can be done verbally without bringing the item to the center. All materials are stamped with a due date. If the item was renewed without bringing the item back, students will be required to remember the due date. Periodically courtesy notices are placed on lockers as reminders to renew or check in materials. It is the responsibility of the patron to keep track of due dates. Materials not returned or lost are the responsibility of the student and a fee for the item is assessed. If the item is returned in good shape within a reasonable amount of time and the replacement price has been paid, the money will be refunded. Photocopying: Students will need a pass from a teacher to verify copying for a class without charge. Articles can be copied for $.10 a copy for personal use. Computer Workstations: Eight study carols with computers are available for student use in the center. A computer lab with 26 computers is also available. All computers can access the card catalog and online databases using an internet browser. All lab computers have: Office Suite – (Word, Power Point, Excel, and Office Publisher), an image software, Nova Net, Windows Media Player, Photostory 3, and Inspiration. Circulation area computers have the same software applications with one exception, Inspiration. Also there are two with Adobe Premium CSE for students needing outside class time to work on their graphics assignments. Several of our
computers have Accelerated Reader loaded so AR tests can be taken. Students can use computers to work on their assignments, access and print assignment papers, and do research. Students are welcome to “work” on computers anytime unless a teacher has scheduled that time for a class project or instruction. Student Conduct: Media Center use is a privilege. Students are expected to conduct themselves appropriately in order to maintain a positive learning environment for all. Unnecessary conversation or actions, as deemed by the media staff, will result in loss of media center use. Playing games and visiting inappropriate sites will automatically result in losing privileges. Students who are constantly late returning books will be limited to borrowing one book. If the behavior does not improve, the privilege of using the center is lost. Media Center Goal: Students and staff may use this center as much as possible. Students and staff should be able to read as many books as they can and not have to wait months for a book to be returned. Computers should be utilized in the most productive way possible so all can reap the benefits. The media staff should provide a safe environment to learn and will serve everyone in a friendly courteous manner.
FOOD SERVICE (HUSKY DINER)
The automated financial system program for grades K-12 allows parents and students to electronically pay for lunches. An individual student I.D. number is assigned to each student. This number remains with the student throughout his/her school career. Family Accounts are established which enable each student to draw from the account by using the individual I.D. number.
Lunch account deposits MUST be made to the LUNCH SYSTEM ANALYST located in the Commons
by 8:45 AM for credit that day. No deposits will be accepted in the lunch lines. Under no circumstances will students be allowed to charge lunches. Students qualifying for free or reduced meals will be set up in the family account and that information is confidential.
For information concerning a “Husky Diner” Family Account, please call 402-694-6966 press 1
Purchases may be made with the family account only.
Students cannot have food items catered from local food competitors.
Parents/siblings cannot bring in food from fast food vendors.
Pop and microwave popcorn are not allowed in the school cafeteria during designated lunch times.
Food cannot be tossed or thrown.
Violations of cafeteria regulations may result in suspension from the cafeteria.
In accordance with Federal Law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability.
To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or call 800-795-3272 (voice) or 202-720-6382) (TTY). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Lunch Account Refunds When a student graduates, or the family leaves the District, it is the responsibility of the family to request a refund if the account is $3.00 or less. When an account is greater than $3.00, a refund will be mailed within 60 days of the School Nutrition Department closing the account, if a mailing address is provided.
ACTIVITY TRANSPORTATION Students who participate in activities shall ride to and from the activity on school-sponsored transportation. Written requests, submitted to the school office in advance of the activity, may be made by parents asking that their student be allowed to go or return from the activity with other parents or a member of the family over the age of 19 years. Such requests may be honored. At no time will students be allowed to ride home with other students or younger adults. While at the activity, students are to remain with the group at the site of the activity or other assigned site or staging area unless excused by the school sponsor. Along with the parent note, parent/guardians will also need to sign the player/student identification sheet with the coach/sponsor. This policy has been created for the safety of students and for the convenience of the parents, instructors, and sponsors. NOTE: This includes class field trips.
*If a student is riding home from an activity with a parent, a parental note may be presented to the coach/sponsor.
Road emergency - Stay on the bus and follow the driver's instructions.
No cell phones or electronic devices.
CONSEQUENCES
First Offense: Meeting with principal Second Offense: Five-day suspension from bus Third Offense: Off the bus for remainder of semester
TECHNOLOGY
COMPUTER USE INVOLVING CYBER MISCONDUCT School owned and student issued iPads/Chromebooks will be available for all students enrolled at Aurora High School. Students who pay the required user fee will be allowed to take their device home with them throughout the school year. Students who misuse their electronic device may lose privileges. Students who do not have their iPad/Chromebook for classes may be required to complete their homework in a more traditional paper/pencil method. Administration and teachers may check student iPads/Chromebooks at any time. Other iPad rules and regulations will be posted in teacher classrooms and hallways. The Aurora Public Schools respects students’ right to freedom of expression while minimizing cyber-misconduct which can be disruptive and dangerous. Cyber-misconduct includes a student’s using any type of electronic communication or device including, but not limited to, instant messaging, text-messaging, e-mail, and websites to threaten, intimidate, ridicule, humiliate, or harass another student, an employee, or a volunteer of the District or to publicly expose himself/herself in an indecent manner. A student who engages in cyber-misconduct that substantially interferes with or disrupts the educational environment, regardless of where the student is at the time of the misconduct, shall be subject to suspension or exclusion from school sponsored extra-curricular activities and functions. As per Aurora Public School Board Policies 5037 and 5056
ELECTRONIC/ENTERTAINMENT DEVICES Students are not to bring IPods, video cameras, pagers or other electronic/entertainment equipment into the classroom. A student must get permission from an instructor or high school office personnel if an item is needed for a class assignment.
NOTE: If an electronic device is misused, it will be confiscated and student(s) will lose the use of the equipment for the remainder of the school year.
CELLULAR PHONE/TELEPHONE USE
Cellular phones are not to be used in the district or taken into the classroom during the normal school hours of 7:30-3:30. Early and late dismissal days, semester final days, and detention time is considered part of the school day and are included. Applications on cell phones may not be used for classroom purposes. For example, calculators, planners, etc.
1st offense: the phone will be confiscated and returned to the student at the end of the school day after paying a $5.00 fine.
2nd offense: the phone will be confiscated and returned to the student at the end of the school day after paying a $10.00 fine.
3rd offense: the phone will be confiscated and returned to the student at the end of the day after paying $20.00 fine.
4th offense and Subsequent offenses: phone confiscated and returned at the end of the day after paying $25.00 fine. Each subsequent offense will result in the fine increasing another $5.00.
Note: Money collected for cell phone fines will be allocated to the Aurora High School Scholarship Fund and Teacher Appreciation Week.
AURORA HIGH SCHOOL ORGANIZATIONS AND ACTIVITIES
An activity is defined as any extracurricular activity such as (but not limited to) athletics, FFA, FBLA, FCCLA, FPS, Rhapsody, Impact, cheerleading, athletic trainers and student managers/filmers.
SCHOOL COLORS AND INSIGNIA Aurora High School's colors are red and white. The school insignia is the Husky. The Husky is an animal known for its courage, power, and strength and symbolizes the spirit and pride of Aurora High School students as they compete in activities.
CONFERENCE AFFILIATION Aurora is a member of the Central Conference– Aurora, Adams Central, Columbus Lakeview, Crete, Holdrege, Northwest, Schuyler Central, Seward, York.
Winter: Girls basketball, boys basketball, wrestling Spring: Girls Soccer, Girls track, Boys Soccer, Boys track, Boys golf
MUSIC Aurora High School offers music to every student who is interested and capable. Students interested in vocal music are offered the opportunity to participate in mixed chorus and swing choir. Those desiring solo and ensemble work are given special instruction. To be a member of a small group, the student must be a member of the large group. For those students interested in instrumental music, opportunities for marching, concert band, and small group work are available. Those desiring solo and ensemble work are given special instruction. These musical groups make public appearances all during the year. Students registered in musical organizations for credit are required to perform in school and community programs given throughout the school year. Failure to secure permission to be absent in advance from such a function may cause the student to lose all credit for that semester.
CLASS GOVERNMENT Each of the four classes will elect officers at the beginning of the school year. Their purpose is to serve as executives for specific class activities.
"A" CLUB The "A" Club is an organization of winners of the "A" in athletics. The members of this organization should constantly strive to uphold the principles of good conduct, good sportsmanship, and leadership both in school and in the community.
FAMILY, CAREER AND COMMUNITY LEADERS OF AMERICA Family, Career and Community Leaders of America is a national organization for men and women that are enrolled in Family and Consumer Science courses. FCCLA is the only Career and Tech. Education program with the family as its central focus.
FUTURE FARMERS OF AMERICA The FFA is a national organization for students studying agriculture in public secondary schools under the provisions of the National Vocational Education Acts. Among other things, members learn how to conduct and take part in public meetings, speak in public, and to buy and sell cooperatively, to solve their own problems, to finance themselves, and to assume responsibility, through active participation in FFA.
FUTURE BUSINESS LEADERS OF AMERICA (FBLA) FBLA is the national organization for all high school students enrolled in business and office programs. Selected activities and supervised projects involve students in cooperative school community-business tasks on the local, state, and national levels. Members can participate in an annual state and national conference and leadership workshops, visit other chapters, business and industrial enterprises, and come in contact with a number of successful business men and women. .
DRAMA Students who are talented and interested in dramatics may elect to participate in this activity. All-school plays provide the students with the opportunity to perform. These productions also require people to be involved with many other aspects of dramatic production. Committees are necessary to assist the director with such things as set design and construction, props and costumes, publicity, makeup, and many others. An all-school play is scheduled each fall. A second play or musical production is scheduled in the spring.
SPEECH For those students who desire to participate in competitive speech and drama, Aurora High School offers a program of forensics. Students participate in contests sponsored by other schools, the Central Conference and the Nebraska School Activities Association.
JUNIOR - SENIOR PROM The Junior-Senior Prom is an annual event intended to recognize the senior class. Prom is planned and carried out by members of the junior class. Prom attendance shall be limited to members of the junior and senior classes and their dates.
HONOR SOCIETY The Aurora Borealis Chapter of the National Honor Society operates within the constitution of the National Honor Society as required in order to maintain our chapter. The following rules for candidacy, and ultimately membership, in the Aurora Chapter are dictated by the National Honor Society Constitution. To be eligible for membership, the candidate must have attended Aurora High School one full semester and must be a member of the junior or senior class. To be considered for membership, students in grade 11 must have a GPA of 92.00% and have accumulated at least 74 course points through the first semester of grade 11. In grade 12, students must have a GPA of 92.00% and at least 122 course points. A committee of faculty members will further evaluate students who have met the academic requirements on other requirements of service, leadership, and character. Candidates must also have volunteered for 10 hours. Academic course points are assigned to each high school course according to academic difficulty. (National Honor Society Point Tally Sheet follows on page 32.) Study halls earn no points toward membership. Criteria for service, leadership, and character are spelled out in the National Handbook, including such things as positive attitude, academic initiative, courtesy, concern, respect for others, etc. A faculty council will then evaluate candidates on the basis of leadership, service, and character. Those selected will be invited to join the Aurora Chapter
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY (NHS) TALLY SHEET (follows) The points listed on the chart represent the number of points allowed for each course. Use the spaces to the right of each course to calculate your own points. Juniors must have at least 74 points through grade 11 and seniors must have at least 122 points through grade 12. To be eligible students also need a minimum of 10 hours of community service.
ORGANIZATION OFFICERS A member of Aurora High School may not be president, captain, or chairman of more than one organization at a time. Student Council officers are exempt from this rule.
A person may not hold the same office in two different organizations at the same time. Such as: secretary in two different organizations or treasurer in two different organizations at the same time.
ROYALTY ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
1. A student in Aurora High School may not be King or Queen twice in the same year. ---To be eligible for royalty the following criteria must be met.
Senior Status
Student needs to be in good academic standing based on NSAA guidelines.
Participate in a minimum of 2 school activities throughout the course of the school year.
Follow School Code of Conduct
Never served as royalty prior
2. According to School Board Policy 5131.60, Aurora Public Schools Student Eligibility Requirements For Royalty and Elected Offices
Royalty shall mean any student whose election includes a student vote, to include, but not limited to, royalty for Homecoming, Prom, and any other school organization that would designate a position of recognition or royalty. Elected office shall mean any officer position, elected by a class, organization, club or activity of the Aurora Public Schools. To be eligible for royalty, or elected office, a student must be in good standing academically and meet all criteria set forth by the Aurora School District and/or the organization which sponsors the event. To be eligible for royalty, a student must be a senior boy, who will serve as king, and a senior girl, who will serve as queen, and will have completed their junior year of high school in good standing and be enrolled in their senior year of high school. A student who did not attend the Aurora Public Schools their junior year but moves into the Aurora School District their senior year, and was in good standing their junior year in their previous school, will become eligible upon enrollment at Aurora High School. Eligibility requirements for royalty and elected office are as follows:
a) May not be under the supervision of any state or federal court or pretrial diversion program, or have been
adjudicated to be guilty in federal, state, district, or juvenile court;
b) May not, within twelve (12) months of the date established for the coronation or election, have been found guilty of:
Any alcohol, drug or tobacco related infraction of school rules or state or federal laws;
A Class I, II, III, IIIA or Class W misdemeanor; or,
A felony at any time
ELIGIBILITY
ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY FOR ACTIVITIES Each Monday, an eligibility report will be completed for any student(s) who is not passing a class. Students who are not passing in one course, or who are not passing in a minimum of 20 academic hours of credit, will be warned. If that student is not passing in one course for a second consecutive week, that student will be declared ineligible to participate in any activity that is not a required part of a regularly scheduled class. The student will remain ineligible until the grade has improved, but will be ineligible for a minimum of one week. The ineligibility period will be from Tuesday to Tuesday. In determining whether or not a student is failing, the teacher will consider the cumulative grade at the time the report is made. An activity is defined as any extracurricular activity such as athletics, FFA, FBLA, FPS, FCCLA, Rhapsody, cheerleading, athletic trainers and student managers/filmers. Students must also fulfill eligibility requirements to participate in field trips. Students who are academically ineligible will not travel to games/contests with the team or organization during the time they are ineligible. Students who are enrolled in band/chorus will be allowed to participate in concerts/performances if student participation is a requirement of the class. Students in activities who are ineligible will be required to attend a study hall session in a designated classroom at 2:05 on Wednesdays during the duration of the ineligibility period. In order to participate in any activities, or to practice for, or rehearse for an activity, the student must have been in attendance at school by 10:00 AM on the day in question.
Pre-arranged (one or more days advanced notice) absences will be accepted by the administration as allowable, thereby waiving this requirement.
In the event of an emergency situation where a student needs to leave school on the day of an activity or practice he/she must be in attendance for two full blocks.
ELIGIBILITY FOR INTERSCHOLASTIC COMPETITION In order to represent a high school in interscholastic activity competition, a student must abide by eligibility rules of the Nebraska School Activities Association. If you do not understand the rules listed below, or if you need an explanation of other requirements, consult the high school principal or athletic director. 1. Student must be an undergraduate. 2. Student must be enrolled in at least 20 hours per week and regular in attendance in
accordance with the school's attendance policy at the school he/she wishes to represent in interscholastic competition.
3. Student must be enrolled in some high school on or before the 11th school day of
the current year. 4. Student is ineligible if 19 years of age before August 1 of the current school year. 5. After a student's initial enrollment in grade nine, he/she shall be ineligible after eight
semesters of school membership. 6. Student must have been enrolled in school the immediate preceding quarter. 7. Student must have received 20 semester hours of credit the immediate preceding
semester. 8. Once the season of a sport begins, a student shall compete only in athletic
contests/meets in that sport which are scheduled by his/her school. Any other competition will render the student ineligible for a portion of, or all of the season in that sport. The season of a sport begins with the first date of practice as permitted by NSAA rules. The fall sports season begins NSAA week 7, and ends with the state meets in the fall sports. The winter sports season begins NSAA week 20, and ends with the state meets in the winter sports. The spring sports season begins NSAA week 35, and ends with the state meets in the spring sports.
9. A student shall not participate in sports camps or clinics during the season of a sport
in which he/she is involved, either as an individual or as a member of a team. 10. A student shall not participate on an all-star team while a high school undergraduate. 11. A student shall be ineligible for ninety (90) school days to represent a school in
interscholastic competition at the varsity level if the school is located in a school district other than the district in which his/her parents maintain their domicile. (Check with school administrator for an interpretation of rule if the school district where the parents reside has no high school or if there are two or more high schools in a district).
12. A student is ineligible for ninety (90) school days if his/her parents have changed
their domicile to another school district and the student has remained in a former
school which is in a different school district. (EXCEPTION: if parents have moved after school has started, the student will be eligible to compete for the remainder of the school year, or if parents have moved during the summer which immediately precedes the school year and the student is in grade twelve and has attended the high school for two or more years, the student is eligible for that school year in the school district from which the parents moved.)
13. Guardianship does not fulfill the definition of a parent. If a guardian has been
appointed for a student, the student is eligible for the school district where his/her natural parent(s) have their domicile. Individual situations involving guardianship may be submitted to the Executive Director for his review and a ruling.
14. A student shall not participate in a contest under an assumed name. 15. A student must maintain his/her amateur status.
POLICY INFORMATION
STUDENT ALCOHOL/DRUG/TOBACCO POLICY Possession, distribution, use, or dispensing of alcoholic beverages, tobacco, e-cigarettes or imitation e-cigarettes, narcotics, drugs, controlled substances, imitation controlled substances (powdered alcohol), inhalants, or being under the influence of any of the above on school grounds or at school-sponsored or school-related activities or in a vehicle owned, leased, or contracted by a school, or in a vehicle being driven for a school purpose by a school employee or his or her designee are prohibited and shall be considered an act of student misconduct which shall be subject to disciplinary action. Such activities may be violations of Nebraska Law, and, if so, will be reported to appropriate authorities.
STUDENT PARTIES AND DANCES Student parties and dances will be permitted provided the activity is properly sponsored by teachers. All such activities shall be limited to Friday and Saturday evenings. All school dances, with the exception of Homecoming and Prom, will run from 8:00-11:00. Dancing guidelines for students attending dances at Aurora High School.
No touching when dancing back to front.
No touching of breast, buttocks or genital areas.
Feet on the floor/hand off the floor.
No “leaning against the wall dancing.”
No actions deemed inappropriate or unsafe, such as mosh pits.
All music will be censored.
Dresses/tops for formal dances must include a full back from waist to shoulder blades, sides and front must cover entire midriff area.
Failure to comply may result in removal from the dance.
All out-of-school dates must pass a background check and names must be submitted to the office one week prior to the dance.
PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION are not appropriate in the school setting. Holding hands, hugging, kissing etc. will not be tolerated.
HAZING/INITIATIONS:
Initiations and hazing by members of classes, clubs, athletic teams, or any other organization affiliated with the district are prohibited except as otherwise permitted by this policy. Any student engaging in hazing or non-approved initiations is subject to discipline as permitted by policy and law. Initiations are defined as any ritualistic expectations, requirements, or activities placed upon new members of a school organization for the purpose of admission into the organization, even if those activities do not rise to the level of “hazing” as defined below. Initiations are prohibited except by permission of the superintendent. Hazing is defined as any activity by which a person intentionally or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health or safety of an individual for the purpose of initiation into, admission into, affiliation with, or continued membership in any school organization. Hazing activities include, but are not limited to, whipping, beating, branding, an act of sexual penetration, an exposure of the genitals of the body done with the intent to affront or alarm any person, a lewd fondling or caressing of the body of another person, forced and prolonged calisthenics, prolonged exposure to the elements, forced consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug, or harmful substance not generally intended for human consumption, prolonged sleep deprivation, or any brutal treatment or the performance of any unlawful act that endangers the physical or mental health or safety of any person.
STUDENT RESIDENCY: See Building Administrators
DISTRIBUTION OF HANDOUTS According to School Board Policy 5145.30 – propaganda may only be distributed at a time that does not interfere with the normal school day. Brochures, flyers, handouts of any kind not related to a school activity may only be distributed before 7:45 AM and after 3:45 PM.
DETENTION PERIOD POLICIES Detention periods may be assigned for those students who violate school rules, or exhibit undesirable patterns of attendance, conduct, promptness, as well as other disciplinary problems.
The detention period will begin after school and end at a time assigned by the administration. Special arrangements to serve detention time may be made with students at the discretion of the administrator. A senior who has been assigned a detention period will serve the detention beginning with his/her dismissal in a room assigned by the Assistant Principal. Failure of a student to report to a detention room when assigned will result in the number of detention periods being doubled. If this happens a second time, a suspension may be considered. Once a detention period has been assigned, there will be no excuses except in cases of emergency. Only the Principal or the Assistant Principal may excuse a student from a detention period. Any staff person or administrator may assign detentions.
STUDENT EXCLUSIONS, SUSPENSIONS, AND EXPULSION It is the belief of the District 4-R Schools that all students of school age should be in school. However, it may become necessary for a school administrator to recommend the dismissal of a student from school. The recommendation to dismiss a student will be made only after all other attempts to resolve a problem appear to be futile. Procedures for exclusions, suspensions and expulsions reflect compliance with state statute and District 4R Schools policy 5035 Types of Dismissal: The District 4-R Schools will implement these types of dismissal procedures when dealing with disruptive student behavioral problems: (1) Class Suspension,
Class Suspension: "Class Suspension" is a term used to describe a disciplinary action taken by the teacher and agreed upon by the principal in which a student will be excluded from one class for a specific length of time. The rationale behind use of a "Class Suspension" action is that it would provide a cooling-off time and would allow the time necessary to solve a disciplinary problem which may exist only in one particular class. The student would, thus, not be deprived the opportunity of attending other classes. When the student is given a "Class Suspension" from a class, he/she is to report to the principal or to a person designated by the principal rather than to the class from which he/she was excluded. The time normally spent in class would be utilized for counseling and other efforts at solving the problem. Following the exclusion period, the student may return to class and is expected to make up all work missed during the "Class Suspension". If, in the process of dealing with students with disruptive behavior, the principal feels that a permanent exclusion from one class is necessary, the principal will exclude the student and assign the student to another class if it is very early in the semester, or assign the student to a study hall for that period.
Emergency Exclusion: The principal, or any other person designated by the superintendent to have such authority, may exclude from school any students for a length of time necessary to avoid the threat of the emergency. The following situations are grounds for emergency exclusions: A. If the student has a communicable disease, transmittal through normal school
contacts that poses a threat to the health or the safety of the school community (based on recommendation of medical authorities).
B. If the student's conduct presents a threat to the personal safety of others, or is so
disruptive as to make the student's temporary removal necessary to preserve the rights of other students to pursue an education.
Any emergency exclusion shall be based upon a factual situation warranting it and shall last not longer than necessary to avoid the dangers described in A and B of this section. Short-Term Suspension: The principal, or other individual designated by the superintendent to have such authority, may deny a student the right to attend school or take part in any school functions for a period of up to five (5) school days on the following grounds: A. Conduct which constitutes grounds for expulsion. B. Other violations of the rules and regulations of behavior as adopted by the Board of
Education or the Administrative Staff of the school.
Except as provided with regard to emergency exclusions, the following procedures shall be followed with regard to a short-term suspension: 1. The authority considering the short-term suspension shall make a reasonable
investigation of the facts and circumstances. 2. Prior to beginning the short-term suspension, the student will be given oral or written
notice of the charges. 3. The student shall be given an opportunity to explain his/her version of the situation. 4. Within twenty-four (24) hours or such additional time as is reasonably necessary
following such suspension, the Principal shall send a written statement to the students and his/her parent/guardian describing the student's conduct, misconduct or violation of the rule and the reasons for the action taken. The Principal shall make a reasonable effort to hold a conference with the parent/guardian before or at a time the student returns to school.
5. The short-term suspension may be one of two types. The principal may choose an
"in-house" suspension in which the student is to attend school, but may not attend class. Instead, the student will spend the suspension time in a designated classroom or office under the supervision of a designated school employee. During suspension time, the student will be expected to complete work on assignments prepared by his/her teacher.
The student who has been assigned "in-house" suspension is not allowed on school grounds or at school activities except during the time of the school day when he/she is assigned suspension. The principal may also have the option to use a short-term suspension in which the student is to serve the suspension at home or away from school. If this type of suspension is assigned, the student will not be allowed to be in the school, on school property, or to attend any extracurricular activities during the period of suspension.
Students may not be eligible to participate in any form of school activities while on
either type of short-term suspension. 6. A written report of all short-term suspensions shall be given to the Superintendent of Schools as soon as possible. Long-Term Suspension: Long-term suspension shall mean the exclusion of a student from attendance at all schools and grounds within the system for a period of more than five (5) days but less than twenty (20) days.
Completion of Class Work: Students who have been suspended are required to take the responsibility to contact all teachers to complete class work and examinations missed during the time of the suspension. The student may be given credit for work made up. Expulsion: The expulsion of a student shall be for a period not to exceed the remainder of the semester in which the expulsion took effect. However, if the misconduct occurred within ten (10) school days prior to the end of the first semester, the expulsion may remain in effect through the second semester. If the misconduct occurred within ten (10) school days prior to the end of the second semester, the expulsion may remain in effect for the summer school and for the first semester of the following year. If a student is expelled for the use of force, or causing or attempting to cause personal injury to another individual, or for knowingly and intentionally possessing or transmitting a dangerous weapon other than a firearm, the expulsion shall be for a period not to exceed the remainder of the school year in which it took effect if the misconduct occurs during the first semester. If the expulsion takes place during the second semester, the expulsion shall remain in effect for the summer school and may remain in effect for the first semester of the following year. Firearms: It shall be the policy of the Aurora Public School District when a student is determined to have knowingly and intentionally possessed, used or transmitted a firearm, to expel such student for a period of not less than one year if such student conduct occurred on school grounds, in a school owned vehicle being used for school purposes, or at a school sponsored activity or athletic event. The Superintendent may modify such required expulsion on an individual basis. This policy shall not apply to the issuance of firearms by members of the reserve officer training corps, or to firearms which may lawfully be possessed by the person receiving instruction under the immediate supervision of an adult who may lawfully possess firearms. Grounds for Suspension or Expulsion: The following types of student conduct will constitute grounds for suspension, long-term suspension, and expulsion when the conduct
occurs on school grounds or during any educational function or event off school grounds, including school- sponsored travel to and from the event. 1. The use of violence, force, coercion, threat, intimidation, or similar conduct, including
harassment, in a manner that constitutes interference with school purposes. 2. Sexual assault or attempting to sexually assault any person regardless of the time or
location of the offense if a complaint alleging such conduct is filed in a court of competent jurisdiction.
3. Willfully causing or attempting to cause substantial damage to property, stealing or
attempting to steal property, or repeated damage or theft of property. 4. Causing or attempting to cause personal injury to a school employee, a school
volunteer, or a student. 5. Threatening or intimidating any student for the purpose of, or with the intent of,
obtaining money or anything of value from such student. 6. Knowingly possessing, handling, or transmitting any object or material that is
ordinarily or generally considered to be a weapon. Weapons may include but are not limited to such items as clubs, chains, knives, brass knuckles, air guns, paint guns, or any object that could be used to inflict harm on any person.
7. Engaging in the unlawful possession, selling, dispensing, or use of a controlled
substance or an imitation controlled substance, a substance represented to be a controlled substance, or alcoholic liquor, or being under the influence of a controlled substance or alcoholic liquor.
8. Repeated truancy or failure to attend assigned classes or activities. 9. Public indecency as defined in Nebraska statutes, except that this subdivision shall
apply only to students at least 12 years of age but less than nineteen years of age. 10. Repeated violation of any of the rules adopted by the district or the administration of
the district if such violations constitute a substantial interference with the purposes of the school.
11. Engaging in any unlawful activity as determined by federal or Nebraska state law. 12. Repeated violation of any rules or standards, validly established according to state
statute, if such violations constitute a substantial interference with the purpose of the school.
Violations that would constitute a substantial interference with the purpose of the school may include, but not be limited to:
(a) Dressing in a manner wherein such dress is dangerous to the student's health and safety or to the health and safety of others, or is distractive or indecent to the extent that it interferes with learning and the educational process or environment.
(b) Willfully violating the behavior expectations for those students riding district
owned or sponsored buses.
(c) Willfully disobeying any reasonable written or oral request made by a school staff member, or the voicing of disrespect to those in authority.
(d) The use of language, written or oral, or conduct, including gestures, which is
profane or abusive to students, faculty, school employees, or visitors to the district. Profane or abusive language or conduct includes, but is not limited to, that which is commonly understood or intended to be derogatory toward a group or individual based upon race, gender, national origin, religion or affiliation.
PROCEDURE FOR LONG-TERM SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION The following procedure outlines the steps that will be taken by the school whenever long-term suspension or expulsion is recommended by the administration: 1. If, after the initial conference between the principal and the students, the principal
decides long-term suspension or expulsion or mandatory reassignment is appropriate, a written charge and summary of the evidence supporting the charge shall be filed with the superintendent on the date of the decision to use long-term suspension, expulsion or mandatory reassignment.
2. Within two (2) days, written notice must be sent by registered or certified mail to the
student and the student's parent/guardian, informing them of their rights according to the Student Disciplinary Act. The written notice shall include the rule of conduct violated, summary of evidence to be presented against the student, and both the penalty which the principal has recommended in the charge and any other penalty to which the student may be subjected.
3. The written notice shall inform the student and the student's parent/guardian that
they are entitled to a hearing before the penalty can be invoked, a description of the hearing procedure and the appeal process for any decision rendered at such a hearing. The written notice shall also inform the student and the student's parent/guardian that the principal, the legal counsel for the school, the student and the student's parent/guardian or the student's representative or guardian shall have the right to examine the student's academic and disciplinary records and any affidavits to be used at the hearing, any written statements pertaining to the matter if the school has such statements, and to know the identity of the witnesses who will appear at the hearing and substance of anticipated testimony from such witnesses. Finally, the written notice shall include a form which the student or the student's parent/guardian may request a hearing.
4. If the student or the student's parent/guardian requests a hearing within five (5) days
after receipt of the written notice, the superintendent shall appoint a hearing examiner who shall, within two (2) days after being
appointed, notify the principal, the student and the student's parent/guardian of the time and place of the hearing.
5. The hearing shall be scheduled within five (5) days after it is requested, but it may
be postponed by the hearing examiner for good cause. Unless all parties consent in writing, no hearing shall be held upon less than two (2) school days actual notice to the principal, student and the student's parent/guardian.
6. During the hearing, the student and the student's parent/guardian will have the
opportunity to present the student's side of the case and to call and question witnesses. No such hearing shall be held unless it is attended by the hearing examiner, the student and the student's parent/guardian, the student's representative, if any, and legal counsel as defined in state statute, if the hearing examiner or superintendent deems it advisable. Witnesses shall be present only while giving their testimony. The hearing examiner may exclude the student from the hearing when the student's psychological evaluation or emotional problems are being discussed. The hearing examiner may remove anyone from the hearing when their actions substantially disrupt an orderly hearing. The student may speak on his/her own behalf and may be questioned on his/her testimony or he/she may choose not to testify. At the hearing, the principal shall present to the hearing examiner the student's records and the statements, in affidavit form, of any person having information about the student's conduct. These records must be made available to the student and the student's parent/guardian or representative prior to the hearing. Nothing in this section shall be deemed to supplant any other procedures required by law of board policy.
7. A single hearing may be held when more than one student is charged with violation
the same rule, if the hearing examiner believe a single hearing will not prejudice any of the students.
8. The hearing examiner may invoke subpoena procedures in obtaining the attendance
of a witness or witnesses. 9. After the hearing, the hearing examiner, within a reasonable time, shall report
his/her findings with a recommendation of the action to be taken and the reasons for the recommendations of that particular action. The superintendent may change, revoke, or agree with the hearing examiner's decision; however, a more severe sanction can be imposed by the superintendent.
10. The decision of the hearing examiner and the superintendent shall be made by
certified or registered mail, or delivered personally to the student and the student's parent/guardian. Upon receipt of the notice, the determination of the superintendent shall take effect immediately.
11. The decision of the superintendent may be appealed by the student and the
student's parent/guardian. Such appeal must be made in writing to the secretary of the Aurora Board of Education or the superintendent within seven (7) days of the receipt of the written notice of the superintendent's decision.
12. The hearing before the Aurora Board of Education or the committee of the board (with at least three (3) board members present) shall be held within ten (10) days after such request unless the time for the hearing is changed by mutual agreement.
13. The Board of Education or committee of the Board, after examining the record or by
taking new evidence, may alter the superintendent's decision if it finds the decision to be severe, but may not impose a more severe sanction. If a committee of the Board hears an appeal, such committee shall make a recommendation to the Aurora Board of Education at its first regular meeting.
14. Final action of the Board shall be evidenced by personally delivering or mailing by
registered or certified mail a copy of the deliberating bodies' decision to the student and parent/guardian.
15. If the student and the student's parent/guardian wish to further appeal the decision,
a petition must be filed with the District Court within thirty (30) days after being notified of the final decision of the Aurora Board of Education.
16. If the student or the student's parent/guardian requests a hearing more than five (5)
school days but not more than thirty (30) calendar days following actual receipt of written notice, the hearing shall be held, but the imposed punishment shall continue in effect pending final determination, subject to the expectations previously listed.
Immediate removal by the Principal: The principal may suspend a student immediately, regardless of the fact that a hearing was requested within five (5) days of notice of expulsion or long-term suspension, if the principal determines that such suspension in necessary to prevent or substantially reduce the risk of (a) interference with an educational function of school purpose; (b) personal injury to the student, or other students, employees, or school volunteers. The principal may make such determination in writing, although not required. If no hearing is requested, the immediate suspension will continue until the date of the long-term suspension, expulsion or mandatory reassignment takes effect. If a hearing is requested, the suspension will continue until the date the hearing examiner files the report or his/her findings with the superintendent, if the principal has made a determination as described.
ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION It shall be the policy of the Aurora Public Schools to provide an alternative school, class, or educational program for expelled students as provided by applicable law. It shall be the policy of the Aurora School District to review this policy and make such amendments at the time of the adoption of this policy as promulgated by the appropriate authorities when any existing rule is amended. Notwithstanding provisions of alternative school, class or educational program, it shall be the policy of the Aurora Public School District to authorize the administration to make judgments on a case by case basis as to whether providing an alternative school, class, or educational program for a student who is at risk of being expelled to determine whether such alternative settings are appropriate given the best interest of the student, the best interest of other students and the best interest of the Aurora Public School district. In the event the administration determines that an alternative school, class, or educational program will not
be made available to a student who is at risk of being expelled, then the following procedures shall be used in a case involving expulsion in addition to all other procedures set forth in board policy referring to expulsions. 1. Prior to the expulsion taking place, a conference shall be held by such school
administrator as the superintendent may designate and the parent or legal guardian, the student, or such other school representative as the superintendent may designate and a representative of a community organization, if any, which has a mission of assisting young people, or a representative of the county sheriff's office, municipal police office, probation office or other representative agency involved with juvenile justice. The purpose of the conference shall be to develop a plan which shall be in writing and which shall be adopted by the school administrator of the District and presented to the student and the parent or legal guardian.
2. The plan shall identify educational objectives that the student must achieve in order
to receive credit toward graduation. The plan shall also specify financial resources and community programs, if any, which are, or may be available to meet the educational and behavioral objectives of the student identified in the plan. Nothing in this policy shall be construed to prevent the suspension of a student pending an expulsion provided that such suspension shall be in accordance with applicable policies of the District pertaining to suspensions. Nothing in this policy shall be construed to prevent expulsion from being carried out so long as the Aurora School District has made reasonable efforts to convene a conference as described in policy.
3. It shall be the policy of the Aurora School District to require the school
administrator, when calling a conference as described in this policy, to make reasonable efforts to accommodate the schedules of all participants in the conference, provided however, that any scheduling conflicts, unavailability of certain participants, or refusal of certain participants to participate in the conference shall not prohibit the Aurora School District from expelling students in a manner otherwise consistent with Board policy.
4. It shall be the duty of the superintendent or his/her designee to schedule monthly
reviews for any student who is expelled in order to assess the student's progress toward meeting the specified goals and objectives of the plan. It shall be the duty of any student who is expelled to attend monthly reviews at the time and place determined by the administration during the course of the expulsion.
PROCEDURE FOR YEARLY NOTIFICATION (Non-discrimination Policy and Grievance Policy)
Students, parents, and employees will be notified by publication in newspapers, student and employee handbooks, and posting on bulletin boards, and other areas appropriate for communication purposes.
NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION Aurora Public School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, or age or in admission or access to, or treatment of employment or educational programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the School District’s non-discrimination policies: Superintendent, who may be contacted in writing at 300 L Street, Aurora, Nebraska, at [email protected] by e-mail or by telephone at (402) 694-6923. Any person may also contact the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, by email at [email protected]; by telephone at (816) 268-0550; or by fax at (816) 268-0599, regarding compliance with the regulations implementing Title VI, Title IX, Section 504, or any other applicable laws. Specific complaints should be referred to:
Dr. Damon McDonald, Superintendent of Schools 300 L Street Aurora Nebraska 68818 Telephone: (402) 694-6923
It is the policy of School District 4-R not to discriminate on the basis of sex, age, race, color, national origin, religion, or handicap in its educational programs, activities, or employment as required by Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504 of Federal Law. If you believe that you have been discriminated against, you may make a claim that your rights have been denied. Procedures for filing a grievance are: LEVEL ONE A grievant shall, within ten (10) days after the occurrence of the event which is the subject of the grievance, make an appointment with and discuss the matter with his or her principal or immediate supervisor. Every effort will be made to resolve the grievance informally at this level. The principal or immediate supervisor shall give an oral response to the grievant within five (5) days after the initial discussion. LEVEL TWO In the event the grievant is not satisfied with the disposition of the grievance at Level One, the grievant shall reduce the grievance to writing, sign it, and submit it to the principal or immediate supervisor within five (5) days after the oral response at Level One. A written grievance shall contain a detailed description of the factual circumstances upon which the grievance is based and an explanation of how such facts result in discrimination. The principal or immediate supervisor must submit a written answer with five (5) days after receipt of the written grievance. LEVEL THREE In the event the grievant is not satisfied with the resolution of the grievance at Level Two, the grievant may submit the written grievance within five (5) days thereafter to the superintendent. The superintendent will respond in writing to the written grievance within five (5) days thereafter. LEVEL FOUR In the event the grievant is not satisfied with the disposition of the grievance at Level Three, the grievant within ten (10) days may submit the written grievance to: The Office for Civil Rights Department of Health, Education, and Welfare Washington D.C. The grievance policy and procedures can be obtained from any of the principal's offices or superintendent's office of School District 4-R, Aurora, Nebraska 68818.
RULES AND STANDARDS GOVERNING ACTIVITIES Because of the nature of activities and the purpose of activities, the sponsors and coaches of Aurora High School, along with the administration and Board of Education, believe that the participants have an obligation to themselves and to the school that requires high standards of conduct, personal habits, and behavior. A. Eligibility. All participants must meet all requirements for eligibility as determined by the
Aurora High School and the sponsoring or governing organization (such as the Nebraska School Activities Association).
B. Attendance.
In order to participate in any activities, or to practice for, or rehearse for an activity, the student must have been in attendance at school by 10:00 AM on the day in question.
Pre-arranged (one or more days advanced notice) absences will be accepted by the administration as allowable, thereby waiving this requirement.
In the event of an emergency situation where a student needs to leave school on the day of an activity or practice he/she must be in attendance for two full blocks.
Participants who demonstrate undesirable patterns of attendance will not be allowed to continue participation in activities.
C. Decorum. All participants in activities will be expected to maintain a standard of
personal conduct, behavior, and appearance that will promote pride and provide a favorable example to young people within the community who look with admiration toward the high school participant. Students who demonstrate undesirable conduct in school or in the community may be denied the opportunity to participate in activities. All participants in activities shall be required to adhere to the rules and regulations of the school and of the activity coach or sponsor.
D. Alcohol, Tobacco, and Illegal Drugs. The use, possession, sale, or transmittal of
alcohol, tobacco, or illegal drugs will not be permitted by participants at any time, either in or out of season. If such violations occur during the season of any activity in which the student is participating, the student will be denied the opportunity of participating in any contest or performance for 30 calendar days. If a violation occurs during a time when the student is not participating in an activity, or during the summer break, the student shall be declared ineligible for 30 calendar days. Reinstatement may come sooner if, at the student’s expense, the student agrees to attend an appropriate drug and alcohol intervention approved by the school. The suspension period shall begin with the first day of practice in the student's next activity, which shall be defined as that activity in which the student participated during the current or preceding academic year. If the season ends before the expiration of a suspension period, the unexpired suspension time shall be continued into the student's next activity. A second violation during the high school (9-12) years will result in the student being suspended from all activities for 90 school days. Reinstatement may come sooner if at the student’s expense, the student agrees to attend an appropriate drug and alcohol intervention approved by the school. If the student is a senior who will
not be participating in any further school activities, the suspension period or other appropriate consequence will be determined by the principal and/or activity director.
E. Special Regulations by Sport or Activity. A coach or sponsor may establish rules
and regulations that are applicable to a sport or activity. Prior to their taking effect, the coach or sponsor must secure the approval of the administration, distribute the rules and regulations to activity participants, and make a reasonable attempt to distribute them to the participants’ parents/guardians.
NOTE: Students participating in an extra-curricular activity will be required to submit to random drug testing per Aurora Public School Board Policy.
PROCEDURES When there is reasonable cause to believe that there has been a violation of the rules and regulations that govern participation in an activity, the school will follow the procedures summarized below: A. Investigation. In the event of an alleged infraction, the principal, assistant principal
or head coach/sponsor shall investigate the alleged infraction. B. Pre-Decision Hearing. If the investigation discloses the probability of an infraction,
an informal hearing will be held by the administration. Written or oral notice will be given the student. The notice will contain a brief description of the alleged infraction, and the charges to which the student must answer. The student will be given an opportunity to tell his/her side of the story.
C. Facts. A statement of findings of facts from the informal hearing will be compiled by
the administrator. The student(s) and parents will be provided a copy. D. Decision. The administrator shall issue a written decision which he/she shall provide
the student and parents/guardians. E. Right to Appeal. If the student and parents/guardians are not satisfied with the
decision, they may appeal it to the superintendent of schools. Such an appeal must be in writing and received in the superintendent’s office within five (5) school days of the student’s and parents’ notification of the decision from the informal hearing, or the right to appeal will be waived. The student may be represented by legal counsel. At a hearing before the superintendent, the student will be permitted the opportunity to testify, to present evidence on his/her behalf, and to question witnesses. The superintendent shall issue a written decision which he/she shall provide the student and parents/guardians within five (5) school days of the hearing
Policy 5027 SEXUAL HARASSMENT OF EMPLOYEES AND/OR STUDENTS OF THE AURORA PUBLIC SCHOOLS
It is the policy of the Aurora Public School District to provide an environment free of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct or communication constituting sexual harassment. The Aurora Public Schools Board of Education clearly and unequivocally prohibits sexual harassment by and of its employees and students. Sexual harassment is a form of misconduct which interferes with work productivity and wrongfully deprives employees of the opportunity to work, students of the opportunity to study and everyone of the opportunity to be in an environment free from unsolicited and unwelcome sexual overtones. Sexual harassment includes all unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other such verbal or physical misconduct. Sexual harassment is a prohibited practice and is a violation of the law.
HARASSMENT OF EMPLOYEES: The United States Employment Opportunity Commission has issued guidelines interpreting Section 703 of Title VII as prohibiting sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is defined in those guidelines as follows:
Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical misconduct of a sexual nature constitutes sexual harassment when:
1. submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term of condition of an individual’s employment,
2. submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for employment decisions affecting such individual, or
3. such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive working environment.
HARASSMENT OF STUDENTS: The Aurora Public Schools Board of Education clearly and unequivocally prohibits sexual harassment of students by other students. Sexual harassment of students is defined as:
Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical misconduct of a sexual nature constitutes sexual harassment when such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s educational opportunities or creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive learning environment.
REGARDING COMPLAINTS OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT:
A person who feels harassed should directly inform the person engaging in sexually harassing conduct or communication that such conduct or communication is offensive and
must stop. If the person who feels harassed does not wish to communicate directly with the person whose conduct or communication is offensive or if direct communication with the offending person has been ineffective, the person who feels harassed should report the conduct or communication to a supervisor, principal, superintendent of schools or Board of Education member with whom he or she feels comfortable in reporting the issue. Aggrieved persons are encouraged to make a complaint of sexual harassment promptly.
All serious violations of this policy, and every complaint of sexual harassment made by a student, whether serious or non-serious, should be referred to the appropriate principal. The principal shall investigate the incident and report the results of the investigation, in writing, and will impose such punishment as is authorized by policy and which he/she deems to be warranted under the circumstances. If the complainant is dissatisfied with the result of the principal’s investigation, the complaint shall be submitted to the superintendent. The superintendent or his/her designee shall determine who shall investigate the sexual harassment incident. The person assigned to investigate the alleged sexual harassment incident shall:
(1) Meet with the complainant to determine the nature and extent of the alleged
incident. The accused shall be allowed to have a representative of his/her choice present. A record shall be kept of the complaint, including names of the complainant and the person being accused of sexual harassment, date, time, location, description of the incident, witnesses and any redress sought by the complainant.
(2) Meet with the person accused of sexual harassment and inform him/her that
a complaint of sexual harassment has been made against him/her. (3) Meet with witnesses, if any.
(4) Determine if the educational or work situation of the complainant is
threatened and, if so, take appropriate corrective measures.
(5) Conclude the investigation with one of the following:
(a) Resolve the matter to the satisfaction of both the complainant and the person accused of sexual harassment.
(b) Find that the parties are unable to resolve the matter in which case a
formal complaint may be filed with the superintendent of schools. Upon receipt of any formal complaint of sexual harassment, the superintendent shall
undertake an investigation. After the investigation is complete, the superintendent shall confer with the person or persons against whom the complaint has been lodged and shall give such person or persons a fair opportunity to present his/her version of the facts involved in the complaint, as well as to be informed of the name of the complaining party, the allegations of the complaining party, the names of all corroborating or refuting witnesses, as well as any statements or allegations made by any such witnesses which are known to the superintendent.
The superintendent shall take such immediate and appropriate action as is required
in his/her discretion within the bounds of law. Nothing in this policy shall be construed to
require the superintendent to take disciplinary action not within his/her legal authority. In the event action is required, which by law would require Board action, the superintendent shall undertake such proceedings as may be required by law to bring before the Aurora Public Schools Board of Education such matters of proposed discipline involving the person against whom the complaint was lodged.
The superintendent may take action against any person engaging in conduct
prohibited by this policy when such action is required or permitted by law. Such actions may be, but are not limited to providing information to any appropriate prosecuting authority, filing a report with appropriate agencies, including, but not limited to, the Professional Practices Commission, the Nebraska State Department of Education, the U.S. Office of Education and any department of the Office of Civil Rights.
Regardless of the means selected for resolving the problem, the initiation of a complaint of
sexual harassment will not cause any reflection on the complainant nor will it affect his/her employment, compensation or work assignments or status as a student. Nothing in this policy shall be construed to prevent the superintendent from taking any remedial action as is in the best interest of the Aurora Public Schools toward the goal of preventing sexual harassment of employees and students of the Aurora Public School District in its working or educational environment.
POLICY 5045 ASSESSMENT OF FEES FOR STUDENTS ATTENDING THE AURORA PUBLIC SCHOOLS
The Board of Education of the Aurora Public Schools adopts the following student
fees policy in accordance with the Public Elementary and Secondary Student Fee Authorization Act.
The District's general policy is to provide for the free instruction in school in
accordance with the Nebraska Constitution. This generally means that the District's policy is to provide free instruction for courses which are required by state law or regulation and to provide the staff, facility, equipment, and materials necessary for such instruction, without charge or fee to the students.
The District does provide activities, programs and services to children which extend
beyond the minimum level of constitutionally required free instruction. Students and their parents have historically contributed to the District's efforts to provide such activities, programs and services. Such student and parent contributions have included: students coming to school with the basic clothing and personal supplies to be successful in the classroom (clothing, shoes, pencils, pens, paper, notebooks, calculators, and the like), students bringing their own or paying the reasonable cost of specialized equipment or supplies for the personal preference or personal retained benefit of students (for example, band equipment, locker deposit or rental fees, shop class materials where the student keeps the product, and college tuition or fees for college credit for advanced placement courses or correspondence courses), students providing their own specialized clothing and equipment to be prepared for the extracurricular activities in which they choose to participate (sporting apparel, including shoes, undergarments, and the like), and assisting with special programs, such as field trips, summer school, school dances and plays. The District’s general policy is to continue to encourage and to require, to the extent permitted by law, such student and parent contributions to supplement or supplant educational program(s) provided by the District.
Under the Public Elementary and Secondary Student Fee Authorization Act, the
District is required to set forth in policy its guidelines or policies for specific categories of student fees. The District does so by setting forth the following guidelines and policies. Parents, guardians and students are encouraged to contact their building administrator or their teachers or activity sponsor or athletic coach for further specifics. (1) Guidelines for clothing required for specified courses and activities:
Students have the responsibility to furnish and wear non-specialized attire meeting general District grooming and attire guidelines, as well as grooming and attire guidelines established for the building or programs attended by the students or in which the students participate. Students also have the responsibility to furnish and wear attire reasonably related to the programs, courses and activities in which the students participate where the attire is specified in writing by the administrator or teacher responsible for the program, course or activity.
The District will provide or make available to students such equipment and attire as may be required by law, specifically including appropriate industrial-quality eye protective devices for courses of instruction in vocational, technical, industrial arts chemical or chemical-physical classes which involve exposure to hot molten metals or other molten materials, milling, sawing, turning, shaping, cutting, grinding or stamping of any solid materials, heat treatment, tempering, or kiln firing of any metal or other materials, gas or electric arc welding or other forms of welding processes, repair or servicing of any vehicle, or caustic or explosive materials, or for laboratory classes involving caustic or explosive materials, hot liquids or solids, injurious radiations, or other similar hazards. Building administrators are directed to assure such equipment is available in the appropriate classes and areas of the school buildings, teachers are directed to instruct students in the usage of such devices and to assure that students use the devices as required, and students have the responsibility to follow such instructions and use the devices as instructed.
(2) Personal and consumable items: Students have the responsibility to furnish any personal or consumable items for participation in the courses and activities provided by the District. This includes the responsibility to furnish minor personal or consumable items including, but not limited to: pencils, pens, erasers, and notebooks. Equipment or supplies of a specialized nature for certain courses (for example, protractors and math calculators) may be available to the students by the District, but students may also be encouraged to purchase their own such equipment or supplies for their own use after school hours or for use during the school day due to the limited number of District items available to the students.
While the District will provide students with the use of facilities, equipment, materials and supplies, including books, the students are responsible for the careful and appropriate use of such property. Students and their parents or guardian will be held responsible for damages to school property caused or aided by the student and will also be held responsible for the reasonable replacement cost of school property which is placed in the care of and lost by the student.
(3) Materials required for course projects: Students have the responsibility to furnish or pay the reasonable cost of any materials required for course projects where, upon completion, the project becomes the property of the student. Such materials are subject to the District's fee waiver policy (Section 12). Students must furnish musical instruments for participation in optional music courses that are not extracurricular activities. Use of a musical instrument without charge is available under the District's waiver policy (Section 12); however, the District is not required to provide for the use of a particular type of musical instrument for any student.
(4) Extracurricular activities-specialized equipment or attire: Extracurricular activities means student activities or organizations which are supervised or administered by the District, which do not count toward graduation or advancement between grades and in which participation is not otherwise required by the District.
The District will generally furnish students with specialized equipment and attire for participation in extracurricular activities. The District is not required to provide for the use of any particular type of equipment or attire. Students have the responsibility to furnish personal or consumable equipment or attire for participation in extracurricular activities or for paying a reasonable usage cost for such equipment or attire. For music courses that are extracurricular activities, students may be required to provide specialized equipment, such as musical instruments, or specialized attire, or for paying a reasonable usage cost for such equipment or attire.
(5) Extracurricular activities-fees for participation: The District does not generally charge fees for participation in extra-curricular activities.
(6) Post-secondary education costs:
Students are responsible for post-secondary education costs. The phrase "post-secondary education costs" means tuition and other fees associated with obtaining credit from a postsecondary educational institution. For a course in which students receive both high school and post-secondary education credit or a course being taken as part of an approved accelerated or differentiated curriculum program, the course shall be offered without charge for tuition, transportation, books or other fees, except tuition and other fees associated with obtaining credits from a post-secondary educational institution.
(7) Transportation costs: Students are responsible for fees established for transportation services provided by the District and to the extent permitted by federal and state laws and regulations.
(8) Copies of student files and records: The superintendent of schools or superintendent's designee shall establish a schedule of fees representing a reasonable cost of reproduction for copies of a student's files or records for the parents or guardians of such student. A parent, guardian or students who requests copies of files or records shall be responsible
for the cost of copies reproduced in accordance with such fee schedule. The imposition of a fee shall not be used to prevent parents of students from exercising their right to inspect and review the student's files or records and no fee shall be charged to search for or retrieve any student's files or records. The fee schedule shall permit one copy of the requested records be provided for or on behalf of the student without charge and shall allow duplicate copies to be provided without charge to the extent required by federal or state laws or regulations.
(9) Participation in before and after school or pre-kindergarten services: Students are responsible for fees required for participation in before and after school or pre-kindergarten services provided by the District, except to the extent such services are required to be provided without cost.
(10) Participation in summer school or night school:
Students are responsible for fees required for participation in summer school or night school. Students are also responsible for correspondence courses.
(11) Food service programs:
Students shall be responsible for items which students purchase from the District's food service programs. The cost of items to be sold to students shall be consistent with applicable federal and state laws and regulations. Students are also responsible for the cost of food, beverages and personal or consumable items which the students purchase from the District or at school, a "school store," a vending machine, a booster club or parent group sale, a book order club or the like.
(12) Waiver of fees to students who qualify for free and reduced-price lunches:
The District's policy is to provide fee waivers in accordance with the Public Elementary and Secondary Student Fee Authorization Act. Students who qualify for free and reduced price lunches under United States Department of Agriculture child nutrition programs shall be provided a fee waiver or be provided the necessary materials or equipment without charge for:
(a) participation in extracurricular activities,
(b) admission fees and transportation charges for student spectators attending extracurricular activities, if such activities are sponsored by the Aurora Public Schools, and
(d) use of a musical instrument in optional music courses that are not extracurricular activities.
A student who qualifies for the fee waiver, based on the criteria set by the free or reduced price lunch program, does not have to participate in the free or reduced lunch program in order to have the fee waived.
(13) Distribution of the policy for the assessment of fees for students attending the
Aurora Public Schools: The superintendent of schools or the superintendent's designee shall publish the District's student fee policy in the student handbook or the equivalent (for example, publication may be made in an addendum or a supplement to the student handbook). The student handbook or the equivalent shall be provided to students of the District at no cost to the student.
(14) Student Fee Fund: The Aurora Board of Education hereby establishes a Student Fee Fund. The Student Fee Fund shall be a separate school district fund not funded by a tax revenue, into which all money collected from students and subject to the Student Fee Fund shall be deposited and from which money shall be expended for the purposes for which it was collected from students. Funds subject to the Student Fee Fund consist of money collected from students for: (a) participation in extra-curricular activities,
(b) admission fees and transportation charges for student spectators attending extracurricular activities, and
POLICY 5030 DATING VIOLENCE PREVENTION OF THE AURORA PUBLIC SCHOOLS
The Aurora Public Schools provides a physically safe and emotionally secure environment for all students and staff. Positive behaviors are encouraged in the educational programs of the District and are required of all students and staff. Inappropriate behaviors, including but not limited to, dating violence, will not be tolerated and must be avoided by all students and staff. Dating violence is defined as a pattern of behavior where one person uses threats or, actually uses, physical, sexual, verbal, or emotional abuse to control his or her dating partner. Dating partner is defined as any person, regardless of gender, involved in an intimate relationship with another person primarily characterized by the expectation of affectionate involvement whether casual, serious or long term. Strategies and practices are implemented to reinforce positive behaviors and to discourage and protect others from inappropriate behaviors. The Aurora Public Schools shall provide dating violence training to staff deemed appropriate by the superintendent of schools or his/her designee. The dating violence training shall include, but not limited to, basic awareness of dating violence, warning signs of dating violence, and the Aurora Public School District dating violence policy. The student, the student’s parents or legal guardian shall be informed of the Aurora Public School District dating violence policy.
Block 4 12:05 – 1:30 A Lunch (12:00 – 12:30, Dismiss 12:25) B Lunch (12:15 – 12:45, Dismiss 12:40) C Lunch (12:30 – 1:00, Dismiss 12:55) Skinny 4A 12:05 – 12:30 C Lunch 12:30-1:00 Skinny 4B 1:00 – 1:30
ALC 1:35 – 2:00
Classes as Assigned 2:00 – 3:30
SCHOOL SONGS (Tune, “Our Director”) (Tune, “Notre Dame Fight Song”) Here's to Aurora High School Cheer, cheer for Aurora High Huskies, to you, Carry her honors up to the sky, After each battle, Fight, you Huskies, win this game, Victory anew! Bring to Aurora glory and fame, Rah! Rah! Rah! Cheering her onward ever we'll be, Red and White our colors to Aurora bring victory. Ever be true, From the sidelines, from the field, Fight, Huskies, fight! fight! fight! We'll cheer for Aurora High. We're backing you.
