Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook

Cedartown High School Faculty/Staff “Staffulty”

Handbook 2014-15

This Staffulty Handbook has been prepared to provide essential information to the faculty and staff of Cedartown High School. Please carefully review the contents. Welcome I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to Cedartown High School. The information compiled in this handbook will help you succeed at Cedartown High School School. You make the difference in the lives of our students! The entire administration and office staff are here to assist you! Dr. Darrell Wetherington, Principal

Polk School District Goals Improve student achievement Provide a healthy & supportive

educational climate Plan wisely for growth Provide fiscal responsibility

Polk School District Mission Statement The mission of Polk School District is to provide a quality education in order to prepare each student for the next stage in his or her life. Polk School District Vision Statement Polk School District will be a collaborative system on the path to national recognition, where every person is a stakeholder. The district will embrace cultural diversity, fiscal responsibility, and will continue to be dedicated to preparing every student for future success. Polk School District Beliefs Statement

We believe that all students can learn, and... we can teach them.

We believe that a safe and nurturing environment promotes student learning.

We believe that all stakeholders will be treated with dignity and respect.

We believe every employee has a vital role in the success of our system.

We believe all students bring gifts and talents to the classroom.

We believe that students achieve best when they are actively engaged in the educational process and share accountability for their learning.

We believe that prompt and regular attendance by students and staff is essential for optimal learning.

We believe continuous assessment and individual accountability improve teaching and increase learning.

We believe that teachers, administrators, support staff, parents, students, Board of Education, and the community share the responsibility for advancing the school district's mission.

We believe that technology should be used to support instructional and operational processes.

We believe that all decision - instructional and operational - should be data driven.

Our Mission Statement Our mission is to empower and inspire our students to: Achieve Excellence, Learn Passionately, and Live with Integrity. Our Beliefs:

A safe and physically comfortable environment promotes student learning.

Students learn in different ways and should be

provided with a variety of instructional approaches to support their learning.

Each student is a valued individual with unique

physical, social, emotional, and intellectual needs.

A student’s self-esteem is enhanced by a positive relationship and mutual respect among and between students and staff.

Students learn best when they are actively

engaged in the learning process.

Student learning is the chief priority for the school. All students can learn, achieve, and succeed.

Students learn in different ways.

Students learn best when they have appropriate

opportunities for success.

Instructional practices should incorporate learning activities that take into account differences in learning styles.

Challenging expectations increase individual

student performance. Developmentally appropriate learning activities

enhance learning at all levels.

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook Students learn to make appropriate

decision given a supportive and challenging learning environment.

Cultural diversity increases student

understanding of difference peoples and cultures.

Teachers, administrators, parents, and

the community share the responsibility for advancing the school’s mission.

C.H.S. from A to Z.... Absences - Teacher Polk School District provides three types of absences for teachers: 1. Sick Leave, 2. Personal Leave, 3. Professional Leave. Professional employees on 190 day contracts shall earn sick leave computed on the basis of 1 1/4 days per month for each completed school month of service. Under this policy, the maximum sick leave earned per ten-month contract period shall be 12 1/2 days. Unused sick leave days are applied toward retirement. Sick leave may be used in the event of personal illness of the teacher, illness, or death in the teacher’s immediate family. The immediate family shall be interpreted to mean: husband, wife, father, mother, brother, sister, child or other relative living in the same residence as the teacher. A period of 3 days leave due to death in the family normally shall be considered the maximum time, which can be charged to sick leave. Extenuating circumstances may require additional leave time and may be granted according to the judgment of the Superintendent. If necessary, any professional employee shall be allowed the full current year’s sick leave days before they accrue. However, if the employee uses sick leave days prior to their accrual and terminates employment with the Polk School District, he/she shall reimburse the District for the unearned sick leave days used. Leave days, which are earned but unused by an employee within a contract period, shall accumulate to the employee up to a maximum of 60 days. Leave days earned in the present contract period may be used in addition to the days already accumulated. However, at the end of that contract period, the maximum accumulated leave shall not exceed 60 days. A maximum of 45 accumulated sick leave can be transferred to another school system. Leave taken in excess or in violation of this policy shall

result in the loss of a full day’s pay for each day’s absence. The Board of Education reserves the right to require acceptable proof of reason for absence. Except in emergency, teachers and other employees shall notify the principal or designee 24 hours prior to the time sick leave is to begin. Polk School District provides three days a year personal leave for each teacher. Personal leave is deducted from sick leave and may not be accumulated. Teachers must request personal leave in writing to the principal at least one week in advance. (Use the Code 2 Leave Request in the Appendix) Personal leave requests will not be granted before or after holidays, the first week of school, last week of school, or on teacher work days. The use of personal leave during these days will be approved only if an emergency prevails. Personal leave requests may be rejected on days other than those specified above if the normal operation of the school or school system is impaired. Not more than 12% of the faculty in a school shall be granted personal leave for the same day. Personal absences in excess of the provisions of this policy, for reason other than illness, shall result in the loss of a full day’s pay for each full day’s absence. Professional leave requests must be made to the principal in writing. The superintendent must approve all requests for professional leave. Please make requests at least 21 days prior to the planned activity so that deadlines for registration, etc. may be met. All staff development requests must include a completed Staff Development Request Form (Use the Staff Development Request Form in the Appendix). When you return from any type of absence, see Mrs. Dana Johnson in the media center to sign your absentee card and substitute card. Abuse/Neglect As mandated by law, school officials having reason to believe that children within their care under 18 years of age have been abused by a parent or caretaker are required to report the incident to the Department of Family and Children’s Services (DFCS) or to an appropriate police authority. Anyone making such a report in good faith is entitled to immunity. Abuse includes physical injuries, neglect, exploitation, and sexual assault or exploitation. Sexual exploitation is defined as where a child’s parents or caretaker allows or permits the child to engage in prostitution or sexually explicit conduct. Teachers are to notify the principal or assistant principal of any suspected abuse or neglect case IMMEDIATELY. We are required by law to make a report within 24 hours. A Protective Service Referral should be filled out and turned into the administration as soon as possible. The administrator will be the liaison between DFCS and Cedartown High School. Mr. Greg Teems, Polk School District Social Worker, will also be sent a copy of the report. A person who knowingly and willfully fails to report a suspected case of child abuse is guilty of a

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook misdemeanor. Suspected drug and/or alcohol abuse must be immediately reported to an administrator. Accidents Accidents, Illness - Faculty All accidents involving faculty or staff should be reported to the school nurse immediately. Accident report forms must be completed and returned to the nurse's office as soon as possible after an accident. Failure to follow this procedure could result in the loss of worker’s compensation benefits. Accidents, Illness - Students If as a result of accident or illness a student requires medical attention, the following should be done:

Notify the office. Do not send the injured student alone to the office. If the injury is serious, a teacher must accompany, less serious then send with another student.

The parent/guardian should be contacted immediately. The student should be under the direct care of school personnel until the parent/guardian can be reached.

In cases where necessary, the student should be taken immediately to the hospital for treatment.

Write a description of what happened by the end of the school day. Turn in to the Principal.

Advisement (2:50 p.m. - 3:20 p.m.) All certified personnel will be given an advisement group. Responsibilities will include issuing report cards, progress reports, collection of key forms, facilitating TAA lessons, etc. After-School Detention After school detention may be assigned to students for various disciplinary infractions. After school detention will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays after school from 3:05 p.m. – 3:45 p.m. A twenty-four (24) hour notice must be given to the students assigned to after school detention. Agenda Planners - Student Handbooks Can be accessed online at www.polk.k12.ga.us.

Alcohol and Drugs In compliance with the Drug-Free Work Place Act of 1988, CFR Part 85, Subpart F, all employees are notified that: It is unlawful to manufacture, distribute, dispense, possess or use a controlled substance while on the premises of Polk School District or while performing duties for Polk School District. Any person guilty of violating this law could be terminated. Failure to abide by the law could result in dismissal upon the first offense on the ground of insubordination. Announcements Announcements are made each morning at the end of 1st period. Afternoon announcements will be made at the end of 7th period. Morning announcements will also include a moment of silent reflection and pledge of allegiance to the American flag. If you have an announcement, print it on an 8 ½ by 11 sheet of paper and submit it to the Principal. Arrival and Dismissal of Faculty

Teachers should arrive at school and be signed in the by 7:45 a.m. Teachers should be in rooms by 7:50 a.m. For teachers, the workday is eight hours: 7:45 a.m. – 3:45 p.m. For paraprofessionals, the workday is also 7:45-3:45 p.m. – 8 hours). Generally, you may leave every day at 3:45 p.m. (Duty responsibilities must be fulfilled, no exceptions). All teachers must be available for required meetings after 3:45 p.m. The building will be open at 7:15 a.m. Normal dismissal time is 3:20 p.m. **Note work day times may change if school calendar is altered. Arrival of Students Students should not arrive before 7:15 a.m. each day; however, the building is open around 7:00 A.M. every morning. Only the main entrance to the school is open in the mornings. All students that arrive before the first tone will report to the cafeteria or gym. Students may have a makeup work pass or a media center pass to report to another area. The first tone to move toward first period will sound at 7:55 a.m. Students will be marked tardy if they are not in class by 8:00 a.m. At 8:00 a.m., exterior doors will be locked and students will have to enter the building via the main entrance. Assemblies Assemblies are planned periodically during the school year. Some typical assembly themes include drug abuse prevention, driving safety, cultural presentations, and professional speakers. Proper etiquette and good citizenship is expected of all students. Please model these

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook behaviors and encourage your students to be courteous to our guests and attentive during programs. Attendance!!! - Faculty Regular attendance is essential to a student’s success in school. Regular attendance and punctuality are two important life skills that students must learn in order to obtain and maintain meaningful employment. As teachers, we should model these two important life skills! Your students are deprived of your skills and educational opportunities when you are absent. The teaching process requires face-to-face interaction between the teacher and students. Please make every effort to be at school! If you need to be absent, call Mrs. Dana Johnson at 770-684-5224 who will secure you a substitute teacher. Attendance Procedures (PowerSchool) Teachers will submit attendance in PowerSchool at the beginning of every period. STUDENTS will take all excuses to the Mrs. Haney, who will be located in the commons area, prior to the beginning of school each day. Do NOT send students to get an excuse after the bell rings. Mrs. Haney will send out a daily e-mail of the absentee report and students that are signing out early. Attitude A positive attitude about CHS and its endeavors are expected from all faculty members. Please leave your negativity at the door. Automobiles The speed limit at Cedartown High School is 10 MPH. Please drive carefully and watch for students! Park in your designated parking space. Awards Student achievement is recognized by the Renaissance Program. Students are recognized for various achievements in academics: All A’s,

All A’s & B’s, No Failing Grades, Extra Effort, and Outstanding Attendance. Benchmark Testing CHS will benchmark in ALL classes FIVE times throughout the school year. One benchmark test will be developed and given five times a year.

One benchmark will serve as the pre-test, one benchmark will serve as the semester 1 exam, and one benchmark will serve as the semester 2 exam. EOCT will count as the fifth benchmark. Teachers will keep data in a chart to show scores and student progress. Benchmarks are to be standards-based and reflect standardized tests. Each benchmark must assess what has been instructed. Also, each benchmark, with the exception of the final one, should include preview as well as review questions. The benchmarks should be common within each department. Teachers will be given a window and deadline to complete each benchmark. Benchmarks can be developed using OAS, Classworks, various test generators, or individually. Black Belt Certification This is a program designed to help teachers practically implement CCGPS. Participation, and ultimate completion, of this program, will be reflected in every teacher's evaluation. Teachers have two years to complete this certification. Teacher progress will be monitored throughout the school year. Breakfast Teachers wishing to eat breakfast at school should arrive in the cafeteria in time to be finished no later than 7:50 a.m. Stations will be set up in the cafeteria for students to "Grab" a breakfast and "Go." Students are allowed to take breakfast to their 1st period classrooms. Remind students to throw away any trash remaining after breakfast. Cafeteria staff will help clean hallways after breakfast. Building Care and Security Building care and security especially in rest rooms, hallways, and classrooms are the responsibility of every faculty member. When teachers and administrators are visible, problems decrease.

Teachers are responsible for the proper care of school equipment and furniture in the classroom.

Students are responsible for the proper care of their individual desks. The teacher should check daily for writing or damage to desks/work area. At the beginning of each semester, the teacher should make the students aware of their responsibilities concerning the condition of their desk/work area.

Teachers are responsible for the security of all items in their room. Classrooms should be locked when not occupied or supervised by a teacher.

Bullying/Harassment Procedures Bullying can be defined as aggressive behavior by one or many to another, repeatedly over time, where there is an imbalance of power. Bullying procedures are as follows: (1) Student in question will fill out a harassment form in the counselor's or administrator's office, (2) Counselor will discuss the incident with the accuser, accused, and

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook witnesses, (3) Counselor will contact the parents of all parties involved, (4) Counselor will refer the incident to an administrator if necessary, & (5) Administrator will contact the parents of all parties involved and incorporate any necessary consequences. Bus Conduct Students are governed by the same discipline code on the bus and at the bus stop as in the classroom. Riding the bus is a privilege not a right. Students that do not follow the bus rules and regulations may be suspended from the bus by the principal or assistant principal. Parents will be notified if a child is suspended from the bus. The safety of all students must be considered and if a child’s behavior is endangering the safety of other children, he/she will be removed from the bus. A short term request for your child to ride a bus or a different bus must be made in writing by the parent or guardian and submitted to the office with a telephone number where the parent or guardian may be reached. These requests must be sent to the office no later than 8:30 a.m. and approved by the principal or assistant principal. These requests are granted on a space available basis. All long-term requests for your child to ride a bus or a different bus must be made in writing by the parent or guardian to Mrs. Jana Ruark, Polk School District Transportation Director. Students will only be allowed off the bus at school, home, and approved locations. Parents are not allowed on the bus. Please send any changes on how students are to get home in writing to the office. We cannot take changes in transportation plans over the phone. Please encourage parents/guardians to try to keep their child in a similar routine about riding the bus as much as possible. Bus Route and Operating Policies Students must ride the bus based on where they live. Any request for a student to get off the bus at a different location or to ride another bus must be made in writing by the parent/guardian including a daytime phone number. This note should be sent to the office for approval by the principal by 8:30 a.m. A copy of the request will be kept on file in the office.

Calendar for the School Year The Polk School District Calendar will be followed. Please review the calendar occasionally throughout the school year. Cancellation of School School will be canceled due to dangerous weather conditions, equipment failure, or when mandated by governmental agency. News on school closings will be broadcast on WGAA 1340 AM. You will be notified using our Emergency Calling List (See Appendix) as soon as school is canceled. Keep a copy of this list at home. If school is closed during the school day due to weather, teachers are required to stay at school until students have been safely dismissed. Car Riders Car riders are dismissed to the north and south parking lots at the end of the school day. CCRPI According to Georgia Department of Education, CCRPI, or College and Career Readiness Performance Index, is a comprehensive school improvement, accountability, and communication platform for all educational stakeholders that will promote college and career readiness for all Georgia public school students. Change of Student’s Address/Telephone Please have parents/guardians notify the office in writing of any changes in a student’s address or telephone number. It is imperative that we have your current address and telephone number. Children of Faculty/Staff Please note the following regarding your children at school during the work day:

1.Your child is not allowed at school during preplanning, post planning, or teacher in-service days. Make other child care arrangements.

2.Your child shall remain in his/her class until 3:00 p.m.

3.Any child that is not a student at this school is not allowed to remain at school during the day.

4.After school children should be supervised and not running up and down the halls.

5.Teacher's children are students during the school day and should be treated as such.

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook Chain of Command Where to go if you have a problem? Follow the chain of command: Paraprofessional -> Teacher -> Department/Area Chairperson -> Assistant Principal -> Principal -> Assistant Superintendent -> Superintendent -> Board of Education. Classroom Guidelines

Teachers are expected to be in their assigned classroom at all times (Except during planning periods and lunch).

The class should not be left unattended at any time. (No exceptions!!!)

Teachers are responsible for keeping their rooms neat and orderly.

Discipline in the classroom is the individual teacher’s responsibility. If assistance is needed, the teacher may establish a student, teacher, administration conference.

Students should be kept in class at ALL times. If an emergency calls for a student leaving the class, notify the office immediately and help will be sent to your classroom.

Bell-to-Bell instruction is an absolute necessity. Instruction should occur until the final tone sounds to dismiss class. Do not allow students to “hang out” in the doorways and mill around your room at the end of the class period or at the beginning of class.

If you have a phone in your room/office, students are not allowed to use your phone.

Clubs

A club schedule will be followed on Wednesday before or after school. See appendix for club schedule. Code of Ethics for Educators The Code of Ethics defines the professional behavior of educators in Georgia and serves as a guide to ethical conduct. Eleven standards represent conduct generally accepted by the education profession. All eleven standards are important. I call your attention to Standard 7 Confidential Information. All faculty and staff are required to read the Code of Ethics and sign-off in the front office. This should be completed by the end of pre-planning. If you violate any of

these standards, the Professional Standards Commission has the authority to suspend or revoke your teaching certificate. http://www.gapsc.com. Collaborative Planning Teachers in the same content areas will plan together collaboratively. This collaboration will take place weekly during assigned planning periods. The WEEKLY lesson plan template established in CLI must be utilized and "filled out" during collaborative planning. Common formative and summative assessments must be utilized and developed prior to any lesson planning. While collaboratively planning, the following items need to be available: unit summative assessment, unit formative assessments, standards, collaborative planning checklist, & lesson plan template from CLI. Specific activators and summarizers must be utilized. Specific ways of gathering data must be identified (Formative Assessment - ). Conferences Conferences may be requested by parents, teachers, or administrators to discuss student progress. Conferences shall be scheduled in a timely manner. Parents may schedule conferences by calling the guidance office at 770-748-0490. Generally, teachers are available for conferences in the afternoon from 3:40 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. on Monday through Thursday. Parents or teachers as needed may arrange other conference times. Teachers are expected to meet with parents that request a conference. Parents should be kept informed so there are no surprises in terms of a student’s grades or inappropriate behavior. Confidentiality Student grades, placement, and personal information are confidential. This information should be discussed with the child’s parent/guardian or faculty/staff members only on a need-to-know basis. This discussion shall be held in private so that information remains confidential. Violation of confidentiality is a violation of the Code of Ethics (Standard 7) and could have serious consequences for employees up to and including termination. Copy Machines Copy machines are available for staff use only. The copy machine in the main office is not for teacher use. Students may not use copy machines. Use planning time for copying, do not send a student to do your copying. If a student needs copying, he/she may contact one of the media specialists. Mrs. Dana Johnson in the Media Center will make copies for teachers. Please give her a 24 hour notice. Plan ahead!!!!!!

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook Co-Teaching An instructional arrangement in which a general education teacher and special education teacher deliver core instruction along with specialized instruction, as needed, to a diverse group of students. The primary special education model that will be used in the Polk School District. Counselor The guidance counselors are available for personal/career counseling, guidance for students, and monitoring of the testing programs. Students should make an appointment either before school or during the class break to see the counselors. Counselors will send a written request to ask to see a student during a particular time. Course Syllabus All teachers are required to provide student/parents with a course syllabus for all classes as well as have them available online. Teachers are to submit their course syllabus to the principal by the end of pre-planning. Credit Recovery (Media Center) CHS will offer a variety of credit recovery opportunities. Credit recovery classes will be offered throughout the school day, a lab will be open before school at 7:30 a.m. and after school from 3:20 p.m. - 4:15 p.m., and students will be allowed to work on credit recovery from home. Curriculum Guides Polk School District Curriculum Guides will be followed. Teachers should keep up to date the check off list for objectives in the curriculum guide. This will be monitored by the administration periodically. Custodial Service If your room is not cleaned according to the Janitorial frequency chart, complete a janitorial service form and submit it to Mr. Williams. Customer Service Please remember to promote good customer service to our students and parents. Be sure to greet and assist visitors in our building. You are our goodwill ambassadors. “How may I help

you?” works better than “Why are you here?”

Data Team/Data Room Mrs. Zeabeau will be developing a data team. The data team will include representatives from all departments and meet as needed. A variety of CHS data ranging from EOCT scores to student attendance will be evaluated. All data analysis will be shared with the faculty. Deliveries Refer to Board Policy. Remind students: flowers, balloons, and gifts in glass containers cannot be transported on school buses. Departmental Meetings Departmental meetings will be held as needed. All meetings must have a typed agenda and minutes must be kept. Department chairs are to notify the principal when meetings are held. Detention Hall Students may be assigned detention for tardies only. Teachers may assign before and after school detention for minor infractions. If a student fails to show, write them up on an electronic discipline referral and email it to Mr. Williams. Directed Studies (Media Center) Directed Studies is a program designed to provide additional instructional support/remediation to students before, during, and after school. When assigning students to directed studies during the school day, content area teachers will notify the students who have been assigned to directed studies and email this list of students to Mrs. Rachel Graves, Directed Studies Teacher, and the appropriate elective teacher. For example, if a student is in team sports during 2nd period and has been assigned to directed studies on Tuesday, the social studies teacher will email the student's 2nd period teacher explaining that "John Smith" has been assigned to directed studies on Tuesday, August 27th and Thursday, August 29th. Content area teachers need to notify the students and Mrs. Graves by the end of the school day on Friday/Monday of who will be attending directed studies for the upcoming week. The content area teacher will also email a list of all necessary Edgenuity assignments to the directed studies teacher. Directed Studies can also be used for retesting. Upon completion of the remediation and retesting, the directed studies teacher will send results of assignments back to the content area teacher. The directed studies teacher will also inform the content area teacher of the student's attendance. 1. Social Studies/ELA - Tuesday & Thursday 2. Science/Math - Wednesday & Friday

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook Discipline In order to foster a positive learning environment, students are expected to maintain acceptable standards of behavior. Students that interfere with teaching and learning can expect to be disciplined. Students can expect to be corrected for inappropriate behavior at school by any teacher or staff member. Teachers or staff members should not yell at students. Teachers should be firm, fair, and consistent when disciplining a child. You should handle discipline problems in your room unless it is serious in nature. Document steps you have taken (notes to parents, parent contacts, etc.) to try and resolve the problem. Chronic behavior problems should be referred to the administration if not corrected. Remember group punishment is to be avoided. The Polk School District Procedures for Due Process Related to Student Discipline and Offenses shall be followed. In cases of serious misbehavior or chronic misbehavior, parents or guardians will be asked to come to the school to help work out a solution to the problem. Please see Polk School District Procedures for Due Process Related to Student Discipline and Offenses for more information.) Discipline Procedures Discipline problems in the classroom generally fall into two distinct categories:

Problems that need immediate administrative attention and/or mandatory offenses. Examples are fighting, drugs and alcohol, threats to a student or teacher, weapons, etc.

Problems that are chronic in nature and

require a management plan to correct the behavior.

Examples are sleeping in class, minor disruptive behavior, unwillingness to follow directions, failure to bring appropriate materials to class, etc. Discipline Problems that need immediate administrative attention: Do not send the student unescorted to the office. Use the call button to summon an administrator. We will discuss certain situations concerning weapons that may require special treatment. Fill out a pink slip being as specific as possible about the behavior.

Discipline Problems that are chronic in nature: These are the discipline problems that “fester and build” over a period of time. For these problems use the following procedure: First Occurrence Teacher talks with the student one

on one. Documentation including date, problem, and corrective action taken by the teacher.

Second Occurrence Teacher makes parental contact,

most likely a telephone call. Documentation including date and corrective action.

Third Occurrence Teacher requests a

parent/teacher/student conference. Request is made by phone and with letter to the parent. If the parent fails to attend the conference, then the letter will state that the next occurrence of the behavior will warrant administrative action.

Fourth Occurrence Referral to Administration Dismissal School is dismissed at 3:20 p.m. In the event a student must leave school before the end of the school day, parents should come in and sign out the student in the main office. Only adults on the student information card may sign a student out. Changes to a student's information card must be done in person by the parent/guardian. Doctor and Dentist Appointments If a child misses school because of a doctor or dentist appointment, parents should bring an excuse from the doctor and dentist when the child is brought back to school. Encourage parents to write excuses when their child is absent. Excuses must be received within three calendar days. Students that are absent should get an admit slip in the front hall before school begins. Excuses are filed in the office. Dress Code for Faculty and Staff Teachers and staff members are expected to dress and groom in a professional manner. This should be comparable to other professionals in our community. Visitors to CHS should be able to distinguish between teachers and students in terms of attire. Faculty and staff members are expected to dress professionally from the first day of school until the last day of school. Shirt tails are to be tucked in unless the shirt is designed not to be tucked in. Dress on teacher workday should be consistent with casual day on Friday. Casual dress will be on Friday

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook only. Jeans of any color will be acceptable on Friday. Collared shirts are preferred. CHS shirts are encouraged. Dress Code for Students The student dress code is defined in the student handbook which can be located online. ALL faculty members are expected to enforce the student dress code at all times. If the teacher considers a student to be improperly dressed, the student should be sent to the office. Teachers can also request an administrator come their room for assistance. We must be firm, fair, and consistent every day. Duty Rosters A duty roster for the year will be provided. You are expected to be at your duty station at the assigned time. If you know you are going to be absent, it is your responsibility to cover your duty station. If you are on time, you are late. It is a good practice to be early. Duty Assignment Descriptions: MORNING DUTY Begins at 7:15 until dismissal to first class. Teachers stationed in the front foyer area (100 & 200 Halls) are to greet students as they enter the building and shall:

Direct students to the cafeteria or gym. Students with a makeup pass from a

teacher may go to that classroom. Students with a media center pass may go

to the media center. All food and drink items are to be thrown

away as the student enters the building. Check for appropriate dress, particularly in

warm weather. If necessary, remind students to be quiet

and orderly in the school building. Teachers stationed in the gym shall:

Direct students to seats. Remind students to remain quiet and

orderly as they sit in the gym. Be reasonable.

Keep students seated until the tone sounds. Do not allow student to start moving toward exits until that time.

Check for appropriate dress.

Teachers stationed in the cafeteria shall:

Remind students to remain quiet and orderly as they sit in the cafeteria. Be reasonable.

Watch to make sure students that eat are clearing trays and trash.

Keep students seated until the tone sounds. Do not allow student to start moving toward exits until that time.

Check for appropriate dress. Students are allowed to take breakfast from the

cafeteria to 1st period. Lunch Duty On your duty day, the teacher is required to be in the lunchroom the entire period. One of the teachers on duty should move around the back exit area of the lunchroom. Other teachers on duty should monitor lines and move among tables.

Monitor lines for break-in. Students caught breaking in line should be sent to the end of the line.

Remind students to remain quiet and orderly as they sit in the cafeteria.

Make sure students clear their area of tray and trash as they finish.

Keep students seated. At the end of the lunch period, move to the exit area

to make sure students do not leave the lunchroom with any food. Encourage students to properly dispose of trays, and plates and paper items.

Bus Duty

Keep students in the bus loading area. Remind students to remain quiet and orderly. Monitor student movement in parking lots. Write

down the name of any student who is driving recklessly and refer to administration.

Hall/Restroom Duty

Every administrator/teacher is expected to monitor the hall/restroom during the class change. Teachers that have a class during the next period should be in the hall next to their classroom door. Greet students as they enter the classroom. Also monitor the hall and move students quickly and quietly to their classroom. Teachers that have a planning period for the next class are to monitor the restrooms. Station yourself outside the restroom area that you have been assigned. Walk into the restroom periodically during the class change. As soon as the tone sounds make sure the restroom is clear.

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook Early Dismissal of Students In the event a student must leave school before the end of the school day, a parent or guardian should come in and sign out the student in the main office. Only persons listed on the student's information sheet may sign out the student. It is disruptive to the learning environment when students are called to the office to sign out early, so please encourage parents not to ask the school to interrupt classes to call students unless it is an emergency. Early Student Dismissal Procedure (Checking Out): NO student may check out unless a parent or a person authorized to check them out comes to the main office and signs them out; however, they may bring a note the day of from their parent which authorizes them to check out. These notes will be verified by office personnel. Parental permission given over the phone is not sufficient for a student to check out. Excessive tardiness and/or excessive absences will result in driving privileges being revoked. Electronic Devices (PSD BOE Policy JCDAF)

Students who are permitted to use personal electronic devices during instructional time shall exhibit respect for the educational environment by: 1. Following classroom teacher instructions for use; 2. Using devices only as they do not distract from the educational process and do not distract others; 3. Respecting copyright rights of others; 4. Refraining from using devices to cheat or assisting others to cheat; B. Electronic Device Usage: 1. Students may use electronic devices to photograph, video, or record the audience at public events; 2. Students cannot post or upload pictures or recordings taken of others without express advance permission of the persons in the photos or video; 3.Students are allowed to have their

devices and after the regular school day, during lunch, during instructional time with the teacher's permission, and during the school day with the

principal's permission.

Electronic Mail (e-mail) All faculty and staff are expected to check e-mail daily (Before & After School). Emails to the faculty need to be approved by the principal. Eligibility To be eligible to participate in competitive extracurricular activities, students must pass five out of seven classes the prior semester and be on track for graduation. Emergency Drill Procedures Emergency drills are conducted monthly at the school. Faculty and staff will instruct students where to go and what to do during these drills. A weather radio is left on in the principal’s office twenty-four hours a day in order to monitor threatening weather conditions. Emergency Drill Procedure Description

A. Weather

1.Post tornado drill plans in your classroom. Go over those plans with students on a periodic basis. 2.During the drill, move your students quickly and quietly to the assigned area. Remind your students to stay together. 3.Remain with your students at all times during the drill. 4.Carry your roll book with you. In the event of an actual emergency, check your roll.

B. Fire 1.Post fire drill exit plans in your classroom. Go over those plans with students on a periodic basis. 2.During the drill, move students quickly and quietly to the assigned area. Remind your students to stay together. 3.Remain with your students at all times during the drill. 4.Carry your roll book with you. In the event of an actual emergency, check your roll.

C. Bomb Threat Follow the same procedure as for a fire drill. As you exit your room, look for anything suspicious. D. Power Failure If the power goes out, keep students in their seats and quiet until you receive further instructions. If you are on your planning period, move immediately into the hallways; any student out of class should be sent immediately back to class. You will also be needed to help communicate directions to teachers in the classrooms.

Emergency Information - Student Advisement teachers please be sure that your student information sheets contain complete information about persons to contact in case of an emergency with correct phone numbers. Please notify the administration of any

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook unusual circumstances, i.e., changes in custody situations or emergencies. These sheets need to be turned in to Mrs. Haney by Friday, August 22nd. A list of students who have NOT turned in a student information sheet must be submitted to Mrs. Haney as well. Emergency Information – Faculty Be sure to give Mrs. Lisa Denton your emergency numbers and person to contact in case of an emergency. Energy Conservation Lights should be turned out when room is not in use. Please be aware of circumstances which will help conserve energy. Think green! Exam Exemptions To be determined. Exceptional Student Program Cedartown High School provides exceptional education classes for students with disabilities. The goal of the exceptional education program at CHS is to provide the most appropriate education possible to help each student reach his/her highest potential and acquire the skills necessary to be successful. Extracurricular Activities Participation in extracurricular activities is considered an integral part of high school life which enhances the development of the person. Students are encouraged to participate in a variety of activities which interest them. Faculty members are encouraged to lend their knowledge, time, and commitment by sponsoring or coaching a group or activity. Faculty members are asked to attend extracurricular activities to help create positive student/teacher relationships. Responsibility of sponsors/coaches: 1. Be sure that all students meet eligibility

requirements. 2. Ensure a safe environment in which students

may participate. 3. Provide leadership, supervision, and guidance

for student activities. 4. Never leave an activity until all students are

gone.

Faculty Fund The faculty fund is used to buy flowers, cards, and retirement gifts for faculty/staff. Membership is optional dues are $20 per year. See Mrs. Lisa Denton if you are interested in joining. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (20 U.S.C. 1232g) (the “Act”), parents have a right to: 1. Inspect and review the education records of a student who is your child, or in the case of a student who is eighteen (18) or older, your own education records; 2. Request the amendments of the student’s education records to ensure that they are not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy or other rights; 3. Consent to disclosure of personally, identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that the Act and the regulations promulgated pursuant to the Act authorize disclosure without consent; 4. File with the United States Department of Education a complaint under 20 C.F.R. 99.64 concerning the alleged failure by the Polk School District Board of Education to comply with the requirements of the Acts or the regulations promulgated thereunder, and

Obtain a copy of the policy, which the Board of Education has adopted regarding access to student records. Copies of this policy may be obtained by contacting Polk School District Central Office at P. O. Box 128 Cedartown, GA 30125 or calling 770-748-3821. Faculty Meetings Faculty meetings will be held monthly in the media center or other designated area beginning at 3:15 p.m. Faculty meetings will be held on the 2nd Wednesday of every month. Attendance is mandatory. Permission to be absent can only be granted by the principal. Field Trips Students may only miss five days during the year for field trips. Turn in Field Trip Request forms to the principal at least 14 days prior to your requested field trip. (See Appendix) The superintendent must approve all field trips. If the trip requires an overnight stay it must be submitted 5 days prior to the Tuesday of each month. If the trip requires multiple overnight stays it must be submitted at least 4 months prior to the proposed trip. Each bus must have a cell phone to provide access to 911 at all times. It is the trip sponsor’s responsibility to see that each bus has a cell phone. Turn in cell phone numbers

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook to the office before leaving on your trip. Teachers planning field trips be sure to complete the following at least 14 days prior to your requested field trips. No field trips will be approved to view movies that are not rated G or PG. Complete a bus request form and turn into

the front office. Teachers planning a field trip must arrange their own bus transportation. You will be charged a mileage fee for use of the bus and will have to pay the bus driver. (Complete and turn into office at least 14 day prior to your requested field trip.) After the trip, submit the bus driver form to the main office. Make sure the bust driver has signed the form.

Inform Mrs. Dana Johnson of the date of

your trip so she can obtain a substitute for your classes.

Field Trip Information form - checklist (a

roster of all students going on the field trip. Highlight students attending the field trip) leave in department chairs mail box.

All field trip money must be turned into Mrs.

Ann Folsom. Sponsors need to request bus driver

checks and checks for admission 7 days prior to your field trip from Mrs. Ann Folsom.

Requests for sack lunches must be made

two weeks ahead of time with the lunchroom manager.

All field trips must be back at Cedartown

High School by 3:00 p.m. No exceptions...no excuses.

Notify the office/nurse 7 days prior to your

trip so arrangements may be made for students that need medication.

Each student will need a completed field

trip permission form. A copy should accompany you on the field trip. All Field Trip Permission forms are due to the sponsoring teacher the day prior to the trip. Teachers should double check to make sure that each student has a signed permission prior to going on the field trip. Leave the following list in the office before departing: students absent, students not going, and room location. Students will not be allowed to call home the day of the

trip to inquire about missing field trip permission slips. Students will have the opportunity to go on field trips

during the school year. These field trips may include trips to local points of interest, local colleges, or to the Cedartown Civic Auditorium to view plays or musicals. All students must return a signed permission slip from a parent or guardian before being allowed to go on a field trip. Permission for students to attend field trips cannot be given over the telephone. Students may be asked to make a small donation to defray the cost of the bus, bus driver, gasoline, tickets, etc. No student will be denied going on a field trip for inability to pay the suggested donation. However, if enough money is not secured to pay for the field trip, it will be canceled.

All students ride to and from the field trip on the

bus. Teachers must be notified in advance if parents plan on going on the field trip.

Field Trip chaperones must:

attend to small groups of students to and from the destination as well as at the actual location.

assist with serving lunch and clean up dispense medication as needed. assist with bathroom breaks, stay with their class at all times count the number of students you have before

exiting and when students return to the bus. notify the administration of any serious incidents

that occur on the field trip. you need 1 chaperone for every 25 students

Trip sponsors should note any students that have

asthma, severe allergies, or medical problems and be sure that medication is taken on the trip. Medication should also be taken for students that take medication during the school day.

Students must ride on PSD Transportation or on bus

rented by PSD. Financial Procedures All school personnel handling funds shall abide by the guidelines outlined in Financial Procedures and Accounting Procedures in the appendix. All financial matters shall be handled by these outlined procedures. FLP Information will be forthcoming.

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook Food Services Our food service program at Cedartown High School is under the direction of Mrs. Martha Weaver. Students at CHS will not be charged for breakfast or lunch. Students cannot bring food from outside restaurants to CHS. Students cannot take food from the cafeteria during lunch. Fundraising Cedartown High School has various fundraisers each year by various groups. Proceeds from fundraisers are used to supplement the athletic, band, and educational programs. Games Games and playing cards should be left at home unless needed for a specific class project. Cedartown High School assumes no liability for lost, stolen, or misplaced games. GeorgiaBEST This is a program designed to teach students core work ethic traits which are sought by employers in the global economy: teamwork, discipline, commitment, creative thinking and problem solving, and many additional soft skills. This program will be implemented in CTAE classes. Gifted Education Polk School District provides a program for students that have demonstrated a high degree of intellectual ability. Students qualify for this program based on criteria mandated by the State of Georgia. Good News Program Teachers and administrators are expected to contact parents via email, phone call, or written letter once a week about "Good News" in the classroom or school. This will help in building relationships with students and parents as well as continue to build on the exceptional reputation of CHS. This can be notated on your parent contact logs. Gradebook It is optional that teachers keep a written record of all grades in a gradebook. This is your back up copy in case grades are lost in PowerSchool. PowerSchool is your primary method of maintaining grades. Grades should be updated weekly. A minimum of

one grade per week should be entered in PowerSchool. Grading Teachers must contact parent/guardians by conference, phone, or e-mail before giving a student an F. There should be no surprises for parents/guardians in terms of grading. No grade should be over 100. Please refer to section pertaining to parent contact logs. Hall Passes You are expected to keep your students in class at ALL times. Occasionally a student will have an emergency and need to leave your classroom. Students without a hall pass will be considered skipping. DO NOT LET STUDENTS LEAVE YOUR CLASS WITHOUT HALL PASSES. Homework Homework will be given to students in an effort to provide: extra practice of learned skills, further learning in areas covered in the classroom, an opportunity for growth in responsibility, and additional attempts at mastery. Departments/Areas should try to agree on standards for homework in terms of consistency and frequency. Honors Day Honors Day will coincide with the CHS Extra Mile program and recognize outstanding student achievement for all underclassmen. Tentative date is Tuesday, June 2nd. Honors Night Honors Night will be for seniors only. Senior Honors Night will take place on Thursday, May 21st, 2015 and begin at 6:00 p.m. Format and awards presented will be determined at a later date. Example of awards will include Valedictorian, Salutatorian, Honor Graduates, National Honor Society Members, Beta Club members, scholarship winners, departmental award winners, etc. Illness or Injury If a student becomes ill or is injured at school, parents or guardians will be contacted by telephone to come and pick up their child. Do not send a child to the office by themselves! Ex. A diabetic child that may have low blood sugar. Immunizations Georgia law requires all students enrolled in a Georgia school to have a Certificate of Adequate Immunization to be admitted to school. The following immunizations are required for entry into a Georgia school: Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Polio, Measles, Mumps, Chicken Pox, and Rubella. This form may be secured from the Polk

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook

County Health Department or from the child’s personal physician. Only two exemptions are allowed regarding the certificate of immunization: 1. medical exemption signed by a physician or by the Health Department. This can be temporary or permanent. 2. Religious exemption. In this case, the principal must have on file a written notarized statement from the parent or guardian stating that for religious reasons the parent does not want the child immunized. Students must also have a copy of their Birth Certificate and evidence of an eye, ear, and dental examination. Individualized Education Plan IEPs of our SWD must be followed. All accommodations set forth in a student's IEP must be met. This is the responsibility of the general and special education teachers. Mrs. Turner will make sure all teachers receive a list of SWD along with their accommodations. Ink Faculty/staff members shall complete all forms and school records in black or blue ink. In-School Suspension ISS is assigned to students for various infractions. Assignments will be requested from the student’s teachers. Teachers will email Mrs. Whatley a list of domains/standards for students to complete in Edgenuity or Classworks. Students must complete these assignments prior to returning to class. Mrs. Whatley will then return the results to the teachers, either electronically or by placing the results of the assignments in the teachers' boxes. Hard copy assignments can be sent if it is absolutely necessary. Instructional Design Team Instructional Design Team will be separate of the Leadership Team. The IDT will be developed over the course of the first semester and help with developing school-based instructional initiatives for the 2014-2015 school year. Each department will be represented on the IDT. Insurance Students are not covered by school insurance.

Intercom The intercom will only be used for morning announcements, afternoon announcements (If necessary), and emergencies in order to protect instructional time. Any announcement made using the intercom must be approved by the administration. Internet Cedartown High School has internet access in all classrooms. Students are to use the Internet with direct supervision of a teacher or staff member. Misuse or abuse of the internet may result in a child losing the privilege to use the internet. All websites visited by computers are monitored. CHS also has its own home page which may be found at :http://www.polk.k12.ga.us/chs. Inventory All teachers are responsible for the care and security of equipment issued to them or in their possession. Teachers shall maintain an annual inventory. Job Description Classroom teachers must have valid Georgia Professional Certification in the assigned teaching field. Classroom teachers report to building principal and/or other authorized administrators. Each teacher will participate in the Teacher Keys Effectiveness System (TKES). The following instruments will evaluate other certified teachers: Media Specialist (GMSEP), Counselor (GSCEP), and Speech Pathologist (GSLPEP). (SEE APPENDIX -- PSD BOARD POLICY) Keys Keys are issued by the administration. Please handle your school keys with the utmost care. At no time should students use your keys. No duplication of school keys is allowed. Report a loss of keys to the administration immediately. Locksmiths charge $75 for a service call plus $35 per lock so we don’t want to lose keys. Leadership Team Provides strategic direction, helps with planning, sets organizational goals, provides guidance, manages operations, and reports to and from respected departments. Leadership Team will meet on the third Thursday of each month. Meetings will be held in the conference room and begin at 3:45 p.m. Leaving Campus Teachers and staff are not allowed to leave campus during the school day without permission from the principal or assistant principal. Be sure to make a notation on the sign in/out sheet if you leave campus. You will be charged for

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook time you are away from your job. When you reach a 1/4 days time (2 hours), you will be docked for 1/4 day. Lesson Plans (CLI) Weekly lesson plans for the next week are due before you leave school on Fridays. Lesson plans must also be available during any administrative evaluation. Lesson plans are to be submitted to the following administrators: 1. Dr. Wetherington - Math/Social Studies 2. Mr. Williams - CTAE/Fine Arts/PE 3. Mrs. Zebeau - English/Science/SPED Litter Policy Students are expected to pick up any trash or mess that they make. Please encourage students to pick up litter! Lockers Lockers will be sold to students during lunch for until Friday, August 29th. The prices of the lockers will be as follows: $8.00 for top lockers and $6.00 for bottom lockers. Lunch Refer to food services. Mailbox Teacher mailboxes are located in the teacher workroom and should be checked when you arrive at school, at lunch, and at the end of the day before leaving campus. Students shall not be sent to drop off or pick up mail. If you are sending interoffice mail within Polk School District, place this mail in an interoffice envelope on the front counter. It is carried to PSD Central Office each morning Monday through Friday. Main Office The main office is the face of CHS. This is where parents and other visitors gain access to the building. Faculty and staff are expected to help maintain a professional atmosphere in the main office. Keep the noise at an appropriate level. Use your inside voices. Maintenance Requests If your room needs maintenance or you notice some area of the school in need of maintenance, complete a Maintenance Request Form and turn in to the principal. Emergencies

should be reported to the principal or assistant principal immediately. Make-up Work Students are expected to make up all missing assignments. This can be done before/after school, at home, or in Directed Studies. Mandatory Events for Teachers

Junior-Senior Prom – Every teacher on the faculty

is expected to assist in chaperoning the prom. An assignment schedule will be worked out so as to divide the four hours of prom time equally among faculty members.

Honors Night – The annual Honors Night awards assembly is held in May at the Cedartown Auditorium. All faculty members are expected to attend.

Graduation Ceremonies – Graduation exercises are traditionally held on the Sunday following the last day of the regular school year. Certain faculty members may be asked to assist in planning and organizing the event.

Media Center Mrs. Amanda Hendrix is our media specialist and Mrs. Dana Johnson is our media assistant. Medications Students that need medication should complete a medical permission form and turn it in to the office. Parents should bring all medications to the office and they will be given to the office school nurse to secure. Under no circumstances should students carry medicine around in their pockets or book bags. Medical Information Sheet Advisement teachers should have students complete the Medic Alert Form which includes medical problems, and what to do in case of an emergency. This form should be turned in to Mrs. Beverly Benefield by August 29th. The Medical Information Sheet needs to be turned in to the school nurse on August 29th as well. Menus Menus are printed weekly in the Cedartown Standard and will be available online. Messages Telephone messages will be placed in your mailbox unless there is an emergency. You will not be called from your

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook classroom to answer the phone unless there is an emergency. Money All money and checks should be turned into the bookkeeping office during your planning period or before 2:00 p.m. to Mrs. Ann Folsom. You should plan on waiting until all money has been counted and receipted. Money should not be kept in your rooms. You are responsible for money left in your room that is stolen. (I.E. Field trip, fundraising, etc.). Anytime a purchase or payment is made, make sure a receipt is issued. (See Financial Procedures in appendix) Morale What is morale? Moving Please notify the office of any changes in your address or phone number. We must have a current address, phone number, and emergency contact person at all times. Nurse The nurse will be located in the 300 Building. If a student needs to see the nurse, make sure the student has a pass. Call the nurse's office to notify her that a student is coming. Office Hours School office hours are 7:15 a.m. until 4:15 p.m. Monday through Friday. Our telephone number is 770-748-0490. Our fax number is 770-749-2080. Off-Limit Areas Students should not be in areas of the building that are not supervised by faculty, staff, or administration. One-Call Now Our One-Call Now system will be used to communicate with all stakeholders throughout the school year. This will occur every Sunday afternoon in order to preview the upcoming week. Parent/Guardian Contact Log Make an effort to communicate with parents concerning students in your classes who are

having problems academically and behaviorally. Remember failure should not be a surprise to parents/guardians. In an effort to combat this issue and put more responsibility on the students and parents, teachers are to contact the parents of students who are failing their classes. All conferences, calls, and e-mails to parents should be documented in the Parent Contact Log (See Appendix). Parent contact logs will be due every two weeks. The first parent contact log will be due on Friday, August 29th, 2014. Parent contact logs are due to the following: 1. Dr. Wetherington - Math/Social Studies 2. Mr. Williams - CTAE/Fine Arts/PE 3. Mrs. Zebeau - English/Science/SPED Parental Suspension Students who continue to be disruptive or perform poorly academically can be placed on "parental suspension." This means students will be suspended pending a parent conference. This is primarily used when we are unable to contact parents and schedule a parent conference. Parking Faculty parking is generally in front of the school and along the south parking lot. Please park in your assigned space. Passes All visitors to the school must come to the main office and receive permission before going to any classrooms. Send anyone without a visitor’s pass to the office. Pep Rallies Pep rallies will be take place in the afternoon and we will operate on an afternoon activity schedule. First pep rally will be on Friday, August 29th. Permanent Records Student academic records are maintained in the school counselor's office. Permanent records will remain the counselor's office. See a counselor if you need to work with a permanent record. Pictures Individual and class pictures will be taken at various times during the school year. Notices will be sent home and put on the school website indicating date and time. Please plan on dressing professionally, pleasantly, and colorfully for these occasions. PowerSchool

All grades shall be entered in PowerSchool within 3-5 working days from the date the test/daily assignment is given.

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook Each student shall have 5-10 graded daily

assignments each nine weeks grading period.

It is suggested that a backup copy of grades and attendance be kept in a grade book. This is NOT mandatory.

Grades shall be updated weekly. A standard should be attached to every

grade. More than just a number. All gradebooks should be set up by Friday,

August 30th. Pride Be proud to be a Cedartown Bulldog. Do not whine, gripe, or complain. If you have concern, speak to the principal and have a solution in mind that helps ALL stakeholders of CHS. Professional Learning Communities Professional Learning Communities will be the primary tool for professional growth at CHS. PLC focus for the 2014-2015 will be TKES components, lesson planning/review, instructional technology usage, assessment strategies (Formative & Summative), instructional strategies, differentiated instruction, and a book study. PLCs will take place every Wednesday during collaborative planning (See Appendix). Professional Organizations All faculty and staff are strongly encouraged to join a professional organization such as G.A.E. or P.A.G.E. for your protection. Promotion and Retention Polk School District policy will be followed in regards to promotion and retention. Purchase Orders All purchase orders must be turned in to Mrs. Ann Folsom. She will check for necessary funding and give purchase orders to principal. Principal will sign purchase orders and return them to Mrs. Ann Folsom for processing. Release of Records See the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. (F.E.R.P.A.) Report Cards and Progress Reports Cedartown High School operates on a 8.5 week grading period. Mid-term progress reports will

be issued every 4.5 weeks. All teachers should have grades entered in PowerSchool by the deadline given. No exceptions…No excuses. Students shall receive their report card/progress report in EVERY class on the date(s) specified in the Polk School District calendar. Retest Policy 1.Any student not satisfied with his/her performance on a summative assessment may retake the assessment. 2.Students who fail a summative assessment will be assigned to DS for remediation. 3.Re-testing must occur within two weeks of the failed test, unless extenuating circumstances arise (Illness, Death of a Family Member, McKinney Vento, etc.) 4.Only one make-up will be allowed for each summative assessment. 5.The higher of the two grades will be awarded to the student. 6.Students can receive up to a 100. Rules for General Behavior Students are expected to walk in the building, be courteous, and take care of their school and campus. Please correct any student(s) not behaving immediately! It does not matter if this student is not in your class. S.A.C.S. Accreditation CHS is accredited Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (S.A.C.S.) and the Georgia Accrediting Commission (G.A.C.). Safety Flash Cards Each teacher should have Safety Flash Cards in each room. (See Safety Plan) Safety Plan Cedartown High School has a safety plan that each faculty and staff member should read and become familiar with this plan. Periodic safety drills will be conducted throughout the year. Report any suspicious activity to the administration immediately. School Board Policies

Every faculty and staff member at Cedartown High School is expected to follow all PSD Board of Education Policies and Procedures. If you have any questions about a policy, check with an administrator. School Campus After Hours Students are to leave the school campus immediately upon dismissal unless he/she is involved in an extracurricular activity.

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook

School Calendar – Use of Facility Those wishing to schedule events (banquets, meetings, concerts, etc.) must confirm the dates, times, and areas of the building that the event will meet with Dr. Wetherington. He will confirm the request on the school calendar. The school calendar will be posted in Mrs. Lisa Denton’s office, teacher workroom, and teacher's lounge. School Colors, School Mascot The “official” colors of Cedartown High School are red and black. Our mascot is the bulldog. School Hours Except in emergencies, school hours are from 8:00 a.m. until 3:20 p.m. During bad weather, listen to local radio or television for directions or you will be notified by the Emergency Calling List (See Appendix). School Improvement Process Information is forthcoming. Student Accomplishments Notify the principal of any student accomplishments, academic or extracurricular. These accomplishments will be promoted in the newspaper, school website, teacher webpages, etc. School Rules The following general school rules apply daily. They are not all-inclusive, but cover a majority of expectations for student behavior: * Students are expected to be ready and prepared for class. * Keep hands and feet to yourself. Respect others and their property. * Talking, noise, and other behavior that prevents others from learning is forbidden. * Avoid running on sidewalks and in the building. * Avoid walking on the grass. * Don’t litter. * No chewing gum, candy, toys, or electronic communication devices are allowed. * No hats or other head ware are to be worn in the building. * No horseplay or dangerous play allowed on the campus. * No loitering around water fountains or in the bathrooms.

* Quiet and orderly conduct is required when moving around the school buildings. * Walk on the right side of the hall. School Website This will be our primary method of communication with all stakeholders. It will be updated daily. Any updates must be approved by the principal. The school website will have a calendar of events, staff profiles, necessary forms, quick links, etc. Contacts for the school website are Dr. Wetherington and Mr. David Thompson. All faculty and staff must have their pictures taken on Wednesday, August 13th before Open House for their staff profile. Pictures will be taken in the media center. Dress professionally & bring your Ipad. School Yearbook The Cedar Log is available each year in the spring. Seniors The last day for seniors will be Friday, May 29th. Severe Weather Drill Procedures Severe weather drill procedures are outlined in the appendix. Signage No handwritten signage in the building. Signing In/ Signing Out – Faculty/Staff All faculty and staff are expected to sign in and out daily. Each person should sign in and out at the time he or she arrives or leaves. Smoking/Tobacco No smoking is allowed at Cedartown High School. This school is a tobacco free environment. Software Resources CHS will use the following software programs to help support and improve student achievement: Edgenuity, MyOn Reader, CLI, Black Belt, Study Island, Classworks, USA TestPrep, & OAS. Solicitation Solicitation by faculty members is not allowed at Cedartown High School. STEM Team Mrs. Zebeau is in the process of formulating a STEM Team. Details will be forthcoming.

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook Student Achievement Expectations

High expectations will be held for all students. Parents, teachers, students, administrators, the

community, and board members will all accept responsibility for student achievement.

Students, teachers, and administrators will be held accountable for student achievement.

Administrators will raise expectations for student achievement and teacher performance.

Teachers will use effective teaching strategies to promote academic achievement.

Students will be prepared for the next level. Principal will ensure the maximum use of

instructional time. The relationship between student attendance

and student achievement is recognize and will be promoted.

The relationship between student attendance and academic achievement is recognized and will be promoted.

The primary focus of the school is academic achievement.

All school personnel will strive to find more ways to motivate students.

Student Attendance Regular attendance and punctuality are two important life skills that students must learn in order to obtain and maintain meaningful employment. As of July 1, 2004, Georgia’s Compulsory School Attendance Law 20-2-690.1 became much stricter in regard to truancy. The new law states that more than five (5) unexcused absences constitutes truancy. The law also states that possible consequences for parent(s)/ guardian(s) of student’s whose unexcused absences exceed five (5) days may be:

At least a $25 and not more than a $100 fine; Up to 30 days of jail time; Community service; or Any combination of these penalties

Beginning the 2004-05 school year, the school will make a reasonable attempt to contact the family each day a student is absent. The school will accept excuses from parents/guardians for five (5) total days of absence each semester and will use the Georgia Board of Education Rules above to determine whether the absence is excused or unexcused. A parent can write an excuse for five (5) total days each semester, but after five (5) total

days each semester, a medical excuse will be required from a doctor or other qualified medical practitioner. At three (3) unexcused absences, the school will mail a notice to the family, requesting that a family member schedule a meeting with school staff to resolve the absence status of the student. If the student reaches five (5) unexcused absences, the family will receive a hand-delivered or certified letter with official notification that any further unexcused absences will result in charges being filed as required by state law and local protocols. The letter may be delivered as described below. Truancy Intervention meetings will be held with parents and students when they reach the 5th unexcused absence. The meeting will be for the purpose of intervening and helping the parents find solutions to the problem of truancy in their family. The meetings will be on the first Monday of each month beginning in September and on Mondays as needed throughout the month. Students with unexcused absences shall receive a grade of zero for all work missed. Student absences should be marked excused/unexcused according to the guidelines mandated by the State of Georgia. Students should get an admit slip in the front hall before school begins. Excuses are filed in the office. Paige Haney will update PowerSchool when excuses are brought in. (Please see Polk School District Attendance Policy at www.polk.k12.ga.us.) Student Activities Student activities should be approved by Dr. Wetherington and placed on the school calendar as soon as possible to avoid potential conflicts regarding use of the facility. Student Information Cards Please be sure that student information cards are complete and return them to the office. Please notify the office of any unusual circumstances, (IE, custody situations or emergency situations). We need at least two working phone numbers for each student. We must have up to date information on each student. Student Records Compete in black ink. Records must be accurate and complete. Student records are confidential. See Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. Student Supervision Teachers are responsible for supervising students assigned to them for the entire class period. Teachers are also responsible for supervising students in all “public” areas of the school (hallways, cafeteria, school grounds,

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook etc.). Teacher visibility is often the difference between unruly student behavior and controlled student behavior. We must work together to create the kind of environment that we want in our school. Every teacher should be in the doorway of their classroom during the seven minute class changed. If you go to the restroom, you are responsible for students that you pass in the hallways. If you are assigned restroom duty during the break, you are expected to be on duty in the restroom area. Be at your duty station at assigned time. Bus duty in the afternoon does not end until all students have departed. Students are not to be left in your room without supervision at any time. Once your class begins, students are to remain in your class for the entire period. DO NOT allow students to leave your room for any reason other than an emergency. Do not request that a student be sent from another class to come to your classroom for any reason. Students are to be in their assigned class at all times. Students that are not in their assigned class are disturbing the instructional process for other students. Students are to remain seated or in the work area of your classroom until the tone sounds to dismiss the class. DO NOT ALLOW STUDENTS TO GATHER AT YOUR DOOR TO WAIT FOR THE TONE TO SOUND. Students should be in the room working on the bell ringing activity. Only students on your class roster should be allowed in your room. Student Support / R.T.I. Team Students who are at-risk, have serious learning problems, or other types of problems, must be nurtured and monitored by the Student Support Team. The RTI/SST coordinator is Mrs. Dempsey. If you are asked to attend an SST meeting, it is a required meeting. Substitutes If you must be absent, call Mrs. Dana Johnson at 770-684-5224. Please remember we share a common pool of substitutes with other schools so the early bird often gets the available substitute. Do not leave messages on the answering machine.

Substitute Lesson Plans Please leave detailed lesson plans for a substitute. Be sure to include a detailed schedule including times, activities, and the names of any students with medical problems such as asthma, diabetics, seizures, etc. Leave instructions about what to do if the child has a medical problem. You should prepare an emergency lesson plan and leave in a labeled folder on your desk for a substitute to use in case you must be absent unexpectedly. Include a detailed schedule including times and activities; Please let Mrs. Dana Johnson know the location of this folder. Supplies

Supplies should be requested through your department head. General classroom supplies may be obtained from Mrs. Zebeau. Supply Fee Math, Science, and Vocational teachers may not request a lab fee from students. Tardiness of Faculty and Staff Teachers signing in the main office after 7:45 a.m. by the clock on the wall in the sign in will be considered tardy. If you realize you are going to be tardy, call the principal and notify him that you are going to be late and when you anticipate being at work. Consistent tardiness may result in a PDP and/or an unsatisfactory Summative Evaluation. Tardiness - Students Students are tardy after 8:00 a.m. Students arriving in your class after 8:00 must have a tardy admit from Mrs. Haney, who will be stationed in the commons area until 8:15 a.m. After 8:15 a.m., students will get tardy slips from the main office. Do not admit any student without a tardy admit the first period of the day. Make sure you send them to the office to get a tardy permit. Teachers As Advisors Teachers As Advisors is a program that will be utilized to facilitate mini-lessons pertaining to soft skills, work ethics, and character. All CHS students will receive one work ethics grade per semester in CTAE classes. The grade will count as a test grade. This is a great opportunity to reward those students who exhibit exemplary work ethics, character, and integrity. More information pertaining to the Teachers as Advisors program will be discussed in the Departmental meetings. Teacher Chats Teacher chats with the principal will take place once a month. One member per department will be selected to participate.

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook Team Assignment Each teacher will be assigned to specific Team/Committee(s). This will primarily be associated with the school improvement process. TBA Teacher Evaluation (TKES) All teacher evaluations will be conducted in accordance with the Teacher Keys Effectiveness System. TKES has a systematic approach to teacher effectiveness. The following steps are included in the TKES process: (1) Orientation, (2) Self-Assessment (To be Covered in Department Meetings), (3) Pre-Conference, (4) Four Walk-Throughs, (5) Two Formative Observations, & (6) Summative Evaluation. Teachers will be evaluated on the following ten standards: (1) Professional Knowledge, (2) Instructional Planning, (3) Instructional Strategies, (4) Differentiated Instruction, (5) Assessment Strategies, (6) Assessment Uses, (7) Positive Learning Environment, (8) Academically Challenging Environment, (9) Professionalism, & (10) Communication. Teacher Failure Reports Teacher failure reports will be submitted to Dr. Wetherington after each progress report and report card. Email reminders will be sent. Teacher Webpage(s) ALL teachers will be responsible for creating and maintaining a teacher webpage. The teacher webpage will include upcoming events, key assignments, pictures, videos, forms, quick links, and an online classroom. Technology The centerpiece of CHS instructional initiatives, and foundation of CHS school improvement process. Telephone – Faculty/Staff Our telephone number is 770-748-0490. Teachers may use the phone in the office. Teachers will not be called out of class to answer the phone unless it is an emergency. Phone messages will be left in your mailbox. Personal Long Distance calls are not to be made unless it is school related. All long distance calls must be logged in before the call is made with Lisa Denton in the office. Cell phones may only be used before school, planning time, lunch,

and after school hours. Cell phones shall NOT to be used during instructional time. Telephones - Students

Students are NOT allowed to use school telephones except in the main office. Do not allow students to use your phone if you have one in your office or work area. Textbooks Students are expected to pay for lost or damaged textbooks and library books. Teachers are expected to take careful inventory of textbooks and materials. You are expected to account for all of your textbooks and materials. Textbook inventories will be submitted to the principal at the end of the school year. Title I Cedartown High School is a School-Wide Title I school. Report any suspected fraud, waste, or abuse of federal funds. Notify Mrs. Zebeau of any needs within your department. She will notify Ms. Cox, who will then process a purchase order. Tobacco Cedartown High School is a tobacco free environment. Employee tobacco use while on campus is prohibited. Tobacco use is prohibited while supervising school activities or school sponsored events. Top 5 Luncheon The Top 5 students and Star Student of the Senior Class will participate in a luncheon recognizing their outstanding student achievement. The date will be Thursday, April 30th at 11:30 a.m. This event will take place during the school day at a local venue. Valuables Faculty and staff should take care in storage of personal belongings and secure items in the classrooms so that cannot be stolen. Money should not be left in your room. Lock it up... or you may lose it! Vandalism Students that damage or destroy materials will be expected to make restitution or clean up any damage caused to materials or property. Please report any vandalism to the office immediately. Vending Machines Students are prohibited from using vending machines by S.A.C.S. standards. Don’t send students to get drinks

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Cedartown High School Faculty Handbook out of the machines. Vending machines can be used before/after school as well as during lunch. Visitors

All visitors must report immediately in the main office. The visitor will be signed in and given a visitor’s pass. Former students are not allowed to visit during the school day. If you see a person who is not familiar or who you know is already out of school, you should direct the person to the main office and follow-up by informing the office that the person is in the building and should be headed in that direction. Withdrawal from School

All withdrawals are handled by Mrs. Paige Haney. Withdrawal of Students The student will receive a withdrawal form from the office and instructions. All textbooks, library books, lunch fees and fines must be cleared before the student secures a transfer record to another school. Each child’s teacher, counselor, media specialist, and the principal must sign the withdrawal form. Z...The End! Well, this is the end of the faculty/staff handbook! Congratulations, you made it to the end! If you have any questions or need clarification, please ask the administration or office staff.

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