Equal Opportunity Statement Estancia Municipal Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities. The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non- discrimination policies: Title IX Coordinator Section 504/SAT Coordinator Stewart Burnett Hope Solomon P.O. Box 68 P.O. Box 68 Estancia, NM 87016 Estancia, NM 87016 ESTANCIA SECONDARY SCHOOLS FAMILY HANDBOOK 2019-2020 Every Student, Every Day ESTANCIA SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF EDUCATION VISION STATEMENT The Estancia School District believes in educating ALL students to become productive and successful citizens. Instructional programs must challenge all students to reach their potential. All other purposes are in support of this. MISSION The Estancia School District will provide all students a quality education. GOALS Staff at Estancia High School will provide a high quality, comprehensive, academic program to support students in reaching their highest potential and earn a high school diploma.
Transcript
Equal Opportunity Statement
Estancia Municipal Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities. The following
persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies:
ESTANCIA SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF EDUCATION VISION STATEMENTThe Estancia School District believes in educating ALL students to become productive and successful
citizens. Instructional programs must challenge all students to reach their potential. All other purposes are in support of this.
MISSIONThe Estancia School District will provide all students a quality education.
GOALSStaff at Estancia High School will provide a high quality, comprehensive, academic program to
support students in reaching their highest potential and earn a high school diploma.
Board of EducationRandoll Riley………………………………………………………………..….....PresidentElaine Darnell…………………………………………………………….....Vice-PresidentLee Widner…………………………………………..…………………………......SecretaryKendra Otis…………………………………………..………………………….......MemberKenneth Lujan………………………………………..……………………..……….Member
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TABLE OF CONTENTSSECTION /TOPIC PAGE# (FORMS TO BE SIGNED and RETURNED TO THE SCHOOL)ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY InsertDEMOGRAPHIC INFORMATION UPDATES InsertPUBLICATIONS WAIVER InsertWALKING FIELD TRIP RELEASE InsertACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY InsertACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT OF FAMILY HANDBOOK InsertNM STUDENT RESIDENCY QUESTIONNAIRE Insert
BELL SCHEDULE 3SCHOOL GOALS 4PROGRAMS OF STUDY 4-7GRADING POLICY 7-8SCHEDULE CHANGES AND REGISTRATION 8-9ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS/PROCEDURES 9-10MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION 10-12DRESS CODE 12-13PROHIBITED ITEMS 13-14ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION 16-17PARKING/PICK UP/DROP OFF 17FAMILY/VOLUNTEER INFORMATION 18ACADEMIC INFORMATION 18-19GRADUATION 19TITLE I 19PARTICIPATION IN ATHLETICS AND EXTRA CURRICULAR 19-21STUDENT RECOGNITION PROGRAMS 21NOTICE OF PUPIL RIGHTS 22-23NOTICE OF RIGHTS (FERPA) 23-24ESTANCIA SCHOOL BOARD POLICY 702 – ANTI-BULLYING 24-29CYBERBULLYING 29-30STUDENT CONCERNS, COMPLAINTS, AND GRIEVANCES 30-32STUDENT CONCERNS, COMPLAINTS, & GRIEVANCES FORM 32DISCIPLINE MATRIX 33-24ISS/SATURDAY SCHOOL PROCEDURES 34-35CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT 35ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY 36CALENDAR 37
**Information regarding transcripts and credits does not apply to the Middle Schools Students.**
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Estancia Secondary SchoolsEVERY STUDENT, EVERY DAY!
Bell Schedule
Regular Schedule Wednesday Schedule
1st bell 7:55 1st bell 7:55
1st period 8:00 8:49 1st period 8:00 8:45
2nd period 8:53 9:42 2nd period 8:49 9:34
Advisory * 9:46 10:16 3rd period 9:38 10:23
3rd period 10:20 11:09 4th period 10:27 11:12
4th period 11:13 11:59MS/12:02HS 5th period 11:16 11:59/12:02
lunch 11:59/12:02 12:32 lunch 11:59/12:02
12:32
5th period 12:36 1:25 6th period 12:36 1:16
6th period 1:29 2:18 7th period 1:20 2:00
7th period 2:22 3:11 In the event of a two-hour delay school will start with Advisory.
* Advisory Class: Time designated for various student supports** Parents/Guardians concerned about grades or behavior are encouraged to contact teachers through a phone call, email, or by setting up an appointment through the High/Middle School Office Manager. Teacher emails may be accessed through the school website: www.estancia.k12.nm.us or through powerschool.
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SCHOOL GOALSImprove Mathematics and Reading scores across grade levels through:
Tier II interventions School Systems and Procedures Standards Alignment
PROGRAMS OF STUDY
Comprehensive High SchoolEstancia High School offers a four-year curriculum designed to prepare students for entry into a college, university, or other post-secondary educational training program, vocational school/career, or military service.
Exceptional ProgramsEstancia High School provides education and related services for students found eligible under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA 2004). Individual Education Plans (IEP’s) are developed for qualifying students to address specific needs according to the support/enrichment identified for the student by the IEP team and written into the IEP.
Honors/Advanced Courses ProgramEstancia High School offers Honors/Advanced courses in core* content areas. Honors/Advanced courses carry an additional weight when grade point average is calculated with the following weight applied on a 4.0 scale.
A = 5.0B = 4.0C = 3.0D = 2.0
*Core classes are those carrying Math, Science, Language Arts, or Social Science units of credit. One unit of credit in Physical Education is counted as a core requirement.
Estancia School Board Policy 412.1.4 identifies the following EHS courses as Honors/Advanced: Concurrent Enrollment English AP Courses (Advanced Placement) Advanced Algebra/Pre-Calculus Honors Chemistry Calculus I Calculus II Advanced World History Advanced US History Advanced Biology Honors English III Honors English IV
These courses are offered as recommended through content area department and administrative collaboration.
EnrollingTo enroll in Estancia High School a student must meet the following requirements:
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Provide documentation to show that all immunizations are current Provide a copy of birth certificate Be accompanied by a parent/legal guardian when registering Provide proof of formal withdrawal from the last school attended. Provide transcripts and withdrawal grades from previous school attended.
Grade Level ClassificationsEstancia High School students are classified by grade according to the following minimum credit requirements
A Sophomore must have at least 6.5 units of credit earned, with a minimum of 3.0 units of credit earned in core* classes.
A Junior must have at least 12.0 units of credit earned, with a minimum of 6.0 units of credit earned in core* classes.
A Senior must have at least 19.0 units of credit earned, with a minimum of 9.0 units of credit earned in core* classes.
*Core classes are defined as any course carrying Math, Science, Language Arts, or Social Sciences units of credit. One unit of credit in Physical Education is counted as a core credit requirement.
TranscriptsA list of courses taken, grades earned, and units of credit assigned are maintained while a student is enrolled in high school. This record tracks graduation requirements, grade point average and finally records graduation information including final grade point average, class rank and graduation date.
Units of CreditOne half (.5) unit of credit is assigned to each course where a passing grade of 60 percent (60%) has been earned for each semester. Typically, each course meets for one period daily - Monday through Friday - for 18 weeks for each .5 unit of credit. As of the 2016-2017 academic year College Dual Enrollment Courses are assigned one (1) unit of credit for each three (3) college credits awarded where a passing grade of 60 percent (60%) has been earned for each semester.
Course Credit with Excessive Absences Students with an excessive amount of absences (10+) will not receive credit. In the event of extenuating circumstances, the student will be required to present to the school leadership committee to petition for credit.
Transfer TranscriptsPrivate Schools – Students transferring from private (accredited and non-accredited) schools must supply sufficient information for the Administration to request a course description from the former school. This information is evaluated to determine EHS course placement or earned credit allowed. If this information is not available, students are tested for proper placement. Home Schooling – Transfer of students from Home Schooling for grade placement will be on a case-by-case basis. Achievement tests and/or other relevant tests may be required to determine the appropriate grade level placement.
Summer School/Night School/Correspondence Courses/Estancia Valley Learning Center Credits/College Course Credit
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All additional/supplemental course work is accepted from accredited institutions upon approval by EHS Administration. Therefore, students and their families are required to meet with the EHS Principal prior to enrollment in any additional/supplemental program. An Official Transcript must be received in the EHS Guidance Office before documented credit can be assigned. All additional/supplemental credit must:
Be a part of an IEP Be equivalent or higher than EHS offered courses. Have prior written approval of the EHS Administration.
Dual Credit ProgramDual Credit provides high school sophomores, juniors and seniors who attend a public high school half-time or more and qualify for New Mexico in-state tuition status, the opportunity to take college courses for which they will simultaneously earn both college credit and high school credit. Students follow the schedule and time deadlines of the collaborating higher education partner.
Estancia High School currently partners with CNM in Albuquerque and Eastern New Mexico University in Portales to offer Dual Credit enrollment courses.
Distance/ E2020/Edgenuity EducationEstancia High School is utilizing E2020/Edgenuity through the Central Regional Educational Cooperative to provide fully accredited high school courses. This is to enable Estancia High students the opportunity to take online high school courses to satisfy graduation requirements for credit recovery and for enrichment. Each semester course equals .5 credit at EHS. The semester beginning and end dates for E2020/Edgenuity courses are not the same as those of traditional EHS face-to-face classes. Students may access their E2020/Edgenuity online courses from a computer with internet connection from school, home or elsewhere. All assessments must be taken on campus. Students may be enrolled in E2020/Edgenuity courses after consulting with the Dean of Students and the Site Coordinator. E2020/Edgenuity course grades are recorded on student transcripts and figured into student grade point averages. EHS teachers may also use E2020/Edgenuity coursework for enrichment or as a part of their classroom instruction and final grades.
CNM College and Career Bound Program
The College and Career Bound Program provides high school sophomores, juniors and seniors who attend a private school or a public high school, or are currently home-schooled students and at least 16 years of age, the opportunity to earn college credit.
College and Career Bound students are often able to complete a college certificate or degree more quickly and with less expense because they start college while in high school or home school.
College and Career Bound students must pay all tuition and fees. College and Career Bound students may only enroll in courses numbered 0900 and above. College and Career Bound students may enroll in a maximum of 18 credits per term. College and Career Bound admission and registration can be processed online and at any
CNM campus.
ESTANCIA MUNICIPAL SCHOOLS GRADING POLICY
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412.1 In compliance with New Mexico Administrative Code 6.29.1, Estancia Municipal Schools will have a standardized grading system. All grading and reporting practices will support the learning process and encourage student success. It is the policy of the Board of Education to support its professional staff in this professional duty. District wide grading and reporting practices will include the following components:
a. written report to parents regarding the performance of their children tested with the New Mexico standards-based assessments;
b. for grades 2 – 12, a standardized alphabetic grading system, based on the 4.0 scale; c. alignment of all district and school curriculum to the New Mexico State Common Core
Standards; and d. all school report card grades shall reflect standards-based academic performance.
The district’s grading system is based upon equal intervals as follows: A or 4 = 90% - 100% B or 3 = 80% - 89% C or 2 = 70% - 79% D or 1 = 60% - 69% F or No Credit = 50% - 59%
1. Lesson and Practice Activities = 40% (e.g. classwork, homework, group activities, reviews, etc.) Assigned homework needs to be relevant, attainable, age appropriate, and structured around content with which students have a high degree of familiarity.
2. Unit and Course/Grade Level Understanding and Performance = 60% (e.g. formative and summative assessments, major performance tasks such as essays, presentations, lab experiences, projects, etc.)
Semester GradesThe following percentages determine semester grades9 weeks grade = 40%Semester Exam= 20%At the end of each semester these grades are averaged using the above percentages and a semester grade is determined.
Grade Point Average PointsThe points awarded for calculating the grade point average are as follows:
Grade Final % Range Grade Points Honor/Advanced Grade Points A 90-100 4.0 5.0 B 80-89 3.0 4.0 C 70-79 2.0 3.0 D 60-69 1.0 2.0
F 0-59 0 0
Progress ReportsAt the 4.5 week of each nine (9) week grading period, a Progress Report is mailed to each student’s family. These Progress Reports reflect the student’s academic grade/progress in each class through the mid-point of the grading period and are for student and family information.
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Nine Weeks Report CardsOne week after the end of each nine-week grading period, a COMPUTERIZED REPORT CARD is mailed to the home of each student.
Report Card Grades of Incomplete (I)A student has two weeks after the end of the grading period to make up any “I” on the report card because of incomplete work. If at the end of this two-week period (10 school days), the “I” grade remains, it becomes an “F”.
Academic Eligibility for Athletics/Extra-Curricular ActivitiesTo ensure academic eligibility for athletic/extra-curricular activities, a student must maintain a minimum 2.0 grade point average with no grade of “F” during each of the 1st and 3rd nine weeks grading periods. At the end of each semester, the student must maintain a minimum 2.0 grade point average with no grade of “F” for the semester.
Schedule Changes/Alternative Courses
Valid reasons for schedule changes are as follows:
Conflicts in schedule Changes needed to satisfy graduation requirements Failure in a prerequisite course Changes needed for the health of a student (Doctor’s documentation required) Successful completion of the course in summer school/correspondence course Inappropriate academic placement as determined by the teacher/dean of
students/principal consultation Alternative Courses/Credit Recovery courses taken during the school year through
E2020/Edgenuity must be started within 7 days of either progress reports or report cards. They must be completed by the end of the grading period.
Parents may appeal a denial for schedule change to the Secondary Principals.
Administration may be required to make schedule changes to balance class sizes and correct student misplacement in courses.
Administrators may make changes to a student’s schedule at any time based on specific and individualized concerns.
AFTER THE 10TH DAY OF CLASSES IN ANY SEMESTER, SCHEDULE CHANGES MAY ONLY BE MADE AT ADMINISTRATIVE RECOMMENDATION.
Annual Pre-Registration ProcessA Pre-Registration Guide outlining potential course offerings for the upcoming year is presented to all secondary and 6th grade students each spring by the Dean of Students. Students review the course offerings with their parents, then complete the Pre-Registration form requesting first and
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alternative choices. In the absence of a completed Pre-Registration form, student schedules will be completed based upon teacher recommendation and elective availability.
NOTE: Elective courses are offered only when pre-registration interest indicates a need for the course. Consequently, not all classes described in the current Pre-Registration Guide are offered. Every attempt is made to give each student a first choice in electives. If the class does not make due to low numbers or if the elective class of choice is full, elective alternatives are utilized. Therefore, it is imperative that each student list elective class alternatives on the pre-registration forms. If no alternatives are cited on the form, the Guidance Office reserves the right to select electives for the student.
Withdrawal of a Student from SchoolWithdrawal of a student from a Secondary School is processed through the High School Office. Parents/Guardians are requested to contact the school office one week prior to withdrawal date. To complete the withdrawal process, a student must return all books and school property, pay fines and fees, and obtain grades from all teachers. Students have two weeks to enroll in another school following withdrawal from EHS.
COMPULSORY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE
All Estancia Schools will follow the current School Board adopted policy related to School Compulsory Attendance/Attendance for Success Act.
ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES
STUDENT ATTENDANCE, ABSENCE AND EXCUSE PROCEDURE – In accordance with state law, all children over the age of five (5) and students under the age of eighteen (18) years who have not graduated from high school are required to attend scheduled classes unless officially excused. Compliance with this state law is the responsibility of each parent/guardian.
EHS does, however, recognize that some absence from school may be necessary. For this reason, parents/guardians are required in the event of a necessary absence, to call the District Attendance Office (384-2009) no later than 9:30 a.m. the day of the absence OR to submit a written excuse for the absence to the EHS Office Manager upon the student’s return to school.
Absences are excused for the following reasons:
doctor’s appointment, illness, death in the family, family emergency, religious commitments, diagnostic testing, and extenuating circumstances as approved by the administration.
Students are responsible for obtaining and making up all work missed during an excused absence.
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ATHLETIC/ACTIVITY ABSENCES – New Mexico Administrative Code allows each student fifteen (15) absences from any one class for school sponsored activities per semester. Any student who exceeds fifteen (15) absences from any one class per semester may not attend any further school activities during the class/classes in which the fifteen absences occurred. Exception-Absences due to participation in state and national competitions.
Estancia School Board Policy 306.1.4 REQUIRES EHS students attend all classes the day of an athletic activity, trip or contest with unusual circumstances handled on an individual basis by the coach/sponsor for the contest and administration.
For participation in any “all day” event that EHS students attend all classes the school day prior to the event with unusual circumstances handled on an individual basis by the coach/sponsor and administration.
MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION
Closed CampusEstancia High School campus is a CLOSED CAMPUS for all Freshmen and Sophomores. Students must remain on campus and in designated areas at all times, including during lunch. These students must report to either the cafeteria or commons area during the lunch period. Junior and Senior students that meet the off-campus pass requirements may leave the campus during lunch only. During school hours, students who do not have an off-campus pass may only leave the campus with a parent or guardian after the approved checkout procedures are followed.
Only Juniors and Seniors with an off-campus pass may leave the EHS campus during lunch unless the parent or guardian personally signs out and transports the student.
Each student must be signed out by a parent or guardian in the Front Office unless prior arrangements have been made with the Principal. In case of emergency, and upon authorization of the Principal, a student may be released to a duly authorized person on the student’s emergency contact list.
Presentation of identification may be required before a student is released in order to ensure the safety of all students. Any student leaving the EHS campus at any time during the school day without signing out is truant.
Computer Use Annually, all students must sign and submit a TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY prior to using computers on campus. There is NO food, drink, or gum allowed in the computer labs. Laptops are assigned to each individual student. Students are responsible for:
taking charged computers to class returning their computer to the assigned cart/slot daily labor/cost of repairs for damages resulting from misuse.
Tardy Policy The first bell is at 7:55 am. Students are considered tardy if they are not inside their assigned classroom when the 8:00 am bell rings. Tardiness causes classroom disruptions and loss of
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instructional time, and may result in disciplinary action. Chronic tardiness may result in a truancy referral to the Juvenile Probation Office.
Illness and AccidentsAny student who becomes ill or has an accident during the school day must report to the classroom teacher. The School Nurse is always contacted when a student reports illness or an accident. When arrangements cannot be made for a parent to transport the ill/injured student home, the student is referred to the nurse until administration can contact a parent or emergency designee. It is important that updated home phone numbers, home addresses and emergency contacts are provided to the school each school year.
VisitorsParents/Guardians are encouraged to become involved in their child’s education. All non-school personnel must check in at the school office and obtain a visitor’s pass before entering the school hallways. The school administration reserves the right to cancel visitation passes as safety or organizational needs warrant. Visitors may not be allowed to interrupt the educational process. (See Board Policy 606. 2 and 606.3). *Persons who wish to volunteer and/or attend school on a regular basis and whose duties/activities include contact with students are required to complete a volunteer packet at Central Office as per Board Policy #616. STUDENTS MAY NOT BRING GUESTS TO SCHOOL.
Snow DaysLocal radio and television stations and the school phone/message system will announce school closure or delayed starts. If there is a delay, classes begin at 10:00a.m.
Telephone UseStudents may use the office phone in the case of an emergency or as requested by a teacher. The High School Office phone is the only school phone available for student use. Students should make prior arrangements to be picked-up after games or activities and not expect to use school phones.
Cell Phone and Electronic Device UseStudent cell phone and electronic device (ex. iPod, MP3 players, etc) use is prohibited from 7:55am-3:10pm. Phones and devices used during instructional minutes are confiscated and held in the office until the end of the day. (See Discipline Matrix for details) The school is not responsible for lost, damaged, or stolen phones or electronic devices.
Make Up Work for Suspended StudentsAny student suspended from school is also suspended from the entire school campus and all school events for the duration of the suspension. Students suspended long-term (more than 9 days) have no rights to daily work or credit for daily work. Students under short-term suspension (9 days or less) are allowed to turn in daily assignments and take tests, although work may be provided under alternative time schedules and in controlled environments other than the classroom.
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LockersHall and gym lockers are provided as a courtesy to students. Each student is responsible for keeping the assigned locker secure for personal use only. Each student is also responsible for the contents of the assigned locker. Lost or stolen items are not replaced by the school. The Principal reserves the right to remove a locker privilege if there is damage or misuse of the locker, if unauthorized items are stored in a locker, if any locker is shared by two or more students or if a locker is used by an unassigned student. Because the school provides students with lockers, backpacks are only allowed in the hallways to transport materials to and from school. In classrooms, all backpacks must be stored in assigned lockers during the school day. Each student must supply the Office Manager the combination or key to the personal lock for the assigned locker before a locker is assigned.
Search and SeizureBy law, the EHS Principal may conduct a search of a student’s person or school property assigned to that student if there is reasonable cause to believe that a search is necessary to maintain school discipline or safety. Student searches are conducted in accordance with school board policy. General searches of school property, including lockers and school buses, may be conducted at any time with or without the presence of the student. Metal detectors may be used to identify suspected weapons. Dogs trained to find drugs may also conduct searches. Reasonable efforts will be made to contact parents prior to, or immediately following, the search of a student suspected of drug or weapon possession.
Estancia Schools Dress CodeDress that may disrupt the educational process is not allowed at EHS. The school staff reserves the right and has the responsibility to intervene anytime they feel that the appearance of a student does not conform to these standards. Students violating these standards are required to change into appropriate clothing. With administrative approval, sponsors and coaches may require students to adhere to a different dress code more appropriate for the sport or special event. Exceptions may be made for medical, 504/IEP purposes/needs.
1. Skirts, dresses, and shorts cannot be more than 5” above the knee. See diagram.
2. Excessively tight clothing, such as Spandex style clothing, are acceptable only when worn under shorts or shirts that cannot be more than 5” above the knee.
3. Hats, caps, sunglasses, hoodies and other types of headgear must be removed upon entering any of the school buildings. Hairnets and bandannas are not worn or displayed on school property.
4. Half-shirts, see-through/revealing clothing, or shirts with partial sides or revealing armholes are not allowed. Students may wear sleeveless tops as long as the shoulder strap is at least one inch (1”) wide. Shirts that reveal cleavage or the mid-section are not allowed. See diagram.
5. Pants must fit at the student’s waist; they must be large enough to be pulled up to the waist and must not sag below the waist. Undergarments are not to be exposed. Loose belts, any hanging straps or any type of chain are not allowed. Bottoms with slits or tears/holes in clothing cannot be more than 5” above the knee.
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6. Clothing exhibiting symbols, pictures, and/or printing that references drugs, alcohol, tobacco of any type, or obscenities/inappropriate words/pictures are not allowed.
7. Clothing/Dress/Make-up styles identified by school staff as indicators of gang-like behavior and/or affiliation are prohibited.
8. Tattoos and body piercings that are distracting to the educational environment must be covered.
All situations cannot be covered in a single document. Therefore, the administration reserves the right to make additions or deletions to the dress code. Students identified as homeless under the McKinney-Vento Act or migrant under Title I part C, cannot be sent home for dress code violations. These students should be referred to Family Services for assistance in finding appropriate clothing for school.
Prohibited ItemsThe school IS NOT responsible for lost or stolen personal property. These items include CD players, MP3 players, iPods, ear phones, or other electronic devices.
E-cigarettesPlease be informed that Senate Bill 433, as amended, was passed by the New Mexico Legislature during its 2015 session, and was signed into law by Governor Susana Martinez on April 8, 2015. This piece of legislation prohibits the use of e-cigarettes and nicotine containers in school buildings, on school property, and by students at school-sanctioned functions away from school property. In addition, it states that e-cigarettes and nicotine containers should be included in the definition of "tobacco" under Title 6, Chapter 12, Part 4 NMAC, and the use of such products or items in school buildings, on school property, and by
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students at school-sanctioned functions away from school property should be strictly prohibited. Administration of MedicationPrescription and over-the counter (OTC) medication may be administered to Estancia Municipal Schools (EMS) students in accordance with District policy 305.3, and as described below. No other medications, substances, or herbal supplements may be administered by any person on EMS campuses or property under any other circumstances. Whether prescribed to the student, or not, no student may carry medications except in accordance with this policy.
Administration of Prescription Medication While it is preferred that prescription medications be administered to students at home, if a student’s prescribed medication must be administered during the school day, a student’s parent/legal guardian must submit to the School Nurse a written and signed prescription from the student’s health care provider and a written authorization and release for the medication to be given during the school day in a form approved by the District and signed by the student’s parent/legal guardian (Written Authorization). The prescription must include the student’s name, the name of the medication, doses to be taken, the time the medication is to be administered, the route of administration, and the name of the prescribing health care provider. The information provided in the written authorization must match the information on the prescription. The Written Authorization form may be obtained from an EMS school nurse. Written Authorizations shall be valid only for the current school year.
Upon receipt of the prescription of parent/guardian authorization, four options are available to parents:
1. A parent/legal guardian may visit the school to administer the prescribed medication to the student, in a location approved by the Principal or Principal’s designee, and bring the medication to and from school on each visit.
2. Authorized district personnel may administer the prescribed medication which has been delivered to the school nurse by an adult, and is in an original container that is labeled by the prescribing health care practitioner or state-licensed pharmacist.
3. A student who has a medical diagnosis of asthma, an anaphylaxis-associated medical condition and/or diabetes, and complies with the New Mexico Administrative Code (NMAC 6.12.2.9 and NMAC 11.14.05) to self-assess, carry and self-administer related and prescribed medication(s) under specified conditions, shall also be permitted to do so if, in doing so, he or she does not endanger his or her own person or other persons through misuse of the medication. In order to carry such medications, the student’s parent/guardian and health care provider must provide appropriate documentation of the student’s competence to self-administer the medication.
4. If permitted under the Written Authorization, secondary students may carry and administer their own medications (excluding medication classified as a controlled substance), or may self-administer it under the supervision of the school nurse or authorized school personnel, as documented by the student’s health care practitioner.
a. Secondary students who are permitted to self-administer prescription medication must carry the medication in an original container that is labeled by the prescribing health care practitioner or state-licensed pharmacist and may carry only the dosage necessary to be taken during school hours, for one day at a time.
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b. Secondary students who are permitted to self-administer prescription medication must provide documentation from their medical provider that they have been instructed in how to properly administer their medication at school, as coordinated between the student, parent/legal guardian, the medical provider, licensed school nurse and any other school employees who may assist and/or supervise the administration of the prescribed medication.
EMS will not send excess prescription medications home with a student. A parent/legal guardian shall be notified to pick up any excess medication. Any medication left at the end of the last day of the school year shall be destroyed in accordance with state nursing protocols.
Administration of Over-the-Counter Medication Over-the-counter medication that must be administered on a regular basis must be prescribed by a licensed health-care professional and may be administered in accordance with the District policy and regulations for prescription medication.
For administration of over-the-counter medication on an “as needed” basis by the school, a student’s parent/legal guardian must submit to the School Nurse a written authorization and release for the medication to be given during the school day in a form approved by the District and signed by the student’s parent/legal guardian (Written Authorization). The Written Authorization must include the student’s name, the student’s age, the name of the OTC medication, and the time and frequency of the OTC medication to be administered, as appropriate. The information provided in the Written Authorization must be consistent with the dosage amount specified on the OTC medication. Such Written Authorization forms may be obtained from an EMS school nurse. Written Authorization forms shall be valid only for the current school year.
School nurses will administer OTC medications. OTC medication for student use is to be provided to the school nurse by the student’s parent/guardian. OTC medication should be provided by the parent/guardian in the original unopened manufacturer container. It is recommended that the smallest container available be provided to the school.
The determination of the need for an OTC on an “as needed” basis must be made by the licensed school nurse. If it is likely that an OTC will alleviate the student’s discomfort and allow him/her to return to school participation, then the school nurse may choose to administer or delegate the administration of the OTC medication. Unlicensed trained designees may collect data and report to the school nurse to assist him/her with the determination of the need for OTC medication.
As determined by the school nurse, secondary students may be permitted to self-administer OTC medications; however, such OTC medications must be in their original containers and the students may only carry only the dosage necessary to take during school hours, for one day at a time.
Emergency Medications EMS campus staff are to be trained in the identification of emergent symptoms that might necessitate the need for the emergency medications, or medical emergency services, including diabetes awareness, signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. The most common emergency medications in the school setting are epinephrine, albuterol, glucagon, seizure medications, and oxygen.
A student’s parent/guardian must provide medication orders and guidelines from the student’s licensed health care provider regarding the circumstances under which emergency
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medications should be administered. These orders and guidelines should be included in the student’s individualized emergency care plan and signed by the parent/guardian. Such plans are to be developed in collaboration with the student, parents, primary care provider, and appropriate school staff.
Where necessary, school campuses may identify unlicensed personnel to be trained to assist with emergency medications in the absence of a school nurse. However, where appropriate, a 911 response might be the most appropriate solution for emergency response needs in the absence of a licensed health care provider to administer care.
Administration of Non-FDA Approved Substances EMS does not permit the possession or administration of any non-FDA approved substance – including but not limited to essential oil, herbal substances or anabolic steroids – on school property by students, district personnel, or by parents/legal guardians.
Where such substances are prescribed by a licensed health care provider, EMS may obtain a medical opinion from the New Mexico Department of Health Regional Health Officer prior to proceeding with the administration of such substances.
Administration of Medication at Athletic Practices and/or School-Sponsored Trips/Events
A student’s parent/legal guardian must submit to the licensed athletic trainer (for athletic events) or the school nurse (for other school-sponsored trips/events) a written and signed prescription from the student’s health care provider and a written authorization for the administration of any medication that must be taken during the athletic practice, trip, or event.
If such authorization provides for self-administration, a student may self-administer his/her own medication without supervision. Where a student is unable to self-administer, a licensed athletic trainer shall administer the prescribed medication to the student.
StorageMedications are to be stored in a locked cabinet in a designated, secure area on each campus. Where a medication must be refrigerated, it must be kept in secure, designated, non-food contained refrigerator, in the original labeled containers provided by the dispensing pharmacy/provider, at a temperature maintained between 36 and 46 degrees Fahrenheit.
Emergency medication (e.g. Epinephrine, Albuterol, Glucagon, Diastat, Intranasal Midazolam) are an exception to this general storage rule, as such medications must be accessible to adult educational staff for quick retrieval during the school day. All medications are to be stored and locked at the end of each school day. All controlled substances are to be stored in a double locked narcotic system that is equipped with two separate locks and keys.
Documenting Medication Administration at School Each dose of medication that is administered, or self-administered by the student and witnessed by school staff, is to be documented in ink or electronically on a Medication Administration Record (MAR). The MAR is a permanent health record and is subject to all confidentiality policies and laws.
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Documentation of a medication administration in a MAR is to be done by the person administering the medication, or observing the student’s self-administration. All handwritten MARs are to be corrected by drawing a single line through the error, recording the correct information, then initialing and dating the corrected entry, as with any medical record. If a MAR is contained in the electronic student health record, use strike-over to reflect the information in error, then enter correct information that reflects when and by whom the error was corrected.
MARs must include the following information:
• Student’s name
• Prescribed medication and dosage
• Schedule for medication administration
• Name(s) and signature(s)/initial(s) or electronic identification of individual(s) authorized and trained to administer and/or supervise the self-administration of medications
The Model Medication Administration Record found in the NM School Health Manual may be used to effectuate this provision of the policy.
Confidentiality The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is the federal law protecting the privacy of students and their educational records. Health records maintained by EMS and school employees are education records that are protected by FERPA and so must be kept confidential.
Information regarding student health information should be shared with school personnel only where those individuals require such information for a legitimate educational purpose and/or as needed to assist with medication administration.
Parking PrivilegeParking on the Estancia High School campus is a privilege open to students. To meet school liability requirements, each student who wishes to park a vehicle on school grounds must present to the EHS Office Manager a driver license and proof of insurance for each vehicle the student may park on the campus. Students must drive appropriately on campus and follow other closed campus rules to maintain on campus parking privilege. Administration reserves the right to revoke parking privilege for any violation of the EHS Discipline Matrix. Vehicles failing to display the appropriate parking pass may be towed at owner’s expense.
Pick up/Drop Off Students may be dropped off and/or picked up on the South of the high school office, at the elementary drop off point, North of the middle school, or East of the main gym. VEHICLES ARE NOT PERMITTED ON THE BUS RAMP.
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FAMILY/VOLUNTEER INFORMATION
School Advisory CouncilThe Estancia High School Advisory Council is established by the EHS Principal each school year. The council is made up of parents, community members EHS staff and administration. It meets regularly to review policy, discuss community concerns, and make site-based decisions/recommendations. Parents interested in serving on the School Advisory Council are encouraged to notify the Principal of their interest at the beginning of each year.
CLASSROOM/ACTIVITY VOLUNTEER/CHAPERONE REQUIREMENTS Persons who wish to volunteer and/or attend school on a regular basis and whose duties/activities include contact with students are required to complete a volunteer packet at Central Office as per Board Policy #616.
EMERGENCY DRILLSAs per state law, the school must have a minimum of one emergency drill per week during the first month of school and one every month thereafter. Evacuation routes are posted in each classroom. Students will practice fire drills and other emergency drills, such as Shelter in Place and Lockdowns.
All policies/procedures are subject to approval by the Estancia Municipal Schools’ Board of Education. A detailed description of additional policies can be found in the Estancia Municipal Schools’ Board of Education Policy Manual available on the school website WWW.ESTANCIA.K12.NM.US.
ACADEMIC INFORMATIONHonor RollThe Honor Roll is announced at the end of each semester at Estancia High School. Honor Roll status is based upon a student’s semester GPA.Gold Honor Roll - 4.0 or Higher GPASilver Honor Roll: 3.0 to 3.99 with no C’s except in weighted classes
Request to Review Student RecordsParents/Guardians have the right to review a student’s cumulative folder and transcript through request to the Dean of Students or Principal. If a student is 18 years old, a parent must have the student’s written permission to view records. (See Notification of Rights in this handbook and Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act – FERPA)
Student Assistant Team (SAT)When a parent/guardian, administrator, or teacher suspects a student’s educational needs are not being met, the student may be referred to SAT; a team that includes faculty, parents, staff, and the student. SAT reviews the current educational needs of the student, studies the student’s academic progress and behavior, and plans specific interventions for the student. SAT referrals can be made for (but are not limited to) academic concerns, inconsistent attendance, behavior concerns, remediation planning, and social concerns.
Guidance and Counseling ServicesEHS has a Personal Counselor and a Dean of Students available to assist students during the high school years. This School Office is a link among the students, teachers, and parents. Students
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wishing a meeting with the Personal Counselor or Dean of Students may stop by the School Office between classes to set up an appointment. Services include, but are not limited to, individual/group crisis intervention/counseling, career planning, academic advising (credits and requirements), higher education entrance assistance, scholarship assistance, higher education testing information, and class scheduling.
Textbooks Textbooks are issued by title and number. All students are responsible for the care of their books. Textbook covers are strongly suggested. If a student’s books show excessive damage when they are returned to the teacher, the student is assessed a damage or replacement fee. Fees for lost/destroyed textbooks are assessed to students at full replacement cost. It is highly encouraged that families inspect all student textbooks at the beginning of the year. If the condition is questionable, please bring the book to the HS Office for condition clarification.
GRADUATION
Senior Commencement CeremonyThe Graduation Ceremony is hosted by the Board of Education. The Class Sponsors, EHS Principal, and Superintendent collaborate in planning and organizing the annual Graduation Ceremony. Seniors are required to attend graduation practice/set-up and the Estancia High School Recognition and Awards Reception in order to participate in the Graduation Ceremony. Before graduation and after all finals are complete, each Senior must check out through the EHS Guidance Office. During this final check out all books and equipment must be returned and all fines must be paid. Students may not participate in the Graduation Ceremony, and a final transcript is not provided until all equipment/books are turned in and fines paid. There is NO school sponsored overnight Senior trip without prior approval of a plan that includes available funds, behavior guidelines/consequences, and appropriate supervision.
Estancia Board of Education Policy 303.4.8 states, “The Board of Education does not permit the issuance of blank diplomas to Seniors nor shall any student be permitted to walk through the graduation exercises unless they will be receiving a diploma or certificate of completion.”
TITLE IOur school district receives Title I funds from the Federal Government to assist in the education of our students. It is the District’s responsibility to notify you, as parents and legal guardians, that you may request information regarding the professional qualifications of teachers and any paraprofessionals working with students. If you have any questions or comments, Contact the Superintendent at 505-384-2001. (Nuestro distrito escolar recibe el Título I fondos del Gobierno Federal para ayudar en la educación de los estudiantes. Nuestra responsabilidad es notificar a los padres o guardianes legales, que pueden solicitar información sobre las cualificaciones profesionales del maestro, del salon de clases o cualquier paraprofesional que tenga contacto con el estudiante. Gracias por su apoyo. Si usted tiene alguna pregunta o comentarios, puede llamarme a la escuela, Dr. Cindy Sims, Superintendent 384-2006
Criteria for Participation in Athletics and School Sponsored ActivitiesStudents are encouraged to participate in athletics and extra-curricular/school-sponsored activities and to represent the community of Estancia in a positive way.
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1. All rules that apply to student behavior on campus and in the classroom apply to any student attending a school-sponsored activity. Even if the activity is after school or at another location, the students must behave in such a manner as to credit the Estancia Municipal School District. Any student participating in activities that discredit the school may not be allowed to attend future activities as per administrative discretion.
2. On a field trip or activity trip, where school transportation is being used and where the school is providing supervision, a signed parental permission form to attend the event will be required before the student is allowed to board the transportation vehicle.
3. Conduct on all school buses and vehicles will be in accordance with all campus and classroom conduct requirements.
4. Parents wishing to transport their student(s) from a school-sponsored activity or trip MUST submit for approval a completed Parent Pickup Form prior to the date of the event. Forms may be obtained from the office/sponsor of the event.
5. Students receiving repeated discipline referrals or who are failing classes may be exempt from non-academic field trips.
Eligibility for Athletics/Extra Curricular Activities and Code of ConductEligibility of students for extra-curricular activities is monitored using New Mexico Activities Association (NMAA) guidelines and Estancia School Board Policy Failure to maintain eligibility results in a student’s disqualification from the event/activity. All school-sponsored activities and events are inclusive of these requirements.
Basic Requirements:1. All participants in athletics must have a completed physical turned in to the Athletic
Coordinator.
2. Students must maintain a 2.0 G.P.A. with no F’s at 1st nine weeks, 3rd nine weeks and each semester.
3. Students must remain in good behavioral standing.
4. Students who are ineligible at the end of a grading period or at each semester are ineligible the following nine-week grading period. (This carries over to the succeeding school year if a student is ineligible at the end of the school year, except for students entering 9 th grade for the first time.) One Summer School Course may be used to determine eligibility.
5. Students are required to attend the entire school day, or have an excused absence other than an illness, to participate in athletic practice or in an activity occurring that day. Students must attend the entire day on Friday, or have an excused absence other than illness, prior to a weekend event. Students checked out by parents for lunch must arrive at school on time for 5th period in order to practice that day, unless otherwise pre-approved by school administration. Students must submit (to the office) an appropriate doctor/dentist notice upon return from an appointment if he/she plans to attend an after-school practice that day.
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6. Any student with fines or who has not turned in books or equipment is ineligible for participation in extra-curricular activities.
Further information about NMAA, guidelines/rules may be viewed on the internet at www.nmact.org.
Other Eligibility Guidelines:It is the responsibility of all EHS students and their families to understand the general regulations of Estancia High School set forth in this handbook and the Estancia Municipal School Board Policy Manual (available at www.estancia.k12.nm.us.)All students, by participating in the activities or athletic program, agree to abide by and be subject to the regulations of the NMAA.
Good sportsmanship is a major objective during practice or contests. Administrators, teachers, coaches, sponsors, parents, and students shall treat opponents with respect; show self-discipline at all times; follow other specific rules set up by the coach/sponsor; and shall not use profane language.
Verbally or physically accosting any administrator, teacher, coach, sponsor, parent, or student will result in immediate suspension for the remainder of the school year from all activities and athletic events.
It is impossible to have a rule or regulation for every possible circumstance. Coaches, sponsors, and administrators shall use discretionary judgment in dealing with individual situations not covered by a specific written regulation.
STUDENT RECOGNITION PROGRAMS
All Estancia High School students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities. School organizations are non-discriminatory and enrollment is open to ALL students. NMAA governs eligibility for extra-curricular participation in activity organizations. Each activity organization sets guidelines for “lettering” in the program.
Academic Letter ProgramAny student earning a 3.5 GPA or higher for each of the 4 quarters is eligible for an academic letter. (The academic letter is awarded one time during the high school career. Students who maintain the qualifying GPA after the letter is earned, receive gold pins to attach to the letter signifying sustained academic excellence.) Academic letters will be awarded at an awards ceremony to be held in the fall of the following academic year for the Freshmen, Sophomore, and Junior classes. The Senior class academic awards ceremony will be held during the last week of the current academic year.
EHS Athletic Letter ProgramThe Athletic Coordinator and coaches determine requirements for earning an athletic letter.
NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS UNDER THE PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS AMENDMENT (PPRA)
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PPRA affords parents of elementary and secondary students certain rights regarding the conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These include, but are not limited to, the right to: · Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (ED)–
1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent;2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family;3. Sex behavior or attitudes;4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships;6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers;7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or student’s parent; or8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.
·Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of –
1. Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding;2. Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of
attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and
3. Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others. (This does not apply to the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected from students for the exclusive purpose of developing, evaluating, or providing educational products or services for, or to, students or educational institutions.)
·Inspect, upon request and before administration or use –
1. Protected information surveys of students and surveys created by a third party;2. Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above
marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and3. Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.
These rights transfer from the parents to a student who is 18 years old or an emancipated minor under State law. The Estancia Municipal School District has developed and adopted policies (403.3.4), in consultation with parents, regarding these rights, as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of protected information surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes. The Estancia Municipal School District will directly notify parents of these policies at least annually at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes. The Estancia Municipal School District will also directly notify, such as through U.S. Mail or email, parents of students who are scheduled to participate in the specific activities or surveys noted below and will provide an opportunity for the parent to opt his or her child out of participation of the specific activity or survey. The Estancia Municipal School District will make this notification to parents at the beginning of the school year if
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the District has identified the specific or approximate dates of the activities or surveys at that time. For surveys and activities scheduled after the school year starts, parents will be provided reasonable notification of the planned activities and surveys listed below and be provided an opportunity to opt their child out of such activities and surveys. Parents will also be provided an opportunity to review any pertinent surveys. Following is a list of the specific activities and surveys covered under this direct notification requirement:
· Collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected from students for marketing, sales, or other distribution.· Administration of any protected information survey not funded in whole or in part by ED.· Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening as described above.
Parents who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:
Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20202
NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS UNDER FERPA
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students who are 18 years of age or older ("eligible students") certain rights with respect to the student's education records.
The Estancia Municipal School District is providing you notice of these rights as outlined below:1. The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days after the day the Estancia Municipal School District receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students who wish to inspect their child’s or their education records should submit to the school principal (or appropriate school official) a written request that identifies the records they wish to inspect. The school official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the District to amend their child’s or their education record should write the school principal (or appropriate school official), clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the school decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.3. The right to provide written consent before the school discloses personally identifiable information (PII) from the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. The criteria for determining who constitutes a school official and what constitutes a legitimate educational interest must be set forth in the school’s or school district’s annual notification for FERPA rights. A school official typically includes a person employed by the school or school district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit
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personnel) or a person serving on the school board. A school official also may include a volunteer, contractor, or consultant who, while not employed by the school, performs an institutional service or function for which the school would otherwise use its own employees and who is under the direct control of the school with respect to the use and maintenance of PII from education records, such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist; a parent or student volunteering to serve on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee; or a parent, student, or other volunteer assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official typically has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the Estancia Municipal School District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:
Family Policy Compliance OfficeU.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SWWashington, DC 20202
702 Anti-Bullying Policy
The Estancia Municipal Schools Board of Education believes that providing an educational environment for all students, employees, volunteers, and families, free from harassment, intimidation, or bullying supports a total learning experience that promotes personal growth, healthy interpersonal relationships, wellness, and freedom from discrimination and abuse. Therefore, harassment, intimidation or bullying are forms of dangerous and disrespectful behavior that will not be tolerated.
702.1 Definitions
702.1.1 “Bullying” means any repeated and pervasive written, verbal or electronic expression, physical act or gesture, or a pattern thereof, that is intended to cause distress upon one or more students in the school, on school grounds, in school vehicles, at a designated bus stop, or at school activities or sanctioned events. Bullying includes, but is not limited to, hazing, harassment, intimidation or menacing acts of a student which may, but need not be based on the student’s race, color, sex, ethnicity, national origin, religion, disability, age or sexual orientation.
702.1.2 “Harassment” means knowingly pursuing a pattern of conduct that is intended to annoy, alarm, or terrorize another person.
702.1.3 “Disability Harassment” is defined as intimidation or abusive behavior toward a student based on disability that creates a hostile environment by interfering with or denying a student’s participation in or receipt of benefits, services, or opportunities in the district. Harassment and Disability Harassment include but are not limited to: 702.1.3.1 Verbal acts, teasing, use of sarcasm, jokes;
702.1.3.2 Name-calling, belittling;
702.1.3.3 Nonverbal behavior such as graphic or written statements;
702.1.3.4 Conduct that is physically threatening, harmful, or humiliating; or 24
702.1.3.5 Inappropriate physical restraint by adults.
702.1.4 “Racial Harassment” consists of physical or verbal conduct relating to an individual’s race when the conduct:
702.1.4.1 Has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive academic environment;
702.1.4.2 Has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with an individual’s academic performance; or
702.1.4.3 Otherwise adversely affects an individual’s academic opportunities.
702.1.5 “Sexual Harassment” means any unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other inappropriate verbal, written, or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment may take place under any of the following circumstances:
702.1.5.1 When submission to such conduct is made, explicitly or implicitly, a term or condition of obtaining an education; or
702.1.5.2 Submission to or rejection of that conduct or communication by an individual is used to factor in decisions affecting that individual’s education; or
702.1.5.3 That conduct or communication has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with an individual’s education, or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational environment.
702.1.6 “Hazing” means committing an act against a student, or coercing a student into committing an act, that creates a risk of harm to a person, in order for that student to be initiated into or affiliated with a student organization, or for any other purpose. Hazing includes but is not limited to:
702.1.6.1 Any type of physical brutality such as whipping, beating, striking, branding, shocking, or placing a harmful substance on the body.
702.1.6.2 Any type of physical activity such as sleep deprivation, exposure to weather, confinement in a restricted area, calisthenics or other activity that subject the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student.
702.1.6.3 Any activity involving the consumption of any alcoholic beverage, drug, tobacco product or any other food, liquid, or substance that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student. 702.1.6.4 Any activity that intimidates or threatens the student with ostracism, that subjects the student to extreme mental stress, embarrassment, shame, or humiliation, that adversely affects the mental health or dignity of the student or discourages the student from remaining in school.
702.1.6.5 Any activity that causes or requires the student to perform a task that involves a violation of state or federal law, or district policies.
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702.2 Notice of Prohibition Against Bullying and Anti-Bullying Interventions
702.2.1 The prohibition against bullying shall be publicized by including the following statement in the student handbook(s):
“Bullying behavior by any student in the Estancia Municipal Schools is strictly prohibited, and such conduct may result in disciplinary action, including suspension and/or expulsion from school. “Bullying” means any repeated and pervasive written, verbal or electronic expression, physical act or gesture, or a pattern thereof, that is intended to cause distress upon one or more students in the school, on school grounds, in school vehicles, at a designated bus stop, or at school activities or sanctioned events. Bullying includes, but is not limited to, hazing, harassment, intimidation or menacing acts of a student which may, but need not be based on the student’s race, color, sex, ethnicity, national origin, religion, disability, age or sexual orientation that a reasonable person under the circumstances should know will have the effect of: Placing a student in reasonable fear of physical harm or damage to the student’s property; or Physically harming a student or damaging a student’s property; or Insulting or demeaning any student or group of students in such a way as to disrupt or interfere with the school’s educational mission or the education of any student.
Students and parents may file verbal or written complaints concerning suspected bullying behavior to school personnel and administrators. Any report of suspected bullying behavior will be promptly reviewed. If acts of bullying are verified, prompt disciplinary action may be taken against the perpetrator, up to and including suspension and/or expulsion.”
702.2.2 Staff will be reminded at the beginning of each school year about the Anti-Bullying Policy, as well as their responsibilities regarding bullying behavior. A copy of the policy will be disseminated annually.
702.2.3 The Anti-Bullying Policy will be available on the Estancia Municipal Schools’ website and in all staff handbooks.
702.3 Reporting Intimidation, Harassment, or Bullying Behavior
702.3.1 Any student who believes he/she has been the victim of harassment, intimidation, bullying, or hazing by a student or school personnel, or any person with knowledge or belief of such conduct that may constitute harassment, intimidation, bullying, or hazing toward a student should immediately report the alleged acts.
702.3.2 The report may be made to any staff member. The staff member will assist the student in reporting to the principal. 702.3.3 Teachers and other school staff who witness acts of bullying or receive student reports of bullying will promptly notify building Principal or school Counselor.
702.3.4 Reports should be done in writing using the Harassment, Intimidation, Bullying, or Hazing Complaint Form (See Sample Form).
702.3.5 School principal or designee will accept and investigate all reports of suspected intimidation, harassment or bullying.
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702.3.6 School principal or designee will notify the parent or guardian of a student who commits a verified act of intimidation, harassment, or bullying of the response of the school staff and consequences that may result from acts of bullying.
702.3.7 Nothing in this policy shall prevent any person from reporting directly to the office of the Superintendent.
702.3.8 Retaliation against an individual who either orally reports or files a written complaint regarding harassment, intimidation, bullying, or hazing or who participates in or cooperates with an investigation is prohibited.
702.3.9 The right to confidentiality, both of the complainant and the accused, shall be preserved consistent with applicable laws.
702.3.10 If harassment or bullying continues, the perpetrator will be immediately suspended and removed from the school, pending a long-term hearing.
702.3.11 To the extent permitted under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, (FERPA) school staff will notify the parent or guardian of a student who is a target of bullying of the action taken to prevent any further acts of bullying.
702.4 Investigating Intimidation, Harassment, or Bullying Behavior The Principal, or their designee will appropriately and promptly investigate all reports of harassment, intimidation, bullying, or hazing. In determining whether the alleged conduct constitutes bullying, the totality of the circumstances, the nature of the conduct, the student’s history, and the context in which the alleged conduct occurred will be investigated.
702.4.1 The administrator will make every effort to inform the parents/guardians of the victim and the accused of any report of harassment, intimidation, bullying, or hazing prior to the formal investigation taking place.
702.4.2 The investigation shall consist of personal interviews with the complainant, the individual(s) against whom the complaint was filed, and others who may have knowledge of the alleged incident(s) or circumstances giving rise to the complaint. The investigation may also consist of other methods or documents deemed relevant by the investigator.
702.4.3 The district may take immediate steps to protect the complainant, students, teachers, administrators, or other school personnel pending the completion of an investigation. 702.4.4 The investigation shall be completed as soon as possible. The principal (or investigator) shall make a written report to the Superintendent upon completion of the investigation. If the complaint involves the Superintendent, the report shall be filed directly with the New Mexico Public Education Department, Educator Ethics Bureau. The report shall include a determination of whether the allegations have been substantiated as factual and whether they appear to be violations of this policy. A copy of the completed report will be maintained by the district Safe Schools Coordinator.
702.5 Consequences for Bullying 27
702.5.1 Verified acts of bullying shall result in intervention by the building Principal or his/her designee that is intended to ensure that the prohibition against bullying behavior is enforced.
702.5.2 Bullying behavior can take many forms and can vary dramatically in how serious it is, and what impact it has on the targeted individual and other students. Accordingly, there is no one response to bullying. While conduct that rises to the level of “bullying” as defined above will generally warrant disciplinary action against the perpetrator of such bullying, whether and to what extent to impose disciplinary action (detention, in and out-of-school suspension, or expulsion) is a matter for the professional discretion of the building Principal.
702.6 Consequences for Knowingly Making False Reports
702.6.1 False charges shall also be regarded as a serious offense and will result in disciplinary action or other appropriate sanctions.
702.7 Anti-Bullying included in Health Education Curriculum “Health Education” is the instructional program that provides the opportunity to motivate and assist all students to maintain and improve their health, prevent disease, and reduce health related risk behaviors. It allows students to develop and demonstrate increasingly sophisticated health-related knowledge, attitudes, skills, and practices. It meets the content standards with benchmarks and performance standards as set forth in 6.30.2.19 NMAC.
Bullying behavior is mentioned specifically in many areas of the Health Education performance standards, in all grade levels. All students need to be aware of bullying behavior beginning in Kindergarten and continuing throughout their school years. It is imperative that students are comfortable with understanding, describing, and recognizing bullying behaviors, and then in the later grades being able to analyze those behaviors and role play refusal skills.
Our curriculum recognizes the importance of bully prevention skills in all grade levels.
702.8 Threats of Violence
702.8.1 Threats of violence toward other students, school staff, or facilities are prohibited and may result in suspension or expulsion, regardless of whether the student has previously engaged in such conduct.
702.8.2 All employees and students are required to report evidence of threats of violence to their principal. Such reports shall be investigated by the principal or designee. All such reports shall be documented by the principal. 702.8.3 In cases of threats that may constitute a violation of criminal law, the principal, superintendent or designee shall notify law enforcement authorities.
702.8.4 Students who are charged with violation of this policy shall be placed on short-term suspension pending investigation of the charge(s). Those found, through a due-process hearing, to have violated this regulation shall be subject to discipline, including long-term suspension or expulsion. For Special Education students’ administrators will consult with the Director of Special Education regarding the appropriate process.
Board Adoption: 8-14-0728
CYBER BULLYING PREVENTION
The District prohibits all forms of bullying, harassment, hazing, and intimidation, and specifically prohibits cyberbullying.
DefinitionsFor purposes of this policy “cyberbullying” means electronic communication that:
(1) Targets a specific student;(2) Is published with the intention that the communication be seen or disclosed to thetargeted student;(3) Is in fact seen by or disclosed to the targeted student; and(4) Creates or is certain to create a hostile environment on the school campus that is sosevere or pervasive as to substantially interfere with the targeted student’s educationalbenefits, opportunities, or performance.
ReportingAny school employee who has information, or a reasonable suspicion, that a student is being cyberbullied shall report the matter immediately to the campus principal, the superintendent, or both. Reports shall be reduced to writing on the district’s Harassment, Intimidation, Bullying or Hazing Report Form. If the reporting school employee does not complete the report, the receiving administrator is responsible for completing the form.
InvestigationUpon receipt of a report of cyberbullying, the campus administrator or designee shall take immediate steps to promptly investigate the report, and to document the findings from that investigation. All reports of cyberbullying shall be investigated and documented within 20 school days. If more time is needed for an effective investigation, the responsible administrator shall notify the relevant parties.
Disciplinary ActionAppropriate disciplinary action shall be taken in response to the findings from a cyberbullying investigation, including but not limited to confirmed instances of cyberbullying. Consistent with state law, where cyberbullying is found, disciplinary action will be by the least restrictive means necessary to address a hostile environment on the school campus and may include, but is not limited to, counseling, mediation, teen court, and appropriate disciplinary action consistent District policy.
TrainingAll instructional and licensed school personnel shall be provided with annual training on recognition and prevention of cyberbullying.
Legal Reference:NMSA 1978 § 22-2-21 (2013).
Policy 308 – Student Concerns, Complaints, and Grievances
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The Estancia Municipal School District believes that providing an educational environment for all students, employees, volunteers, and families, free from harassment, intimidation, or bullying supports a total learning experience that promotes personal growth, healthy interpersonal relationships, wellness, and freedom from discrimination and abuse. Therefore, harassment, intimidation, or bullying are forms of dangerous and disrespectful behavior that will not be tolerated.
The Superintendent is directed to establish procedures whereby students may present a complaint or grievance regarding a violation of their constitutional rights, equal access to program, discrimination, harassment, intimidation, bullying or personal safety provided that:
-The topic is not the subject of disciplinary or other proceedings under other policies and regulations of this District, and-The procedure shall not apply to any matter for which the method of review is prescribed by law, or the Governing Board is without authority to act.
Bullying as defined below is prohibited in the school, on school grounds, in school vehicles, at a designated bus stop, or at school activities or sanctioned events. Anti-bullying shall be included as a part of the health education curriculum as set forth in 6.30.2.19 NMAC.
A complaint/grievance may be raised regarding one (1) or more of the following:- Violation of the student's constitutional rights.- Denial of an equal opportunity to participate in any program or activity for which the student qualifies that is not related to the student's individual capabilities.- Discriminatory treatment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, or disability.- Harassment of the student, which means knowingly pursuing a pattern of conduct that is intended to annoy, alarm or terrorize another person.- Intimidation by another student. - Bullying by another student which means any repeated and pervasive written, verbal or electronic expression, physical act or gesture, or a pattern thereof, that is intended to cause distress upon one (1) or more students in the school, on school grounds, in school vehicles, at a designated bus stop, or at school activities or sanctioned events. Bullying includes, but is not limited to hazing, harassment, intimidation or menacing acts of a student which may, but need not be based on the student's race, color, sex, ethnicity, national origin, religion, disability, age or sexual orientation.- Concern for the student's personal safety.
The accusation must be made within thirty (30) calendar days of the time the student knew or should have known that there were grounds for the complaint/grievance. The complaint/grievance shall be made only to an administrator or other professional staff member. That person shall elicit from the student the particulars determined by the Superintendent to be necessary for the complaint/grievance to be investigated. When the initial allegation is submitted in a manner other than on the prescribed form, the particulars of the complaint/grievance must be written on the form as immediately as possible after receipt of the complaint/grievance. The professional staff member may assist the student in completing the complaint/grievance form. The student should sign and date the form, however, unsigned forms are to be processed in the same manner as a signed form. A professional staff member or support staff member shall report behavior that falls within this policy, on the forms provided, upon becoming aware of such behavior.
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When the professional staff member is other than the school administrator, it shall be the responsibility of the staff member to inform a school administrator as soon as feasible, but not later than the next school days following the day that the staff member received the complaint/grievance. If the school administrator is included in the allegation, the complaint/grievance shall be transmitted to the next higher administrative supervisor. A failure by the professional staff member to timely inform the school administrator or next higher administrative supervisor of the allegation may subject the staff member to disciplinary actions. The professional staff member shall preserve the confidentiality of the subject, disclosing it only to the appropriate school administrator or next higher administrative supervisor or as otherwise required by law.
Any question concerning whether the complaint/grievance falls within this policy shall be determined by the Superintendent.
Students should file complaints on their own behalf. A parent or guardian may initiate the complaint process on behalf of an elementary school students. A parent or guardian (other than an elementary student's parent) who wishes to complain, should do so by completing the forms following Policy KE on Public Concerns and Complaints.
A complaint/grievance may be withdrawn at any time. Once withdrawn, the process cannot be reopened if the resubmission is longer than thirty (30) calendar days from the date of the occurrence of the alleged incident. False or unproved complaint documentation about harassment, intimidation, or bullying shall not be maintained.
Retaliatory or intimidating acts against any student who has made a complaint under this policy and its corresponding regulations, or against a student who has testified, assisted or participated in any manner in an investigation relating to a complaint or grievance, are specifically prohibited and constitute grounds for a separate complaint.
To assure that students and staff are aware of its content and intent, a notice of this policy and procedure shall be posted conspicuously in each school building and shall be made a part of the rights and responsibilities section of the student handbook. Forms for submitting complaints are to be available to students and staff in the school offices.
Disposition of all complaints/grievances shall be reported to the Superintendent as the compliance officer for discrimination. The Superintendent will determine if the policies of the District have been appropriately implemented and will make sure reports and/or referrals are submitted to the Board as necessary. Knowingly submitting a false report or making false accusations under this policy shall subject the student to discipline up to and including suspension or expulsion. Where disciplinary action is necessary pursuant to any part of this policy, relevant District policies and regulations shall be followed.
STUDENT CONCERNS, COMPLAINTS,AND GRIEVANCES
COMPLAINT FORM
To be filed with the school administrator.
Additional pages may be attached if more space is needed.
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Please Print
Name _______________________________________________ Date ______________________
Specify your complaint by stating the problem as you see it. Describe the incident, the participants, the background to the incident, and any attempts you have made to resolve the problem. Be sure to note relevant dates, times and places.
Administrator or professional staff member Date initial complaint received Date
Estancia Middle/High School Discipline Matrix
Estancia Schools strive to be transparent, consistent, and fair in the enforcement of its behavior and discipline expectations. Disciplinary actions may vary to appropriately address unique circumstances. THEREFORE, the discipline matrix below will serve as a progressive disciplinary GUIDELINE. Administration has the right to determine the appropriate consequences. Teen court citations may be issued as an additional consequence for rule/behavior violations.
● Bullying & Harassment 1. 3 days OSS2. 5 days OSS
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● Sexual Harassment
● Fighting
● Threat/ Intimidation
3. 7 days OSS
● Bus misconduct 1. Warning and probation, community service 2. 1 day bus suspension 3. 3 days bus suspension 4. 5 days bus suspension 5. 5-9 days suspension or removal for remainder of year
● Defacing school property
● Fight Instigation,
● Forgery, Lying
1. 3 day ISS/ Saturday School 2. 5 days ISS/ Saturday School3. 5-9 days OSS (clean/repair/compensation when appropriate)
1. 1 day community service (Student and staff member makes phone call to parent.)2. 1 day ISS/Saturday School/lunch detention with community service. (Parent must meet with Administrator.)3. 3 days ISS/ Saturday School/lunch detention with community service. (Parent/Guardian must sign student in and out of ISS.)4. 1 day OSS5. 3 days OSS6. 5 days OSS
● Defiance of school
staff/faculty/personnel
● Disrespectful speech/action
towards school staff/faculty/personnel
● Profanity towards school
staff/faculty/personnel
1. 1 day ISS (Parent must meet with Administrator.)2. 1 day OSS3. 3 days OSS4. 5 days OSSParent and student must meet with Administrator prior to student returning to school.
● Drugs, and alcohol - possession,
use, sale of
1. 9 days OSS suspension; law enforcement notified; expulsion may be recommended.
● Electronic telephone pagers/
Cellular telephones use of Electronics during the school day from 8:00-3:00.
● Items not appropriate at school
1. Confiscation & warning student may pick up the device at the end of the day. Follow discipline matrix for breaking classroom rules.2. Confiscation & parent must pick up the device. Follow discipline matrix for breaking classroom rules3. Confiscations & parent must pick up the device. Follow discipline matrix for breaking classroom rules.On the third offense the parent must come to school to pick up confiscated item. Item will not be returned to student.
● Computer Misuse
● Horseplay, pushing, running
● Public display of affection
1. 1 day community service 5. 5 days OSS2. 1 day ISS/Saturday School 6. 7 days OSS3. 3 days ISS/Saturday School4. 3 days OSSIn addition, follow discipline matrix for breaking classroom rules.
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(loss of computer privileges)
● Inappropriate dress, wearing
symbols not adhering to dress code
1. Warning, change clothes. 2. 3 days community service, change clothes 3. 1 day ISS/ Saturday School, change clothes 4. 3 days ISS/ Saturday School, change clothes Clothing may be provided to avoid loss of instructional minutes if the student has none available. In addition, follow discipline matrix for breaking classroom rules.
● Possession and/or use of tobacco
products or paraphernalia, including electronic cigarettes or vaporizers.
1. 5 days ISS/ Saturday School2. 3 days OSS3. 5 days OSS suspension; law enforcement notified; expulsion may be recommended.
● Stealing
1. 3 days OSS/ Saturday School 2. 5 days OSS3. 9 days OSS with recommendation for expulsion
● Sexual Offenses 1. 9 days suspension with recommendation for expulsion
● Skipping class(es), school, and/or
leaving class without permission
● Truancy/Excessive tardiness
1. 1 day ISS/ Saturday School/lunch or after school detention (Student and staff member makes phone call to parent.)2. 3 days ISS/ Saturday School/lunch or after school detention (Parent must meet with Administrator.)3. 5 days ISS/ Saturday School (Parent/Guardian must sign student in and out of ISS.)
● Weapons - Possession
● Arson
● Assault
● Threats
● Vandalism
● Unauthorized entry into/use of
school facilities
9 days OSS, law enforcement notified w/ possible recommended expulsion for one year
Possession of Knives, etc. 1. 5 days OSS w/ mandatory parent conference before student returns to class 2. 10 days suspension w/ mandatory parent conference before student returns to class and law enforcement notified 3. 5-10 days suspension w/ possible recommended expulsion
*Administrator/Disciplinarian has the right to determine the level of offense/ consequence. Essay topics, peer/school presentations will be used in ISS as a requirement for returning to class from ISS or OSS.
*Saturday School will be assigned as determined by administration to prevent loss of valuable instructional minutes.
In School Suspension (ISS)Students who are assigned to In School Suspension will not participate in nor attend any extracurricular activities on the day assigned.
Students must remain quiet and constructively occupied with work throughout the day. Suggestions for work include school assignments, other work, silent reading or assigned reflective writing.
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Students are not permitted to bring food, candy, or drink during ISS. Students are not permitted to display or use electronic devices in ISS. While in ISS, students who are not following the rules will be given two (2) warnings prior to being sent to the Administrator. Sleeping or misbehaving will not be tolerated. Students who fail to follow the ISS rules will be charged with a day of Saturday School.
Saturday SchoolThe administration may assign a student to Saturday School in order to minimize the amount of out of classroom time during an in-school suspension. Saturday School is considered by the District to be a form of in-school suspension. Saturday School shall be conducted in accordance with the following guidelines:
Parents will be notified by phone regarding the location and details of Saturday School. Doors for Saturday School will open at 8:00 a.m. and will close at 8:15 a.m. Students are expected to report on time. It is the student’s responsibility to have all necessary materials to complete any work. A Saturday School absence will only be excused with a physician’s note. In addition, the student must make up the missed day on the following scheduled Saturday.
Students who cut Saturday school will make up the day the following scheduled Saturday School and will receive one (1) additional day of Saturday School or AFTER SCHOOL COMMUNITY SERVICE. Students who cut Saturday School will be ineligible to participate in extracurricular activities until the original assigned Saturday School is served . Students who are assigned to Saturday School will not participate in nor attend any extracurricular activities on the day assigned.
Students must remain quiet and constructively occupied with work throughout the entire morning (8:15am-11:00am). Suggestions for work include school assignments, other work, silent reading or assigned reflective writing. Students are not permitted to bring food, candy, or drink during Saturday School. Students are not permitted to display or use electronic devices in Saturday School. While in Saturday School, students who are not following the rules will be given two (2) warnings prior to being sent to the Administrator. Sleeping or misbehaving will not be tolerated. Students who fail to follow the Saturday School rules will be charged with an additional day of Saturday School.
Classroom ManagementEach teacher has well defined procedures for maintaining an environment conducive to learning. There are structures and routines in place to ensure a safe and disciplined environment. Each teacher is responsible for consistently and equitable classroom rules. Positive Behavior Support is the school-wide program that all teachers will implement to increase student academic performance, increase safety, and decrease problem behaviors in a positive school environment.
1. The severity and frequency of infraction will be considered when determining discipline.2. No student will be referred for discipline until behavior interventions have been implemented and
documented by the classroom teacher. This documentation, along with the referral documentation, will be considered sufficient to fulfill the requirements for documentation.
3. Site administrators may recommend alternate intervention as they see fit. Alternate intervention may include but is not limited to community service or appropriate loss of privileges.
Estancia Secondary Schools (7-12) expects all students to abide by ethical academic standards. Academic dishonesty—including plagiarism, cheating or copying the work of another, using technology for illicit purposes, or any unauthorized communication between students for the purpose of gaining advantage during an examination, assignment or project—is strictly prohibited. The Academic Integrity Policy covers all school-related tests, quizzes, reports, class assignments, and projects, both in and out of class. The purpose of the Academic Integrity Policy is to prepare students for the reality created by the technology explosion, for the world of college and beyond, where cheating and plagiarism have dire consequences.
Plagiarism is not the same as cooperation or collaboration. Teachers often expect, ever encourage, students to work on assignments collectively. This is okay, as long as whose work being presented is clearly relayed.
Collaboration is to work together (with permission) in a joint intellectual effort.
Plagiarism is to commit literary theft; to steal and pass off as one’s own ideas or words, and to create the production of another. When you use someone else’s words, you must put quotation marks around them and give the writer or speaker credit by citing the source. Even if you revise or paraphrase the words of someone else, if you use someone else’s ideas you must give the author credit. Some Internet users believe that anything available on-line is public domain. Such is not the case. Ideas belong to those who create and articulate them. To use someone else’s words or ideas without giving credit to the originator is stealing.
Cheating includes, but is not limited to, copying or giving an assignment to a student to be copied (unless explicitly permitted by the teacher). Cheating also includes using, supplying, or communicating in any way unauthorized materials, including textbooks, notes, calculators, computers or other unauthorized technology, during an exam, assignment or project.
Forgery or stealing includes, but is not limited to, gaining unauthorized access to exams or answers to an exam, altering computer or grade-book records, or forging signatures for the purpose of academic advantage.
The determination that a student has engaged in academic dishonesty shall be based on specific evidence provided by the classroom teacher or other supervising professional employee, taking into consideration written materials, observation, or information from others. Students found to have engaged in academic dishonesty shall be subject to disciplinary as well as academic penalties, as outlined on the next page.
Range of ConsequencesFirst Offense Immediate Action
Teacher contact with parentTeacher referral to administrationA zero on test, exam, assignment or project1 day Out-of-School SuspensionPossible Extra-curricular Activity Impact depending on bylaws
Second Offense (in any course) Immediate ActionParent/Student/Administrator Meeting set up by teacherSchool Leadership Team (SLT) will meet and based on following information will sanction student with 1-9 days of Out-of-School Suspension with consideration of the following:Circumstances of cheatingStudent Impact Statement
Third and Further Offense Immediate Action
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Due Process Hearing (Superintendent)*Administrative discretion will be used for final determination of appropriate action.
