WEIR HIGH SCHOOL 100 Red Rider Road Weirton, WV 26062 Telephone 304-748-7600 FAX: 304-748-7602 whs.hancock.k12.wv.us Student Hand Book 2017-2018 PRINCIPAL Kristin Bissett ASSISTANT PRINCIPALS Mike McKenzie Tim Murray COUNSELOR Don Wright ATHLETIC DIRECTOR Mike Del Re PLEASE SEE A SECRETARY IN THE DOWNSTAIRS OFFICE IF YOU NEED TO PURCHASE A NEW AGENDA. THE REPLACEMENT FEE FOR A LOST OR DAMAGED AGENDA IS $5.00. This Agenda Belongs to: NAME ______________________________________ First Block Teacher: Semester 1: _________________________________________ Semester 2: _________________________________________
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WEIR HIGH SCHOOL 100 Red Rider Road
Weirton, WV 26062
Telephone 304-748-7600
FAX: 304-748-7602
whs.hancock.k12.wv.us
Student Hand Book 2017-2018
PRINCIPAL Kristin Bissett
ASSISTANT PRINCIPALS Mike McKenzie
Tim Murray
COUNSELOR
Don Wright
ATHLETIC DIRECTOR Mike Del Re
PLEASE SEE A SECRETARY IN THE DOWNSTAIRS OFFICE IF YOU NEED TO PURCHASE A NEW AGENDA. THE REPLACEMENT FEE FOR A LOST OR DAMAGED AGENDA IS $5.00.
As required by laws and regulations, the Hancock County Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, surname, language minority status, handicapping condition, age, and national origin in employment and in the administration of any of its educational programs and activities. Inquiries should be directed to the Hancock County Schools Title IX Coordinator and Section 504 Coordinator @ the Hancock County Board of Education Offices. That address is PO Box 1300, New Cumberland, WV 26047. Telephone contact is 304-564-3411; to the state elimination of sex discrimination project coordinator @ 304-558-7864; or the US Department of Education's Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, telephone 800-421-4381.
STUDENT SCHEDULE
Attach or write your schedule here
Reminder: If you have 3A class, you have 3B lunch. If you have 3A lunch, you have 3B class.
BLOCK TIME SEMESTER 1 SEMESTER 2
1 7:20 – 8:50
G&G 8:50 – 9:00 GRAB & GO GRAB & GO
2 9:00 – 10:30
3A Class: 10:36 – 12:06
Lunch: 10:36 – 11:06
3B Class: 11:12 – 12:42
Lunch: 12:12 – 12:42
4 12:50 – 2:20
TIME SCHEDULE
BLOCK REGULAR 2-HR DELAY 2-HR ED
1 7:20 – 8:50 9:20 – 10:20 7:20 – 8:20
GRAB & GO 8:50 – 9:00 No Grab & Go No Grab & Go
2 9:00 – 10:30 10:30 – 11:30 8:30 – 9:30
3A Class: 10:36 – 12:06
Lunch: 10:36 – 11:06
Class: 11:36 – 12:36
Lunch: 11:36 – 12:06
Class: 9:36 – 10:36
Lunch: 9:36 – 10:06
3B Class: 11:12 – 12:42
Lunch: 12:12 – 12:42
Class: 12:12 – 1:12
Lunch : 12:42 – 1:12
Class: 10:12 – 11:12
Lunch: 10:42 – 11:12
4 12:50 – 2:20 1:20 – 2:20 11:20 – 12:20
Dear Student,
Welcome! We are looking forward to assisting you in fulfilling your
educational goals. Your talents and skills will help us continue our winning
ways – in and out of the classroom. The mission of Weir High School is
to provide a safe, positive, stimulating environment that is
conducive to learning. We set high standards and expect our
students to strive for academic excellence. With your cooperation,
reaching our goals will be easy.
You can benefit from everything Weir High School has to offer by being
actively involved in the learning in your classes and the programs offered.
Set goals that will help you avoid mediocrity. Be the best you can be.
Your handbook contains important school and county policies and
guidelines. It will help you overcome obstacles on the way to graduation.
We wish you the best for this school year and we welcome the opportunity
to help you as you proceed through your high school career.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Kristin Bissett
Mr. Mike McKenzie
Mr. Tim Murray
RULES FOR AGENDA USE
1. The student handbook will be used as a hall pass.
2. Students must have their own handbooks with them at all times. No student is permitted to the restroom phone, etc. without their handbook being signed by the teacher.
IMPORTANT DATES
August 21 CE Days
August 22 Preparation day
August 23 First day of school
September 4 Labor Day observed
October 9 CE Day
October 26 End of first 9-weeks
November 10 Veteran’s Day
November 22 O Day
November 23 Thanksgiving Day observed
November 24 OS Day
December 22 O Days
December 25 Christmas Day observed
December 26-29 O Days
January 1 New Year’s Day observed
January 2 O Day
January 3 Classes resume
January 12 End of First Semester
January 15 Martin Luther King, Jr. observed
January 16 CD Day
February 18 C Day
March 21 End of third 9-weeks
March 30 OS Days
April 2 OS Day
May 8 Election Day
May 28 Memorial Day observed
May 31 Last day for students (subject to change due to snow days)
June 1, 4, 5, 6 OS Days
June 7 Preparation day
June 8-22 OS Days
June 20 WV Day
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
The following must be completed by the students in grades 9-12 in order to meet graduation requirements for Hancock County Schools.
English 4 credits Physical Education 1 credit Social Studies 4 credits Heatlh 1 credit Mathematics 4 credits Fine Arts 1 credit Science 3 credits
Minimum Credits Required for Graduation ....................... Class of 2018 ~ 27.0 ........................................................... Class of 2019 ~ 27.5 ........................................................... Class of 2020 ~ 28.0 ........................................................... Class of 2021 ~ 28.0
No student will walk in Graduation Ceremony unless all credit requirements are completed.
Graduation requirements for transfer students will be handled on an individual basis by the counselor and principal.
College entrance requirements are constantly changing. We strongly urge you to check the requirements of any college you are interested in attending in the future.
Grade levels are based on credits earned and are evaluated and updated at the end of each semester.
HIGHEST HONORS/HIGH HONORS/HONORS
Approximately 6 years ago, the Hancock County Board of Education met and changed the county policy that recognizes students at the graduation ceremony. The new designations are Highest Honors, High Honors, and Honors. To be recognized as “Highest Honors”, a student must finish their high school academic career with a GPA of 4.0 or above, take at least one AP class, and hold a full schedule while taking high school level classes. A student cannot have a teacher assistant or office assistant assignment that would drop the student under the full schedule benchmark. Graduates with a GPA between 3.7 and 3.99 inclusive, will earn the distinction of “High Honors”. Graduates with a GPA of 3.4 and 3.69 inclusive will earn the distinction of “Honors”. High School credits earned in middle school are all factored into this calculation. A notation of these distinctions will be made on the student’s diploma. None of these categories are on a “round up” basis. As per County Policy IKFA, Highest Honors will be recognized at Commencement and Senior Recognition in alphabetical order. Final student rank will be on transcripts after graduation.
REFER TO THE “PROGRAM OF STUDY” BOOK FOR REGISTRATION GUIDELINES Graduation requirements also include State-mandated Career Clusters and Majors. Each student will complete a 5-year plan which will include the following.
By the end of grade 8, choose a Career Cluster coinciding with his/her career goal.
By the end of grade 10 choose a Career Major from his/her chosen Career Cluster.
During Grades 11 and 12, complete at least two (2) courses per year as outlined in his/her Career Major.
The following six Career Clusters are available: Business/Marketing Health Services Engineering/Technical Human Services Fine Arts/Humanities Science/Natural Resources A summary of the Career clusters and Career Majors can be found in the Programs of Study booklet.
GRADES/REPORT CARDS/NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
When averaging grades for report cards, the following grade scale will be used:
GRADE PERCENTAGE NON WEIGHTED GRADES WEIGHTED GRADES
A 93-100 4.0 5.0
B 85-92 3.0 4.0
C 75-84 2.0 3.0
D 65-74 1.0 2.0
F 0-64 0.0 0.00
Plus and minus signs are not used on report cards. Unresolved Incomplete grades become Fs after 10 days.
WEIGHTED GRADES - Advance Placement courses for which high school credit is to be awarded will be calculated using the weighted grade scale above. MID-TERM GRADES OR PROGRESS REPORTS - given to students each mid-semester
REPORT CARDS – issued at the end of each 9-week grading period
FINAL EXAMS - given, comprehensive in nature, and count for 15% of the grade (Incentive see Attendance Policy). Teachers are not permitted to give finals on any other than the scheduled day unless they receive written administrative permission.
CREDIT RECOVERY – If a student is in need of credit recovery, please see Mr. McKenzie in the Assistant Principal’s office.
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
Students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 (not rounded up), possess good character (in and out of school), and belong to two (2) clubs, organizations or WVSSAC sanctioned sports. See NHS bylaws for more information.
SCHEDULING
CLASS LOAD Effective with the 2016-2017 school year, Hancock County Schools will implement a 4 x 4 block schedule for students in grades 9 through 12. All courses will last 18 weeks (one semester). All courses are 90 minutes in length. All students at Weir High School must be registered for 8 credits each school year or 4 credits each semester. When registering, always list two alternate courses. These will be assigned when requested courses are not available. Please select these carefully, as they will not be changed on the schedule. EXCEPTIONS TO FULL DAY INSTRUCTION A twelfth grade student attaining his/her program of studies (Career Major), maintaining a 2.0 average in both core classes and career major classes and having the approval of his/her parent or guardian may apply for short day scheduling if the student is:
Engaged in post secondary study at an approved institution. The student must show verification of enrollment and time schedule of classes.
Engages in the fulfillment of spousal duties as either the husband or wife in a legal marriage.
Actively participating in child-rearing activity as the father or mother of such a child.
Become regularly employed as a full or part-time employee, or engage in the operation of a business venture or entrepreneurial enterprise.
Participate in some activity or course of conduct which will, or is calculated to enhance the attainment of the student’s personal goals.
Students applying for short day must first meet with his/her guidance counselor to ascertain program of study (Career Major) completion. The student must complete an application and return completed application to the guidance counselor. Parent or guardian must sign application form in the presence of the high school guidance counselor. Upon approval of the principal, the application will be forwarded to the superintendent for board approval. COURSE PREREQUISITES AND RECOMMENDATIONS Much attention is given to careful course selection and creating a master schedule which allows the greatest number of students the best schedule possible. Weir High School operates under a Student/Parent Informed Choice System or open registration, whereby the decision to enroll in any regular or honors program offered is the responsibility and the choice of the student and his/her parents or guardians. PREREQUISITES Some courses must be passed in a logical sequence; therefore, students must adhere to the designated prerequisites. Give attention to the listed prerequisites and suggested grade levels of all courses, as students are not permitted to enroll in the second year of any course until they have successfully completed the first year of the course. Courses which list no prerequisite have no prerequisite requirement. RECOMMENDATIONS In addition to or in lieu of prerequisites, specific departmental recommendations are listed for certain courses. While these recommendations do not limit one’s decision to enroll, the listed criteria are based on a professional assessment of characteristics of students who are generally successful in these courses. These recommendations should be carefully considered during registration. SCHEDULE CHANGES Following the completion of registration, schedule changes will be limited. A drop/add period will be scheduled during the summer before school. The dates of drop/add will be listed on the student schedule when mailed home during the summer. Any student wishing to make a revision in his/her schedule must do so within the summer drop/add period. A request for a summer schedule change will be considered if: 1. A student wishes to attempt to balance his/her academic load (These requests will be considered on a “space available” basis). 2. A student wishes to sequence a course (These requests will be considered on a “space available” basis). 3. A student passes a course for which he/she assumed he/she would fail. 4. A student failed a course required for graduation. 5. Where possible, if a student failed a course, registered for the course again, and was assigned to the same instructor. 6. A student is missing a course/incomplete schedule. 7. NO SCHEDULE CHANGES WILL BE MADE AFTER THE 5TH DAY OF SCHOOL which includes regular, Honors and AP courses. Students who fail a subject which is required for graduation and therefore must be repeated should contact the school immediately after receiving a final report card and make necessary schedule changes. On a space available basis, a student failing a required course may be scheduled for
that course in the succeeding semester. This is the student’s responsibility. No changes will be made at the beginning of spring term, except for reasons 3-6 noted previously. Revisions to balance academic loads and/or sequence courses must be addressed BEFORE the school year. Students who have legitimate schedule conflicts should talk with a counselor about schedule changes in the summer before school.
SAFETY
PREVENTION RESOURCE OFFICER (PRO) A trained uniformed police officer is placed in the high school setting with the following goals in mind: problem solver and liaison to community resources; educator; safety specialist and law enforcer. The PRO’s office is located in C-building. In addition, he can be reached by phone 304-748-3976. FIRE DRILLS & EMERGENCY EVACUATION Fire drills are required by law and will be conducted as needed. An emergency evacuation map is posted in each classroom. Teachers will review the plan at the beginning of each school year. The signal for a fire drill is the continuous fire horn or lights. At the sound of signal, students should move quickly and orderly by the prescribed route, to the nearest exit and remain 50 feet from the building until the all clear signal. The teacher in each classroom will stay with them, account for all students and give the instructions. Upon re-entering the building, students will report directly back to their assigned class. THREATS Threats (verbal and/or physical) will not be tolerated at Weir High School to students or staff members. Threats will be dealt with according to the Safe Schools Act and the WV Student Code of Conduct. The Weir High School Administration will contact local police authorities when threats occur. CLOSING OF SCHOOL When school is closed because of snow or for other emergency reasons, students and parents are notified by “School Messenger”. “School Messenger” is an automated system furnished by the HCBOE that notifies students and parents of such occasions. If you want to be left off of the “School Messenger” service, please notify the High School. If you do not receive these messages, please contact the school. HOURS OF OPERATION Weir High School hours of operation are from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. CLOSED CAMPUS Weir High School is a closed campus. Students should arrive no earlier than 7:00 a.m. Students are requested to report directly to their assigned areas when arriving in the morning. If a student should arrive early on a particular morning, he/she should report directly to the cafeteria. Once a student arrives on campus he/she is not to leave the school grounds till the end of the day. If it becomes necessary for the student to be excused from school during the day for any reason, the parent must check the student out through the main office. Upon dismissal students must leave the building immediately, unless reporting to extracurricular activities. Students are permitted to participate in extracurricular activities only when under direct supervision of staff members. Students are not permitted to go to their cars during the school day. This includes the JDR4 students. Students are to travel between buildings via the interior corridors. No student is
permitted to leave the building to change classes or open doors for other students who have violated this policy. VISITORS The school policy is to accept only those visitors who have legitimate business at the school. Guests and visitors must show a driver’s license or other photo I.D. and must leave their keys with the secretary upon registration in the Main Office. Student visitors from outside the school must acquire permission from their principal (at least one day in advance) and must obtain a visitor ’s pass from the Main Office before visiting the campus. Visitors are expected to leave promptly when their business is completed. Unauthorized persons will be asked to leave; if they do not comply, law officials will be notified. Student visitors are not permitted during final exam week of either semester. HALLS AND CONNECTORS There is to be no running or pushing in the halls or connectors. Students are to be in their classroom or their designated areas when the tardy bell sounds. Students are requested not to congregate or block traffic in halls, connectors, entry-ways, or exits. Loitering in the halls is not permitted. Please maintain student travel to the right side of all walkways, halls, and connectors. When approaching double doors use the right side door at all times. RESTROOMS AND TRAVEL PASSES Restrooms should be used in between classes and during lunch. Students should not ask to be excused from class to go to the restroom unless it’s an emergency. Loitering is not permitted in restrooms. No more than one student will occupy a stall at any one time. Students who insist on crowding into stalls will be escorted to the office for disciplinary action. Students are permitted in the halls or on campus during their class periods when accompanied by a teacher or having a travel pass from an authorized staff member. Students must have their own handbooks with them at all times. No student is permitted to the restroom, phone etc. without their handbook being signed by a teacher. TEACHERS WILL RECOGNIZE THAT THE FIRST 10 MINUTES OF CLASS AND THE 10 MINUTES BEFORE THE DISMISSAL BELL RINGS IS FREEZE TIME. STUDENTS ARE NOT PERMITTED IN THE HALLWAYS AND TO THE RESTROOM DURING THIS PERIOD OF TIME. DO NOT ASK YOUR TEACHER TO LEAVE DURING THIS PERIOD OF TIME. UNAUTHORIZED AREAS Students are to be in their scheduled classes, lunch areas, and other appropriate areas during the course of the school days. Students that are in unauthorized areas during the school day will be subject to school discipline. Areas that are examples of unauthorized areas are, but not limited to: The back stairwells of the gym, the weight room, the balcony of the gym, other classes that they are not scheduled, in the perimeters of the buildings, the bandroom and hallway, and the parking lot. Students who have permanent early dismissals are required to leave campus immediately after their class ends. Students are not permitted to enter any classroom w/o teacher and principal permission at this time. This includes band areas, gymnasium, and weight room areas. Students reporting back to campus for athletic practice will report to the gymnasium and the coach in charge.
LOCKERS Each student will be assigned a locker and corresponding locker combination. It is in the student’s best interest to safeguard the locker combination. Students are expected to keep their locker clean and orderly, stickers should not be placed on or inside the locker. The lockers are school property and are subject to inspection, announced or unannounced. (REPAIRING LOCKERS-if you are having a problem with your locker, report it to the Assistant Principal’s office). Master locks, combo locks, or zip strips are not permitted on lockers. IT IS AGAINST SCHOOL POLICY TO SHARE A LOCKER. A STUDENT WILL NOT BE ALLOWED ENTRY INTO A LOCKER NOT ASSIGNED TO THEM.
GYM LOCKERS Gym lockers do not have a lock. Students are encouraged to bring their own lock to secure their personal belongings. Valuables must be given to the teacher to secure from theft or left at home. Weir High School Administration discourages all students from leaving valuables in the locker room or anywhere in the school. At no time should students leave their belongings on the benches in the locker room.
LOST AND FOUND All articles found in classrooms and halls are placed in the “Lost and Found”, located in the Assistant Principal’s Office or the Main office. It is the student’s responsibility to check for lost articles in the office. Please mark all personal items with the student’s name. REPORTING A THEFT Immediately report any theft to your teacher and/or principal. Please note that Weir High School does not provide insurance against theft or loss of personal property and cannot reimburse students for such losses. You should be well advised not to bring valuables or large amounts of money to school. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen valuables.
STUDENT PRIVILEGES Dances, field trips and other extracurricular functions are privileges that can be revoked due to unexcused absences, grades, or discipline.
SOCIAL MEDIA Social Media is a big problem in high schools across the nation. Students and adults use social media for many beneficial uses. Unfortunately, at our level it is often used in inappropriate ways. Many of these social media conversations are done at times that are not within our school day and the issues are brought to the forefront in the school. Social media issues that are not school related, are not during school hours, and pertain to outside situations should not be issues within the school. Parents and students should contact the appropriate authorities before school administration. Bringing these issues into the school is inappropriate behavior. Social media posted during school hours on your phone or a school computer is inappropriate behavior and will be dealt with through the school discipline procedures. Please remember, social media posts can be used as evidence against you in a legal situation or a school matter, use this with great discretion outside of school time. Transmitting school events through social media is not permitted. Please realize that you may be invading someone’s privacy, inadvertently transmitting school records, or breaking the law by using social media at Weir High School
AUDIO/VIDEO RECORDING Students are not to video or audio record any student/teacher/staff member/visitor to the school building. Any student violating this will be subject to disciplinary action. USE OF TELEPHONES The office telephones may be used in emergencies only. Forgetting gym clothes, textbooks etc. are not considered emergencies. Students having “school business” on the telephone must receive permission from the appropriate personnel before using any office phone. No student should use their cell phone during school to call home. Doing so can result in possible school discipline.
CELL PHONES / CAMERAS ~ “WE SEE IT – WE TAKE IT” Cell phone usage creates the following inappropriate behavior:
Therefore, cell phone and camera possession or usage by students is prohibited at Weir High School during class time – class time is defined as the time from bell to bell. It’s simple: “We see it, we take it!” Students who need to use a telephone should go to the Main Office or the Assistant Principal’s Office for assistance. Cell phone usage by students during class time will result in the confiscation of the phone with the following result:
1st Offense Return the phone to the student after school (2:20) 2nd Offense Return the phone to the Parent or Emergency Contact 3rd Offense + One-day suspension for Defiance of Authority
*All additional offenses will result in an additional day of Out of School suspension for each offense.*
Refusal to surrender cell phones to school personnel will result in a 3-day suspension for Defiance of Authority. Cell phones are not to be used to get Early Dismissals. If a student wants to contact home for an ED, he/she can access the office phones. Failure to adopt this procedure will result in a disciplinary action.
PERSONAL COMMERCE Weir High School has fundraisers and sells items to support various clubs, organizations and school athletic teams. This commerce is authorized by our administration and Mr. DelRe, the athletic/activities director. At no time is any student permitted to sell any product, service or item in the school, through the school or using the school as its business associate. PERSONAL DELIVERIES Delivery of food and/or beverages from outside establishments is not permitted during school hours. Flowers/gifts for students delivered to the school will not be delivered to the classrooms, but will be held in the main office for pick-up at the end of the school day.
Telephone messages to students from parents/guardians will be delivered to students FOR EMERGENCIES ONLY
BUS TRANSPORTATION All students are under the authority of the bus driver from the time they board the bus until the time they arrive at the school or at their respective homes. All rules regarding behavior in school apply while getting on or off and while riding the bus. Students who fail to observe these rules will not be permitted to ride the bus or other disciplinary action could result. If a bus fails to arrive at your stop, call transportation 304-564-3156. If you continue to have problems with the bus, or you have difficulty locating your route, see your Principal. Students driving, being driven by parents or driven from other sources are not exempt from the tardy rules. Weir High School provides transportation to school. If any other source of transportation is taken, the student must be on time or be counted tardy. Tardies will not be counted if bus transportation is the reason for tardiness. STUDENT OPERATED VEHICLES The fee for a parking permit is $25. You may obtain an application for a parking permit from the office. If your application is approved, you will receive a parking registration tag, which must be displayed on your vehicle. Any vehicle parked on school property must display the proper registration tag. Failure to obtain and display a parking tag can result in the towing of the student’s vehicle from the premises. Student parking is a privilege that can be revoked for disciplinary reasons, speeding or reckless driving in our lots or on Red Rider Road, excessive tardies (10 or more), or excessive and habitual violations of school rules. Any student who leaves campus without permission will have parking privileges revoked. If a parking permit is revoked, no refunds will be given. Students may park only in the designated area and in your assigned parking space. Vocational students must ride the school bus to and from the Career Center. Leaving campus without permission will result in revocation of parking privileges. PARKING LOTS Student lots are located next to the football practice field and the track. At no time should students park adjacent to the school building (curbs against buildings). This is staff parking. Parking areas are off-limits to the students during the school day. Students are not permitted to park in the Weir Middle School lot. There are no exceptions. The parking area outside of the gym facing the track along the curb is reserved for faculty and staff. Students are prohibited from parking in this area. Failure to comply with these parking regulations can result in the towing of the student vehicle from the premises and revocation of parking privileges. Loss of driving privileges will result with continued infractions involving your car or parking violations. CAFETERIA GUIDELINES/FOOD SERVICE Please be on time to lunch. Tardiness to lunch will be treated the same as tardiness to class. All food should be eaten in the cafeteria. All lunch litter must be deposited in the wastebaskets. Tables, chairs, and floor must be kept clean by picking up any food dropped or spilled. Normal conversation tone is acceptable. Students remaining in the cafeteria after eating are to remain seated (Sitting on tables is prohibited). Areas of visitation after eating are B-Building Restrooms and Spirit Center (lockers are off limits during lunch). All other areas require a signed agenda. Students are not permitted to go to or receive breakfast food after the bell rings in the morning. Eating breakfast is not a reason for tardiness. You will be assessed a tardy when entering the class late when lingering in the cafeteria for breakfast.
Breakfast, hot lunch, varieties of milk and water are available to all students during their breakfast/lunch periods. Student meals are charged on a daily basis and bills are sent to the student’s home address each month. Parents/Guardians may make payments by credit or debit cards. Students who are eligible for free or reduced meals may obtain an application from the Main Office. Applications must be returned to the Food Service Department at 90 Red Rider Road, Weirton WV 26062. GRAB & GO Grab & Go breakfast is provided between 1st & 2nd block. Students are expected to expedite the process. Only students who are eating Grab & Go are permitted in the cafeteria. Students will be given a stamp to be admitted to class.
NUTRITIONAL NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
In accordance to the Federal Civil Rights Law and US Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil right regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices and employees, and institutions
participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, political beliefs or reprisal or retaliation for prior
civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA.
Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g. Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the Agency (State of local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at 800-877-8339.
Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.
To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA program Discrimination Complaint Form (AD-3027) found online at:
http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To
request a copy of the complaint form, call 866-632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights,
1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington D.C. 20250-8410; (2) fax: 202-690-7442; or (3) email: [email protected].
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
SERVICES
TEXTBOOKS Textbooks are furnished by the Board of Education. Students are responsible for the proper treatment and care of these materials. Students are assessed for lost or damaged books. SCHOOL INSURANCE School insurance is available to all students. Students may purchase school insurance at any time. Please see Mr. Del Re, Athletic Director for further details. SCHOOL NURSE
Students may consult with the school nurse for school related illnesses and accidents. The nurse’s office is located in the gym lobby where a schedule is posted as well as in the main office. School related injuries and accidents are to be immediately reported to your teacher, school nurse or principal. All prescription and over-the-counter medications are to be brought directly to the office or school nurse and must be accompanied by the required medication form. Contact the school nurse at 748-7600 ext. 108 for questions, concerns, or forms. GUIDANCE Your counselor will act as a facilitator in the decision making process: explaining curriculum; describing course content; interpreting achievement and aptitude test scores; advising you of various colleges and careers; helping you assess your needs and interest; and assisting you to develop an educational plan that will help you achieve your goals. The purpose of the guidance program is to help each individual student achieve his/her best academically, mentally, emotionally and socially. The counselors will work with parents, teachers, and administrators to help students adjust and succeed in school. Any time that you would like to meet with your counselor, go to the guidance office before school, between classes or during your lunch to arrange an appointment.
Visitation By College Representatives / Scholarship Opportunities - Representatives of hundreds of colleges are scheduled to visit Weir High School throughout the school year. The daily announcements will give the information (time, date etc.) well in advance. Contact the guidance counselor. STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM West Virginia Board of Education Policy 2510 requires each school to establish a student assistance team (SAT) that reviews individual student needs when a student demonstrates poor academic performance and/or engages in disruptive behavior. A principal, staff personnel, or parent may request a SAT meeting. The purpose of the SAT team is to provide a formalized intervention process to address student needs. When warranted, this intervention process is a written plan managed by a trained school-based team. SAT membership includes: principal or designee, special education teacher, regular education teacher, current teacher, parent, and other appropriate staff. Parent’s input is valuable and they are encouraged to attend. Prior to the meeting, the team will collect pertinent information. This information may include, but is not limited to: grades, state testing results, informational/formal reading and math assessments, discipline reports, health reports, attendance, etc. At the SAT meeting(s), the team will review, discuss, and if necessary recommend appropriate instructional and/or behavioral intervention strategies for the student. For a minimum of 4 weeks, team members will monitor the effectiveness of the strategies to determine the need for continuation, modification, and/or termination of the educational intervention plan or the need to refer for multi- disciplinary evaluation. COMPUTER USE AND INTERNET ACCESS The use of the Computer Network and Internet are intended to support education and research. Both the WV Department of Education and the Hancock County Schools Acceptable Use Policies state that computer use is a privilege not a right. All students and parents must have a signed consent and wavier form on file before the student will be given access (AUP) TELECOMMUNICATIONS ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY. The computer is to be used for class work assigned by the teacher. The only email accounts that will be permitted are accounts through the State of West Virginia. Forms for these accounts can be obtained from your computer lab
teacher. Students will be assigned a computer that will give them access to this account. ANY UNAUTHORIZED USE OR MISUSE IS PROHIBITED. By signing the consent and waiver form you agree that Hancock County Schools will not be responsible if participation in inappropriate activities does occur. Any infraction will cancel user privileges and may result in further disciplinary action, including Suspension or Saturday School. OBTAINING ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE WITH SCHOOL WORK 1. After-School Tutoring - Contact your teacher to schedule an appointment for extra help during
lunch, before school or after school based on availability of the teacher. 2. National Honor Society Tutoring – peer tutoring is available for students during their lunch
period. Tutoring takes place in the library and students can sign up with their guidance counselor.
3. Seek Private Tutoring – if you need private tutoring in a subject, see your counselor for a list of recommended tutors. Of course, you are responsible for the expense involved in private tutoring.
4. Homework Request – On the third day of an excused absence, you may request homework by calling the main office. Please allow 24 hours after requests to pick up homework.
DRESS CODE
1. Shoes are to be worn at all times. NO slippers. No pajama wear. No blankets.
2. Students will not be permitted to wear basketball type muscle shirts, tank tops, spaghetti-strap tops (unless worn under/over a blouse or shirt), halter tops, open backed dresses or tops, sleeveless undershirts, shirts with open sides, lace or see thru clothing, bare midriffs, and off the shoulder blouses. Necklines must be respectable and no skin showing between chest and waist. Undergarments must be completely covered at ALL times. Any shirt with less than 3 inches of material in the shoulder area will be considered a tank top.
3. No hats can be worn in the school building at any time.
4. Shorts and capris may be worn. No “short-shorts”, cheering shorts, or cutoffs; shorts should be of appropriate length (gym shorts length or cover the mid-thigh when sitting down) and properly fitted. Holes in jeans, shorts, or any other clothing in the groin, buttocks area, or anywhere that undergarments are visible are prohibited. Holes in clothing that are excessive, even in the areas that are allowed, are prohibited. Holes that are factory made or created by brand name manufacturers still fall under the regulations that prohibit them in the groin or buttocks area and/or are excessive. As a reminder, if the holes are in the knee areas or below and not excessive they will be Ok….if you think it is wrong, it probably is!!! Leggings or shorts must be worn under skirts above the knee. Pants must be worn above the hips. The “Fingertip rule” does not exist. Shorts and dresses must be “knee approximate”.
5. No pajamas or pajama pants.
6. Any clothing that is considered unsafe, dangerous, a health hazard, contains offensive or obscene symbols, slogans, or words, ideas of questionable language or sexual morality, alcoholic or tobacco ads, or symbols that may represent gangs is NOT allowed. Winter coats must be left in your locker during the school day.
7. Students are not permitted to carry backpacks, string bags or purses during the school day. Backpacks and purses are to be kept in lockers along with hats. Wristlets may be carried. Traveling to gym is permissible but must be put back in lockers after class. No backpacks, bags or purses are permitted in the cafeteria.
RESULT: 1. A student who is not dressed in an acceptable manner may be directed to modify his/her dress and grooming or will be requested to obtain proper clothing before returning to class. This student will be sent to the internal suspension room until correct clothing is obtained. Students who fail to comply with the preceding regulation shall be sent home until the situation is corrected. 2. When dress and grooming appear to endanger the safety of the students or interfere with the school’s mission, as determined by the principal, further disciplinary action may result from failure to comply with dress restrictions. 3. Habitual violation of the dress code will result in disciplinary action.
OBJECTS NOT PERMITTED IN SCHOOL Students are not permitted to wear gloves or chains, spiked collars, dog collars, choke chains, pocket or wallet chains. In addition, students are not permitted to have cell phones, tobacco products, electronic cigarettes, vape pens, laser pointers, iPods, radios, electronic games, cameras, earphones, hats, bandanas, headbands or any other electronic devices. The above listed items and other items that are prohibited at Weir High will be considered in the same way as the cell phone issue. The first offense will result in the confiscation of the item. The second offense will result in the confiscation of the item and disciplinary measures as per the WV Student Code of Conduct.
Any further violations may result in a Level III offense w/ the disciplinary responses listed in the student handbook. Hats are to be left in the lockers at the beginning of school. Holding your hat in your hand constitutes possession of unauthorized property and will be confiscated. Wearing your “hood up” will be treated the same as having a hat.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
MISSION Not only is daily attendance required by West Virginia State Law, it is essential for successful completion of each course of study. The most common cause of academic failure is absence. Because the Hancock Board of Education and its employees expect students to succeed, we require students to attend school regularly and to be prompt in arriving for classes. PROCEDURES REGARDING ABSENCES To comply with state law (18-8-1 and 18-8-2) all schools must record excused and unexcused absences. For uniformity, the following procedures should be followed: When a student is absent, it is the responsibility of the parent or legal guardian to inform the school by phone of the reason for the child’s absence. If phone contact has not been made, upon returning to school the student shall present a written note. If phone contact or note is not presented within three days, the absence shall remain unexcused.
You have a right to determine your own style of dress and grooming provided your appearance does not interfere with the
health and safety of yourself or others and does not interfere with the educational process of the school.
EXCUSED ABSENCES The following are legal, excused absences: a. Personal illness (verified by parents/guardians) absences are not to exceed 10 days per year.
Verification by a physician will be required if absences exceed 10 total days per year. b. Death in the immediate family (limited to (5) days for death of mother, father, brother, sister or
guardian) limited to (3) days for “other” family members. “Other shall be defined as those family members not in the immediate household.
c. Religious holidays with verification. d. Legal obligation with verification. e. Parent request (limited to 5 days for the school year and prior approval required). Participation in school sponsored, board-sanctioned activities or attendance at a state tournament in which the school is participating are counted as absent. The absence however, is not included in the calculation of attendance rate. Absences for all other reasons not stipulated in board policy will be considered unexcused.
LATE ARRIVALS/EARLY DISMISSALS Reasons must be provided, verified, and recorded as excused or unexcused. If a student is not present for one half (45 minutes) of a class period, he/she will be considered absent for that class. ATTENDANCE AND EXTRACURRICULAR EVENTS A student must be in attendance for at least 2 blocks in order to participate in ANY extra-curricular activity. This includes sports, band, performances, dances, etc. TARDY IN THE MORNING/LATE ARRIVAL Students who are tardy in the morning are to report immediately upon arrival to the attendance office and provide an explanation to the attendance secretary. The 7th tardy and all subsequent tardies will result in Saturday School. After the 10th tardy, parking passes will be revoked. Students who miss the career center bus are to report immediately to the Attendance secretary who will inform the parent/guardian and the appropriate Assistant Principal. This will count as a half day unexcused absence. TARDY TO 2ND, 3RD, 4TH, AND 5TH BLOCK Detention shall begin after the 3rd unexcused tardy. If a student is late for class, the teacher will record the tardiness as excused or unexcused and complete a discipline report for every tardy after the third incident. 4th tardy – 1 day detention 5th tardy – 2 days detention 6th tardy – 3 days detention 7th tardy – Saturday school, Parent notification, Conference, and Continued Monitoring. Any student who is more than 5 minutes late to class will be considered skipping. EARLY DISMISSALS Parents who require an early dismissal for their child must send in a note with the student. Students are not to be dismissed from school unless the parent or guardian, or individual designated by the parent or guardian, comes to the school office and signs a release form. Age of
student is not an exception. Students are not permitted to “sign themselves out” when they reach the age of 18. NO STUDENT WILL BE RELEASED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM THE PARENT. EARLY DISMISSALS WILL NOT BE TAKEN OVER THE PHONE FOR SAFETY REASONS. HOMEBOUND INSTRUCTION Homebound instruction is provided for students unable to attend school because of physical or psychological needs. Hancock County Schools believe that the best place for an education is in the school. Homebound instruction is provided only when accommodations cannot be made by providing a reduced day schedule and/or modifications in the classrooms. The homebound instruction can be administered in the hospital, home or a central location agreed upon by the parents, doctors, and school administration. Homebound instruction must be applied for through an Assistant Principal and approval will be determined by the Director of Student Services. RESPONSIBILITY In the case of five (5) unexcused absences, the school shall serve written notice to the parent, guardian or custodian of the student that within five days of receipt of the notice, the parent, guardian or custodian, accompanied by the student, shall report in person to the school the student attends for a conference with the principal or other designated representative of the school in order to discuss and correct the circumstances causing the excused absences based upon such meeting.
In the case of ten (10) unexcused absences of a student during the school year, the attendance director or assistant shall make complaint against the parent, guardian or custodian before a magistrate of the county. If it appears from the complaint that there is a probable cause to believe that an offense has been committed and that the accused has committed it, a summons or warrant for the arrest of the accused shall issue to any officer authorized by law to serve the summons or to arrest persons charged with offenses against the state. More than one parent, guardian or custodian may be charged in a complaint. Initial service of the summons or warrant issued pursuant to the provisions of this section shall continue until the summons or warrant is executed or until the end of the school term during which the complaint is made, whichever is later. The student may also be referred to the Juvenile Mediation Program, DHHR, Probation Office, and/or Magistrate Court.
The Attendance Director will notify the Department of Motor Vehicles, and the student will be subject to losing his/her driver’s license or permit. Drivers Licenses are contingent on good attendance, good behavior, and academic success.
A Proof of Enrollment (Driver Eligibility Certificate) is required for any student younger than 18 years of age who wishes to take his Driver’s Permit or License test at the Department of Motor Vehicles. School attendance, behavior and satisfactory academic progress are criteria for your Proof of Enrollment. Students must have less than 15 unexcused absences during the entire school year and must earn 5 total credits, 3 of which must be core credits. If these criteria are not met, the student will be denied. Any student younger than 18 years of age who exceeds the 15 unexcused absences and/or does not earn the required credits is subject to the revocation of driving privileges through the State of West Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.
CLASSROOM PERFORMANCE Data supports that poor classroom attendance leads to poor classroom performance. Because students are expected to attend classes every day, those who are persistently absent from class may limit their academic performance. Upon recommendation of the teacher, students who are persistently absent and who are academically behind will be referred to the Student Assistance Team (SAT). Both classroom performance and attendance history will be used to determine a plan of action. STUDENT PRIVILEGES Dances, field trips and other extracurricular functions are privileges that can be revoked due to unexcused absences, grades, or discipline. TEACHER RESPONSIBILITIES Teachers are expected to promote excellent attendance and to follow all provisions outlined in this policy. Teachers are expected to keep up-to-date, accurate attendance records for each of their classes, recording tardies, absences, and school related absences. MAKE-UP WORK Students will have the opportunity to make up work. The following provisions will be made:
A) It is the responsibility of the student upon returning to school to contact the teacher for make-up work and to complete all work within the time period allotted.
B) It is the responsibility of each teacher to provide make-up work and to inform students of the procedures to be followed in obtaining and completing work.
C) A student shall be given the number of days missed to complete all make-up work. (Example: A student that misses 2 days of school will be given two (2) days to complete make-up work.) 5 days will be the maximum number of days allowed to complete make-up work. An extension will not be granted if additional days are missed within the time period.
D) If a student arrives late to school, he/she is responsible for contacting the teacher that day to take any test scheduled or submit any work due that day.
E) Failure of the student to contact the teacher or make up the work within the time allotted will result in a “0” grade for work not completed.
F) A teacher should use professional judgment in granting exceptions to these rules if he/she determines a student’s special individual needs warrant consideration.
FINAL EXAMS Final exams count for 15% of the students’ grade in each class. Any student who is required to take finals must be present on the day designated to take exams. Only students who have a doctor’s excuse or who have made arrangements ahead of time with the principal will be permitted to take make-up finals.
After-school make up test will be given in the Main Office on Monday and
Wednesday. Students may leave as soon as they have completed their test.
To prepare high school students for future educational goals, it is highly recommended that students take final exams. As an INCENTIVE for excellent attendance, high school students, who have two (2) absences or fewer; will have the option of taking final exams. Any final exam taken as an option will not negatively affect the final grade in the class. With WRITTEN PARENTAL PERMISSION, the principal may excuse qualifying students from taking final exams. This provision does not exempt students from End of Course Exams (EOCE) where REQUIRED. EOCE are exams required by the West Virginia State Department of Education as part of accountability of such departments where applicable. West Virginia State Department of Education required End of Course Exams are administered prior to the exam days scheduled on the Hancock County Schools calendar. Students required to take the End of Course Exam, have two (2) or fewer absences, and have taken their End of Course Exams will be exempt from attending the two scheduled exam days. Students who miss more than two (2) days will be required to attend classes on the scheduled exam days.
Students not required to take the West Virginia Department of Education required End of Course Exam who miss more than two (2) days in a semester will be required to take a comprehensive final exam of material covered in that semester, which will count as 15% of the final grade. For the purpose of determining who is required to take the final, three (3) tardies in any class will count as one (1) absence in that class.
LEAVE OF EDUCATIONAL VALUE Parents who plan to take their child out of school must obtain and complete a Leave of Educational Value form prior to the event. These days are excused, but are counted as days absent toward finals. A maximum of 5 days are allowed. Leave may be denied if grades or attendance are unsatisfactory. COLLEGE VISITS are limited to 2 days and a Leave of Educational Value form must be completed prior to the visit. Additional days will count towards finals. JOB SHADOWING is limited to 1 day and a Job Shadowing Permission Form must be completed and given to the attendance secretary prior to the the date and the verification must be returned upon return to school. Additional days will count towards finals.
SPORTS Weir High athletic practices are closed to the public and attendance of those other than the coaching staff, support personnel, administration and the student-athletes are at the discretion of the head coach.
Other than school-sponsored activities, late or non-running buses, or a death in the immediate family or death of a grandparent, no other excuse, excused or unexcused, will be accepted for determining which students are required to take the final exams. Absences as a result of a sports related injury will be counted toward final exams. Job shadowing performed during the school day will be counted toward final exam attendance policy. With proper documentation, juniors and seniors can attend up to two college fairs/visits that will not count toward the final exam policy.
STUDENT ATHLETIC INSURANCE INFORMATION Weir High School provides secondary injury athletic insurance coverage to all student-athletes for any sport. This secondary coverage plan has a $100 deductible. The premium is paid by the county school system when a student becomes a member of any athletic team during the school year. Our insurance provider is A-G Administrators, Inc., PO Box 979, Valley Forge PA 19482. The carrier can be reached at 1-800-634-8628. This coverage is secondary to your family insurance policy. The policy has fixed maximum payment limits for a variety of items related to athletic injury treatments. Please contact the athletic office for a detailed copy of Medical Expense Benefits. Process for filing an Athletic Injury Claim:
Upon any injury occurring at a practice or scholastic event that may require follow-up treatment, an Accident Claim Form will be initiated by the WHS athletic trainer. The trainer will issue a claim report with the initial injury description information to the Athletic Director.
The Athletic Director will sign the Accident Claim Form and log the injury incident.
The Accident Claim Form and additional processing instructions will be mailed to the parent/guardian home address of record.
The parent/guardian will be directed to sign the form and complete all appropriate information.
After completing and signing the Accident Claim Form, the parent/guardian must send the form with the requested documentation (Explanation of Benefits and itemized bills) to the A-G Administrators office for processing at the address on the claim form.
The athletic injury policy has a 90-day period within which to report or file a claim. We urge the processing of any claim immediately to fix the injury date and follow-up with documentation after the claim has been filed. It is important to file the claim within the 90-day period after the injury.
Contact the Athletic Director at Weir High School with any questions related to the processing of any athletic-related injury. 304-748-7600 extension 158.
EXPECTED BEHAVIORS IN SAFE AND SUPPORTIVE SCHOOLS
The Hancock County Schools Board of Education supports and promotes academic, social and emotional learning in all settings. Schools must consistently and persistently work to improve student knowledge, skills and dispositions that convey
our nations’ democratic principles. Dispositions are the values, commitments and ethics that influence one’s behaviors toward others and affect learning, motivation and development. Dispositions are affected by beliefs and attitudes related to values such as caring, fairness, honesty responsibility, and social justice. Ideally, the teaching and learning of these valued
dispositions should be the shared responsibilities of every employee, student, parent and community member and these stakeholders should be engaged in supporting the development of these dispositions.
Together we are accountable for what we want students to KNOW, how we want them to BEHAVE and what we want them to ACCOMPLISH.
RESPONSES TO INAPPROPRIATE STUDENT BEHAVIOR
For complete policy and responses to inappropriate student behavior, please refer to Hancock County Board of Education Policy JG-R and WV Policy 4373. Copies are available for review in the Hancock County Board of Education office,
individual schools, and the Hancock County School’s website which is www.hancockschools.org.
Inappropriate Student Behaviors
LEVEL I VIOLATIONS: A. Cheating B. Deceit C. Disruptive/Disrespectful Conduct D. Failure to Serve Detention E. Falsifying Identity F. Inappropriate appearance
G. Inappropriate Display of Affection H. Inappropriate Language I. Possession of Inappropriate Personal Property J. Skipping Class* K. Tardiness* L. Vehicle Violation
LEVEL II VIOLATIONS A. Gang Related Activity B. Habitual Violation of School Rules C. Insubordination D. Leaving School without Permission E. Physical Fight without Injury F. Possession of Imitation Weapon
G. Possession of a Knife Not Meeting Code Dangerous Weapon Definition H. Profane Language/Obscene Gesture/Indecent Act Toward An Employee or A Student I. Technology Misuse
LEVEL III VIOLATIONS: A. Battery against a Student B. Defacing School Property/Vandalism C. False Fire Alarm D. Fraud/Forgery E. Gambling F. Hazing
G. Improper/Negligent Operation of Motor Vehicle H. Larceny I. Sexual Misconduct J. Profane Language/Obscene Gesture/Indecent Act Toward An Employee or A Student K. Trespassing
LEVEL IV VIOLATIONS: A. Battery against a School employee B. Felony C. Illegal Substance Related Behaviors
D. Possession and/or use Dangerous Weapon E. Threat of violence against student or staff
We have read the Weir High School agenda and understand that students at Weir High School are expected to follow the rules, policies, and procedures explained in it. _________________________________ Student Signature
