NORFOLK JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL

To provide academic, creative and social experiences in an environment which facilitates learning and personal development of each student.

• To assure each person feels appreciated, successes and improvements will be identified and recognized on a regular basis in a variety of ways.
• To meet the needs and abilities of each student, a flexible curriculum will be offered.
• Parents, patrons, students, and staff will cooperatively plan and participate in the educational process.

Students are encouraged to help make their time at Norfolk Junior High both pleasant and beneficial. Students are expected to:

• Act in a responsible manner following all rules and regulations of Norfolk Junior High and the Norfolk Public Schools.
• Respect each person’s individuality and his/her right to an education.
• Act appropriately and work cooperatively with everyone in the building.
• Attend all classes, coming to each class with required materials, to include completed assignments.
• Never verbally or physically abuse or harass anyone.
• Respect authority and comply with directions appropriately.
• Use appropriate language and good manners in all personal dealings.
• Communicate appropriately with teachers, staff, and other students.
• Respect the property of others. Restitution will be required should any damage be done.
• Constantly work to improve.
• Bring appropriate materials to school.

Dear Students and Parents:

Welcome to Norfolk Junior High School!

I am excited to meet new and returning students and parents who will be attending NJHS. One of our goals is to help families and students be comfortable and understand how the junior high is different from the middle school and high school. We hope you find the stimulating and caring atmosphere of the school to be rewarding.

The information in this handbook/planner is provided to help you understand school, and district policies and expectations. You are expected to read and understand these procedures. Students, I recommend that you keep your handbook/planner with you at all times while at school. You will find the rules and regulations that govern us at Norfolk Junior High make it possible for us to work together in promoting a positive school climate.

The staff takes pride in delivering 8th and 9th grade curriculum of the Norfolk Public Schools in a challenging and varied manner that focuses on interdisciplinary projects, multicultural infusion, and inclusion of students with special needs.

We seek your physical presence at school activities as well as those times when students need counseling and correction. Please continue to be an important part of your child’s education. One of the school’s major expectations is for parents to show their support of the student(s) by attending teacher conferences, student recognitions and culminating performances.

I look forward to working with students, staff, and parents to make each student as successful as possible. If you would like to contact me, please call 644-2516.

Have a fantastic year!

David H. Wright

Principal

September 3 Labor Day - no school

October 18 End of first quarter

October 19 NPS Staff Development Day/NCA -No School

October 22 Parent/Teacher Conferences

October 23 Parent/Teacher Conferences

November 21 Early dismissal - 2:30

November 22 Thanksgiving - no school

November 23 Thanksgiving vacation - No School

December 21 End second quarter/End of first semester

December 24 Winter vacation begins

January 3&4 Teacher workdays - No School

January 7 School resumes

February 18&20 Parent/Teacher Conferences (Dismissal 2:15 p.m.)

February 22 NPS Staff Development - No School

March 8 No School

March 14 End of 3^rd Quarter

March 15 No School

March 29 Spring Break — No School

April 1 Spring Break - No School

April 19 No School

May 21 Last day of regular classes - 8:10 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.

May 21 End of fourth quarter/end of second semester

May 22 Teacher Work Day/Make-up snow day (if needed)

May 23 Make-up snow day (if needed)

The minimum number of credits which must be earned by eighth grade students during the year is as follows:

• The total credits are forty (40) per year.
• Credits earned in the core subjects (Math, Science, English and Social Studies) are twenty-five (25) per year.

A student must complete 215 credits, grades 9 thru 12, to qualify for graduation. A maximum of 10 credits acquired by participating in extracurricular activities may be counted in the 215 credit requirement. A student must pass all of their core academic classes in order to move on to Norfolk Senior High at the conclusion of their ninth grade year. Students who do not pass their core academic classes will be required to return to Norfolk Junior High the following year to complete the requirements if they do not make up the credit in summer school.

Report cards are issued after each grading period, four times during the regular year. In general, grades are determined by the students ability to do the work, by the amount of work done, by the quality of the work, its neatness, completeness, promptness and by class participation. The grading system is as follows:

A - 94 - 100 F - Below 70

B - 86 - 93 INC - Incomplete

C - 78 - 85 WDP - Withdrew passing

D - 70 - 77 WDF - Withdrew failing

Students who are on the fine list will have their report cards held in the principal's office until payment of that fine is made.

A student must complete 215 credits, grades 9 thru 12, to qualify for graduation. A maximum of 10 credits acquired by participating in extracurricular activities may be counted in the 215 credit requirement.

• At least the last two terms shall have been completed in resident at Norfolk Senior High. This two-term resident requirement may include a summer term. If a student cannot meet this graduation requirement and wishes to be considered for graduation, he must make application to the
• Superintendent of Schools, through the Senior High Principal, stating in writing his reason for being unable to fulfill the resident requirement.
• A student may ask to be considered for graduation at the end of the mid-year session when the student shall have satisfied the graduation requirements for Norfolk Senior High. This request shall be submitted in writing to the Senior High Principal at least 60 calendar days prior to the terminal semester.

Students must have completed the following courses in grades 9 thru 12:

• Seven (7) semesters of English.
• One semester of Speech.
• Eight semesters of Social Studies (of which four semesters must be in American History, one semester of Modern Problems, and one semester of Government.)
• Four semesters of Science.
• Four semesters of Mathematics.
• Three semesters of Physical Education

Norfolk Junior High School has the highest rating available from the State Department of Education and is also a member of the North Central Association.

Students who are participating in Extra-Curricular activities will have to remain academically eligible to continue to participate. Any student who is failing one class at the grading period will be allowed to practice and participate; a student failing two classes will not be allowed to particpate in games but may participate in practice; a student failing three classes will not be allowed to participate in games or participate in practice; a student failing four or more classes will be removed from the tea m.

Homework is a major component and a vital part of the junior high school program. It is an extension of the regular daily school program and, as such, it ought to have the same thoughtful, creative consideration and planning given to other aspects of the program. The goal is to help students develop good homework/study habits through regular homework assignments.

• Drill and additional practice to reinforce and/or strengthen skills introduced in the classroom.
• Guided reading of assigned literature or text materials.
• Research activities in locating information.
• Work on reports or projects of a long-term nature.

It is not the responsibility of an individual teacher or the teaching team to provide parents and students with a list of missing assignments during or at the end of a term. Homework is, most often, an immediate need that reinforces a skill learned that day or prepares students for the next day’s lesson. To make up assignments days or weeks later serves little or no purpose.

Requests for extensions on long-range assignments may be considered at the teacher’s discretion upon parental requests prior to the date due.

Norfolk Junior High School believes that:

• regular attendance in classes is basic to the continuity of the learning process
• regular attendance is one of the most important factors in determining success or failure in school
• the real value of the education process comes from continuous interactions and relationships developed between the teacher and individual student as well as between students
• the discipline developed through punctual and regular attendance enhances the chances of success in all areas of a student's life and post-secondary experiences.

PROCEDURE FOR REPORTING ABSENCES

Parents should call the school office 644-2516 before 10:00 a.m. on the day of the absence. Students will be considered truant if their absence is not reported to the office within 24 hours. When contacting school, please give the following information:

• name of student
• grade level of the student
• reason for the absence
• name, phone number, and relationship (to the student) of person making the call.

Notes will be accepted only from parents who do not have access to a phone.

To receive academic credit a student shall not be absent from any class more than 10 days during any semester. These 10 days should be considered a bank and used only when needed. Absences due to medical appointments, court appearances, counseling sessions, and funerals will not be included in the 10 day count.

Parents will be notified by mail when their student has 5, 8, and 11 absences from any class during a semester unless the attendance secretary has received appropriate documentation of medical appointments, court appearances, counseling sessions, and/or funerals. On the 11th absence a "No Credit" letter will be mailed to parents and/or a phone contact made. The letter will include an attendance summary and outline the process for appeal.

It shall be the procedure of the building administrator to report to the Director of Student Services and to parent/guardians, any student enrolled in the district for excessive absenteeism on the part of such student. For purposes of this procedure, such reporting shall not be required of any student who is at least 16 years of age at the time excessive absenteeism occurs. The term "excessive absenteeism," as used herein, shall mean verified and unexcused absences exceeding 5 days per quarter or the hourly equivalent, or when the number of verified and unexcused absences exceeds 20 days cumulatively per school year or the hourly equivalent.

The building principal shall investigate factors involved in any case of excessive absenteeism. In the event that the building principal determines that such absences are not justified, he/she may determine such student to be truant. All required procedures of the Norfolk Public School Truancy Policy shall then be followed. This may be true even if some or all of the student’s absences have been excused by the student’s parents/guardians, and the building principal determines such excessive absences are detrimental to the child’s educational performance. Specific procedures and consequences for students reported for either excessive absence or truancy are listed in the student handbook for each building.

• No periods absent during any school day.
• An absence for the period is recorded, if a student misses 20 minutes or more of any period. Exception: If a student is involved in a school sponsored activity he/she will be considered as being in attendance for the time missed due to that activity.
• Absences due to appointments for medical, dental, counseling, court, etc. during the school day will not allow a student to attain perfect attendance.

If, within 5 days of notice a student feels that justifiable or extraordinary circumstances have contributed to him/her exceeding the 10 day absence limit, the student may appeal in writing for credit. This appeal will be considered if the following conditions have been met:

• the student has no unexcused and/or unverified absences in the class,
• the student's class work has been satisfactorily completed,
• any absences for medical reasons have been verified by appropriate doctor's statements and/or other credible documentation have/has been filed with the attendance clerk.
• the student remains in the course until the appeal process is completed.

Administrators will review each case and make the final judgment. They will consider evidence, testimonials, and other justifications for the accumulated absences. In private the administrators will meet and consider all evidence brought before them, including, but not limited to, the following:

• the student's past attendance history,
• the student's grades prior to reaching the 11th absence,
• the nature of the absences,
• the student's attitude,
• the student's motivation,
• other information that may be pertinent.

Battery-operated and electronic devices such as beepers, radios, cassette players, cellular phones, laser pens, walkmans, or electronic games are not allowed at school. Cameras may not be used during the school day with permission from office personnel. These items will be confiscated unless they are being used for school purposes and may be returned only to parents. Cellular phones and beepers needed for communication with parents must be checked in at the office during the school day.

Bicycles must be parked in the racks provided or set in line with the racks. To prevent theft, bicycles should be padlocked. Skateboards & roller blades should be kept in lockers and left there during school hours. Skateboards & roller blades are not to be used on school property. Skateboards & roller blades that are used on school property will be confiscated.

By state law, any student transferring to Norfolk Junior High must provide a certified copy of his/her birth certificate or acceptable affidavit.

Book bags, back packs, duffle bags, and other large bags are viewed as equipment to transport books and supplies between home and school. These items are not to be used during the school day to carry books and supplies from class to class -books and supplies must be carried by hand. They must be stored in hall lockers or, in the case of duffle bags, in the student’s gym locker. This will require that students organize their lockers and plan their day around class schedules so that books and supplies may be located quickly and students are not tardy to class.

Riding school buses will be considered an extension of the school day; therefore, the following rules and regulations must be observed. Bus transportation is a privilege and may be restricted for violation of bus regulations. Consequences may include detentions, short/long term suspensions and removal from the bus completely. Students unable to ride the bus due to disciplinary action must make alternate ride arrangements.

• Sit quietly and refrain from rowdy conduct.
• Be completely quiet when the bus is near a railroad crossing.
• Observe the same conduct as in the classroom and all school rules.
• Be courteous, use no profane language.
• Do not eat or drink while on the bus.
• Keep the bus clean.
• Obey the bus driver.
• Absolutely no tobacco products or alcohol will be allowed.
• Do not be destructive.
• Stay in your seat at all times.
• Keep head, hands and feet inside the bus.
• The bus driver is authorized to assign seats.
• Have proper respect for homeowner's property while waiting for the school bus.
• Students may ride only their designated bus unless prior written permission has been received from an administrator.

Since all of us take pride in our school building each person is expected to treat the building and its contents with respect. Everyone needs to exert effort to keep our school neat and clean. Please remember these simple guidelines:

All trash and "throw-aways" should be discarded in the containers provided for this use which are found in each hallway. Recycling containers/boxes should be used for recyclables.

2. Do not mark on desks, walls or lockers.
3. Keep your feet off furniture and walls.
4. Take care of all school equipment
5. Any student who damages, defaces, or destroys school property or the property of others will face disciplinary actions and restitution must be made.
6. Student textbooks are expensive and they represent a large taxpayer investment. Please take care of them. Students are financially responsible for damaged or lost textbooks. Book covers may be found in the Guidance Office.

Any student who must leave the school building for any reason must check out with the office or the school nurse. Parents must notify the office personnel, with reason, PRIOR to the student checking out. The office will not excuse students from school without parent notification. We ask that every possible attempt be made to conduct personal business outside of school hours. Students who fail to check out, or students who check out without prior parental approval or notification will be considered truant and subject to disciplinary action. Students are also required to check in with the office upon their return to school. Failure to do so may result in the student being counted absent when he/she is, in fact, in class.

All students are required to purchase an I.D. card which will be used for identification purposes and checking out materials from the media center, lunch accounts, and activity cards.

I.D. Cards $ 5.00 (or included in the price of the All School Activity Card)

Activities and their costs for students are as follows:

All School Activity Card $20.00

Yearbook $26.00 on or before October 12, 2001

$30.00 after October 12, 2001

Activity Participation Fee $15.00

The All School Activity Card will admit students to the following activities:

• All Junior/Senior High athletic events. Conference playoffs, District and State Contests are not included.
• Admission to all vocal and instrumental music concerts.
• Admission to all school plays and musicals (for certain performances).

Industrial Technology - 9th grade $10.75 (per semester)

Industrial Technology - 8th grade $15.00

3-Dimensional Arts/Crafts $10.00

Computer Art $10.00

Wellness $ 2.50

Foreign Language Workbook $ 6.00

A class fee must be paid to the instructor of the class. Other fees will be collected as announced.

Students are expected to follow the request and/or directives given to them by any teacher or other school personnel. If a disagreement exists the student shall comply with the directive and then, after completion of the directive, the student may appeal to the principal or his designee.

Convocations are held in the auditorium at periods announced by the principal. Programs consisting of lectures, plays, moving pictures, and music are presented by students, faculty and outside talent. Hand clapping is the only form of appreciation that is to be used. Students have reserved seats in the auditorium and they should be seated in those seats. Students who are the cause of disturbances will be removed and their future attendance at convocations may be restricted.

Students who change their address and/or phone numbers should report such immediately to the office. The school also needs an emergency phone number where a responsible adult can be contacted immediately in the event of any emergency.

Students are expected to behave in an orderly and appropriate manner as listed in the District's Rights and Responsibilities and the school's discipline code while attending school or any school function on school grounds (parking lots included) or elsewhere - activities, parking lots, and vehicles at Memorial Field and at any out of town school events. If students choose to act in an inappropriate way, they will receive consequences consistent with the severity and frequency of their actions. Students may conference with teachers, parents, and/or administration and/or may receive detentions, in-school suspensions, out-of-school suspension, or expulsions as a result of inappropriate behavior. Parents are encouraged to call teachers and the administration concerning discipline in the classroom or at other school functions.

It is important that each child wears clothing that is modest, clean and appropriate for school and school activities. Personal appearance and clothing worn to school should not violate the rules of decency, offend the standards of others, promote unsafe conditions, or detract from the educational process. VIOLATORS WILL BE REQUIRED TO CHANGE. STUDENTS MISSING ALL OR PART OF CLASS WILL BE CONSIDERED HAVING AN OFFICE REFERRAL. If parents or students have any questions, they should call the school administrators at 644-2516 before they purchase clothing.

• Shoes must be worn at all times.
• Words or pictures on clothing, jewelry, or accessories stating or referring to gangs, drugs, alcohol, sex, or any other activity conflicting with the school's policy or curriculum are not allowed.
• All clothing must be modest and appropriate. It must properly cover the body.
• Caps and hats are not to be worn in the building. Caps and hats must be stored in lockers. Wearing or carrying bandannas or colored handkerchiefs will also not be permitted.
• Pictures and/or printed words on clothing that conflict with board policy or school curriculum will not be permitted - written or implied. Examples of such clothing would be: PLAYAZ, BONG, tobacco brands, alcohol brands, bar t-shirts, BIG Johnson, cigarette brands, etc…..
• Tank tops for boys and girls and exposed midriffs will not be permitted. Tank tops may be worn with a sleeved shirt underneath. All shirts worn must keep the top of the shoulder covered, fit well in the armpit area, and not have a plunging neckline.
• Shorts need to meet the following criteria:
• Modest length - The length of all shorts must have an inseam of 4 inches..
• No cut offs or frayed edges - hems need to be sewn or cuffed.
• No biker shorts.
• Clothing usually worn as undergarments cannot be worn as outergarments, specifically boxer shorts will not be permitted.
• No sweat shorts unless they are hemmed.
• No saggy pants or shorts are permitted. Waistbands must be worn at the waists.
• Criteria:
• Oversized clothing is not recommended and may be restricted from the school setting if it is determined that such attire creates the potential for an interruption of a safe and orderly learning environment. Pants that are oversized (i.e. a person with a waist size of 30 wearing a pair of pants size 42) or that have exceedingly large cargo pockets will be subject to review by school administrators. Pants are to be worn on the waist and held in position by a belt or suspenders. Students who allow their pants to "sag" below the waist will be subject to disciplinary actions.
• Coats, jackets, wind breakers, etc. may not be worn without permission.
• Skirts and dresses need to be a modest length (minimum of mid to lower thigh).
• Tights or leggings are not permitted unless worn with a top of minimum length of mid to lower thigh.
• Clothing with holes, slashes, or cuts will not be permitted unless it is appropriate and modest.
• Chains will not be worn at school or at school activities.
• Facial make-up, jewelry accessories, or hair color other than natural (natural such as black, blonde, auburn, or brown) will be considered unnecessarily distracting to the learning environment. Students will be required to change or alter their appearance as determined by the administration.
• Jewelry or accessories worn through pierced body parts may be seen as unsafe. Students must remove these for physical education classes and/or other activities deemed necessary for a safe and orderly learning environment by the instructor or administration.

The school building will be open for scheduled activities at 7:00 a.m. Students arriving at this time must be under the direction and supervision of the sponsor for the activity. Students who are not in scheduled activities may enter the building at 7:30 a.m. Entrance for students into the building should be only through the cafeteria doors on Fifth Street. Once students are in the building, they are not to leave unless they have permission. Students need to leave the building promptly after school unless they have an activity or they are under the direct supervision of a teacher or administrator.

• Anyone in the cafeteria at 3:30 p.m. must be seated at tables near the windows and either study or visit in a quiet manner. Anyone out of their seats wandering around in the cafeteria or down hallways will be asked to leave the building.
• At 3:45 p.m. ALL students are to be out of the building unless they are with a teacher, in a sponsored activity, or have made a special arrangement with the office to remain in the building.In the case of inclement weather, students may remain in the cafeteria after 3:45 p.m. to wait for rides.

VISITORS: Doors around the building will be locked at 8:30 a.m. except for the 6th Street door of the old building. This door remains open until approximately 4:30 p.m.

Overall, students are expected to follow all directives that are given to them by teachers, teachers' aides, secretaries, custodians, cafeteria workers, bus drivers and administrators. In short, students are expected to complete their classroom assignments and to treat everyone in the building respectfully and to do their part in keeping the building clean. If a disagreement occurs, students are to follow the directives if possible, and then, the students may appeal the situation to the principal or designee. In addition to the items in the code of conduct the following items are enforced:

1. Students may not sell items at school or school functions without the authorization of the administration.
2. Gambling in any form is not permitted in school, on school property, or at school functions.
3. Profanity (written, spoken, or by gesture) is never acceptable at school. Slang words or sound alike words for profanity are not permitted. Gang, satanic, etc. activities, writing, and drawings will not be allowed.
4. Public displays of affection involving physical contact such as hand holding, hugging or arms around another, or kissing are not permitted at school or at school functions.

Whenever students and/or parents have a problem with another person, the first step is to discuss the problem directly with the person who is involved. If that conference is not successful, then the person should see the person who has the next step of responsibility. For example, if a student has a classroom problem, then the student and parent(s) should discuss the problem with the classroom teacher privately. If that conference is not successful, then the student and parent(s) should see the principal. If the problem still has not been resolved, the student and parent(s) may file a complaint with the Director of Student Services using the Complaint Against School Personnel Form.

The school counselors are available to help students who are experiencing academic and/or social problems, and also to help students make quality decisions in their choices of classes and possible careers. There are two counselors and each grade level has a counselor assigned to it. Students should feel welcome and encouraged to drop in whenever they have free time or make an appointment if no free time is available. The Guidance Office is located on the 2nd floor of the north addition in room #205, they can also be reached at 64-2523.

By state law, all students must have a complete immunization record on file before they may attend any classes. The Nebraska Department of Health minimum requirements are:

DTP/TD -- 3 doses

Oral Polio -- 3 doses

MMR -- Two injections of each or a combination of these vaccines given at or after

The school nurse's office is located on the first floor of the north addition in room 111. The school nurse provides services to the school and the student in the areas of visual testing, immunization, control of communicable disease, encouragement of physical and dental examinations and promoting sound mental health. The nurse will be in her office every morning for the purpose of checking those who have been absent. Any student who has to leave the school because of illness must check out with the school nurse. Leaving school without permission will be classified as a truancy and dealt with accordingly. It is necessary that the school nurse or office official speak with a parent in order for a student to be excused from school due to illness or accident. The student is not to call the parent.

Your locker and lock are the property of the school district. The school board gives each student permission to use a locker and lock during the school year. Therefore, students cannot expect their locker to be free from inspection by the school if the administration considers a search necessary to maintain the integrity of the school environment and to protect others in the building. Locker inspections will be done in the presence of two staff members. These guidelines apply to lockers assigned in locker rooms.

Locker numbers will be assigned at the time of registration. Two students will share a locker. Upon students receiving their lockers, they need to immediately check their lockers for damage and report any damage to the office. Students will be financially responsible for damage to their lockers. Locks will be furnished by the school at no charge. If locks are not returned or are damaged, students will be charged $4.00. Students should follow the regulations given below:

• Use only the locker assigned to him/her.
• Never open another student's locker.
• Keep the locker neat and orderly.
• Always close the locker door and keep it locked.
• Do not leave valuables in the locker.
• Names of individuals should be printed in all winter clothing and other items.
• Do not write on the inside or outside of the locker.
• Memorize the lock combination. Do not share this information with anyone except the locker partner.

Lost and found items are to be turned into the office. Items not claimed by December 20th or June 15th of each school year will be given to welfare agencies.

Norfolk Jr. High School DOES NOT have an "open campus" policy during the noon hour; this means that you cannot leave school to go out for lunch or to go home for lunch. Students will not be allowed to leave the building for lunch, unless they are under the direct supervision of their parent.

Procedures regarding lunch accounts will be explained during orientation time. The price for school lunches and milk will be announced through school publications. All costs mentioned are subject to change without notice. A student may bring his/her own lunch; it will have to be eaten in the cafeteria. All food is to be consumed in the cafeteria. Any food purchased in the cafeteria must be eaten in the cafeteria.

The cafeteria rules are as follows:

• Upon entering the lunchroom, students should be seated 3 to a bench and wait to be dismissed to the serving line by the lunchroom supervisor.
• After eating, students must return trays, utensils and milk cartons to the receiving counter promptly. They should not leave the tray on the table after finishing lunch. After disposing of the tray, they must return to the table where they were seated while eating and remain seated until excused by the lunchroom supervisor.
• Never throw anything in the lunchroom.
• Students should not push or crowd when in the lunch line. They should keep in single file and not cut ahead of another person. While in the lunch line, students are expected to wait their turn, make appropriate requests, and be courteous to the lunchroom staff at all times.
• If students drop anything on the floor, they must pick it up. They are expected to eat properly and avoid spilling food on the table. If they spill something, they must clean it up, using the cloth found on the utensil table.
• Students who bring a lunch should put their name on the lunch container. Any opened container, fountain drink, or bottle (including screw-top bottles) may not be brought into the building. Canned beverages are permitted. Students should bring food and beverages for themselves only.
• Students may purchase lunch items from the food service at the designated price.
• Quiet conversation at tables should be among the students seated at the same table to assist in eliminating noise problems. Students must receive permission to leave the cafeteria during lunch -including the use of the restroom and a visit to the nurse.
• The telephone in the lunchroom may be used only after school.
• Food purchased from commercial food establishments and brought into school during the lunch periods must be eaten in the office. Students are not to have food delivered to the school for lunch. This policy keeps the school lunch program in compliance with federal regulations governing it.

Generally, the student will have the same number of school days to complete make-up work as he/she was absent. For example, if he/she is absent three days, the student will have three school days to turn in the make-up work. Extenuating circumstances will be given special consideration by the teacher(s).

If a students drives a car, he/she must park in the west parking lot in the last row (far west row) within designated spaces. Failure to comply with this rule will result in the loss of parking privileges on school property.

Any student participating in a school sponsored sport must have a physical prior to practice or participation in a practice session. These forms are available in the school office.

Students who know in advance of an absence must pick up a "pink sheet" from the office. This sheet should be turned in to the office 24 hours prior to the absence(s). The student should complete the information required; name, date(s) of absence, and the reason. This sheet should then be presented to each instructor. The teacher will sign the sheet after arrangements have been agreed upon for completion of work. The teacher's signature is not an acceptance of the absences - only an acknowledgment that the teacher has been informed and arrangements for work determined. Failure to complete a "pink sheet" may result in no credit for work missed.

Law enforcement or juvenile officers will not be allowed to interview students at school during the school day without the school official making a reasonable effort to contact parents. The building principal may grant exceptions to the above to probation officers who desire to meet with students who are already on probation and/or representatives of Social Services who are accompanied by law enforcement officers. If physical violence or a criminal act occurs at school, the school principal or designee may call the police without first receiving authorization from parents.

Before a student will be permitted to drop any class, consultations must take place among the student's counselor, teacher and parent(s). Parental permission is required before a drop will be made.

4. If a student drops a class after ten school days, the transcript will reflect the student's progress to that point. A WDP (Withdrawal-Passing) or a WDF (Withdrawal-Failing) will be recorded on the transcript.
5. Students dropping a course after the first nine weeks of each semester will receive a 60% on the transcript.
6. No student will be dropped from a course after the mid-quarter marking period.

Students who will be absent from school for school sponsored activities will not have those absences count against their 10 absences. It is the student's responsibility to inform their instructor about the forthcoming absence and to make arrangements for completing assigned work. Students absent for school activities are not to fill out a "pink sheet".

School officials may conduct reasonable searches and seizure of students, school premises, and/or automobiles located on school premises when there is reasonable suspicion to believe that students may be in possession of contraband (drugs, weapons, alcohol and other materials), in violation of school policy and/or state and federal laws. Law enforcement will be contacted when circumstances dictate.

Teachers are in the school building from 7:50 a.m. until 3:40 p.m., and they are willing to help students individually during the school day or an appointment can be made if for some reason this time period is not suitable. Students are encouraged to seek additional help from teachers when they are having troubles with classroom work, and they should receive a pass from the teacher if the time is before 8:00 a.m.

Leisure Reading is a new class opposite lunch for all Junior High students. Research clearly shows that students of Junior High age read less than they did in elementary school and that their reading ability declines. Research also shows that the more students read, the better their reading ability becomes.

• Everyone reads.
• Silence during reading time.
• Students need to be prepared for the entire reading time.
• Not a study hall; not a time to do or read homework. No pencil or pen in hand.
• Reading materials should be chosen outside of reading time.
• Bring leisure reading material appropriate for school (books, magazines, newspapers.) Classroom teachers will determine appropriateness of questionable material.

Students must be in their assigned classroom or assigned seat before the tardy bell rings as dictated by classroom rules. Failure to do so will result in an unexcused tardy and the student will be assigned to detention by the administration. Teachers will inform the student he/she has been counted tardy. Students will not be counted tardy if they come to class with a pass from the office, guidance office, or from another teacher. Teachers should not detain students unless absolutely necessary. Any teacher detaining a student between classes must write a pass to excuse the tardy.

Students who are tardy to school must report to the office before going to their first scheduled class. Students tardy more than 20 minutes will be considered absent and will require a parent phone call to excuse them. Students will be allowed 3- 1st period tardies per semester regardless of the reason. These tardies should be used only for emergencies or circumstances beyond the student's control. On the fourth tardy and each ensuing tardy, the student will be assigned to detention. AFTER THE ELEVENTH ( 11TH) TARDY TO SCHOOL DURING A SEMESTER, THE STUDENT'S TARDINESS WILL BE REPORTED TO THE COUNTY ATTORNEY.

The telephone in the office is for business and emergency calls only. A student may use the phone in the office without charge if the call is made due to a change in school schedule or if the student is working with a teacher. Students are expected to use the telephone provided in the cafeteria only after school. Phone calls are 35 cents. Plans for rides home should be made in advance to avoid unnecessary phone calls.

1st Bell 8:00 am

2nd Bell 8:05 am

Period 1 8:10 - 9:00 a.m.

Period 2 9:04 - 9:54 am

Period 3 9:58 - 10:48 am

Period 4 10:52 - 11:42 am

Period 5 11:46 am-12:36 pm

Period 6 12:40 — 1:30 pm

Period 7 1:34 - 2:24 pm

Period 8 2:28 - 3:18 pm

It shall be the policy of Madison County School District No. 2, also known as Norfolk Public Schools, to report as truant any student enrolled in the district for truancy on the part of such student. For purposes of this Policy, such reporting shall not be required of any student who is at least 16 years of age at the time truancy occurs. The term "truancy," as used herein, shall mean unverified absences exceeding 5 days per quarter or the hourly equivalent or when the number of unverified absences exceeds 20 days cumulatively per school year or the hourly equivalent.

• For any quarter in which the number of unverified absences exceeds 5 days or its hourly equivalent, the Superintendent or his/her designee shall see that services which shall include, but need not be limited to, the following are provided to the student and his/her parent or guardian:
• One or more contacts between a school attendance officer, school social worker or other person designated by the school administration if such school does not have a school social worker, the student’s parent or guardian, and the student, if necessary, to report and to attempt to solve the truancy problem, unless the officer or worker has documented the refusal of the parent or guardian to participate in such meeting;
• Educational counseling to determine whether curriculum changes, including, but not limited to, enrolling the student in an alternative education program that meets the specific education and behavioral needs of the student, would help solve the truancy problem;
• Educational evaluation, which may include a psychological evaluation, to assist in determining the specific efforts by the school to help remedy any condition diagnosed; and
• Investigation of the truancy problem by the school social worker, or if such school does not have a school social worker, by another person designated by the administration, to identify conditions which may be contributing to the truancy problem. If services for the student and his/her family are determined to be needed, the school social worker or other person performing the investigation shall meet with the parent or guardian and the student to discuss any referral to appropriate community agencies for economic services, family or individual counseling, or other services required to remedy the conditions that are contributing to the truancy problem.

If the student in question continues to be or becomes habitually truant, the attendance officer for the District, or the Superintendent or his/her designee, shall serve a written notice to the student violating Section 79-201 warning him/her to comply with its provisions. If, within one week after the time such notice is given, such student is still violating the Section, the attendance officer or Superintendent or his/her designee shall file a report with the County Attorney of the County in which such student resides. In addition to such written report, the attendance officer of the Superintendent of his/her designee shall make reasonable efforts to report by telephone the continuing habitual truancy of the student. If after such notice has been sent to the parents, the student again violates the attendance requirements of this policy, no written notice is required and a complaint may be filed with the County Attorney immediately.

At any time during the school year when a student shall have been absent more than 20 days cumulatively or a like amount of time on an hourly equivalency, the attendance officer the Superintendent or his/her designee shall report that fact to the County Attorney in the county in which the student resides. In addition to notifying the County Attorney of such fact in writing, reasonable efforts to inform the County Attorney by telephone, as well, shall be made. If the County Attorney requests or requires any other reporting forms, the school attendance officer or the Superintendent or his/her designee shall complete such forms for reporting such excessive absenteeism or habitual truancy as described by this Policy and as defined by statute.

For the purposes of this policy, students will be considered truant if they:

• Fail to report to school and do not have an excuse from parents or guardians within 24 hours.
• Leave the building without checking out with the main office or school nurse and/or fail to have a parent call before leaving school.
• Are not in their assigned class, but remain in the school building without permission.

A student who is withdrawing from Norfolk Junior High should notify the office at least one week before leaving in order that teachers may be informed and special arrangements can be made in regard to previous assignments and tests. A day or two before the student actually leaves, he/she will be given a withdrawal slip which is to be initialed by all the student's teachers and the media specialist. This form is to be turned into the office before leaving school the last day. Everything on this form must be cleared properly and fines paid before a transcript of grades will be sent to another school.

The yearbook is prepared by the annual staff and it is representative of life at our school from September to May. The yearbook includes pictures of all students, all teachers, highlights of classroom activities, and some programs and activities. Initial orders are taken in the fall and it is delivered in the spring. If a student enrolls after the enrollment period has elapsed, a waiting list is kept in the principal's office.

Madison County School District No. 2 after having conducted a public hearing concerning parental involvement and participation in the school district declares that it will be the policy of the Norfolk Public Schools to provide access to parents to all textbooks, tests, curriculum materials and any other instructional materials used by the school.

The Title IX Indian Education Program, serving K-12 students, offers tutoring, mentoring, home-school communication/coordination and distributes school supplies each semester. If your student, the parent or grandparent is an enrolled member of a Native American tribe, please fill out the Student Eligibility form available from your school principal or central office (512 Philip). For additional information, or assistance for Native American students, contact Jan Beauvais, 644-2500.

In the event any parent has a complaint or objection to any such materials a personal conference with the parent and appropriate school personnel will be scheduled. A standard complaint form will be used by the parent to explain the nature of their concern. The complaint form will include, but not be limited to, the specific instruction, material complained of, the reason for the complaint, and the proposed solution for resolution of the complaint from the parent's perspective.

It shall also be the policy of the district to permit a parent to attend or monitor courses, assemblies, counseling sessions and other instructional activities when a reasonable advance request is made. The request could be denied if a parent's attendance would substantially interfere with a legitimate school interest.

When a parent believes it is to be appropriate for his/her student to be excused from testing, classroom instruction, and other school experiences that the parent finds objectionable he/she will present in writing on the standard complaint form described above the basis for the parents concern and a proposed solution for the objection that would be satisfactory to the parent.

It shall be the policy of the District to notify parents/guardians when a school sponsored survey will be administered. The nature of the survey, the date and time when the survey will be administered and the purposes for which the uses of the resulting information will be included in the notification. Copies of the instrument to be used will be available for parent examination in the Principal's Office of each building. After examination of the survey instrument, any parent who wishes to have their child exempted from completion of the survey must do so by means of a written request to the building principal.

It shall further be the policy of the District to provide full access to the records of the students to a parent/guardian all as set for in 79-4,157, the Federal Education Right To Privacy Act, and other applicable law during regular business hours of the school.

It shall also be the policy of the District to notify a parent/guardian when the student will participate in standard norm referenced or criterion referenced tests such as, but not limited to, California Achievement Tests, Iowa Test of Basic Skills and the Analytic Reading Inventory. When reasonable to do so, the parent/guardian will be notified where a sample of the test might be examined and the date upon which the test will be administered.

It shall also be the policy of the District that whenever a parental objection is raised concerning textbooks, tests, other curriculum materials, the subject matter of the course, assemblies, counseling sessions or other instructional activities the student may be excused from the activity. Only those requests made in good faith for reasons of conscience or on religious beliefs will be honored. Requests will be made to the building principal on a standard exemption form that will be available in all school buildings and the administrative offices of the District. The administrator of the building will direct the appropriate personnel to make a reasonable effort to provide when reasonable or practical to do so, alternate instructional and/or school experiences for those activities from which the student has been excused.

It shall also be the policy of the District to prohibit any reduction in grade, credit or other assessment to the student as a result of having been excused from any instructional school activity as a result of the objections of his/her parent/guardian under this policy.

You are hereby notified that current federal regulations require schools to inventory asbestos containing material and to develop a management plan to identify and control asbestos in their buildings. In addition, each parent, teacher, and employee organization must be notified annually about inspections, re-inspections, response actions, and past response actions and activities, including periodic surveillance that is planned or in progress.

Each school building in the Norfolk Public Schools has had a six-month surveillance inspection and a three-year inspection, with the last three-year inspection currently being conducted by certified inhouse personnel. All other types of asbestos activities are posted in the Public Notice ads of the Norfolk Daily News as the District needs to address those types of activities. The plan for each building is available at the Central Administration Building and at each school for that particular school for inspection (without cost) to any interested person. The District may charge for copies of the plan. The plan for each building has also been submitted to the Nebraska Department of Health, Division of Environmental Health and Housing surveillance in accordance with federal regulations. For more information on the Asbestos Management Plan, contact Robert G. Waite, 512 Phillip Avenue, Norfolk, Nebraska 68701, 644-2505.

Your child may, on occasion, be given the opportunity to take trips of various types. These trips may be of an instructional and/or excursion variety, or in direct connection with a specific assignment or class. We need your written consent in order that your child may have the advantage(s) of participating in any of the activities which the school may sponsor.

Student's name:_______________________________ Date:_________________

4. I consent____________________________________________(Parent's signature)
5. I do not consent_____________________________________(Parent's signature)

We acknowledge we have read the rules for riding the bus. We understand that consequences may result for violations (s) of these rules.

Student's signature ________________________________________________

Parent/guardian's signature ________________________________________________

Date: __________________________

Dear Student and Parent or Guardian:

Nebraska State Law requires that each school district develop rules and regulations regarding Student Conduct, Students’ Rights and Responsibilities, Harassment Policy, Internet Use, and Student’s Rights and Responsibilities in Extracurricular Activities, and distribute copies to students and parents. The attached rules and regulations are in effect for the 1999-2000 school year. We request that you return the Acknowledgment Sheet for our files. If you have any questions regarding the attached material, please feel free to contact a building administrator or the Director of Student Services.

Dr. Randy A. Nelson, Superintendent of Schools

The family of received and had an opportunity to read the Rules and Regulations for Student Conduct and Students’ Rights and Responsibilities, Harassment Policy, Internet Policy, and Student’s Rights and Responsibilities in Extracurricular Activities for the students in the Norfolk Public Schools.

September, 2001

The following rights and responsibilities are designed to strengthen self-discipline, to enhance physical and mental conditioning, to improve the health of the participant, and to provide due process to protect all students participating in extracurricular activities while attending the Norfolk Public Schools. It is the belief of the Norfolk Public Schools that students participating in activities should be held to a higher standard.

All students in grades 9 - 12 may be excluded from participation in extracurricular activities for the following infractions: Conduct constituting grounds for suspension or expulsion from the academic program as established in board policy. Any other violation of rules or standards of behavior under this policy.

Such exclusion shall be made only after the building administrator has made an investigation of the alleged conduct or violation and has determined that the student is guilty of the rules or standards of behavior contained in this policy. Before the exclusion(s) shall take effect, the student shall be given oral or written notice of the charges, an explanation of the evidence the authorities have, and an opportunity to present his/her version of the incident.

All students engaged in activities, such as: Interscholastic activities, including but not limited to, speech, debate, band, choir, orchestra, DECA, FFA, FBLA, and athletics;

Elected to a position of responsibility, including but not limited to, class officer, student council, or position of responsibility in any school activity; Representing the school in all school sponsored activities, including but not limited to, drama, Pink Panthers, band, and cheerleaders; or Honor Positions, including but not limited to Homecoming, Winter Royalty, Prom will be governed by the following rules.

These rules apply to student conduct during the entire calendar year. If a student violates one or more of these rules, he/she shall be subject to discipline as described in this policy.

In order to compete in Nebraska School Activities Association sanctioned activities, and all school sponsored activities, students must: Successfully complete 20 academic credits the prior semester and, Be enrolled in 20 academic credits during the current semester.

The following rules and standards concerning student conduct for extracurricular activities are established to assist the Norfolk Public Schools in carrying out the function of the activity. The infractions are: Possess, use, be under the influence of, sell or distribute alcohol or illegal drugs or possess drug paraphernalia.

In alcohol/drug related incidents, school administration shall recommend to families that students have an alcohol/drug evaluation performed by a qualified drug/alcohol counselor. The purpose of the evaluation is to help the individual student and the family. A list of local agencies is available from the principal, school nurse, or guidance counselor.

Possession or use of tobacco.

Engaging in any activity which is classified as a Class III Misdemeanor or more serious offense, as provided by the laws of the state of Nebraska. Offenses include but are not limited to: assault, threats and intimidation of students and/or faculty, shoplifting, theft, etc.

Is classified as a Class IV or V Misdemeanor under the following categories:

1. Tobacco use by minors
2. Minor misrepresenting age to obtain tobacco
3. Knowingly and voluntarily bringing to school, possessing, handling, or transmitting or using any gun, knife, or other dangerous weapon in school, on school grounds, or at a school function off of school grounds.
4. Violation of the Norfolk Public Schools’ Harassment Policy.
5. Are not specifically identified above, but which constitutes a danger to other students, interferes substantially with any extracurricular activity, or is deemed by the administration to be unacceptable.

The above listing is not inclusive and the administration and school reserves the right to deal with all infractions and violations on an individual basis. All violations will be dealt with in an equitable manner.

A committee will be formed to deal with and interpret violations not listed or in question. The committee membership will be representative of the entire School Staff.

Exclusion(s) is (are) to take place in the activity or activities that the student is currently engaged in or in the next activity in which the student participates.

Students will not be allowed to serve exclusion in an activity if they were not involved in that activity the prior season or school year. They will not be allowed to participate in any other activity until the suspension is completed.

When a student violates one of the previously listed infractions the building administrator will exclude that student from their current activity or activities or their next activity for a term equal to one-fourth of the season.

On a student’s first violation of a rule listed in this policy, the student may reduce the exclusion from the activity or activities by one-half by:

• Self-reporting to the school administrator or current activity coach/sponsor within the first school day after the violation occurs, including Summer School days.

• In drug/alcohol violations completing an evaluation performed by a qualified drug/alcohol counselor/ (at the parent's/student's expense) and following the recommendations.
• In other violations an intervention with the student, parent, coach, Activities Director, and Counselor will be held. Students that violate a rule at school, at a school activity, or being witnessed by a school staff member may not Self-Report.

The Self-Report option is only available for first-time offenders once during their high school (grades 9-12) career.

Students that violate any provision of this activity policy will be given a probationary period, typically one-year. During that year the Norfolk Public Schools will support and work with students by arranging meetings or classes with a School Counselor, School Psychologist, or Teacher-Mentor on a weekly basis. The meetings will continue until the Counselor, student, and parents no longer feel it is necessary. Upon successful completion of the probationary period the student may have the activity code violation removed from their record.

The second time a student violates one of the previously listed individual rule or a combination of rules the building administrator will exclude the student from their current activity (activities) or their next activity for the entire season. If the student’s current activity or activities, are over completed the exclusion will carry over to the next activity, or activities to meet the intent of this policy.

When a student accumulates a third violation of an individual rule or combination of rules listed previously the building administrator will exclude that student from extracurricular activities for a period of 12 months.

Any student accumulating four violations of an individual rule or combination of rules in paragraph I.A. of this policy will be excluded from extracurricular activities for the remainder of their high school career.

Disciplinary consequences are to be administered with as much uniformity as possible. Students who are excluded from participation in extracurricular activities will be provided due process.

The administration shall, as soon as is reasonably possible:

• Summarize in a written statement to the student and the student’s parent or guardian, the student’s alleged conduct or violation of the rules or standards.
• Make a reasonable effort to establish a conference between the parent or guardian and the student with the appropriate personnel before the student rejoins the activity.
• File a copy of the written summary with the Director of Student Services.
• If the building administrator makes a decision to discipline a student who is participating in an extracurricular activity and the parent or guardian does not accept this decision, the parent or guardian may appeal to the Director of Student Services. The student or the student’s parent or guardian shall file the appeal within five school days of the receipt of the written notice. The Director of Student Services shall review the incident and the disciplinary action imposed by the building administrator. The Director of Student Services shall inform the parent or guardian of his/her decision within seven calendar days from the date that the appeal is received.
• If the parent or guardian does not accept the decision made by the Director of Student Services, he/she may appeal, within five school days, to the Superintendent of Schools. The Superintendent shall review the incident and the disciplinary action imposed by the building administrator and/or the Director of Student Services. The Superintendent shall inform the parent or guardian of his/her decision within seven calendar days from the date the Director of Student Services’ decision is appealed.
• If the parent or guardian does not accept the decision made by the Superintendent of Schools, he/she may appeal to the Norfolk Public Schools’ Board of Education, within five school days. The Board of Education shall review the incident and the decision made by the Superintendent of Schools. They shall inform the parent or guardian of their decision within thirty calendar days from the date that the appeal is received. Nothing in this policy shall preclude the student or the student’s parent/guardian or representative from discussing and settling this matter with appropriate school personnel prior to the conference with the Director of Student Services, the Superintendent of Schools or the Board of Education.

August, 2001

It is the policy of the Norfolk Public Schools, Madison County District No. 2 that the learning and working environments within the District shall be free from harassment based upon an individual's race, color, religion, sex, national origin or disability. Violations of the policy may occur when: any employee of the District engages in harassment of students or other employees of the District because of that individual's race, color, religion, sex, national origin or disability while the employee or student is on or in District property or while engaged in a school sponsored activity; any student of the District engages in harassment of students or employees of the District because of that individual's race, color, religion, sex, national origin or disability while the employee or student is on or in District property or while engaged in a school sponsored activity; any employee or student of the District engages in harassment of other persons because of the person's race, color, religion, sex, national origin or disability while the employee or student is on or in District property or while engaged in a school sponsored activity.

"Harassment"--Whenever the term "harassment" is used in the policy or these guidelines it shall mean any unwelcomed or inappropriate verbal, written, or physical conduct toward another because of that individual's race, color, religion, sex, national origin or disability which has the direct or indirect purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's work, academic performance, extracurricular performance or use of school district facilities, or conduct which has the effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work or learning environment.

"Hostile Environment"--Whenever the term "hostile environment" is used in the policy or these guidelines it shall mean an environment: (a) where harassment conduct is sufficiently severe, pervasive or persistent so as to interfere with or limit the ability of an employee or student of the District or other persons, to participate in or benefit from the services, activities or privileges provided by the District; or, (b) where there is a pattern or practice of harassment.

"On or in School District Property"--Whenever the term "on or in school district property" is used in the policy or these guidelines, it shall mean: (a) any real property owned, leased, rented or controlled by the School District; or (b) any motor vehicles owned, leased, rented or controlled by the School District.

"School Sponsored Activity"--Whenever the term "school sponsored activity" is used in the policy or these guidelines, it shall mean any curricular or extracurricular activity sponsored in whole or in part by the school district wherever located.

"Severe, Pervasive or Persistent"--Whenever the term "severe, pervasive or persistent" is used in the policy or these guidelines, it shall mean conduct which generally consists of sustained and non-trivial conduct which constitutes more than casual or isolated incidents which are severe or harmful to the employee, student or individual. Generally, the severity of the incidents which are needed to establish a hostile environment vary inversely with the pervasiveness or persistence.

An employee, supervisor, student, parent or other person who is aware of any harassment shall immediately report such conduct as follows:

Student Complaints--Complaints concerning alleged harassment toward a student should be made to the student's building principal or assistant principal. If the individual does not feel comfortable discussing the complaint with the building's administrator, the complaint should be made to the Superintendent or his/her designee.

Employee Complaints--Complaints concerning alleged harassment toward an employee of the school district by a student of the school district should be made to the employee's building principal or supervisor. Complaints concerning alleged harassment toward an employee of the school district by a fellow employee should be made to the building administrator or the Title IX coordinator, at the Central Office.

Other Complaints--Complaints concerning alleged harassment toward parents, visitors to school district buildings or events or other persons should be made to a principal, assistant principal or supervisor in the building where the alleged harassment occurred or to the Superintendent or his/her designee.

When a complaint alleging harassment is received by an administrator in the school district, the following procedure should be followed:

The administrator who receives the complaint shall immediately contact the Title IX coordinator at Central Office.

An appropriate investigation will be initiated by the school district during which every effort shall be made to preserve the confidentiality of the person making the complaint.

In determining whether the alleged conduct constitutes harassment, consideration shall be given to the record of the incident as a whole and to the totality of the circumstances, including the context in which the alleged incident occurred.

The complaint files containing allegations of harassment shall be separately maintained and shall be confidential to the extent possible under law.

When it appears from the investigation that harassment has occurred, the school district shall make an immediate and appropriate response which is reasonably calculated to prevent recurrence and ensure that individuals are not restricted in their participation or benefits as a result of conduct which violates Board of Education Policy 401.5, Federal or State law.

Any employee or student of the school district may, at any time, file a grievance alleging that harassment in violation of Board of Education Policy 401.5, Federal or State law has occurred. The following grievance procedures are available:

Student/Parent Grievances--Student/parent grievances may be brought through Board of Education Policy 206.1, Equal Opportunity/Nondiscrimination.

Employee Grievances--Employee grievances may be brought through Board of Education Policy 411.1, Internal Communication and Complaints.

No employee or student shall be subjected to reprisals or retaliation as a result of the good-faith filing or processing of an allegation or grievance alleging harassment in violation of Board of Education Policy 401.5, Federal or State law. Likewise, no employee or student who participates in good-faith in any investigation of alleged harassment by the school district shall be subjected to reprisals or retaliation by any person because of such participation. Allegations of reprisals or retaliation by employees or students of the school district should be immediately reported pursuant to the above-described procedure.

Any employee or student of the school district who is found to have engaged in harassment in violation of Board of Education Policy 401.5 shall be subject to disciplinary sanctions as follows:

Student Conduct--Students who engage in conduct which constitutes a violation of Board of Education Policy 401.5 shall be subject to a disciplinary sanction as defined in the School District's Student's Rights and Responsibilities regarding Student Discipline.

Employee Conduct--Employees who engage in conduct which constitutes a violation of Board of Education Policy 401.5 shall be subject to discipline up to and including discharge from employment as defined in Board of Education Policy 403.3, Employment Termination For Certified Employees or 408.1, Classified Staff Termination. Any employee who engages in harassment which creates a hostile environment for any student or other employee shall be considered to have engaged in a willful or persistent violation of, or failure to obey the published regulations of the Board of Education.

Privileges: The use of Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use may result in the termination of those privileges. Users who apply for accounts will complete appropriate Internet training sessions as required by the district or the building administration prior to receiving an account. All users must sign the "User Acknowledgment Form". The signature indicates that the user understands and agrees to follow the Norfolk Public School’s "Internet Policy - Procedures and Guidelines".

Unacceptable Use: Users agree not to use the facilities and capabilities of the Panthernet system to:

• Transmit or store any information which violates or infringes upon the rights of any other person.
• Delete, examine, copy, or modify the files and/or data belonging to other users without their prior consent is prohibited.
• Transmit or store any abusive, profane, sexually oriented, sexually offensive, defamatory, demeaning, inaccurate, slanderous, threatening, racially offensive, threatening, or otherwise illegal information.
• Advertise, conduct business, conduct political lobbying, or solicit other users to purchase goods or services. Commercial use of the Panthernet system is expressly forbidden.
• Conduct or promote any activity that is prohibited by law. This would include, but is not restricted to, activities involving controlled substances, weapons, contraband, or incendiary devices.
• Transmit or store any material in violation of United States or Nebraska law.
• Perform any action that improperly restricts or inhibits other users from using and enjoying Panthernet. These actions include, but are not restricted to:

1. Vandalism. Any malicious attempt to harm or destroy the data of any other user on the Panthernet system, the Internet, or any other computer system. This includes, but is not limited to the uploading, creation, or transmission of computer viruses.
2. Security Breaches. Security on any computer system is a high priority. All of the following are considered violations of security policy: failure to report an identified security problem to an appropriate system administrator, demonstrating a security problem to others, allowing access to their account to anyone else, attempting to log in to the system using another user’s account or as a system administrator, failing to report a lost or stolen password immediately to a system administrator, failing to report to a system administrator if there is any possibility that someone has obtained unauthorized access to their account.
3. Multi-user Talk Sessions or Games. Using network resources to participate in Coffeehouses, MUDS, MOOS, or IRC’s is not allowed.
4. Misuse of Real-Time Interaction Capabilities (CHAT). Use of this system capability must be restricted to short amounts of time and must be in conjunction with the educational objectives of the Norfolk Public Schools.
5. Transmission of "Chain Letters". The use of the communication capabilities of the Panthernet system to send chain letters is a waste of network resources and is never acceptable.

Consequences of Unacceptable Use: Any action by a user that is determined by a system administrator to constitute an inappropriate use of Panthernet may result in termination of an offending user’s account as well as other consequences. The system administrators will deem what is inappropriate use and their decision is final subject to the due process provisions set forth below. (See also "Termination by System Administrator.") Also, the system administrators may close an account at any time as required. A canceled Panthernet account will not retain its mail. The administration, faculty, and staff of Norfolk Public Schools may request the system administrator deny, revoke, or suspend specific user accounts.

NORFOLK PUBLIC SCHOOLS

NORFOLK, NEBRASKA

The mission of the Norfolk Public Schools is to equip all students to succeed in a complex changing world.

AUGUST, 2001

This mission is based on beliefs and principles about how students learn and what they must know to behave as responsible citizens and productive workers in a highly competitive, increasingly global society.

This policy statement provides the general guidelines of conduct which are expected of our students. It also describes the responsibilities of the students in relation to this conduct standard.

These rules and standards apply to all school buildings and grounds, during and immediately before or after school hours. They also apply to school-sponsored functions both on and off school property.

The Board of Education has adopted the following policies of general application governing student conduct in all schools. Principals will establish other rules and regulations applicable to conduct at their respective sites that are consistent with those established by the Board of Education.

I. GENERAL STANDARDS OF BEHAVIOR:

It is expected that students will conduct themselves in a manner which is considerate of others, respectful of property and mindful of the good of all.

Students should therefore:

• Attend school regularly and punctually.
• Act in a manner that will enhance the learning environment for all students.
• Use school facilities in a way that will conserve their continued usefulness.
• Apply themselves to the best of their ability to the learning tasks assigned.
• Abide by school regulations and assist in their enforcement and modification.
• Participate constructively in school government and assist in modification of regulations for general school improvement.

II. STUDENT USE/ABUSE OF ALCOHOL AND OTHER SUBSTANCES:

All students have a right to attend school in an environment conducive to learning. Since alcohol and other drug use is illegal, contagious, and interferes with both effective learning and the healthy development of children and adolescents, the school has a fundamental legal and ethical obligation to prevent drug use and to maintain a drug-free educational environment.

No student may use, possess, be under the influence of, sell, or distribute alcohol or other substances, nor may use or possess drug paraphernalia (except drugs as prescribed by a physician) on school grounds or at school-sponsored events. The same restrictions apply to students participating in extracurricular activities. The terms "alcohol or other substances" shall refer to the use of all substances including, but not limited to, alcohol, tobacco, inhalants, illicit drugs, and look-a-likes. The inappropriate use of prescription and over-the-counter drugs shall also be prohibited. This policy applies to all school buildings, grounds and school-sponsored functions or events whether on or off school grounds.

The school district will provide a health curriculum that will include strategies of prevention and intervention designed to educate students on the use/abuse of alcohol and other substances.

Violations of this policy will be handled in accordance with the rules and regulations set forth in this document.

III. ATTENDANCE POLICY

IV. CONSEQUENCES OF DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR:

Conduct which violates the rules and regulations and policies adopted by the Board of Education and as set forth below will subject the student to disciplinary action. Disciplinary action may be, but is not limited to:

1. Circumstances warranting short-term suspension:

1. If the student has a dangerous communicable disease transmissible through normal school contacts.
2. If the student is infected with or can be proven to be a carrier of external parasites (such as head lice) which may be transmissible through normal school contacts and which pose a threat to the safety and well-being of the school community.
3. If the student is involved in behavior or activities which interfere with any educational function or which infringe upon the rights of other students to pursue an education. Some objectionable activities or behavior which could result in short-term suspensions are as follows:

1. Refusal to comply with reasonable standards of behavior
2. established by teachers or building administrators.

1. Fighting.

1. Engaging in the unlawful possession, being under the influence of, selling, dispensing, or use of an illegal substance, tobacco or alcoholic beverage.

1. If the student’s conduct presents a clear threat to the physical safety of himself/herself, or others, or is so extremely disruptive as to make temporary removal necessary to preserve the rights of other students to pursue an education.
2. Conduct constituting grounds for expulsion or long-term suspension as set out in Nebraska law.

2. Procedure for short-term suspension:

1. When a student is accused of conduct which might result in suspension under this section, the building administrator is to conduct an investigation into the charges made and ascertain whether there is evidence of a violation of sufficient seriousness to warrant further action.
2. When the building administrator believes that further action is needed, he/she shall inform the student of the charges against him/her and give the student an opportunity to present his/her version of the incident.
3. Should the building administrator believe that a short-term suspension is justified, the building administrator shall make every reasonable attempt to notify the student’s parent or guardian immediately.
4. The suspension shall take effect at the time specified by the building administrator. Written notification of the suspension shall be sent by regular mail to the parent or guardian as soon as is reasonably possible.
5. Such suspension may be either "in-school," where in a student does not attend classes but reports for study under supervised conditions as the building administrator may direct, or "out-of-school," where in a student is not permitted to be present on school property. In either case, students may not participate in or attend any activities sponsored by the Norfolk Public Schools.
6. Opportunity will be given students so suspended to make up work missed. The penalty imposed may be a reduction of one letter grade for daily grades and no more than 10% of a major test or activity.
7. If the building administrator makes a decision to discipline a student and the parent or guardian does not accept this decision, the parent or guardian may appeal to the Director of Student Services. The appeal must be filed with the Director of Student Services within 5 school days of the receipt of the written notice by the student or the students’ parent or guardian. The Director of Student Services shall review the incident and the disciplinary action imposed by the building administrator. The Director of Student Services shall inform the parent or guardian of his/her decision within three calendar days from the date the appeal is received.
8. Nothing in this policy shall preclude the student or the student’s parent, guardian or representative from discussing and settling this matter with appropriate school personnel prior to the conference with the Director of Student Services.

1. Regular Circumstances. The expulsion of a student shall be for a period not to exceed the remainder of the semester in which it took effect, unless the misconduct occurred (1) First Semester - within ten (10) school days prior to the end of the first semester, in which case the expulsion shall remain in effect through the second semester or (2) Second Semester - within ten (10) school days prior to the end of the second semester, in which case the expulsion shall remain in effect for summer school and the first semester of the following school year (subject to automatic review).
2. Special Circumstances involving use of force and personal injury. (1) First Semester - period not to exceed the remainder of the school year in which it took effect if the misconduct occurs during the first semester or (2) Second Semester - if the expulsion takes place during the second semester, the expulsion shall remain in effect for summer school and may remain in effect for the first semester of the following school year.
3. Special Circumstances involving firearms. Expulsion period not less than one calendar year.

1. Use of violence, force, coercion, threat, intimidation, or similar conduct in a manner that constitutes a substantial interference with school purposes.
2. Willfully causing or attempting to cause substantial damage to private or school property, stealing or attempting to steal private or school property of substantial value, or repeated damage or theft involving private or school property of small value.
3. Threatening , intimidating, causing or attempting to cause physical injury to a school employee or to any student. Physical injury caused by accident, self-defense or an action undertaken on the reasonable belief that it was necessary to protect some other person shall not constitute a violation of this subdivision.
4. Threatening or intimidating any student for the purpose of, or with the intent of, obtaining money or anything of value from such student.
5. Knowingly possessing, handling or transmitting any object or material that is ordinarily or generally considered a weapon. Knowingly possessing, handling or transmitting any object or material that is ordinarily or generally considered a firearm. The term "firearm" as described in 18 U.S.C. 921 means (1) any weapon (including a starter gun) which will, or is designed to, or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of any explosive; (2) the frame or receiver of any such weapon; (3) any firearm muffler or firearm silencer; or (4) any destructive device. Such term does not include an antique firearm.

The term "destructive device" means any explosive, incendiary, or poison gas such as a (1) bomb, (2) grenade,

(3) rocket having a propellant charge of more than four ounces, (4) missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than one-quarter ounce, (5) mine, or (6) device similar to any of the devices described in the preceding clauses.

6. Engaging in the unlawful possession, be under the influence of, selling or use of an illegal substance or alcoholic beverage or that which is represented to be an illegal substance or alcoholic beverage.
7. Public indecency.
8. Sexually assaulting or attempting to sexually assault any school employee or student (this may result in mandatory reassignment).
9. Engaging in any other activity forbidden by the laws of the State of Nebraska when this activity constitutes a danger to other students or interferes with school purposes.
10. Continuation of disruptive activities which resulted in disciplinary action or short-term suspension(s), if such violation constitutes a substantial interference with school purposes.

1. The principal may suspend a student immediately, regardless of the fact that a hearing was requested within five days of notice of expulsion or long-term suspension by the school, if the principal determines that such immediate suspension is necessary to prevent or substantially reduce the risk of: a) interference with an educational function or school purpose or b) personal injury to the student, other students, school employees, or school volunteers. Although the preferable practice is that the principal make such determination in writing, nothing in this policy shall so require. If no hearing is requested, the immediate suspension will continue until the date the long-term suspension, expulsion, or mandatory reassignment takes effect. If a hearing is requested, the suspension will continue until the date the hearing examiner files the report of his or her findings with the Superintendent, if the principal has made a determination as above described.
2. On the date of the decision a written charge and a summary of the evidence supporting such charge shall be filed with the Director of Student Services. The school shall, within two school days of the decision, send written notice by registered or certified mail to the student’s parent or guardian, and by regular mail to the student.
3. Such written notice shall include the following:

1. The rule or standard of conduct allegedly violated and the acts of the student alleged to constitute a cause for long-term suspension or expulsion, including a summary of the evidence to be presented against the student.

2. The penalty, if any, which the building administrator has recommended in the charge, and any other penalty to which the student may be subject.

3. A description of the hearing procedures provided along with procedures for appealing any decision rendered at the hearing.

4. A statement that the building administrator, legal counsel for the school, the student, the student’s parent or guardian, and/or the student’s representative (or legal counsel) shall have the right to examine the student’s academic and disciplinary records and any affidavits to be used at the hearing concerning the alleged misconduct, and the right to know the identity of the witnesses to appear at the hearing and the substance of their testimony.

5. A form on which the student, student’s parent, or guardian may request a hearing to be signed by such parties and delivered to the building administrator or Superintendent in person or by registered or certified mail as prescribed by state law.

4. Nothing in this policy shall preclude the student or the student’s parent, guardian or representative from discussing and settling this matter with appropriate school personnel prior to the hearing. If a hearing shall be requested within five school days of the receipt of the written notice by the student or the student’s parent or guardian, the Superintendent shall appoint a hearing examiner and all of the provisions of the Nebraska statutes which relate to such a hearing shall be adhered to.
5. If the student, parent or guardian institutes the appeal following the determination of the Superintendent, they may appeal to the Norfolk Board of Education. Such an appeal shall be made within seven school days following receipt of the written notice of the determination of the Superintendent.
6. A hearing shall be held before the Board of Education within a period of ten school days after it is requested and such time for a hearing may be changed by mutual agreement of the student and Superintendent, except that the hearing may be held before the Board of Education of not less than three members.

4. Alternative Education Program During Expulsion

1. An Alternative Education Program will be available to all students during the period their expulsion is in force, except for circumstances outlined in Section G.1.c. above (firearms). These Alternative Education services are made available to students in accordance with revised Nebraska State Statutes 79-266 and Nebraska State Rule 92NAC17. Student participation in an Alternative Education Program is optional. Specific components of this program are developed with the building principal and may vary, depending upon the age of the student.

• If both