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We are pleased to welcome you to the 2007-2008 school year at Piute Middle School, Home of the Warriors! We look forward to providing an outstanding academic and extra-curricular program and to helping students reach their full potential as students and citizens. The 2007-2008 school year brings us back to our first traditional calendar since year round education started here in 1991. We believe the schedule will be of educational benefit to students and will be a support to families.
Our administrative team is happy to work with you to meet students' and parents' needs. New to Piute for this school year is Mr. Simpson, Assistant Principal. Mr. Simpson will work primarily with 7th grade students and Dr. Glatfelter will work primarily with 6th and 8th grade students. We are, each of us, happy to address your questions, requests or concerns.
Our educational focus is effectively teaching California State Standards throughout the curriculum. Our mission statement is "All students will be successfully taught grade level standards every day." For your information and review, a copy of California Standards for each grade's core subjects is available in Piute's Parent Compact. Piute staff members continuously strive to improve teaching strategies and knowledge of standards to provide optimum learning opportunities. We have expanded our AVID (Achievement via Individual Determination) program this year to provide opportunities for both 7th and 8th grade students. This valuable program focuses on preparation for college.
This Piute Middle School handbook is a vital part of each student's education. Throughout the 2007-2008 school year, references will be made to information in this book. This handbook has been developed for your benefit and knowing the contents is a key to success. Reading and fully understanding what is contained in this book will result in a positive and rewarding Piute experience!
Our goal is to meet and exceed the testing expectations set forth by the State of California. To this end, we at Piute believe in the philosophy, "We are here to educate, not to discipline." The less time we are able to spend on discipline, the more time we are able to help students be successful. We believe in a team approach to education: students, parents, and Piute staff are all members of the team. The better we work together, the better experience students will have at Piute. Communication is a key to success in this vital job of educating students. Remember, students, when you have difficulty at school, don't be afraid to ask for help. There are many caring and understanding adults who are ready and willing to assist you. We encourage parents to call us with concerns or questions. We are here to help!
The front of this handbook is to be signed by both parent and student and given to homeroom teachers at the beginning of your school year. Work hard, get involved, and have a great year!
Kathy Lee, Principal
PIUTE MIDDLE SCHOOL STAFF
PRINCIPAL: KATHY LEE
Assistant Principal Brent Simpson Assistant Principal Andy Glatfelter
School Secretary: Judy Brenneman Categorical Specialist: April Nemila
Office Assistant II: Silvia Caballero Office Assistant I: Irma Medina
Office Assistant I: Marbella Flores Office Assistant I: Veronica Ramirez
Psychologist: Mike Stanforth Librarian: Gale Kaschube
Campus Security: Corey Jackson, Janet Artiga Night Custodians: Derrick Williams,
Day Custodian: Eric Johnson Jerry Denver
Health Clerk: Victoria Garcia Nurses: Stephanie Pielech,
Lauri Carpenter
6th Grade Teachers
Mrs. White |
Mr. Palmer |
Ms. Christensen |
Ms. Fuller |
7th Grade Teachers
Language Arts |
Math |
Social Studies |
Science |
8th Grade Teachers
Language Arts |
Math |
Social Studies |
Science |
6th / 7th/ 8th Grade Teachers
Dr. Gork, LA Intervention |
Mr. Weese, PE |
Mrs. Robertson, PE |
Mr. Valdez, ELL |
Special Education
Mr. Reyna, SDC |
Mr. Welsh, SDC |
Mr. Milianta, RSP |
Mr. Kingsley, SDC |
PIUTE MIDDLE SCHOOL
LANCASTER SCHOOL DISTRICT
STUDENT RULES AND REGULATIONS
The following rules and regulations represent necessary information that will equip students for a successful and rewarding learning experience.
SCHOOL HOURS
Regular Day Schedule 7:30 a.m. – 1:44 p.m.
Minimum Day Schedule 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
TARDY BELLS
Teachers begin instruction at the very beginning of the day, so we expect students to be in their seats, ready to learn, before the tardy bell rings at 7:30. To accommodate this, we suggest that your child arrive on campus by about 7:20 in order to have time to talk to friends, get a drink, or use the restroom before class begins.
ACADEMIC COURSES
Piute offers an academic program designed to meet state standards for each subject. Sixth grade students will learn in a self-contained program with a separate physical education class. Gifted and Talented Education (GATE), English Language Learners (ELL) instruction, resource and music courses are offered for each grade level. Seventh and eighth grade students learn in departmentalized settings. To address the needs of our students and meet testing requirements of the State of California, all students in grades 7 and 8 will be enrolled in two math classes in order to support the learning of California State Standards. The majority of students will also be enrolled in two Language Arts classes. Students who score at the proficient or advanced levels in Language Arts according to the STAR test and who receive the recommendation of their teacher will be eligible to enroll in an exploratory class. The choices for exploratory classes include a year-long Industrial Arts class or a Fine Arts class such as band. AVID (Achievement via Individual Determination), a college prep course, is now available for seventh and eighth grade students. All other students will be enrolled in a Reading Intervention Class and/or a Math Intervention Class. Again, placement in these classes is based on teacher recommendation or approval with a consideration of test scores and grades.
ATTENDANCE
Pupils are expected to attend school every day school is in session. Any pupil who is absent more than nine days in a year may be placed on probation and may be referred to the School Attendance Review Board for further evaluation. Any pupil who accumulates absences in excess of thirty days will be considered for retention. (These attendance guidelines do not pertain to pupils who are in Independent Study programs or who are served by a home/hospital teacher).
- California State law requires that students attend school regularly and punctually. Excellent attendance is instrumental in student learning, academic promotion, and state testing requirements.
- Students with more than 30 absences for the school year, excused or unexcused, will result in referral to the School Attendance Review Board (SARB), or possible retention. Absences that are not a result of illness, medical, or bereavement are extremely costly to the District.
- California law prohibits tardiness. Unexcused tardiness will result in two (2) demerits. The Education Code Section 48260 states that any student who is tardy to school in excess of 30 minutes on each of more than three days is considered a truancy. As with absences, excessive tardiness will result in a referral to the Student Attendance Review Board (SARB). Excused tardies include only the following:
a. Illness
b. Medical appointment
c. Death in the immediate family
- If circumstances prevent students attending school, parents must notify the office by phone (942-9508) before 9:00 a.m. OR, upon their return to school, students must bring a note from parents explaining the absence. The note should include the student's first and last name, date(s) of absence, reason for absence, and the note must be presented to the homeroom teacher for proper clearance. If a student is out for 2 or more consecutive days, homework may be requested by 9:00 a.m. ready for pick-up 1:44 p.m. the following day.
- If students go home for lunch, become ill, and remain home for the remainder of the afternoon, the parent or guardian is to call the school immediately to report the absence.
- Any pupil entering campus after the first bell has rung or who leaves the campus during the regular school day must check in/out through the office reception window. Any parent picking a child up at the school must personally sign the pupil out in the office. Picture identification cards are required in order to sign out students from school. Only the adults listed on the emergency card may sign the student out of school. These requirements also apply when requesting to speak to a student during the school day.
- Students may not leave school at any time without first reporting to the office for clearance. Students are not allowed to go home if they become ill or are hurt unless the school office can contact a parent or authorized person. It is necessary to have the information complete and updated on the Emergency Health Card. The correct phone number of an authorized person is essential, particularly in an emergency.
- Teachers take attendance during each class period, and any student who willfully “ditches” a class period or is truant will be referred to the principal for appropriate consequences.
- A parent or guardian must clear all absences, either on the day of the absence or before the student returns to school. Students must be in school every day. By city ordinance, a $250 fine will by levied if a student is caught truant by a Deputy Sheriff during school hours. ANY ABSENCE NOT REPORTED OR CLEARED BY A PARENT WILL BE CLASSIFIED AS A TRUANCY.
MINIMUM DAY
Minimum Days are scheduled periodically throughout the school year, and are marked with a “T” on the calendar included in this handbook. Minimum days fall on:
September 27 (Parent-Teacher Conf.) April 22, 23, 24 (State Testing) November 21 April 29, 30, May 1 (State Testing)
December 14 June 6 (Last Day of School)
March 14
Minimum Day Schedule 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
HOMEWORK
Piute staff concurs with the district policy statement that, “The Board of Trustees believes that homework assigned to students in the Lancaster School District should be an integral part of their total learning experience” (Policy 6154).
All students will be required to carry a HARDBACK, 3-RING BINDER with appropriate supplies.
HOMEWORK GUIDELINES:
1. The quantity of homework is any amount a teacher deems necessary for skill mastery. (If a problem does exist with an excessive amount, a parent-teacher conference should be requested).
2. Homework should be related to subject matter taught in the classroom. Quality of work
should be equivalent to classroom standards.
3. Homework should be evaluated within a reasonable time. Non-completion of homework may adversely affect the grade given.
4. Homework should be assigned when students need reinforcement of specific skills or need to complete assignments that are not finished in class.
5. Homework shall not be assigned as punishment.
6. Students should request necessary make-up assignments upon their return from an absence or suspension. Students shall have one day for each day’s absence to complete make-up work. Teachers should have one day to prepare assignments in response to requests for make-up assignments.
7. When a student is out of school for two or more consecutive days, a parent should call school (942-9508) before 9:00 a.m. to request homework. Assignments may be picked up the following day after 2:00 p.m. at the school office.
RESPONSIBILITY SHEETS
All Piute students are required to use the Responsibility Sheet as a method for assisting students in achieving success at school. This will enable students to have a daily assignment sheet, which will be kept in their hardback 3-ring binders. Students are required to fill in class work and homework assignments in the appropriate space on the Responsibility Sheet each period. Parents are encouraged to daily monitor Responsibility Sheets as missing assignments will be marked in red. Responsibility Sheets are to be signed each Friday night and returned to school on Monday. A more detailed description of the Responsibility Sheet program will be sent home during the first week of school. The Responsibility Sheet will encourage home/school accountability as we continue to maintain high expectations for academic performance and student behavior. Demerits will be issued for a late Responsibility sheet.
GRADES
- Report cards are issued three times a year, at the end of each trimester. Letter grades are used to designate a student’s progress.
- Mailed progress reports are issued mid-term. One progress report will be issued during the first trimester. Two mailed progress reports will be issued during the second and third trimesters.
- At the beginning of the 2nd trimester, students who are in danger of failing with less than 1.83 grade point average (GPA) will be placed on academic probation and parent notification will be made. All students will receive progress reports that will be mailed home every four weeks. Additional parent contact will be made at the beginning of the third trimester regarding grades needed during the final trimester to be promoted.
- In order for a student to be promoted to the next grade, at least a 1.83 grade point average (GPA) must be obtained EACH TRIMESTER.
TRIMESTER CALENDAR
1ST Trimester: August 14 – November 9
2nd Trimester: November 13 – February 29
3rd Trimester: March 3 – June 6
(See the appendix for the full calendar.)
ACADEMIC PROBATION
At the beginning of the 2nd trimester, students who are in danger of failing with less than a 1.83 grade point average (GPA) will be placed on academic probation and parent notification will be MAILED home. We ask that these forms be signed and returned to the school as acknowledgment of parent awareness of the Academic Probation status. Additional parent contact will be made at the beginning of the third trimester regarding grades needed during the final trimester to be promoted. In order for a student to be promoted to the next grade, at least a 1.83 grade point average must be obtained EACH TRIMESTER.
Parents of students on Academic Probation are strongly urged to enroll their student in After School Tutoring at any time during the school year. Parents need to insure their student’s attendance at all tutoring sessions. (Please see After School Tutoring)
AFTER SCHOOL TUTORING
After School Tutoring is offered to students who need academic tutoring or assistance. It is required for all students on Academic Probation. Piute offers tutoring in the areas of:
- Math
- Homework Help
- Algebra Club
- Language Arts
- Bilingual Homework Help
- Social Studies Club
- Science Club
After School tutoring meets three days each week, Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, in eight sessions over the course of the year. Students may earn .1 GPA credit for successful completion of each session of After School Tutoring. Students must follow all Piute rules, complete assigned tasks, and attend 7 or more days of the tutoring session to earn this credit. Please contact the school to obtain a form to enroll your student into tutoring. The exact dates and time will be listed on the enrollment form. Students that take a bus to school will take an activity bus home. Please note that drop off points will not be the same as regular drop off points. Parents of students on Academic Probation are strongly urged to enroll their student in After School Tutoring at any time during the school year. Parents need to insure their student’s attendance at all tutoring sessions. Attendance in After School Tutoring will support the student’s academic program, but alone, will not guarantee students will pass to the next grade. If you are interested in tutoring, please come to the front office to pick up an enrollment form.
STUDENT RECOGNITION
The staff at Piute Middle School takes pride in the accomplishments of our students and we look forward to celebrating these successes with you. Each trimester students are recognized for their achievements at awards assemblies. Family members will be invited to help us celebrate. Students may receive any of the following awards for which they qualify:
- 100 MERITS - 1st/2nd Trimesters: Awarded to any student who has not received any demerits for the entire trimester. 3rd Trimester: Students are recognized for not receiving demerits for the entire school year, to date.
- 90 MERITS - 1st/2nd Trimesters: Awarded to any student who has maintained 90 - 99 merits for the trimester.
- PRINCIPAL’S OR ASSISTANT PRINCIPALS' HONOR ROLL - 1st/2nd Trimesters: Awarded to students for high academic achievement during the trimester. Principal’s Honor Roll is awarded for a GPA of 3.83 to 4.0. Assistant Principal’s Honor Roll is awarded for a GPA of 3.5 to 3.67. 3rd Trimester: Presidential Gold and Silver Certificates are awarded.
- PERFECT ATTENDANCE - 1st/2nd Trimesters: Awarded to any student who has not been absent or tardy during the entire trimester. This award is not given the 3rd Trimester, as awards are distributed prior to the end of the school year.
- SPECIAL AWARDS - Each trimester teachers select students who deserve special recognition for accomplishments in their classroom. In addition to certificates, medals are also awarded during the 3rd trimester award ceremonies.
At promotion, students may receive recognition in the above areas in addition to other special end-of-year awards. One very special award will be given to any student who meets the criteria is the PIUTE AWARD OF EXCELLENCE. In order to receive this award an eighth grade student must:
- Maintain a GPA of at least 3.00 with no grade below a “C”.
- Maintain an “A” Citizenship grade for each trimester.
- Provide a minimum of 25 hours of pre-authorized supervised service to Piute or one of our feeder schools (or other school authorized services). All services must be pre-approved by the appropriate administrator and could include service to community organizations such as convalescent homes, hospitals, and home-less shelters or service groups.
The deadline for the Piute Award of Excellence (the application and service hours) will be announced in the bulletin.
Also at the end of the year, students will also receive the Presidential Gold or Silver Certificates. The criteria for these awards are as follows:
Presidential Gold Grade Point Average (GPA) 3.50 – 4.00 A-B in citizenship all year |
Presidential Silver Grade Point Average (GPA) 3.20 – 3.49 |
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Piute Middle School has a long tradition of excellence in our extra-curricular program. These programs are offered to all students. Most meetings occur after regular school hours. See “Eligibility Requirements for Extra-Curricular Activities” under Merit System in this handbook.
SPIRIT DAY - All students and staff members are encouraged to wear Piute Blue and White on Fridays.
SPORTS - The sports program is both intermural and intramural. All students in grades 6th, 7th, and 8th have an opportunity to participate in cross-country, soccer, volleyball, basketball and track.
MARCHING BAND AND DRILL TEAM - The record of our music department is impressive. The Piute Warrior band and drill team has won many trophies from major competitions throughout the state. Marching 100 and Drill Team will be held after school twice a week.
C.J.S.F. - The California Junior Scholarship Federation (CJSF) is an organization for honor students. This very active group provides service and various social events for our student body. During the course of the year, they take several major field trips. 6th graders are associate members during 2nd and 3rd trimesters. The application explains requirements of CJSF membership. An application can be requested through the CJSF advisor.
PIUTE PALS - The Piute Peer Assistance Leaders (P.A.L.s) is an active group of students helping students to adjust to the middle school setting. It is nationally recognized and is a state exemplary program.
STUDENT COUNCIL - Piute’s student council program is open to all eligible students who wish to take an active part in planning and implementing programs, assemblies, talent shows, dances, etc.
YEARBOOK - Students interested in photography, layouts, journalism, etc. are invited to participate on Piute’s Yearbook Committee.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES - ELIGIBILITY
Students must meet the requirements listed below in order to participate in extra-curricular activities such as sports teams, band and drill, student government, and other school activities.
- In order to be eligible to participate in extra-curricular activities, a student shall have earned a minimum 2.0 or “C” grade point average (GPA, as based on a 4.0 grading scale) during the preceding grading period (including the last trimester of the 5th grade for incoming 6th grade students).
- A student must maintain at least a “C” grade in citizenship in order to participate in sports.
- Student leaders and Piute PALs must maintain at least a “B” in citizenship.
- If a student becomes eligible for an activity following the beginning of the activity, he/she may be allowed to participate. This is possible with the coaches’ discretion only. If a student is ineligible during the tryout period, space may not be available if a student becomes eligible after the start of the season.
- Students wishing to participate shall be required to prove their eligibility by producing their latest grading period report card to the activity supervisor.
- Students who receive a “D” or “F” in citizenship will remain ineligible for all extracurricular activities (including dances) until the next progress report is issued and grades are satisfactory.
- Any student who attends or attempts to attend a school dance knowing that he/she is ineligible will lose all dance privileges for the remainder of the school year. No ticket refunds will be given. It is the student’s responsibility to know their eligibility prior to purchasing a ticket.
- Students that have been suspended will not be allowed to participate in any activity during the suspension period.
- Only official posted progress reports and/or final trimester grades will be used to determine student eligibility.
DANCES
- Students must maintain at least a C in citizenship to be eligible for dances and other extra-curricular activities. ONLY PIUTE STUDENTS IN GOOD STANDING MAY ATTEND DANCES. NO GUESTS.
- Students must arrange for transportation home prior to attending the dance.
- After-school dances are informal and acceptable school attire is appropriate.
- If a student is not picked up within 30 minutes following a dance, he or she will not be permitted to attend the next dance.
- Our two dress-up dances are the Winter Ball and the 8th Grade Promotion. Acceptable dress for these dances and other dress-up activities should include informal party dresses or skirts and blouses for girls and dress pants and collared shirts or sweaters for boys. Strapless gowns and tuxedos are prohibited for students at this age level. All attire, except shoes, must follow Piute’s dress code.
- The Promotion Dance is to be attended by promoting 8th grade students only.
- Suggestive dancing is not appropriate and may warrant removal from dance among other disciplinary measures.
- If a child is suspended from school on or for the day of the dance, they have forfeited their privilege to attend. Children who are absent on the day of the dance are not eligible.
Students should not purchase tickets to the dance if they are not eligible to attend. The cost of the tickets is forfeited when ineligible students purchase tickets. Students should verify their citizenship grade with their homeroom teacher prior to purchasing tickets.
PROMOTION AND RETENTION
Any decision to retain a pupil shall be based on a careful study of all available information. The final decision for promotion or retention rests with the principal.
In order to be promoted into the next grade, a pupil must meet the following criteria:
ATTENDANCE: Students are expected to attend school every day school is in session. Any student who is absent more than ten days in any trimester may be placed on probation. A student who is absent for more than thirty days for the school year will be seriously considered for retention in his/her current grade. The pupil and parent/guardian will be notified of the fact that the student is in danger of being retained.
GRADES: Trimester grades will be used to determine grade point averages (GPA) based on the following point equivalents:
A = 4.00
B = 3.00
C = 2.00
D = 1.00
F = 0.00
Any student receiving less than a 1.83 GPA (C- equivalent) in all subject areas (language arts, science, social studies, mathematics, electives and P.E.) per trimester will not be promoted with their class.
Only students who have met stated criteria and are eligible to be promoted to 9th grade may participate in promotion ceremonies. According to School Board Policy 5123, a student academically eligible for 8th grade promotion may be denied participation if the student is on suspension or recommended for expulsion at the time of promotion. Students placed in Long Term Opportunity may participate in the promotion ceremony only, and are not eligible to attend Fun Day or the Promotion Dance.
DRESS AND GROOMING
Piute Warriors reflect personal pride and school pride by wearing clothing that enhances their appearance. A student’s dress is expected to be conducive to a positive school climate and to an orderly educational program. The guidance of students in appropriate dress for school is the shared responsibility of home and school.
The principal or principal’s designee may send a student home to prepare properly for school should the student be unclean, improperly groomed, or if the attire is deemed unsafe, immodest or potentially disruptive to the educational process (Administrative Code, Title 5, Sec 302). Parents will be notified if students attend school improperly dressed. Pupils who persist in violating the following standards may be suspended or expelled in accordance with legal provisions. The following standards for all pupils are to be observed:
No pupil is permitted to dress in a bizarre fashion or manner or to attend class should they present a bizarre appearance. As used hereto, the term “bizarre” means that the dress, accessory item, fashion or appearance is disruptive to the educational process. This also includes hairstyles & hair colors of unnatural appearance. For example, burgundy, orange, blue, yellow, green, fire engine red, white, purple, or any other unnatural color is not permitted. Anything that distracts from the smooth functioning of the school program, as determined by the administration, is unacceptable.
Pupils are forbidden to be attired in a manner which is hostile to or constitutes a threat to the health, safety, or welfare of themselves or other pupils. This includes attire or apparel associated with youth gangs or adverse groups, or clothing which promotes guns, alcohol, tobacco, or drugs. (Baggy/sagging clothes are not permitted.)
Students are expected to dress in an appropriate manner for school. Clothing larger than a student’s body size is NOT PERMITTED.
All students shall wear shoes. Slippers, thongs, back-less sandals and opened-toed shoes, which do not offer sanitary or safety protection, shall be prohibited. No folded socks in shoes. Sneakers must be completely laced and tied at the top (on the outside).
Shirts/blouses, which are transparent, see-through, low cut, strapless or which reveal a bare midriff when arms are fully extended above the head are unacceptable. (No tank tops, tube tops, crop tops, sleeveless tops, halter tops etc.)
Clothing is to be worn in the manner in which it is designed to be worn. (e.g. straps up and snapped on overalls, no “inside-out” clothing, etc.). Shorts and pants must be hemmed. No frayed, ripped or tattered cuffs.
To accommodate students on extremely warm days, shorts may be worn. Shorts and skirts/dresses are to reflect modesty and good taste. Shorts and skirts must be below the fingers when arms are hung naturally at the side.
No baseball caps, hats, or any other type of headgear (except for religious purposes) will be worn on campus or at any school-related activity. Special arrangements are considered during inclement weather during which time plain colored hats or caps may be permitted to provide protection from the sun or cold. Such hats, caps, or jacket hoods may be worn outside only.
For safety purposes, no dangling earrings or large hoops will be permitted. (If a quarter fits through the hoop, the earring is too large.) Visible piercing should be limited to ears only. Tattoos are not permitted.
No clothing may be worn which advertises controlled substances such as alcohol, tobacco, drugs, violence, etc. Slogans or advertising on clothing, which by their controversial or obscene nature disrupt the educational setting, are prohibited.
Acceptable dress for dances such as the Winter Ball, the 8th grade promotion dance and other dress-up activities should include informal party dresses or skirts and blouses for girls and dress pants with collared shirts or sweaters for boys. Strapless, low cut, back-less, sleeveless gowns and tuxedos are prohibited. Dress for after-school dances and other informal activities will include appropriate school clothing.
Visible undergarments are not acceptable.
Wallets on chains are not permitted.
Wearing pajamas to school is not permitted.
Spray Colognes or Spray Deodorants are not to be brought or used at school due to the possible allergic reactions of others.
Please note: Because styles change and because our primary concern is the safety of students,
the dress code will be re-evaluated from time to time to insure an orderly and
safe campus and scholastic environment.
The following consequences will apply if the dress code rules are not adhered to:
- 1st Offense – change clothes and 3 demerits
- 2nd Offense - change clothes, 3 demerits, call home
- 3rd Offense – OFFICE REFERRAL, change clothes, 3 demerits, 3 demerits for defiance, lunch detention 5 days
- 4th Offense - OFFICE REFERRAL, change clothes, 3 demerits, 3 demerits for defiance, 5 days opportunity or 2 days suspension at administrator’s discretion
Lancaster School District policy (Policy 5132) states that “students reflect pride in themselves and in their school by wearing clothing that enhances their appearance. Students’ dress is expected to be conducive to a positive school climate and to an orderly educational program. All clothing and accessories shall reflect good taste.” Those students who persist in violating the district’s standards may be suspended or expelled in accordance with legal provisions.
MERIT SYSTEM
Piute Middle School believes in the practice of rewarding students for promoting a positive school atmosphere. We provide assemblies and activities for students with superior citizenship. Conferences with parents are scheduled in order to promote positive citizenship.
Students begin each trimester with 100 merits (A). As they break rules (as listed on the sample demerit form in the appendix) merits are removed from the total.
CITIZENSHIP GRADES:
A 90 –100 B 80 – 89 C 70 – 79 D 60 – 69 F 59 or fewer
The discipline procedure is as follows: Students who drop in citizenship from an “A” to “B” and “B” to “C” will counsel with their homeroom teacher. Students who fall below the “C” level in may experience any or all of the following actions: Parent conference, detention, suspension, loss of extra curricular activities, placement in “Opportunity Class”, and/or alternative off-campus educational placement.
DEMERIT OFFENSES EXPLANATION
1. Food Code/Gum (3 demerits)
Possession, eating or chewing
2. Tardy (2 demerits)
3. Unprepared (1 demerit)
Not bringing materials to class
4. Profanity (3 demerits)
Cursing, vulgar actions or words, etc.
5. Unsafe Actions (3 demerits)
Pushing, shoving, scuffling, horseplay: anything jeopardizing the safety of students
Usually involves one or more other students.
6. Classroom Rules (1-5 demerits)
Each teacher establishes rules for the classroom and has them posted
7. School Rules (1-5demerits)
Given for violation of general school rules or violations that occur outside the classroom
8. Out of Area (2 demerits)
Any location where the student should not be.
9. Defiance or Disrespect (3-5 demerits)
Inappropriate behavior or response to adults
10. Classroom/School Disturbance (3-5 demerits)
Interrupting learning in the classroom. Teacher judgment. More serious than classroom rule. An explanation will be given.
11. Put-downs (3 demerits)
Any words or actions which are derogatory or demeaning to another person
12. Responsibility Sheet (1-2 demerits)
Signed Responsibility Sheets are due on Monday. Demerits are issued as follows-
Monday = 1, Tuesday = 2 if Responsibility Sheet is missing
13. Truancy (8 demerits)
14. Dress Code Violation (1-3 demerits)
Violating Piute’s dress code, including improper shoes, pants, shirts, etc.
15. Suspension (10 demerits)
Every suspension is accompanied by 10 demerits.
On any one-demerit slip having a total of three (3) or more demerits the referring teacher will call home to make a parent contact. A student will automatically receive ten (10) demerits for any offense resulting in suspension from school.
The following guidelines will be used by the administration for students who have earned an “F” in citizenship. (Placement in Opportunity may be more or less than the suggested days, based on the reasons for the demerits.)
Merits 59 – 50 One day in Opportunity
Merits 49 – 40 Two additional days in Opportunity
Merits 39 – 30 Three additional days in Opportunity
Merits 29 or fewer Four additional days in Opportunity, or long term opportunity, at the discretion of the administration
The following Municipal Penal Codes and/or Lancaster City Codes will be strictly enforced and can result in a fine being given:
Truancy - 2 MC 9-16-20 LCC; Fighting - 243.1A PC (Battery on school grounds);
Smoking - 308(13) PC (Possession of Tobacco)
GUM/CANDY
Gum, candy, sunflower seeds, etc., are not to be brought to school. Three (3) demerits will be issued for violators. Any student who sells candy, gum, or other items, on campus will be subject to suspension from school, and the items and money will be confiscated.
HALL PASSES
When it is necessary to leave the classroom, students must have a written pass from the teacher showing the date, time, and destination. The pass must be handed to the person to whom the student reports. A hall pass is printed on the back of each responsibility sheet.
No student will be admitted to the office or A-1 during the school day without a pass, except in an emergency situation. Students referred to the nurse during physical education may be referred by their instructor without a written pass to insure student safety.
OPPORTUNITY CLASS
An OPPORTUNITY CLASS is available for students not achieving behavioral or academic success. Opportunity is designed as a structured, self-contained environment where students are instructed in one classroom throughout the day. Class size is generally smaller and students receive more individualized attention. The length of stay in this class varies according to the needs of each student. Opportunity placement may be assigned specifically for disciplinary reasons. Parents will be notified by phone or by written correspondence of placement in this class.
PERSONAL ITEMS/ITEMS NOT ALLOWED AT SCHOOL/LOST AND FOUND
- A pen and pencil machine is available at or near the reception window for your convenience.
- Place your name and homeroom number on your notebooks, P.E. clothing, jackets, etc. Articles that are found around campus should be turned in to the Reception Window.
- Lost clothing and other articles may be located behind Room 13 (Computer Lab) in the lost and found cart.
- Personal items not required for school purposes will not be permitted at school. These include cell phones, CD players, cameras, CDs, Walkman, cassettes, video games, dice, baseball and collectible cards, toys, pagers, pictures and photographs, magazines or magazine pictures, drawings or grafitti considered gang related or other items unrelated to education and learning. Students may receive demerits for having unauthorized items and repeated possession may also result in confiscation until a parent claims them from the principal. The Piute staff cannot be responsible for any damage to or loss of or damage to personal property.
- Skateboards, roller-blades, roller shoes, scooters, etc., are not permitted at school nor are they to be ridden on campus after school.
- White out and permanent markers are not permitted at school.
- Laser pointers are not permitted at school.
- Cell phones are not permitted at school. Possession of cell phones will result in confiscation each time students are in possession and may be retrieved from the principal. Emergency phone calls can be made from the office as requested after school.
- Cameras are not allowed at school with the exception of the last day of school and 8th grade Fun Day to Magic Mountain.
- Drugs, alcohol, tobacco, guns, knives, weapons, or objects that look like any of these are strictly prohibited on campus and at school-related events.
Students' possessions that are not allowed at school may be confiscated by school staff. Parents may retrieve confiscated items from the administrative office. We are not responsible for lost or stolen items.
BICYCLES
- Bicycles are to be locked and left in the bicycle racks located in the enclosure, one bike, one lock. Students are not to lock two or more bikes together.
- The bike rack will be locked at 7:30 a.m. and unlocked at 1:44 p.m.
- Lancaster School District Policy 5142.3 requires students to wear bicycle helmets (it is a state law). Students who do not wear a helmet as they ride are subject to a fine by law enforcement.
- In addition, California Vehicle code section 21212(a) requires all minors to wear approved type helmets.
- Privileges may be taken away for violation of bicycle regulations such as:
a. Riding on school campus.
b. Riding on sidewalks immediately adjacent to the school when pedestrians are present.
- Tampering with someone else’s bike.
- Violating local police regulations such as riding against a red light, etc.
- Failure to wear a helmet
- Skateboards, roller blades, scooters, roller shoes, and roller skates are prohibited on campus at all times.
BUS RULES
Riding the school bus is a privilege, not a right. The bus driver is responsible for the safety and welfare of all the students on the bus. Students failing to abide by the bus rules and to obey the directions of the bus driver may have their bus riding privileges revoked. Site administrators shall immediately remove any students(s) from the bus who is causing problems and poses a threat to the safety and welfare of other students.
Specific rules and consequences are issued by the Antelope Valley Schools Transportation Agency (AVSTA). The bus driver is responsible for enforcing these rules and will issue warning and/or walking tickets to those students who choose to misbehave. Repeated violations may lead to suspension of transportation privileges not only for travel to and from school but also on field trips. The Lancaster School District will support AVSTA in enforcing the rules, which include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Cooperate with the driver. Follow directions the first time they are given.
- Arrive at the bus stop not more than 5 minutes before the scheduled bus arrival. While going to and from bus stop and while waiting for the bus, keep out of street and off private property. Noisy, rowdy behavior and/or property damage at a bus stop could cause that stop to be moved to a less convenient location. Students must use the designated stop closest to his or her home both A.M. and P.M. Any student having to use another stop in an “emergency only” situation only must have a note pre-approved by the school and parent receiving the child at the stop.
- Board and leave the bus in an orderly manner. Do not push other students. Follow driver’s instructions concerning seating location and unloading procedure.
- Be seated promptly. Be willing to share seat with fellow bus riders.
- Always sit facing front of the bus. Remain seated when bus is in motion. Do not change seats without permission of driver. Do not save seats for others.
- Keep head, hands and arms inside bus at all times. Do not yell out of windows to others outside of bus.
- No physical contact of ANY kind is allowed. Keep hands off other people and off other’s possessions.
- Animals, insects and reptiles are not permitted on the bus. Guide dogs and signal dogs accepted (54.2 Civil Code).
- Glass containers, skateboards, roller blades/skates, large musical instruments that cannot be carried on the student’s lap, radios, tape players, playground equipment, etc. and other large bulky items are prohibited on bus. (Pupils should arrange for parents to transport such items when required.) Personal items must be kept in backpack. Special arrangements must be made for the transportation of athletic equipment. Cleats and/or spikes must be removed before entering bus.
- Bus aisle and emergency exits must be kept clear of feet, legs, arms, books, and lunches.
- Keep the bus clean. Do not to eat, drink or chew gum on the bus or make inappropriate gestures.
- Students must wear shoes and shirts at all times while on the bus. No open cosmetics or aerosol cans are permitted.
- Do not use obscene or vulgar language. Smoking and lighting of matches are not permitted on bus. No hazardous materials, liquids, solids, or gases are permitted on the bus.
- Do not deface or destroy bus equipment. Damage to seats, windows and other parts of the bus is unnecessary and costly. The student responsible will pay for any damage.
- Avoid loud talking, loud laughter or unnecessary confusion (it may divert the driver’s attention and could result in an accident).
- Students living across the street upon which the bus is stopped to unload them should cross only when the driver indicates it is safe to do so. Students must cross the street in front of the bus and walk straight across the street. The driver will escort elementary and junior high students across the street.
- In school districts with bus passes, students must show their bus pass before boarding the bus and may not use another student’s pass.
- Students are NOT allowed to use cell phones while on the bus. Cell phones in student’s possession while on a bus MUST be left in backpacks at all times.
Remember that transportation is a privilege. Failure to abide by one or more of these rules may result in the loss of bus riding privileges.
The Lancaster School District believes all students can behave appropriately and safely while riding on a school bus. We will not tolerate students deterring drivers from doing their job or preventing other students from having safe transportation.
The following consequences will be carried out by agency personnel if a student continues to disregard bus rules:
1st Ticket: Written notice to parents and school administrator.
2nd Ticket: Loss of bus privileges for 3 school days. Parent responsible for transporting the student.
3rd Ticket: Loss of bus privileges for 5 school days. Parent contact made – conference may be set up with school administrator, parents, students and agency representative at school site.
4th Ticket: Loss of bus privileges for 10 school days. Parent responsible for transporting student.
5th Ticket: Will result in loss of bus privileges per Title V, Section 14103 #B for the remainder of the school year.
The Severe Clause:
The severe clause may be invoked without a warning ticket having been previously issued whenever the offense is of such serious nature to warrant it. Some examples of these offenses are:
- Physical contact of any kind with Driver or Student.
- Any violation causing or likely to cause injury to Driver or Student.
- Use of foul or obscene language. Any gang signs or racial remarks.
- Threatening Driver or Student. Arguing with the driver.
- Destroying or defacing bus or bus equipment.
- Jumping out of bus window or emergency door.
- Throwing objects in or out of bus.
- Any actions that interferes with the safe transportation of Student. Continued disorderly conduct.
- Weapon of any kind.
- Any violation of the Education code.
Consequence: Student will be denied bus transportation until a conference with parents; administrator, agency representative and student can be arranged if deemed necessary.
LANCASTER SCHOOL DISTRICT CONTRACTS WITH THE ANTELOPE VALLEY SCHOOLS TRANSPORTATION AGENCY. PLEASE CONTACT THEM (945-3621) IF YOU HAVE ANY CONCERNS OR QUESTIONS REGARDING THE TRANSPORT-ATION OF STUDENTS.
LUNCH PERIOD REGULATIONS
- This is a closed campus. All students must remain on school grounds during the lunch period unless the office has written approved authorization.
- An authorized person listed on the emergency card may check out students for lunch. Parents may not take a group of students to lunch due to school liability. To check students out of the office, a picture ID card is required.
- All lunches, whether purchased or brought from home, must be eaten in the cafeteria area. FOOD MAY NOT BE EATEN IN ANY OTHER AREA OTHER THAN THE CAFETERIA AND QUAD.
- Proper conduct is expected in the cafeteria and quad at all times. Throwing food, papers, etc., will result in suspension from school.
- No lunch money will be loaned from the office.
- Piute uses a computerized lunch ticket system. Students are issued a five digit ID pin number that is the last five digits of their permanent student ID number. This five-digit code remains the same throughout a student’s enrollment in the Lancaster School District and should be memorized. Student should not share their number with their peers.
- Bringing food for lunchtime celebration is prohibited (i.e., birthdays, etc.).
YEARBOOKS
Students will be notified of yearbook sales. Pre-sale prices and regular sale prices will be announced.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
All P.E. students are expected to dress out daily. To allow full participation and protection of school clothing, appropriate P.E. dress should be worn. Students who continually forget P.E. clothes will receive consequences as outlined in the P.E. department handout. Students who do not dress out may be issued demerits and may serve a day in the Opportunity room.
RELEASE OF STUDENTS DURING SCHOOL HOURS
- All students shall be released from school grounds under the supervision of school personnel.
- Students released during school hours must be released through the school office.
- Students will only be released to the parent(s) or emergency contacts indicated on the student’s emergency card. Picture ID is required.
- The person checking the student out of school must sign the office log.
- In an emergency situation, when a parent needs a child released to someone other than the persons indicated on the emergency card, the parent must do the following:
- Phone the school and identify themselves by repeating to the office personnel the information on the emergency card.
- Give the name and description of the person to pick up the child. (The person must show proper identification).
- Whenever possible, send a written request with the person who is picking up the child signed by the requesting parent.
- Instances where these steps are not followed will result in the student being released at the end of the school day per the usual release procedures
- Non-custodial parents may NOT pick students up at school unless the emergency card so stipulates or the custodial parent gives permission per the guidelines above.
- Regular school day dismissal (end of day) shall be through the classroom teacher.
- Any student release situation that leaves the student’s welfare in question shall be handled at the discretion of the site administrator or designee. Should any such situation become a disruption to the school, the sheriff’s office will be called and an officer will be requested to intervene.
Parents are asked to make every attempt not to involve school sites in custody matters.
CLOSED CAMPUS
- Piute has a closed campus for your protection.
- All students must remain on the school grounds during the day, including lunch period, unless authorized to go home. Off-campus passes are issued through the office (See Lunch Period Regulations).
- Students leaving school during the school day must be picked up and signed out in the school office by a parent or designated adult who is listed on the student’s emergency card. For student safety, identification is required.
- No Guests will be admitted to the campus without authorization, which may by obtained from the school office.
- Parents are required to check in at the office before speaking with their student. For student safety, ID is required. Please do not call students to the fence.
FIELD TRIPS
The Lancaster School District board recognizes that field trips are important components in the instructional program of the schools. (Policy 6153) All school-sponsored trips involving students shall have proper supervision by school employees. Parents are encouraged to participate in such supervision.
Per Ed. Code 35330(d), all persons making the field trip or excursion shall be deemed to have waived all claims against the district or the State of California for injury, accident, illness, or death occurring during the field trip or excursion.
FIRE AND DISASTER DRILLS
Fire Drills are held monthly at Piute Middle School. The following procedures should be observed:
- The fire drill signal will be a rapid series of short bells.
- When a fire signal is sounded, follow directions as given in your classroom.
- Leave the building in a quick and orderly manner, walking in a single file line.
- Follow the exit route designated by your teacher. It is unsafe to talk. If you miss instructions, you may get hurt.
- Do not stop to gather books or other belongings.
- At the end of the drill, students should return quickly and quietly to their classroom by the same route, according to teacher direction.
- Drop, hold, and dispersal drills will be practiced at least once each trimester.
EMERGENCIES AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS PLAN
Lancaster School District Policy 6114.1 states that the school district must be prepared to respond immediately and responsibly to events, which may be threatening or disastrous. The plan should be reviewed and updated annually. The disaster plan shall include, but not be limited to:
Fires (Fire drills shall be sounded not less than once every calendar month per ed. code 32001.)
Bombs (threats or actual bomb detonation)
Disasters such as floods, heavy snows, torrential rains, earthquakes, and tornados.
Disasters such as riots, chemical accidents, airplane crashes.
Senate Bill 187 requires school to identify appropriate safety strategies and programs that will address the school’s procedures for complying with existing laws related to school safety. Each school site must maintain the comprehensive school safety plan in the school office, and make the plan available for public review. The School Safety Plan Committee shall meet annually to review the plan and amend as needed.
SCHOOL SAFETY PLAN (SB187)
Senate Bill 187 requires school to identify appropriate safety strategies and programs that will address the school’s procedures for complying with existing laws related to school safety. Each school site must maintain the comprehensive school safety plan in the school office, and make the plan available for public review. The School Safety Plan Committee shall meet annually to review the plan and amend as needed.
HEALTH SERVICES
- IMMUNIZATIONS: The California State Law requires that all students have proper/up-to-date immunizations for unconditional admission to school. Students with incomplete immunizations will be referred to the school nurse. Students not up to date on immunizations may be subject to exclusion until immunizations are current.
- School Physicals: The State of California requires all Kindergarten students to have a school entrance physical that needs to be completed after 4½ years of age. Our district requires that a copy of this physical be kept in your child’s cumulative folder.
- Administration of Medication: The parent or legal guardian of any public school pupil on a continuing medication regimen for a non-episodic condition shall inform the school nurse or other designated certificated school employee of the medication being taken, the current dosage, and the name of the supervising physician. With the consent of the parent or legal guardian of the pupil, the school nurse may communicate with the physician and may counsel with the school personnel regarding the possible effects of the drug on the child’s physical, intellectual, and social behavior, as well as possible behavioral signs and symptoms of adverse side effects, omission, or overdose.
- Illness/injury: If a student becomes ill during regular school hours, the nurse/health clerk, or other office staff, will provide basic care until parents, or alternate persons listed on the Emergency Card, can be contacted. In the situation of a student accident, the school will provide basic first aid only. If an injury requires more than basic first aid, the parent will be notified immediately. In the event of a serious injury, paramedics will be called first as the safety of a child is of primary importance. Parents will be notified as soon as possible.
- Medical Restrictions: All information regarding medical restrictions must be placed on the student’s Emergency Card. All students requiring medical procedures must have an Individual Health Plan (IHP) stipulating medical protocols.
MEDICATION
REGULATIONS ON THE ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION DURING SCHOOL HOURS
School personnel, if authorized by the responsible administrator, may assist pupils who must take prescribed medication during school hours.
- GENERAL POLICY
- No pupil shall be given medication during school hours except upon the written request from a licensed physician/surgeon who has the responsibility for the medical management of the pupil. The parent or guardian must sign all such requests.
- No medication may be brought to school by pupils.
- Medication includes both OTC, (over the counter) and prescribed items.
- Parent request and physician statement must be renewed at least annually; new signed statements must be submitted if the medication regimen is changed.
- RESPONSIBILITY OF THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN
- Parents and guardians shall be encouraged to cooperate with the physician to develop a schedule so that the necessity for taking medications at school be minimized or eliminated.
- Parents and guardians will assume full responsibility for the supplying of all medications.
- Parents and guardians shall deliver or cause to be delivered by an adult or an authorized employee of a pharmaceutical supplier, any medication to be administered under the provisions of this policy.
- RESPONSIBILITY OF THE PHYSICIAN
- A request form for each prescribed medication must be completed by the pupil's physician, signed by the parent or guardian, and filed with the school nurse or designated representative.
- The container must be clearly labeled with the following information:
- Pupil's full name
- Physician’s name
- Physician’s telephone number
- Name of medication
- Dosage, schedule, and dose form
- Date of expiration of prescription
- Each medication is to be in a separate contained labeled as above.
- RESPONSIBILITY OF SCHOOL PERSONNEL
- The school nurse or designee will assume responsibility for placing medications in a locked cabinet, which shall be used only for the storage of medication.
- Pupils will be assisted with taking medications according to the physician’s instructions, and the procedure observed by the school nurse or designee.
- DO NOT GIVE MEDICATION if there is a discrepancy.
INCLEMENT WEATHER
For the health and safety of students, inclement weather guidelines are available at all schools and will be implemented when temperatures are in excess of 100°, below freezing, or during conditions of extreme wind.
The South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) establishes smog alert warnings. Once notification of a smog alert is received, the following guidelines will be invoked by the school principal:
Predicated or Attained Stage 1 Smog Episode
Strenuous physical activities for all students shall be discontinued.
Students shall be allowed to remain indoors.
Home athletic events shall be canceled or relocated.
Predicated or Attained Stage 2 Smog Episode
Strenuous physical activities by all students shall be discontinued.
All elementary students shall be required to remain inside.
Co-curricular and extra curricular activities shall be discontinued.
Predicated or Attained Stage 3 Smog Episode
Same as above.
INDEPENDENT STUDY (SHORT TERM)
Independent Study may be used if a student is going to be absent for reasons other than illness. A request form for Independent Study is available in the office and must be approved by an Administrator. Once the request form is approved, the Independent Study contract requires the signature of the parent/guardian, student, teacher, and the principal a minimum of three days before the absence. The work is to be brought to the front office upon returning from the Independent Study period.
GUIDELINES
- Short-term independent student is defined as independent study for a period of from five (5) to fifteen (15) school days. Independent study contracts for more than fifteen school days will not be granted.
- According to board policy, independent study is permitted for travel or for students having adjustment problems.
- Short-term independent study is permitted at the discretion of the Principal. The school attendance office requires a minimum of 3 school days prior notification in order to obtain necessary assignments.
- Some independent study contracts are for vacations, trips, and other absences from the area planned by the family. These contracts should only be approved before the planned absence. Vacations should be taken during the summer or during winter or spring breaks, except in unusual circumstances.
- A request for independent study where parents indicate they missed the date their child was to start school is not appropriate. Allowing a student to make up school time missed by faulty parent planning is not a legitimate purpose of independent study.
- If a student has been enrolled in independent study previously, but has failed to hand in or complete assignments, a principal has the discretion to deny independent study based on a poor record of completion.
- Some questions to ask that can assist you in deciding if independent study is appropriate:
- Is the activity in the interest of the student?
- Is there a reasonable expectation of completion of assignments?
- Has the trip or vacation planned time for completion of independent study assignments?
- Will approval of the independent study contract send a signal of responsibility or irresponsibility to the student?
- Has a reasonable effort been made to plan vacation during non-school time?
- The office telephone is available only to students who are ill and need to arrange transportation home.
- Because personal messages are disruptive to the educational process, please make certain your student knows about after school plans BEFORE he/she leaves home in the morning. Messages will be delivered in cases of emergency only and will be referred to administration.
- As no pay phone is available at Piute, it is important to make transportation arrangements prior to leaving for school. Emergency phone calls can be made in A1 or the front office.
- Personal cell phones are not allowed for students.
- Copies of your basic textbooks may be checked out to you for your use at home. Classroom sets will be available for use in the classroom. Students will need to carry a hardback 3-ring binder for binder paper and responsibility sheet.
- Students are responsible for the numbered books assigned to them and will be required to return them to school at the end of the school year or trimester, as requested.
- Students are responsible for the proper care of all textbooks.
- Students will be required to pay for book loss or damage due to their own negligence or irresponsibility (A list of texts and replacement prices is included in this handbook).
- Only eligible CURRENTLY ENROLLED PROMOTING eighth grade PIUTE students are permitted to participate in the end-of-the year activities (Fun Day, promotion ceremony, promotion dance, etc.) NO GUESTS are permitted at the promotion dance.
- Any student who is suspended from regular school activities is ineligible for any extracurricular activities taking place during the day(s) of the suspension including end-of-the-year activities (Fun Day, Promotion Ceremony, Promotion Dance, etc.)
- Any sixth grade, seventh grade student or ineligible eighth grade student who attends Magic Mountain on fun day is in violation of school rules and state law (because he/she must be truant to do so). These students may also receive a truancy citation. Any ineligible eighth grade student who attends fun day (with or without parent approval) will lose the privilege of participating in the Promotion Ceremony and Promotion Dance. Any seventh grade student who attends fun day will lose these privileges as an eighth grader.
- The Promotion Dance and Fun Day will be restricted to those eighth graders who have at least a “C” average in citizenship (a minimum of 210 merits) for the entire school year.
- In addition, students must have at least a “C” in citizenship for the last trimester of eighth grade in order to participate in the Fun Day or Promotion Dance.
- Each student’s account for lost textbooks, library books, fund-raiser, and P.E. locks must be paid for prior to report cards and/or Certificates of Completion being issued.
- Students placed in Long Term Opportunity are not eligible for participation in the end of year activities with the exception of the promotion ceremony (final decision for participation will be made by principal).
- Students who have received a bus ticket and are not able to ride a bus may NOT participate in activities that require bus transportation.
- Students who are on Independent Study may NOT participate in any activities.
- As it is a school-sponsored event, any 8th grade student eligible to attend Fun Day must ride the bus to and from the activity. Any eligible 8th grade student who fails to do so may lose Promotion Ceremony privileges.
- School Site Interruptions. There are many state criminal statutes whose purpose is to limit access to school buildings to authorized persons. These laws provide penalties to those who loiter near a school, enter without authorization, or interfere with the operation of a school.
- Any student who has been suspended or expelled from Piute or who attends another school is prohibited from entering Piute’s campus.
- Any unauthorized student who enters the campus without permission or who is loitering around the campus will be subject to suspension, expulsion and/or arrest for trespassing.
- The Lancaster School District Board desires to provide an orderly, caring and nondiscriminatory learning environment in which all students can feel comfortable and take pride in their school and their achievements.
- It is the policy of the Lancaster School District that discrimination and harassment are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
- Acts of discrimination and harassment are inflammatory to those victimized by such acts and jeopardize the safety and well being of students and staff.
- Students who harass other students shall be subject to appropriate discipline.
- District programs and activities shall be free from discrimination, including harassment with respect to ethnic group, religion, gender, color, race, national origin and physical or mental disabilities.
- COMPLAINT PROCEDURE: A complaint procedure has been established to address all complaints that allege that the district has violated Federal or State laws regarding educational programs. It is the policy of the Lancaster School District that racial/ethnical discrimination is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. The purpose of this complaint procedure has been established to secure an equitable solution to all complaints of racial/ethnic discrimination or harassment. (Policy 5150.5) The Lancaster School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability. The District provides reasonable accommodations appropriate to a disabled person’s needs (Title VI Civil Rights Act) (Title IX 1972 Education Act).
- MEDICAL AND HOSPITAL INSURANCE AND SERVICES: The Lancaster School District does provide Student Accident Insurance for injuries incurred while school is in session and while attending or participating in school sponsored and supervised activities. This insurance is SECONDARY to any accident or medical insurance the student’s family may have and will be on a reimbursement basis ONLY by claim forms available at the school office.
- SEX EDUCATION, venereal disease, HIV/AIDS education or family life education in which reproductive organs and their functions are described, illustrated or discussed requires written parental permission for student participation. If such a course is planned at some future time, you will be notified of your right to inspect and review pertinent written or audiovisual materials prior to course presentation. This section does not apply to words or pictures in any science, hygiene or health textbook (Education Code Section 51550, 51820).
- PHYSICAL EXAMINATION: Immunization and physical examination are required for school entry, however, these may be waived by parent request. The child may be sent home if, for some reason, he/she is believed to be suffering from certain contagious or infectious diseases. (E.C. 49451)
- DENTAL SCREENING may be conducted visually to determine which students are in need of dental care. Parent will be notified if referral for dental care is indicated.
- ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION prescribed by a physician or over the counter (OTC) medication for a child during the school day may be administered by a nurse or another staff member, if designated, under detailed instructions of a physician, but only upon written parental request (E.C. 49423).
- VISION & HEARING SCREENING of a child, including tests for visual acuity and color vision, will be conducted by authorized personnel upon first enrollment and at least every third year thereafter. The evaluation may be waived upon presentation of an appropriate certificate from a physician or optometrist (E.C. 49455).
- ACADEMIC, LANGUAGE, AND HEALTH SCREENINGS will be performed by district staff as the need indicates. Parents will be informed of any additional testing that may be needed.
- STUDENT RECORDS will be transferred if you move to a new location and enroll your child another school district. If you wish to review the records, please contact the school prior to the time you leave the district. You have the right to inspect and review any and all records, files, data related to your child at any time. If you have any concern regarding the accuracy or appropriateness of any information or record maintained by the school, please do not hesitate to inform the principal. The school district does not release information or records concerning your child to non-educational organizations or individuals without your consent. Directory information, to include student’s name, address, date and place of birth, participation in officially recognized sports, dates of attendance, awards received, and the most recent previous public or private school, may be released to the following persons or agencies: representatives of the news media, including but not limited to newspapers, magazines, radio and television stations, parent organizations serving the school from which the information is requested. The district may limit or deny access to the aforementioned information based upon a determination of the best interest of the pupils. No directory information shall be released regarding any pupil when a parent has notified the school district that such information shall not be released (E.C. 49060, 49063, 49069, 49073).
- RECORDS OF EXPULSION AND SUSPENSION: Specifies for purpose of notification parents and required reporting to the California Department of Education, that all offenses set forth in EC 48900 (a-o) shall be properly identified in all appropriate records of a pupil.
- SCHOOL DISCIPLINE PLAN: School site student discipline plans will be provided to students each school year. Such plans are part of and consistent with Board Policy (E.C. 35291).
- RIGHT TO DUE PROCESS: Federal law requires that a free and appropriate education in the least restrictive environment be offered to all handicapped students. A parent and a pupil may initiate procedural due process to any decision regarding the pupil’s identification as an individual with exceptional needs; the pupil’s assessment and implementation of the individualized educational program; and the denial, placement, transfer, or termination of the pupil in a special education and related services program, and the child’s placement. Further information is available at the local school. Uniform complaint procedures (Title 5 CCR) are available upon request from the Department of Student Services Director (E.C. 56329,53680, 56506, PL94‑142, PL101-476).
- ATTENDANCE: Each parent, guardian, or other person having control or charge of any minor, shall send the pupil to the public full time day school or continuation school or classes. Children who are being instructed in a private full time day school shall be exempted. Any pupil subject to compulsory full time education who has been deemed a habitual truant may be referred to the School Attendance Review Board (E.C. 48205).
- THE PARENT OR GUARDIAN OF A LANCASTER STUDENT SHALL BE LIABLE TO THE DISTRICT FOR ALL PROPERTY BELONGING TO THE DISTRICT loaned to the student and not returned to the district upon demand of an employee of the district. Records may be withheld from students and/or parents pending compensation for damaged or missing school property (E.C. 19910, C.C. 1714.1).
- INDIVIDUALIZED INSTRUCTION is available to pupils with temporary disabilities residing in hospitals or residential health care facilities. (E.C. 48206.3) It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian of a pupil with a temporary disability to notify the school district in which the pupil is deemed to reside. (E.C. 48208) A pupil with a temporary disability who is in a hospital or other residential health facility (excluding a state hospital) shall be deemed to have complied with the residency requirements for school attendance in the school district in which the hospital is located (E.C. 48207).
- DRUG EDUCATION: Instruction is provided in grade K‑8 on the effects of the uses of tobacco, alcohol, narcotics, dangerous drugs, and other dangerous substances (E.C. 48980).
- CONFIDENTIAL MEDICAL SERVICE: Pupils in grades 7 and 8 absent to obtain confidential medical services will be considered excused. However, the District will not release students from school for such services unless accompanied by a parent or guardian, or under protective custody (E.C. 46010.1).
- SEXUAL HARASSMENT: can be an expellable offense (E.C. 212.5, 48900.2). Board Policy 5145.7 The Board of Trustees prohibits unlawful sexual harassment of or by any student by anyone in or from the District. Teachers shall discuss this policy with their students in age-appropriate ways and should assure them that they need not endure any form of sexual harassment. Any person who engages in the sexual harassment of anyone in or from the District may be subject to disciplinary action. The Board expects students or staff to immediately report incidents of sexual harassment to the principal or designee or to the Director of Human Resource Services/Classified. Any student who feels that he/she is being harassed should immediately contact the principal or designee or the Director of human Resource Services/Classified in order to obtain a copy of Policy 1312.3 Uniform Complaint Procedures. Complaints of harassment can be filed in accordance with these procedures. The District prohibits retaliatory behavior against any complaint of sexual harassment shall be promptly investigated in a way that respects the privacy of all parties concerned.
- A COPY OF THE SCHOOL ACCOUNTABILITY REPORT CARD is available upon request from your school or from the Educational Services Department at the District Office (E.C. 35256).
- A COPY OF THE ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PLAN is available in the Office of the Principal.
- Qualifications. – At the Beginning of each school year, a local educational agency that receives funds under this part shall notify the parents of each student attending any school receiving funds under this part that the parents may request, and the agency will provide the parents on request (and in a timely manner), information regarding the professional qualifications of the student’s classroom teachers, including, at a minimum, the following:
- Whether the teacher has met State qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction.
- Whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which State qualification or licensing criteria have been waived.
- The baccalaureate degree major of the teacher and any other graduate certification or degree held by the teacher, and the field of discipline of the certification or degree.
- Whether the child is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications.
- Additional Information. – In addition to the information that parents may request under Subparagraph (A), a school that receives funds under this part shall provide to each individual parent-
- Information on the level of achievement of the parent’s child in each of the State academic assessments as required under this part: and
- Timely notice that the parent’s child has been assigned, or has been taught for 4 or more consecutive weeks, by a teacher who is not highly qualified.
- Prohibited sexual harassment includes but is not limited to, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, visual or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:
- Submission to the conduct is explicitly or implicitly made a term or condition of an individual’s employment, academic status or progress.
- Submission to or rejection of the conduct by an individual is used as the basis for academic or employment decisions affecting the individual.
- The conduct has the purpose of effect of having a negative impact on the individual’s academic or work performance, or of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational or work environment.
- Submission to or rejection of the conduct by the individual is used as the basis for any decision affecting the individual regarding benefits and services, honors, programs, or activities available at or through the school.
- Unwelcome leering, sexual flirtations or propositions.
- Unwelcome sexual slurs, epithets, threats, verbal abuse, derogatory comments or sexually degrading descriptions.
- Graphic verbal comments about an individual’s body, or overly personal conversation.
- Sexual jokes, stories, drawing
TELEPHONE
STUDENTS MUST BE PICKED UP WITHIN 30 MINUTES FOLLOWING AN AFTER SCHOOL FUNCTION OR THEY MAY NOT BE ELIGIBLE TO PARTICIPATE IN OTHER SUCH ACTIVITIES (Dances, sports activities, concerts, etc).
TEXTBOOKS
TEXTBOOKS ARE VERY EXPENSIVE. PLEASE TAKE GOOD CARE OF THEM!
END-OF-THE-YEAR ACTIVITIES - EIGHTH GRADERS
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS:
Our 8th grade “fun day” is usually at Magic Mountain. Students will be required to pay for the cost of the ticket along with a transportation cost. A transportation-only fee will be charged to students with a season's pass or ticket. These fees and dates for purchase will be made available as the year comes to a close. Students will be notified of ticket sale dates.
INTERNET USE AGREEMENTS
Internet/on-line electronic services are used at Piute to provide appropriate access to content used to support and enhance the curriculum. Before using the Internet/on-line services, each user/parent/guardian shall sign the District’s user contract indicating that the user understands and agrees to abide by Education Code 6163.4. A copy of the Education Code 6163.4 is on page 47 of this student handbook. An “Internet Use Agreement” will be distributed upon enrollment and must be signed and on file before students have access to the Internet.
DISCIPLINE
Lancaster School District is a “Zero Tolerance” district. Students are expected to show respect for each other by keeping hands, feet and objects to themselves. Students are also expected to conduct themselves in keeping with their level of maturity, showing respect for established authority and the rights and welfare of others.
STUDENT CONDUCT
Students shall attend school punctually and regularly, conform to the regulations of the school, obey all the directions of the teacher and others in authority, observe good order and propriety of deportment, be diligent in study, respectful to teachers and others in authority, be kind and courteous to schoolmates, and refrain from the use of profane and vulgar language.
Parents are expected to cooperate with school authorities concerning the behavior of their children.
Parents shall be held responsible for the willful misbehavior of their children as dictated by section 1714.1 of the Civil Code and Education Code 48904.
SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION
Recent legislation stipulates that the Principal of each school inform students about changes in the law dealing with reasons for suspension and expulsion. The sections of Education Code 48900 that pertain to students are listed in the district policy section of this handbook. Please review these laws and discuss with your parents/student.
E.C. 48915 - RECOMMENDING EXPULSION The principal or the superintendent of schools shall recommend a pupil’s expulsion for any of the following acts:
(1) Causing serious physical injury to another person, except in self-defense.
(2) Possession of any firearm, knife, explosive, or other dangerous object of no reasonable use to the pupil at school or at a school activity off school grounds.
(3) Unlawful sale of any controlled substance, as defined in Section 11007 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the sale of not more than one avoirdupois ounce of marijuana, other than concentrated cannabis.
(4) Robbery or extortion.
PROHIBITIONS AGAINST VIOLENCE AND DISRUPTION IN SCHOOLS
PROHIBITED CONDUCT:
Threats to Personal Safety. It is a public offense to cause or attempt to cause any school employee to do, or refrain from doing his or her duties, by directly communicating a threat of injury to a person or property, if the person threatened reasonably believes that the threat could be carried out. Such offense is punishable by a fine of up to $10,000, or up to one year in jail, or both.
MARIJUANA POSSESSION LAWS
1983 HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE, SECTION 11357
Offense: Unauthorized possession, at any time or place, of any amount of concentrated cannabis.
Penalty: For all offenders, fine of not more than $500, or imprisonment in County Jail for
not more than one year, or both, or imprisonment in a state Prison.
Offense: Unauthorized possession, at any time or place, of more than 28.5 grams (one
ounce) of marijuana.
Penalty: For all offenders, fine of not more than $500, or imprisonment in county jail for not more than six months, or both.
Offense: Unauthorized possession, on grounds of any school having grades
Kindergarten through 12, during hours school is open for class or school related functions, of not more than 28.5 grams (one ounce) of marijuana.
Penalty: For person 18 years old or older, fine of not more than $500, or imprisonment in county jail for not more than 10 days, or both; for persons younger than 18, fine of not more than $250 for a first offense and fine of not more than $500, or commitment to juvenile hall, ranch, camp, forestry camp, or secure juvenile home for not more than 10 days, or both for a second or subsequent offense.
Offense: Unauthorized possession, at any time or place other than school, of not more
than 28.5 grams (one ounce) of marijuana.
Penalty: For all offenders (unless arrested demands to be brought before magistrate, arresting officer shall release arrested after arrested presents satisfactory identification and signs promise to appear - much the same process as a traffic citation), fine of not more than $100; if person is convicted of this offense three or more times during the two years preceding a subsequent conviction for this offense, the court shall “divert” the offender to a community program for education, treatment, or rehabilitation, if any such program will accept the offender, instead of levying the fine.
For reasonable cause, school authorities retain the right to search students for possession of alcohol, tobacco, drugs, drug paraphernalia and/or weapons.
UNAUTHORIZED STUDENTS ON CAMPUS
VISITORS AND CLOSED CAMPUS
The Lancaster School District Policy states that the Board of Trustees and staff of the school district welcome and strongly encourage members of the community, as well as other interested persons, to visit our schools (Policy 1250). Per civil code 3-2.10, persons without specific written authority or permission to occupy the premises, excluding playground areas, are considered trespassers. Visitors must stop in the school office prior to proceeding to the classroom.
According to stated policy, “Visits during school hours are encouraged and should first be arranged with the teacher, principal, or designee. If a conference is desired, an appointment should be set with the teacher during non-instructional times. Unless otherwise arranged, classroom visits may be limited to 20 minutes and will be scheduled at the discretion of the administrative and teaching staff.”
A full copy of the “Visits to Schools” policy is available in the principal’s office.
The Lancaster School District requires that all district schools maintain a closed campus. Students leaving school must obtain the Principal’s permission. Students leaving school during the day must be signed out in the school office by a parent/guardian or designated adult who is listed on the student’s emergency card.
CHILD ABUSE REPORTING LAW
Lancaster School District employees are required by law to immediately report to the Department of Children Services any child who has: injuries, bruises, and/or marks of a suspicious nature; who exhibits signs of neglect and/or sexual abuse; or who verbally reports abuse to a school staff member or other district employee.
LANCASTER SCHOOL DISTRICT
DISTRICT POLICIES
ASSAULT ON A SCHOOL EMPLOYEE
When an assault is committed on school property against any person, the assault is punishable by a fine not exceeding two thousand dollars ($2,000.00), or by imprisonment in the county not exceeding one year, or both such fine and imprisonment. (Penal Code 241.6) Students suspended or sent home from school are required to keep current on their school work and return it to their teachers immediately upon returning to school in order to receive credit.
DISCRIMINATION AND HARASSMENT
The Lancaster School District policy regarding Discrimination and Harassment (Policy 5150.5) is as follows:
DISTURBANCE IN SCHOOLS
Any person who unlawfully fights within any building or upon the grounds of any school, community college, university, or state university or challenges another person within any building or upon the grounds to fight, or maliciously and willfully disturbs another person within any of these buildings or upon the grounds by loud and unreasonable noise, or uses offensive words within any of these buildings or upon the grounds which are inherently likely to provoke an immediate violent reaction is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not exceeding four hundred dollars ($400) or by imprisonment in the county jail for a period of not more than 90 days or both. (Penal Code 415.5)
DRUG FREE SCHOOL POLICY
The law requires us to make the community, parents and students aware of the dangers of using drugs, alcohol and tobacco. The Lancaster School District policy is as follows: (Policy 3515.3)
Drugs, alcohol and tobacco possession, sales, or use is not permitted at any school or District site or any activities, athletic events and meetings. This includes employees, students and visitors.
Use of drugs, alcohol and tobacco on school premises or at school-sponsored events is a violation of law and Board policy (Policy 5131.6 (a) R&R) and therefore is not permitted. Students violating this policy shall be subjected to disciplinary procedures. Students shall receive instruction on drug, alcohol, and tobacco education regarding the effects of such behavior.
PARENT RIGHTS
California Education Code requires that parents be apprised annually of their rights concerning student attendance in the public school system. Please read the following list of rights carefully, and note that items asterisked concern activities that can be waived by parental request. Questions regarding these rights may be directed to your local school office.
IMMUNIZATION SERVICES may be performed by District nurses, under the direction of a supervising physician, and with the permission of the parent or guardian (E.C. 49403).
DUTIES OF PUPILS: All students are required to conform to school regulations; obey all directions; be diligent in study and respectful to teachers and others in authority; and refrain from the use of profane and vulgar language (CA Code of Regulations, Title 5, Set 300).
DUTY CONCERNING CONDUCT OF PUPIL: Every teacher in the public schools shall hold pupils to a strict account for their conduct on the way to and from school, on the playgrounds, or during recess (E.C. 44807).
RESIDENCY BASED ON PARENT OR GUARDIAN EMPLOYMENT: Parents may request inter-district attendance permits for student to attend school in the Lancaster School District (E.C. 46601.5, 46600; Policy 5118.1).
INTRADISTRICT ATTENDANCE PERMITS: Parents may request intra-district attendance permit (zone exception) for student to attend a school other than their home school (E.C. 35160.5; Policy 5117.1).
EXCUSE FROM INSTRUCTION IN HEALTH EDUCATION: in the areas covered due to religious beliefs (including personal moral convictions) of the parent shall, upon written request, be permitted for the parts in conflict with the beliefs (E.C. 51240, 46014).
PARENTS RIGHT TO KNOW
On January 8, 2002, President Bush signed into law “The No Child Left Behind Act” (NCLB), the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). A provision of this new Title I law requires all districts to notify parents of all children in all Title I schools that they have the right to request and receive timely information on the professional qualifications of their children’s classroom teachers. This requirement applies to all Title I schools, both Targeted Assistance and Schoolwide.
According to the new NCLB law (Section 1111 – State Plans, (6) Parents’ Right-to-Know), LEAs must report:
Because Lancaster School District receives Title I Part A funds, all teachers must be highly qualified by the end of 2005-06 whether or not hey are paid with Title I funds. This means that any teacher that is hired prior to the first day of the 2002-03 school year has four years to obtain the necessary credentials.
PROFANITY
As per Penal code Sections 415(2) and 415(3), the use of profanity on school premises or in the school office is prohibited by law and is punishable by imprisonment in the County Jail for a period of not more than 90 days, a fine of not more than $400.00, or both such imprisonment and fine.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY
Education Code 212.6 and 48989 require each educational institution to have a written policy on sexual harassment that includes information on how to report a case. Below is Lancaster School District’s written Policy on Sexual Harassment (Policy 5145.7)
STUDENTS - SEXUAL HARASSMENT
The Board of Trustees prohibits unlawful sexual harassment of or by any student by anyone in or from the District.
Teachers shall discuss this policy with their students in age-appropriate ways and should assure them that they need not endure any form of sexual harassment.
Any person who engages in the sexual harassment of anyone in or from the District may be subject to disciplinary action.
The Board expects students or staff to immediately report incidents of sexual harassment to the principal or designee or to the Assistant superintendent of Personnel Services.
Any student who feels that he/she is being harassed should immediately contact the principal or designee or the Director of Human Resource Services/Classified in order to obtain a copy of Policy 1312.3 Uniform Complaint Procedures. Complaints of harassment can be filed in accordance with these procedures.
The District prohibits retaliatory behavior against any complaint of sexual harassment shall be promptly investigated in a way that respects the privacy of all parties concerned.
The rules and regulations section of this policy, further states: