Student Handbook
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Mission Statement & History……………………………………………….. 3
Board of Education Members…..………………………………………….. 4
Administration……………………………………………………………….. 4
Faculty and Staff…………………………………………………………...... 4
Sylvan-Lucas Unified Pride Policy……………………………………….… 6
Nondiscrimination…………………………………………………………… 7
Enrollment…………………………………………………………………… 7
School Age Requirements………………………………………........ 7
Address/Phone Number Change…………………………………….. 7
Students Records…………………………………………………....... 7
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act………………………… 8
Directory Information……………………………………………...…. 8
Academics…………………………………………………………………….. 9
Graduation Requirements…………………………………………… 9
Qualified Admissions………………………………………………... 9
Qualified Admissions Curriculum…………………………………... 9
Kansas Scholars Curriculum………………………………………… 10
Work Study…………………………………………………………. 10
Early Graduation……………………………………………………. 10
Progress Report and Grade Cards………………………………….. 11
Grade Scale & Points.……………………………………………… 11
Class Change………………………………………………………. 11
Weighted Grade Point Average (GPA)…………………………….. 12
Simple vs. Weighted GPA Calculations…………………………… 12
Honor Roll…………………………………………………………. 13
Cumulative GPA/Valedictorian/Salutatorian……………………… 13
Class Rank…………………………………………………………. 13
Class Change………………………………………………………. 13
High School Grade Classification…………………………………. 13
Junior High Retention Policy……………………………………… 13
Elementary Retention Policy………………………………………. 14
Eligibility Requirements – 7th – 12th Grade……………………….. 14
Interscholastic Activities Eligibility – 7th – 12th Grade…………… 14
Attendance Policy………………………………………………………….. 15
Elementary School…………………………………………………. 15
Compulsory Attendance Requirements…………………………… 15
Tardy Policy………………………………………………………. 16
Extenuating Medical Circumstances……………………………… 16
Extended Personal Days…………………………………………... 16
Excessive Absences……………………………………………….. 17
Truancy…………………………………………………………….. 17
School-Related Absences…………………………………………. 17
Unexcused Absent Assignment Grade Policy…………………….. 17
Activities…………………………………………………………… 17
Sign In/Sign Out…………………………………………………… 17
Make-up Work…………………………………………………….. 17
Release of Student during School Hours………………………….. 17
Student Conduct/Discipline………………………………………………... 18
Behavior/Conduct………………………………………………….. 18
Detention…………………………………………………………..... 18
In-School Suspension………………………………………………. 18
Telephone Use……………………………………………………… 19
Cell Phone/Personal Music Players………………………………... 19
Personal Display of Affection……………………………………… 19
Bullying…………………………………………………………….. 20
Sexual Harassment…………………………………………………. 20
Student Dress……………………………………………………. 20
Dress Code…………………………………………………………. 20
Graduation Dress Code Guidelines………………………………… 21
Activities……………………………………………………………………… 21
Organizational Activities…………………………………………... 21
School Dances……………………………………………………… 21
Away Activities……………………………………………………. 22
Activities Policy……………………………………………………. 22
Activities and Athletics…………………………………………….. 23
Elementary Classroom Parties and Treats…………………………. 23
National Honor Society……………………………………………. 23
Clubs and Organizations…………………………………………… 23
Fund-Raising……………………………………………………….. 23
Posters……………………………………………………………… 23
General……………………………………………………………………… 23
Visitors…………………………………………………………….. 23
Drug Free School Policy………………........................................... 24
Internet Use………………………………………………………… 26
Student Driving/Parking Lot………………………………………. 27
Guns/Weapons…………………………………………………….. 28
School Beginning, Ending, Arrival and Leaving Time……………. 28
Lunch Breakfast……………………………………………………. 28
Padlock Rental Policy……………………………………………… 29
Immunizations……………………………………………………… 29
Injuries and Sickness at School…………………………………….. 29
Head Lice…………………………………………………………... 30
Asbestos……………………………………………………………. 30
Counselor…………………………………………………………... 30
Fire Drills…………………………………………………………… 30
Tornado Drills……………………………………………………… 31
Emergency Drills…………………………………………………… 31
Bus Rules…………………………………………………………… 31
Unexpected School Closings………………………………………. 31
SYLVAN-LUCAS UNIFIED MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Sylvan Unified Schools shall be to provide its students with a safe atmosphere, balanced curriculum, and a progressive education that will help the students become active, well-educated, and responsible citizens. Utilizing technology, communication, leadership, and community involvement, the staff will challenge the students to reach their fullest potential and prepare them for post-secondary education or entry into the work force.
HISTORY
In 2010 Russell School District 407 transferred the territory and schools of Lucas and Luray to Sylvan Unified School District 299. Starting with the 2010-2011 school year, USD 299 then established a grade school, grades K-6 in Lucas, called Lucas-Sylvan Unified Elementary, home of the Cougars. Grades 7-12 were housed in the Sylvan Grove facility, called Sylvan-Lucas Unified Jr./Sr. High School, home of the Mustangs. The merger went well and it doubled the number of students in the 299 district.
The Sylvan Unified School District was established in 1966. The new district was a consolidation of the Hunter, Sylvan Grove, and Vesper school districts. The first class graduated from Sylvan Unified High School in 1967. It was the largest class to graduate from Sylvan Unified with 33 members. The school district is located in Western Lincoln County and includes southwestern Mitchell County. At the time of establishment, two official elementary attendance centers existed. One elementary attendance center was located in Hunter. This attendance center provided a learning environment for students in Kindergarten through Eighth Grade. The other elementary attendance center was located in Sylvan Grove and provided a learning environment for students in Kindergarten through Sixth Grade. Some overflow class- rooms were temporarily housed at the Vesper attendance center until the new Junior/Senior High School building was completed in 1968.
In the spring of 1973 the USD 299 Board of Education made the decision to close the elementary attendance center in Hunter. Along with the con- solidation of the two elementary attendance centers in the fall of 1973, other changes were implemented in the new K-6 school. Sylvan Unified Elementary began the 1973 school year with departmentalized classes in the areas of Math, Language Arts, Social Studies, Science, and Music.
The 1981-82 school year brought to the district another addition. The local Bethlehem Lutheran Grade School closed its doors. Sylvan Unified Elementary opened its doors to the students from that school.
In the 2007-08 school year the Sylvan Grove elementary building was closed and the Junior/Senior High building was converted to a PK-12 building.
Hunter Rural High School was organized in 1917 with the charter class graduating 14 students in 1921. Vesper High School was organized in 1914 with a charter class graduating in 1918. Sylvan Grove High School graduated its first class in 1902 with two charter members.
BOARD OF EDUCATION
Tom Carney David Dohe Laura Griffiths
Rhonda Haberer Marc Lovin Richard Mettlen
Jerry Ostermann
ADMINISTRATION
Mr. Jude Stecklein, Superintendent & Elementary Principal
Mr. Devon Walter, Jr./Sr. High Principal/Computer Aided Drafting
FACULTY AND STAFF
Mr. Ryan Batchman 6th Gr. Homeroom/PE/Weightlifting
Mrs. Theresa Berger Math/Science/Elementary
Mr. James Canterbury Technology/AD
Mrs. Janet Canterbury Virtual Coordinator
Ms. Rebecca DeBoard Counselor/English
Mr. Cody Flinn Social Science/PE/Computer
Mrs. Linda Haring Language Arts/Bus. Math/
Freshman Class Sponsor
/Speech Sponsor
Mrs. Beth Hlad Spanish/HS Library/Yearbook
Mrs. Pam Hlad 4th Gr. Homeroom/KAY Sponsor
Mrs. Kally Keller Family & Consumer Science/
Elementary Library
Mr. Ray Keller Industrial Arts/Junior Class
Sponsor/NHS Sponsor
Mrs. Vicki McDowell 1st Gr. Homeroom
Mrs. Pam Meyer 2nd Gr. Homeroom
Mr. Chris Pahls Music Elementary/
HS Art/Photography
Mrs. Melissa Schoepf Math/GCTL Sponsor
Ms. Shaunna Scott 3rd Gr. Homeroom
Mrs. Janet Seehafer Chorus and Band
Mr. Jason Seehafer Social Science/JrH PE/
Senior Class Sponsor
Mrs. Janet Vonada 5th Gr. Homeroom
Mrs. Jana Wehrman Science
Mrs. LeAnn Wehrman Kindergarten
Mrs. Heather Wolting Pre-Kindergarten
Mrs. Frankie Bland Para-Professional
Mrs. Darcy Couse Para-Professional/
HS & JH Cheer Sponsor
Mrs. Carlene Friesen School Nurse
Mrs. Bernetta (Bernie) Hlad Para-Professional/
Sophomore Class Sponsor/
Scholars Bowl Sponsor
Mrs. Mary Hlad Special Education/
HS & JH Cheer Sponsor
Mrs. Sandy Labertew Speech Pathologist
Ms. Lacey Pool Special Education
Mr. Steve Meier Gifted Program
Mrs. Ann Palmer Para-Professional
Mrs. Marmie Schultz Title I
Ms. Mona Short Para-Professional
Mrs. Sally Ulrich Para-Professional
Mrs. Melinda Howg Custodian
Mr. David Hulburt Custodian
Mrs. Rhonda Bland Custodian
Mrs. Connie Urban Custodian
Mrs. Coleen Ancell Kitchen
Mrs. Tammi Keller Kitchen
Mrs. Carol Naylor Kitchen
Mrs. Judith Schultz Kitchen
Mrs. Nola Schultz Kitchen
Mrs. Wilma Burger HS Secretary & Activities
Mrs. Angie Fallis Elementary Secretary
Mrs. Pam Schneider Clerk of the Board
Football Mr. Weatherman
Asst. Football Mr. Batchman
Volleyball Mrs. Haring
Asst. Volleyball Mrs. M. Hlad
Cross Country Mr. Canterbury
Boys Basketball Mr. Stecklein
Asst. Boys Basketball Mr. Flinn
Girls Basketball Mr. Weatherman
Asst. Girls Basketball Mrs. Schoepf
Boys & Girls Golf Mr. Weatherman
Boys & Girl Track Mr. Batchman
Softball Mrs. Haring
Asst. Softball Mrs. M. Hlad
Baseball Mr. Stecklein
Asst. Baseball Mr. Seehafer
JH Football Mr. Flinn
JH Volleyball Mrs. Crecia Reeves
JH Boys Basketball Mr. Seehafer
JH Girls Basketball Mrs. Couse
JH Boys Track Mr. Flinn
JH Girls Track Mrs. Couse
SYLVAN-LUCAS UNIFIED PRIDE POLICY
- Students will respect themselves, respect others and respect property.
- Students will remove hats, handkerchiefs, and any other head covering upon entering the building. Head-covers are to remain off during school hours.
- Students will store all book bags, gym bags, and other accessories in their hall locker or their gym locker. The hallways and locker rooms are to be clear of all items.
- Lockers and locker rooms will be kept neat and clean. Doors on hallway lockers are to be closed.
- Locker signs will be taken down before new signs are put up or when the locker sign or note is no long applicable. Outside of lockers will be kept neat and clean.
- Food and drink will be allowed in classrooms at the teacher’s discretion. Cafeteria food should be eaten in the lunch room.
- Students will use appropriate language.
- Students should present themselves in a neat and clean manner.
- Students will ask permission before entering places not designated for student’s general use and before using items that are not generally designated for student use, such as the office, the teachers’ workroom, teacher’s offices, etc.
- During the pledge of allegiance students will stop what they are doing and pay respect to the flag. If in the hall the student will move to the nearest room with a flag.
NONDISCRIMINATION
Discrimination against any student on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or religion in the admission or access to, or treatment in the district’s programs and activities is prohibited. The Superintendent has been designated to coordinate compliance with nondiscrimination requirements contained in Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Any student who believes he or she has been discriminated against may file a complaint with the building principal or the compliance coordinator.
SCHOOL AGE REQUIREMENTS
Children who are five years of age on or before August 31 of the year he/she enrolls are eligible to enter Kindergarten (K.S.A. 72-1107c). Children who are six years of age on or before August 31 of the year are eligible to enter the first grade (K.S.A. 72-1107a). Whenever a child enrolls in school for the first time, proof of identity and eligibility are required. Proof can be established by a birth certificate and social security number.
ADDRESS/PHONE NUMBER CHANGE
Please notify the school secretary within seven days if any of the following change:
- numbers for home or parents’ work;
- mailing or street address; or
- emergency contacts.
STUDENT RECORDS
All student records shall be treated as confidential and primarily for local school use unless otherwise stipulated.
Under the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) parents of students and eligible students (those who are 18 or older) are afforded various rights with regard to educational records which are kept and maintained by the school. In accordance with FERPA, you are required to be notified of those rights which include:
- The rights to review and inspect all of your educational records except those which are specifically exempted.
- The right to prevent disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in your educational records to other persons with certain limited exceptions. Disclosure of information from your educational records to other persons will occur only if:
-
- we have your prior written consent for disclosure;
- the information is considered directory information and you have not objected to the release of such information (see “Directory Information,”; and
- disclosure without consent is permitted by law.
The right to request your educational records be amended if you believe the records are misleading, inaccurate, or otherwise in violation of your rights. This right includes the right to request a hearing at which you may present evidence to show why the record should be changed if your request for an amendment to your records is denied in the first instance.
The right to file a complaint with the Family Policy and Regulations Office at the U.S. Department of Education if you believe USD 299 has failed to comply with FERPA’s requirements. The address of this office is 400 Maryland Ave. SW, MES, Room 4074, Washington, D.C. 20202.
The right to obtain a copy of USD 299 policies for complying with FERPA. A copy may be obtained from USD 299 district office.
DIRECTORY INFORMATION
For purposes of FERPA, USD 299 has designated certain information contained in educational records as directory information which may be disclosed for any purpose without your consent.
Directory information categories may include the following: the student’s name, address, telephone number, picture, parent or guardian, date and place of birth; major field of study; weight, height, participation in and eligibility for officially recognized activities and sports; dates of attendance or grade placement; honors and awards received; and the most recent educational agency or school attended by the student.
You have a right to refuse to permit the designation of any or all of the above information as directory information. If you refuse, you must file written notification to this effect with USD 299 on or before September 1st of the current school year. If refusal is not filed, USD 299 assumes there is no objection to the release of the directory information designated.
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
The Sylvan Unified District #299 Board of Education requires twenty-one (21) credits to graduate from Sylvan Unified High School. These credits must include:
Four (4) units of English.
Three (3) units of Social Science;
-One (1) unit of American History;
-One (1) unit of Government/Constitution;
-One (1) unit from the other Social Science courses.
Four (4) units of Mathematics.
Three (3) units of Natural Sciences.
One (1) unit of Physical Education/Health
One (1) unit of Computer Technology
One (1) unit of Fine Arts
The remaining five (5) units may be selected from any of the courses offered in the curriculum.
QUALIFIED ADMISSIONS
6 Kansas Regent Schools (Kansas State, Kansas, Wichita State, Emporia State, Fort Hays State, Pittsburg State)
• Achieve an ACT composite score of 21 or above; or
• Top one-third of your high school's graduating class; or
• Complete the Qualified Admissions curriculum with at least a 2.0 grade point average (GPA) on a 4.0 scale.QUALIFIED ADMISSIONS CURRICULUM
4 units of English – English 1, English 2, English 3, English 4.
3 units of Mathematics – Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II or any mathematics course that has Algebra II as a prerequisite taken during 9th - 12th grades and a ACT Math score of 22 or higher. Or 4 units of Mathematics -- Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II and any course that has Algebra II as a prerequisite.
3 units of Social Studies – one unit of US History; one-half unit of US Government; one-half unit from world history, world geography, or international relations; one unit from psychology, economics, civics, history, current social issues, sociology, anthropology, and/or race and ethnic group relations.
3 units of Natural Science – chosen from Biology, Advanced Biology, Chemistry, Earth/Space Science, and/or Physics. At least one unit must be in Chemistry or Physics.
KANSAS SCHOLARS CURRICULUM
4 units of English – one taken each year.
4 units of Mathematics – Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry and an upper level mathematics course.
3 units of Natural Science – one unit each of Biology, Physics and Chemistry.
3 units of Social Studies – 1 unit of U S History, 1/2 unit of U S Government, 1/2 unit of World History, World Geography or International Relations and 1 unit of Psychology, Economics, Civics, History, Current Social Issues, Sociology, or Geography.
2 units of Foreign Language – both units of the same language.
WORK STUDY
Work Study is a pass/fail course designed for Sylvan Unified High School seniors. The program is designed to allow individual students a greater opportunity to for occupational experience and to build upon his/her learning experiences.
The following policy statements are guidelines in administering the Work Study Program.
- The counselor will serve as the General Advisor for all students enrolling for the Work Study. The General Advisor will be available by appointment for counseling the students on an individual and group basis. Group instruction in areas of common concern and need may be deemed desirable as a foundation and background.
- The students will work during a one or two-hour block with a cooperating employer in the community.
- A meeting to outline the purposes, objectives and procedures of the Work Study program will be held with interested students. The student must accept the responsibility of working toward the outlined goals and objectives.
- To be accepted in the program, each student must have the written approval of his/her parents and the experience provider.
- At the end of the work experience, the student will indicate in writing what knowledge of skills he gained concerning the occupation.
- Upon satisfactory completion of the activities and responsibilities required in the Work Study course, the student will receive pass/fail grades will be issued credit for the course.
EARLY GRADUATION
Students who want to graduate early from Sylvan Unified High School must submit a letter to the board by the May board meeting of their junior year. The letter must include why the student wants to graduate early, plans for the spring semester, and a plan for meeting all graduation requirements by the end of the fall semester of their senior year. The plan must be supported by parents and approved by the principal and the school board. These students will be invited to the graduation ceremony in May but will forfeit their rights as students to all other activities, trips, and rights as a Sylvan Unified student for the spring semester of their senior year.
PROGRESS REPORT AND GRADE CARDS
Progress reports and grade cards will be given out following a grading period. Marks are indicated by the letters: A, B, C, D and F. The letter I is for incomplete. P for pass and F for fail. Students who receive an incomplete grade have ten (10) school days from end of grading period to complete the work necessary to reconcile the grade. Grades may also be viewed by parents and students online.
7th -12th GRADE - GRADE SCALE
100% = A+
86 – 83% = B
72 – 70% = C-
59% or Below = F
99 – 93% = A
82 – 80% = B-
69 – 67% = D+
Pass/Fail Grades
92 – 90% = A-
79 – 77% = C+
66 – 63% = D
100%-70% = P
89 – 87% = B+
76 – 73% = C
62 – 60% = D-
69% or Below = F
3rd-6th GRADE – GRADE SCALE
100% = A+
90 – 89% = B
80 – 78% = C-
70% or Below = F
99 – 97% = A
88 – 86% = B-
77 – 75% = D+
96 – 94% = A-
85 – 83% = C+
74 – 73% = D
93 – 91% = B+
82 – 81% = C
72 – 70% = D-
PRIMARY GRADE SCALE
100% = E
0 – 69% = N
90 – 98% = S+
80 – 89% = S
70 – 79% = S-
GRADE POINTS
A = 4 Points
B = 3 Points
C = 2 Points
D = 1 Points
F = 0 Points
WEIGHTED GRADE POINT AVERAGE (GPA)
The grades shown on a student’s high school transcript are weighted grades. The weighted GPA system will be used to determine the students’ ranks and qualifications for clubs, activities and scholarships.
SIMPLE vs. WEIGHTED GPA CALCULATION
Simple GPA Calculation: In a simple GPA system the A=4, B=3, C=2, D=1, and F=0, and all classes are treated as if they had equal credit.
Add up all GPA points, then divide by number of classes. Example: A = 4 + A = 4 + B = 3 + B = 3 + C = 2 + A = 4 equals 20 GPA points divided by 6 classes = 3.33 Simple GPA.
Weighted GPA Calculation: In the weighted GPA system, the grade points are the same, but each class is weighted by how much credit it is actually worth.
Multiply the POTENTIAL CREDIT times the GPA points, then divide by the TOTAL Potential Credits.
Example:
Potential Credit GPA Points
A = 4 .25 4 x .25 = 1.0
A = 4 .25 4 x .25 = 1.0
B = 3 .125 3 x .125 = 0.375
B = 3 .25 3 x .25 = 0.75
C = 2 .25 2 x .25 = 0.5
A = 4 .25 4 x .25 = 1.0
Total credits= 1.375 Total GPA points = 4.625 divided by 1.375 = 3.36 Weighted GPA
HONOR ROLL – 3rd – 12th GRADE
Honor roll is figured at the end of each 9 week period. To make the 4.0 Honor Roll students will have to make a 4.0 GPA. To make the 3.5-3.99 Honor Roll students will have to have a 3.50 to 3.99 GPA, which may not include any D’s or F’s.
CUMULATIVE GPA/VALEDICTORIAN/ SALUTATORIAN
Cumulative High School GPA is figured at the end of each semester using the weighted GPA calculation. Grades are accumulated starting from 1st semester of the freshman year. The Valedictorian is the student with the highest GPA at the end of his or her senior year. If there is a tie, the honor is shared and there is no Salutatorian. If there is only one Valedictorian, then the student with the 2nd highest GPA is the Salutatorian. Valedictorian or Salutatorian students must be students in good standing and student attending classes on campus.
CLASS RANK
The student with the highest High School GPA is ranked 1st; next highest is ranked 2nd; next highest 3rd; etc. If more than one student has the same GPA, they have the same ranking. Example: If a class has three students with a 4.0, each of the three students would be ranked as 1st in his or her class. The person with the fourth highest GPA would be ranked as 4th. Class rank is refigured after each semester.
CLASS CHANGE
High School Students have three (3) days following the beginning of each semester to change classes. No student will be allowed to change any classes after the semester has started without approval of the teacher(s), parent and counselor.
HIGH SCHOOL GRADE CLASSIFICATION
Students with 0-5 credits will be classified as a Freshman, 6-10 Sophomore, 11-16 Junior, and 17 and above Senior.
JUNIOR HIGH RETENTION POLICY
Junior High students must pass 3 of 4 core classes (science, math, English, social studies) in grades 7 and 8 in order to move on to the next grade. Students will only be held in the same grade twice. Parents may appeal this decision to the administration, but the administration’s decision is final.
ELEMENTARY RETENTION POLICY
When a student has not demonstrated grade-level proficiency in the core content areas the student will be consider for retention. This decision will be made in consultation with the teacher, parents, and other staff, if appropriate. The final decision remains with the principal.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS – 7th – 12th GRADE
Activities are important, but students should understand that they are students first. To that end Sylvan Unified has an eligibility policy that students must maintain a C grade average and have no F’s to be eligible for activities. Students’ grades will be checked approximately every 2 weeks throughout the year. If a student is ineligible, they will not be able to participate in the following activities for 2 weeks, starting the Sunday through the second Saturday after eligibility is checked, until another grade check is completed. Items not listed will be determined by the principal. If a student is ineligible at the end of the year they are declared ineligible for the first 2 weeks of the next school year.
- If a student is ineligible they MAY NOT:
- Go to dances, including Prom
- Participate in athletic contests
- Attend field trips
- Participate in KSHSAA events
- Participate in the Musical
- If a student is ineligible, they MAY:
- Go to practice
- Travel with a team to an athletic contest
- Sit with the team during the contest
- Participate in required classroom activities
INTERSCHOLASTIC ACTIVITIES ELIGIBILITY – 7th-12th GRADE
To be eligible to participate in interscholastic activities, a student must be certified by the school principal as meeting all eligibility standards as set up by the Kansas State High School Activities Association.
You Are Eligible If:
- You are a bona fide undergraduate student in good standing.
- Your conduct and standard of sportsmanship are satisfactory and do not bring discredit to yourself or school.
- You are not nineteen years of age on or before September 1, of the school year in which you compete.
- You have not completed eight semesters of competition and/or attendance nor more than four seasons in one activity in four year school, six semesters and three seasons in a three year school, four semesters and two seasons in a two year school.
- You passed in five subjects of unit weight your last semester of attendance.
- You are attending and enrolled in five new subjects of unit weight.
- You do not engage in outside athletic competition in the same sport while you are a member of a school squad. Consult your coach or principal before you participate individually or on a team in any game, training session, or tryout conducted by an outside organization.
- You have passed an adequate physical examination by a practicing physician and have the written consent of your parents or legal guardian. (The completed form must be in the hand of your principal prior to your first practice.)
- You are not a transfer student and have met the requirements of the transfer rule. Contact the principal concerning this regulation.
- You have not competed for cash or merchandise and have observed all other provisions of the amateur rule.
- This is a brief summary of important eligibility requirements. Consult your coach and principal on any questionable items.
ATTENDANCE POLICY
Elementary School: Attendance is taken at the Elementary school once in the morning and once in the afternoon. If a student is gone for more than 1 hour in the morning or the afternoon, then they will be counted as absent for that attendance period.
Compulsory Attendance Requirements: Kansas law requires students to attend school until the age of 18. Sixteen and seventeen-year-olds may be exempt from the compulsory attendance requirement if:
- they have attained a diploma or GED; or
- they are enrolled in an approved alternative education program, recognized by the local board of education; or
- a court orders exemption; or
- the parent or person acting as parent consents in writing to their child being exempt from the requirement and the child and parent attend a final counseling session conducted by the school to sign a disclaimer.
The law requires the disclaimer to include the following information:
- the academic skills the child has not yet achieved;
- the difference in future earning power between a high school graduate and a high school dropout; and
- a list of educational alternatives available to the child.
Students age 16 or 17 who are not exempt shall be reported as truant. See Attendance/Truancy,” below.
Tardy Policy:
A tardy is defined as not more than 10 minutes late to a class; after 10 minutes, the student will be counted absent.
Every 2 Unexcused Tardies = 1 Unexcused Absence
Every 2 Excused Tardies = 1 Excused Absence
Please refer to “Allowed Absences” and “Excessive Absences” for accumulating tardies.
Allowed Absences per school year:
2 College visits- seniors
2 College visits- juniors
3 Personal Days-juniors and seniors
2 Personal Days- All other students
3 Sick Days with parent permission
5 Additional Sick Days with doctor note
Bereavement – as necessary
Note: No more than 3 excused personal absences from any individual class-juniors and seniors
No more than 2 excused personal absences from any individual class-All other students
Extenuating Medical Circumstances:
In the event that extenuating medical circumstances occur, a meeting between parents and school administration will be scheduled to work out extended sick leave.
Extended Personal Days:
Parents may request for a student to take extended personal days for certain events (youth group trips, family trip, enrichment trips, etc…) To do this parents must meet with the administration in person to discuss dates, homework and missed academic time. Arrangements must be made at least one week prior to departure. All homework must be made up prior to departure to the satisfaction of the student’s teachers.
Excessive Absences
Any absence(s) over the allotted amount under “Allowed absences” will result in a meeting between parents and school administration. All unexcused time missed must be made up hour-for-hour after school in our Homework Recovery Program. Excessive absences may result in truancy and will be reported to the proper authority. (See Truancy)
Truancy
The building principal shall report students who are inexcusably absent from school to appropriate authority (students 13 years and younger will be reported to SRS. Students 14 – 17 years old will be reported to the county attorney).
Truancy
3 consecutive days of unexcused absences
5 unexcused absences in a semester
7 unexcused absences in a school year
School-Related Absences: School related absences do not count against the student’s total absences. It is the responsibility of the student to make sure all work is completed according to the classroom teacher’s policy. Students must notify their teachers that they will be gone.
Unexcused Absent Assignment Grade Policy: Class assignments and tests given during an unapproved absence will result in reduced or no grade. Students with an unexcused absence other than school-approved activities should not expect to participate in or attend any school activities, which occur on that day or evening.
Activities: In order to participate in an extra-curricular activity the student must be in attendance for ½ of the school day, unless prior approval from the principal is granted.
Sign In/Sign Out: Students must sign out in the office before leaving school premises during the school day. Students must sign in when arriving at school after classes have begun.
Make-up Work: If a student is to receive full credit and make continued progress in school, it is necessary that he/she make up all lessons and assignments missed. It is the student’s responsibility to get the make-up assignments from the teacher and to turn in the work within the allotted time period.
Release of Student During School Hours: Permission from a parent must be obtained before a student may leave the school premises during the school day. Students must sign out anytime they leave the campus during the school day and sign in when they return before the end of the school day. Students who leave campus without permission will be subject to the same penalties prescribed for an office referral. Students must sign the Out/In sheet in the office.
BEHAVIOR/CONDUCT
Students may be disciplined for any of the following reasons:
- willful violation of any published, adopted student conduct regulation;
- conduct which substantially disrupts, impedes, or interferes with school operation;
- conduct which endangers the safety or substantially impinges on or invades the rights of others;
- conduct which constitutes the commission of a felony;
- conduct which constitutes the commission of a misdemeanor;
- disobedience of an order of a school authority if the disobedience results in disorder, disruption or interference with school operation; and
- possession of a weapon at school, on school property or at a school-sponsored event.
Violation of any provision of the behavior code may result in disciplinary action up to and including suspension and/or expulsion. See “Suspension/Expulsion.”
The district shall cooperate with law enforcement in security matters and shall, as required by law, report criminal acts committed at school, on school property or at school-sponsored activities.
DETENTION
The teacher or the building principal may assign detention time. The student is expected to make up that time either before/after school determined by the teacher/principal. If detention is not served additional discipline action could take place.
. The following is the policy for detention time for Elementary students:
- Sylvan Grove (town) students:
Parents will be notified that their child will be detained and will be given the time he/she will be released.
- All other students (bus riders):
Parents will be notified. Parents will be in charge of making arrangements to get their child home after the required detention time.
IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION
In-school suspension requires that a student be removed from the classroom and placed in an isolated situation for an assigned period of time. In-school suspension time may vary depending on the severity of the discipline problem. During suspension time, students will be required to work on their daily classroom work.
TELEPHONE USE
Students will not be called from class, except in emergency, to answer the telephone. Messages will be taken and given to the student at the end of the period, placed on his/her locker or given to the classroom teacher. Students will only be allowed to use the office phone or their own phone with the permission of their teacher and the office.
CELL PHONES
Cell phones are not to be seen during the school day. If a student needs to use a cell phone during the school day, they need to get permission from their teacher and the office. The phone should be used in or near the office. Students that have cell phones out, without permission, will have the following consequences.
- First Offense: Phone confiscated until the end of the day when student may retrieve from the office. Warning issued to student and parent notified.
- Subsequent Offenses: Phone confiscated until a parent retrieves from office. Repeated offenses may result in the loss of the privilege to have the devise at school and may be subject to other disciplinary actions.
PERSONAL DISPLAY OF AFFECTION
There will be no personal display of affection between students while at school or school activities. This includes no hugging, touching, kissing, holding hands, etc.
BULLYING
Bullying is any intentional gesture or intentional written, verbal, electronic or physical act or threat that is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that creates an intimidating, threatening or abusive educational environment for a student of staff member. Bullying or intimidation of any kind will not be allowed. This includes electronic means, on or while using school property, in a school vehicle or at a school sponsored activity or event.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Sexual harassment is unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other inappropriate oral, written, electronic, or physical conduct of a sexual nature when made by a member of the school staff to a student or when made by any student to another student. Sexual harassment will not be tolerated.
STUDENT DRESS
Neatness and decency are emphasized as guidelines for the dress code. The principal shall make the final determination regarding the appropriateness of a student’s appearance. Students who are inappropriately dressed will be required to change their clothing and may be subject to other disciplinary actions.
- RESS CODE
- Appearance must be neat and clean.
- Wearing apparel that is excessively short, excessively tight, or excessively low-cut may not be worn.
- Clothing must cover stomach, behind, back, shoulders, or chest appropriately.
- Shirts with excessively large armholes or cut out sleeves will not be allowed.
- Straps at shoulders should be at least two finger widths wide.
- Coats and outerwear shall not be worn in school, unless special permission is issued by the teacher.
- Headwear is not acceptable.
- "Sagging" pants are not acceptable.
- Wallet chains are not acceptable.
- Pajama bottom/lounging pants are not acceptable.
- Writing or pictures on clothing shall not display or promote alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, suggestive or obscene language or violent acts.
- Facial hair must be trimmed and maintained.
- Clothing must not be unreasonably soiled or badly worn.
- Heely’s /Roller shoes, may not be worn.
- Elementary – PK – 6th grade students may not wear flip flops.
Any student involved in extra or co-curricular activity in which the student represents the district, shall dress in accordance with the sponsor’s requirements, subject to approval by the administration. Formal attire at formal occasions will be left up to the discretion of the adult supervisors.
GRADUATION DRESS CODE GUIDELINES
- No jeans.
- No shorts.
- No flip-flops.
- No tennis shoes.
- Appropriate dress includes slacks and dress shirts for boys, slacks or dresses for girls, and dress shoes for everyone.
- Non-compliance with the graduation dress code guidelines will result in the graduate not participating in the graduation ceremony.
ORGANIZATIONAL ACTIVITIES
The principal must approve all organizational activities. Once a student leaves a school sponsored activity, he or she may not return to the activity. Emergencies should be handled through the organization sponsor.
SCHOOL DANCES
- Sponsors must be obtained three days before the date of the dance.
- Sponsorships must be: a) two faculty sponsors, b) three parent sponsors.
- Names of sponsors are to be turned into the office by noon three days prior to the dance.
- When outside dates are allowed. The student must sign up his/her date in the office three days prior to the dance. The Sylvan Unified student will be responsible for the actions of his/her date at the dance.
- Anyone causing a disturbance at a school dance will be asked to leave and then will be barred from attending any further dances. Unacceptable actions of your outside date may cause you to be barred from attending future dances.
- Anyone caught drinking will be barred from further attendance. Parents and law enforcement will be notified. Appropriate school action will be taken.
- Anyone leaving will not be readmitted.
- Students are expected to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner.
- Any student that is an officer of an organization representing Sylvan Unified will be relieved of that office if behavior is inappropriate.
AWAY ACTIVITIES
Any student that is transported away from school on school transportation, shall return home by the same manner with the following exceptions:
- To go home with their parents requires a verbal face-to-face confirmation to the sponsor from the parent. The student cannot be the carrier. To go home with another responsible adult (no juvenile), the parent must fulfill #1 above or have sent along a note with the student that is to be handed to the sponsor before the group leaves Sylvan. This note is to be retained by the sponsor until that student arrives safely home.
- Students arriving back to the bus late, after the bus was to leave, shall be reprimanded and/or punished by the activity sponsor. Students will never be left on their own; however, they may be left at home if late.
ACTIVITIES POLICY
- If there is a conflict between two activities (for instance, a football game and a music contest) it is the student’s and parent’s decision in which activity to participate.
- If these is a conflict between an activity contest and an activity practice (for instance, basketball practice and a speech meet) students will participate in the contest.
- If there is a conflict between two activity practices (for instance, a debate practice and a softball practice) it is the student’s and parent’s decision in which practice to participate.
- Practices outside of an activity’s season (for instance, weight lifting and summer camps) are strictly voluntary.
- Sponsors, teachers or coaches will not pressure or retaliate against students who have activity conflicts.
ACTIVITIES AND ATHLETICS
- Requirements for lettering in high school activities and athletics are available from the coach or sponsor.
- Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the district’s policy when participating in activates and athletics.
ELEMENTRY CLASSROOM PARTIES AND TREATS
Classroom birthday and holiday parties and treats will be at the desecration of the elementary teacher. If your child has a summer birthday, he/she may celebrate anytime during the school year. Be sure to make arrangements with the teacher. The teacher will need to know at least a day or two in advance if you want to send treats the day of your child’s birthday.
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
Students are eligible for consideration in National Honor Society after
- 3 semesters of high school
- 21 or higher on Plan Test or 25 or higher on ACT
- 3.3 Cumulative GPA or higher
CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
School sponsored clubs shall be under the direct control of school sponsor. Every school sponsored club shall have a policy statement which has been approved by the building principal and filed in the school office.
FUND-RAISING
Solicitations by students of students or school personnel during school hours and on school property shall be done only when they are related to school sponsored activities. All student sales projects shall require the principal’s prior approval.
POSTERS
Posters, drawings or other materials must be approved by the principal for posting in the school. All unauthorized posting will be removed immediately and become the property of the school.
VISITORS
To ensure safety and security, all visitors, including parents, must check in at the office before proceeding to contact any other person in the building or on the grounds. Students are not allowed to bring visitors without prior approval of teachers and administration.
DRUG FREE SCHOOL POLICY
Philosophy: Our philosophy at USD 299 is largely based on the premise that the best prevention is providing students with positive life experience. It is believed that positive life experiences improve self-esteem and provide the students with the skills to make effective choices, decisions, and judgments, resulting in healthy, caring, responsible and successful individuals. A strict “no use” message is the intention of this policy and procedure. Those who abuse themselves with chemicals interfere with their education and the educational environment of others.
In addition, we believe prevention is a community concern and a prevention program is most effective when students, family school personnel and the community work together. This approach requires a variety of groups working simultaneously with specific goals that are coordinated and comprehensive.
Procedures/Policies For Offenses: The unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs, controlled substances, and alcohol by students or staff on school premises, or as part of any school activity, is prohibited. This policy is required by the 1989 amendment for the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act. P.L.102-226 103 st. 1928.
As a condition of continued enrollment, the district’s students shall abide by the terms of this policy. Students shall not unlawfully manufacture, distribute, dispense, possess or use illicit drugs, controlled substances or alcoholic beverages on school property, or at any school activity. Any student violating the terms of this policy will be detained, will be reported to the appropriate law enforcement officials, and will be subject to sanctions as set forth in this policy.
Providing assistance to students with chemical abuse/dependency problems is of the utmost importance. This school district recognizes that sanctions for chemical abuse do not cure the problem. The affliction of chemical dependency, however, does not absolve students of their responsibilities, or the consequences of inappropriate or illegal behavior. USD 299 chooses to address the issue as an inappropriate or illegal behavior while providing other opportunities for the students to receive help.
Drug Related Offenses on School Property or At Any School Related Activities:
First Offense:
- Parent/Legal Guardian notification and involvement mandatory.
- A consequence of short-term school suspension as determine by the Principal.
- Suspension from all student activities for a period of not less than one week.
- If determined necessary by the Principal, in conjunction staff, an evaluation, at student’s/parent’s expense, may be required.
Second Offense:
- Parent/Legal Guardian notification and involvement.
- A consequence of long-term suspension as determined by the
Principal.
- Readmission to school contingent upon a favorable evaluation from a professional Alcohol and Drug Counselor at student’s and parents’ expense.
- Suspension from all student activities for a period of at least two
weeks.
Third and Subsequent Offense:
- Expulsion from school for the remainder of the school year.
- Suspension from participation in and attendance of all school activities for the remainder of the school year.
- Parent/Legal Guardian notification and involvement is mandatory.
- Completion of application for readmission after the successful completion of a chemical dependency program. (Adequate aftercare must be in place and satisfactory attendance and progress is required for continued school attendance.)
A list of available programs along with names and addresses of contact persons for the program is on file with the board clerk. Parents or students should contact the directors of the programs to determine the cost and length of the program. Confidentiality regulations for alcohol and drug related clients require consent for disclosure by both the student and his/her legal guardian. Students involved in activities who are caught using drugs, alcohol, or tobacco off of school grounds or not during school are subject to the following sanctions.
First Offense: Declared ineligible for one activity date
Second Offense: Declared ineligible for the rest of the current season.
Third Offense: Declared ineligible for the rest of the school year. Counseling is highly recommended, but not required, for students.
Student Rights and Due Process:
- A student who is expelled from school under the terms of this policy may be readmitted during the term of the expulsion if the student has completed a chemical abuse/dependency education and/or rehabilitation program.
- Students who are suspended or expelled under this policy will be afforded the due process rights contained in board policy. Nothing in this policy is intended to eliminate the authority of the district to take other disciplinary action against the student in accordance with other policies governing student discipline. In the event, a student agrees to enter into and complete a drug education or rehabilitation program, the cost of such a program will be borne by the student and his/her parents.
INTERNET USE
USD 299 is committed to provide learning opportunities for students and we believe Internet technology is essential in helping us meet our educational goals.
Acceptable Use: All use of the Internet must be in support of education, research, and consistent with the purposes and outcomes set forth by USD 299.
- Be polite. Good manners and good taste are the rule, no matter what environment you find yourself in, take pride in how you appear to others.
- Use appropriate language.
- Do not reveal personal information, such as your entire name, address, phone number, social security number, passwords, or credit card numbers or those of others.
- Students shall have no expectation of privacy or restricted access to any information generated during the course of their work or entered in any district computers. Students waive any right to privacy in e-mail messages and consent to the access and disclosure of e-mail messages by authorized persons. All forms of electronic communications are monitored by the administration to ensure the systems are only being used for official purposes.
- Use the network in such a way that you do not disrupt the use of the network for others.
Unacceptable Use:
- Any use of the network to facilitate illegal activity is prohibited at all USD 299 schools.
- Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm, modify and destroy data of another user, or other networks that are or are not connected to the internet backbone. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creating of computer viruses. Computer viruses are programs designed to spread themselves and can destroy valuable programs and data. To reduce the risk of spreading a computer virus, files may not be imported without teacher or administrator approval. Deliberate attempts to degrade or disrupt system performance or vandalize any computer system are considered a criminal act under state and federal law and are prohibited at all USD 299 schools.
- Transmission of any material in violation of any United States or state regulation is prohibited at USD 299 schools. This includes, but is not limited to, copyrighted material, threatening, pornographic, or obscene material, or material protected by trade secret.
- Users shall not intentionally seek information on, obtain copies of, or modify files, other data, or passwords belonging to other users, or misrepresent other users on the network.
- Hate mail, harassment, discriminatory remarks, and other antisocial behaviors are prohibited at USD 299 schools.
- Use of the network to transmit material likely to be offensive or objectionable to recipients is prohibited at USD 299.
Classroom Procedures: Student users must always get permission from their instructor before using the network or accessing any specific file or application.
Penalties for Improper Use: Any user engaged in unacceptable use of the internet and not using proper netiquette, will not be allowed access to the internet. They are not only subject to loss of network privileges but may be subject to other disciplinary actions.
Internet User Agreement: Both the student and the student’s parent or guardian must sign an Internet User Agreement before the user will be allowed access to the internet from school computers.
STUDENT DRIVING/PARKING LOT
Students who are legally qualified to operate motor vehicles may drive them to school under the following conditions.
- All vehicles are to be parked, in an orderly manner, in the NORTH parking lot and may not be moved to the front lot until during school hours.
- The vehicles may not be moved during the school day unless permission is given to the student by the principal.
- When leaving from the parking lot the north or south driveway should be use, do not drive across the grass.
- Students going to the parking lot during the day must sign Out/In sheet in the office.
- Students should use sidewalks to and from the parking lot, do not walk through the grass.
- In the case of misconduct by student, the privileges to drive on school premises may be suspended and may be subject to other disciplinary actions. Time of suspension will be decided by the Principal.
GUNS/WEAPONS
In 1995, the Kansas Legislature enacted the Kansas School Safety and Security Act for the purpose of creating safer and more secure schools and to provide a safe and orderly environment conducive to learning. The Kansas School Safety and Security Act states that Boards of Education must adopt a policy requiring school district employees to make an immediate report to Law Enforcement if they know or have reason to believe that a felony, misdemeanor, or act which involves the possession, use, or disposal of explosives, firearms or other weapons occurred at school, on school property, or at a school sponsored event.
Due to Federal Law, guns or weapons may not be on school grounds. We are asking patrons and students not to carry guns or weapons to school or to have guns or weapons in vehicles when they enter the school grounds. This law pertains to any school events. Anyone that enters school grounds cannot have guns or weapons in their vehicles.
SCHOOL BEGINNING, ENDING, ARRIVAL AND LEAVING TIME
School begins at 8:10 a.m. and ends at 3:30 p.m. Students should not arrive to school before 7:45 a.m. and students not involved in extra school activities or working with a faculty member are required to vacate the building by 3:45 p.m. Students waiting for siblings to complete activities must make arrangements with the teacher or office.
LUNCH AND BREAKFAST
A hot lunch and breakfast are provided. Lunches are to be paid for in advance in the office. Lunches are closed and students are not allowed to leave the building.
PADLOCK RENTAL POLICY
Students will pay a $5.00 deposit (the price of replacing a padlock) for use of a padlock for use in the locker room. The $5.00 will be returned to the student at the end of the school year upon receipt of the padlock in the office.
IMMUNIZATIONS
Kansas state law requires that any child entering school for the first time in this state shall present certification of immunization. The school nurse will notify each family regarding immunization requirements.
All students enrolling in any district school shall provide the building principal with proof of immunization of certain diseases or furnish documents to satisfy statutory requirements. Booster shots required by the Secretary of the Department of Health and Environment are also required.
Students who fail to provide the documentation required by law may be excluded from school by the superintendent until statutory requirements are satisfied. Notice of exclusion shall be given to the parents/guardians as prescribed by law. Students who are not immunized against a particular disease(s) may be excluded from school during any outbreak.
INJURIES AND SICKNESS AT SCHOOL
The following are a few of the general school health policies that will be of interest to students and parents:
- School personnel are authorized to administer first aid for minor injuries only occurring at school. In case of serious injury, the parents will be notified.
- Children who exhibit symptoms of illness should NOT BE SENT TO SCHOOL. School personnel reserve the right to decide whether or not a child should remain at school. Any student with an elevated temperature above 99.8 shall be sent home. Their temperature should be normal (98.6) for 24 hours before returning to school.
- No child will be taken or sent home until parents or another designated responsible person is contacted at home or at work. Parents will be asked to leave a phone number of a relative or designated person to be contacted when the parents cannot be reached. However, the person whose number is given as that designated person needs to be made aware that he/she has been given that responsibility.
- Students that have been injured and require emergency treatment will be sent to the emergency room by ambulance. Parents will be notified as soon as possible.
- School staff members are not authorized to dispense medicine or pain relievers like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, etc. without proper authorization. If your child requires medication to be given during school hours, contact the school nurse. Any medical conditions, which affect your child, should be noted on the enrollment form.
HEAD LICE
Because Head Lice may be a problem in the school setting, the following procedure will be followed:
- If there is cause to be concerned that a student has Head Lice, the student will be examined.
- If a student is found to have Head Lice or Nits (the eggs from Head Lice) the parent will be notified, and the child will be released from school until proper treatment has been completed.
- Measures will be taken to diminish the spread of this problem, using recommended regulations from the Kansas State Department of Health.
ASBESTOS
An asbestos management plan has been developed for the school district. A copy of the management plan is available from the superintendent.
COUNSELOR
A counselor is available for discussing topics of concern. The work of our counselor includes testing, collecting and informing students of scholarships, vocational information and counseling on personal and school problems. Students are encouraged to make use of the professional training and advice of our counselor. It is advised to make an appointment and get teacher’s permission ahead of time, if the need is not urgent.
FIRE DRILLS
When the fire alarm sounds, the building should be evacuated immediately. Each class should form a single line and walk toward the designated fire exit. Directions are posted in each room as to which exit should be used. Students should return quietly to class upon signal.
TORNADO DRILLS
The tornado alarm will be continual beeps of the passing bell. Students will go in an orderly manner to the basement. Students will return quietly to their classrooms upon the all clear signal (one long passing bell).
EMERGENCY DRILLS
In the event an emergency arises and there is a need to evacuate or stay in the classrooms with the doors lock the intercom will be used to inform the need to take precautionary measures.
BUS RULES
Students are to follow the bus drivers and/or sponsors rules and directions while on the bus.
While on the bus:
- Be careful when entering or leaving the bus; be aware of traffic and other possible dangers.
- Do not stand or walk while the bus is in motion.
- Keep hands, head and body inside the bus.
- Keep talking and laughing at reasonable levels so as not to disturb the driver.
- Keep quiet while the bus is at a railroad crossing so the driver can listen for a train.
- Treat bus and bus equipment with respect.
- Do not throw anything inside or outside the bus.
- Help look after the safety and comfort of younger children.
- Carrying animals or dangerous objects on a bus is against a state law.
- Keep all articles out of the aisle.
- In case of a road emergency, remain on the bus unless the driver or an official directs otherwise.
- Remember that the driver is in charge on the bus. Give the driver your attention, respect, and courtesy in the interest of safety.
UNEXPECTED SCHOOL CLOSINGS
In the event that school must be delayed, cancelled or dismissed early due to inclement weather or emergency, it will announced over local radio, TV stations, and it will also be announced with a computerized phone message.
