Elementary
Handbook
HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
OUR MISSION
Huntington County Community School Corporation provides education that ensures student achievement,
promotes citizenship and encourages lifelong learning.
Andrews Elementary
Flint Springs Elementary
Horace Mann Elementary
Lancaster Elementary
Lincoln Elementary
Northwest Elementary
Roanoke Elementary
Salamonie School

2009-2010
RECEIPT OF HCCSC ELEMENTARY STUDENT HANDBOOK
2009-2010 SCHOOL YEAR



TO THE PARENTS/LEGAL GUARDIAN:
Indiana State Law (IC 20-33-6-2) requires that we request a student’s parent or legal guardian and any student in grade K-5 to acknowl-
edge in writing that they have received a copy of the elementary school handbook containing the disciplinary policy. I herby acknowledge
we received a copy of the HCCSC Elementary School Handbook. I have reviewed this handbook in an effort to become familiar with the
Attendance policy, Discipline code, Cell phone policy, Media release policy, computer use agreement, HCCSC Parent Participation in Title
I programs, and other school policies and guidelines. By signing this page with my child, we agree to the above mentioned policies and
guidelines. It is my responsibility to contact the school before signing if I have questions about any policy, or if I do not want my child to
participate in the media or computer use portion of the agreement. Please complete the form below and return it to the school office in
person, with the student, or by mail.


DATE: _______________________


SIGNATURE OF PARENT/LEGAL GUARDIAN: ______________________________

TO THE STUDENT:
My signature verifies that I have received a HCCSC Elementary School Handbook. I am aware that
I am expected to read this book and will be held accountable for its contents and any new additions. I
am expected to take the handbook to my parents/legal guardian and ask them to review its contents
and sign and return the receipt acknowledging that happened. If I have any questions, I will
discuss them with my counselor or school administrator.


DATE: ___________________________________________


STUDENT SIGNATURE: _________________________________________________


PRINTED NAME: _____________________________________________________________


PURPOSE
This handbook contains most of the information you will need to know about Huntington County elementary
schools. We hope it is helpful to you and answers any questions you may have.


This handbook has been prepared to bring about a better understanding between the schools and par-
ents/students. We ask for the cooperation of all parents and students so we may provide each student with a
rewarding and enriching educational experience. PLEASE TAKE TIME TO READ THIS BOOK THOROUGHLY.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2
Acknowledgement of Receiving Student Handbook
1
HCCSC Student Assistance Policy
13
After School Events
5
Homework Requests
4
Annual Letter of Notification for Asbestos
6

Honor Roll
4
Athletic and Extracurricular Activities
15

Ideas for Helping Your Child with Homework
5
Attendance
5

Immunizations
17
Basic Conduct Rules
8

Leaving School Grounds
7
Board Policy: Search and Seizure
12-13

Locker Policy
12
Book Rental
5

Lost and Found
4
Care/Protection of School/Personal Property
4

Lunch Program
5
Cell Phone and Wireless Communications Devices
17

Media Center
4
Change in Routine for Students
5
Medication Policy
6
Change of Address/Phone
5
Meningococcal Disease Important Information
16-17
Child Abuse/Neglect
6

Office and Teacher’s Room
4
Citizenship
5

Out-of-School Suspension
9
Clinic/Health Services
4
Parent Participation in Title I Programs
16
Closing School
5
Parental Access to Education Records
6
Corporal Punishment
9

Parent-Teacher Conferences
4
Counseling Services
4
Policy on Sexual and Other Forms of Harassment
15-16
Disciplinary Action
9

Promotions
4
Discipline Referral Slips
9

Recess
5
Disembarking at a Different Location
12

Report Cards
4
Dress Code
8

Request to Leave School
5
Early Dismissal
5
School Bus Discipline
12
Elementary School Disposition Procedures
15

Smoke Free Policy
13-14
Elementary School Substance Abuse Policy
14-15

Student Attendance Policy & Discipline Guidelines
7-8
Eligible Passengers on School Buses
12

Student Council
4
Expected Conduct of Students on School Buses
11

Student Creed
3
Expulsion Procedures
11

Suggestions and Complaints Guidelines
16
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974
6

Suspension Procedures
11
Fire and Tornado Drills
4

Teacher Suspension of Students
9
Flag Etiquette
5

Technology Handbook
18-21
Goal Setting and Student Led Conferences
4

Transporting Large and Dangerous Items
12
Grounds for Suspension or Expulsion
9-11

Visitors
5
Gym Classes
4
Volunteers
5
HCCSC Mission Statement
3
Welcome
3



Withdrawals
5
Welcome to Huntington
County Community Schools!
HCCSC MISSION
STATEMENT
Huntington County
Community School Corpo-
ration provides education
that ensures student
achievement, promotes citi-
zenship and encourages
lifelong learning.
A STUDENT CREED
I pledge myself:
To cooperate with my
teachers and fellow students
at all times.
To comply with the rules
and regulations of my school.
To take pride in my school
and help promote the spirit
of friendship, cooperation,
and good sportsmanship.
To be loyal to my school at
all times.
To maintain high scholarship
to the best of my ability.
To uphold the ideas and
traditions of my school.
Parents and Students:
The teachers and staff welcome you to a new school year. To help you enjoy your
experiences, we offer the following suggestions:
• Get to know your school. Become familiar with the classroom locations, school of-
fice, counselor’s office, nurse’s office, library, cafeteria, and playground.
• Get to know the principal, teachers, and staff. We are all here to serve you.
•
Study and learn as much as you can. We are available to help with any problems
you may have, and will be better able to do so if you ask for help.
We are proud of our schools, faculty, students, and staff. We are all dedicated to
providing the highest quality education possible. It is our sincere hope that your experi-
ence will be one filled with happiness and success.
We urge parents to support their school, teachers, and programs. Parents’ positive
attitude and support make a significant difference in student performance. Your positive
involvement and attitude will make a significant difference in the success of your child.
Parents are most welcome to visit school at anytime. A scheduled appointment is
convenient, but not necessary. Teachers are available for conferences at a time to be mu-
tually arranged and also during their plan period. Teachers’ plan periods are scheduled
for various hours of the school day. For your convenience, please call the school for the
time that the teacher with whom you wish to confer will be on his/her plan period. It is
our wish that every parent would visit our school a minimum of once each year.
Please review this handbook and feel free to contact us at school should you have any
questions at all. We will be most happy to help!
Building




Administrator



Phone #
Administrative Services Center

Mr. Tracey Shafer, Superintendent

(260) 356-7812
Instructional Services Center

Charles Grable



(260) 356-5464
Andrews Elementary


Gary Mast




(260) 786-3021
Flint Springs Elementary


Cynthia Kiefer



(260) 356-7612
Horace Mann Elementary


Amy Ashcraft



(260) 356-8312
Lancaster Elementary


John Purcell




(260) 468-2816
Lincoln Elementary



Adam Drummond , Interim Principal
(260) 356-2914
Northwest Elementary


Terry Pierce




(260) 344-1455
Roanoke Elementary


Paul Roth




(260) 672-2806
Salamonie School



Rick Reed




(260) 356-8995 or 375-3434
3
STUDENT COUNCIL
Membership in the Student Council is one of several honors a student may
attain in our school. The council shall act as the voice of the students. Meetings
are held at the discretion of the president and sponsor.

FIRE AND TORNADO DRILLS
Fire and tornado drills will be held periodically throughout the school year.
Instructions are posted in each classroom. Make sure you become familiar with the
posted procedure. If unsure of procedure, make sure you check with the classroom
teacher. Drills are serious responsibilities and are not to be thought of as a joke.
During both drills, be sure to move quickly and quietly to assigned areas.

COUNSELING SERVICES
Guidance counseling services are planned to help each student obtain the
most out of the school program. All students are encouraged to come to the guid-
ance counselors’ office and talk with a counselor regarding any concerns they might
have. Often, a counselor helps students with educational program planning, study
habits, personal and home concerns, health problems, social questions, career
plans, and decision making. Students should feel free to discuss their interests,
plans, and difficulties with a counselor. The counselors will also make classroom
presentations on topics of interest to all students that will enhance the development
of proper school and social growth. At times during the year, some students may be
asked to become members of small groups that meet on a regularly scheduled
basis with a counselor. Students may also be asked to attend individual sessions
whenever a counselor can be of assistance to the student.

MEDIA CENTER
The purpose of the instructional media center is to provide a variety of materi-
als and services to assist staff and students in the teaching - learning process. Any
materials borrowed from the media center must be checked out — materials usually
have a two week loan period. Please remember, you are responsible for the items
you check out. Magazines, newspapers, and resource materials should be returned
to the proper place. A fine may be assessed for overdue materials and you may be
asked to pay replacement costs for items lost.

CLINIC/HEALTH SERVICES
A health clinic is available, for limited use, for those students who become ill or
injured during the school day. Children with contagious illnesses or fevers should
not be sent to school. Students with a temperature of 100º or above will be sent
home. Students must be fever free for 24 hours before returning to school.
Please take care of injuries prior to sending your child to school. Health records
should be updated promptly as needed during the school year. Emergency informa-
tion should also be current. The student should know the family physician, hospital
preference, and how to reach a parent in the event of illness or accident.
Clinic facilities and the service of the clinic staff are not to be abused. If a
student visits the clinic too frequently, the parent will be notified regarding a possible
physical or emotional problem.
If medication is to be taken at school (including over-the-counter drugs such
as Tylenol or aspirin), an official permission slip must be returned. Medication will
only be dispensed after following the requirements listed on the medication permit.
The permit is available by contacting the school nurse. No medication, including
over-the-counter medication, is to be in students’ possession during school hours,
except for that which is considered to be life-saving medication, as prescribed by a
physician. A physician’s order must be on file with the school in order for a child to
possess such medication. A parent will need to deliver and pick up any medication
needed during the school day. (For more information, refer to our Medication Pol-
icy.)
Annually, the county-wide nurse conducts vision testing for all first and third
grade students, and students new to the Huntington County Community School
Corporation. All fifth grade students are checked for scoliosis.

CARE/PROTECTION OF SCHOOL/PERSONAL PROPERTY
Students are responsible for the proper care of all books, supplies, and furni-
ture supplied by the school. Students who disfigure property or equipment will be
required to pay for the damage done.
Print your name in ink on all books, tablets, gym shoes, and folders for which
you are responsible.
Do not bring things of great value from home.
Do not bring large sums of money from home.
Secure all personal property in lockers during the school day (If available).

GYM CLASSES
Non-marking gym shoes shall be worn in all gym classes. If, for any reason, a
child should be unable to participate (for more than one day), we require a signed
excuse from your physician.

LOST AND FOUND
Throughout the school year, many items are turned in to the office as lost and
found items. Valuable items which have been found will be kept in the office and
need to be identified for collection. Other items such as: clothing, lunch boxes, and
recess equipment will be placed in a collection area designated by school person-
nel. At the end of each nine weeks, any items which have not been claimed will be
taken to charitable organizations or used in our clinic/health office. Owners may
regain lost articles by checking the collection area or calling at the office and identi-
fying the items.

OFFICE AND TEACHERS’ ROOMS
Students shall not be behind desks/counters in the office except by permis-
sion. Likewise, the teachers’ room is for the use of teachers and staff members
only. Students are not permitted in the room.

HONOR ROLL
As a student at our elementary school, you work very hard to achieve the
goals you have set for yourself. Your teachers, counselors, and principals would
like to honor you for your diligent efforts.
Students in grades 3-5 must receive a ―B‖ or above in all reported subjects to
earn the distinction of being placed on the honor roll. The names of honor roll stu-
dents are posted and published in the newspaper(s) each nine weeks.

REPORT CARDS
Report cards are issued every nine weeks. Generally, they are given to the
student to take home on Wednesday following the end of the grading period. Par-
ents are to sign and return the report card envelopes within a couple days. A child’s
failure to return the properly signed envelope may result in disciplinary action. Pro-
gress reports are completed by all teachers and sent home at the midpoint of each
grading period.

PROMOTIONS
Students must pass in three (3) of four (4) solid subjects or be recommended
for placement into the next grade by the teaching staff. Parent and teacher recom-
mendations will be considered, but the final decision rests with the school admini-
stration. In addition, the ―Indiana Statewide Testing for Educational Pro-
gress‖ (ISTEP) and/or the NWEA Test will have a major influence on our decision.

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES
Conferences are held at the request of the teachers or parents to confer about
the student’s progress. Teachers are available for conferences at a time to be mutu-
ally arranged and also during their plan period. Teachers’ plan periods are sched-
uled for various hours of the school day. Conference appointments requested by
parents should be made 24 hours in advance.

GOAL SETTING AND STUDENT LED CONFERENCES
Each fall the elementary schools provide the opportunity for parents and stu-
dents to set a social goal and academic goals in language arts and math. During
the second semester, each school will conduct student led conferences. Each
student is given the opportunity to walk his/her parents or guardians through a port-
folio or collection of work collected over the course of the school year. Children are
a critical component of these valuable experiences. Our goal is 100% parent and
student participation. Please do not hesitate to contact your child’s teacher anytime
concerns necessitate a meeting.

HOMEWORK REQUESTS
Homework is an out-of-school assignment that contributes to the educational
development of the student. It should be an extension of the class work and related
to the objectives of the curriculum presently being studied. Homework may include
additional practice exercises, reading of material on a specified subject or unit, an in
-depth extension of classroom activities, or independent project work. Assignment/
Agenda notebooks are required for all students in grades 3-5.
Homework requests must be received by 10:00 a.m. (through the main office)
in order to receive the assignments at the end of the school day. Normally, a stu-
dent must be absent three (3) consecutive days before homework will be sent
home.
4
IDEAS FOR HELPING YOUR CHILD WITH HOMEWORK
1. Communication between home and school will make homework more effec-
tive.
2.
Provide your child with suitable study conditions (desk or table, adequate
lighting, books, and supplies).
3.
Reserve a time for homework and provide an area free from distractions.
4.
Encourage your child to do his/her personal best.

BOOK RENTAL
The school is on a book rental system. Everyone is urged to pay the rental
fee at the time of registration. If parents are unable to pay at the time of registra-
tion, they must sign a promissory note. The students are responsible for the
books assigned to them. All books must be returned in good order or a penalty
fee, as established by the book rental manager, will be assessed. Parents will be
notified of the final date for paying book rental fees.

LUNCH PROGRAM
The school has a lunch program for all students. All sack lunches from
home are to be eaten in the lunch room area. Use plastic containers only — no
soft drinks or red dye based fruit drinks are allowed.
Food is not to be taken from the cafeteria, nor consumed at any time other
than lunch, without specific permission from a staff member on a special occa-
sion.

WITHDRAWALS
To withdraw from school, a parent must notify school personnel so records
can be completed and sent to the school where the student is transferring.

AFTER SCHOOL EVENTS
Events are for members of the organization only. You are to be picked up
after the function by a member of your family or someone authorized by them.

VISITORS
Parents are welcome to visit the school or the classroom. It is always a
source of better understanding for parents, teachers, and administrators to be-
come better acquainted. Please call the office or contact the teacher (other than
class time please) a day in advance to make arrangements for an extended visit
or conference. Since the safety of all our students and staff is our primary con-
cern, we require that you always report to the office immediately upon your arrival.


VOLUNTEERS
Our schools are very fortunate to have many community members who are
willing to give of their time and talents. Volunteers are very key people in our
efforts to provide a quality education. All volunteers are required to report to and
sign-in at the front office. We ask that you wear a name tag so our staff members
will have the opportunity to get to know you.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS/PHONE
It is very important that all students notify the office immediately of any
change of address or telephone number. If a student moves outside the school
district, he/she should attend school in the district in which he/she resides.

CLOSING SCHOOL
In the event of snow or any weather condition which causes school to be
delayed or cancelled, an announcement will be made on various radio/TV sta-
tions. The release of such information is made to the media as soon as such a
decision is reached. Do not call the school! Lines need to be open to remain
in contact with Central Office and the Transportation Department.
Radio stations with closing information include:
WOWO (1190 AM), WMEE (97 FM), WMRI (107 FM), WBTU (93.3 FM)
Television stations with closing information include:
WANE (15), WPTA (21), WKJG (33), WFFT (55)

EARLY DISMISSAL
Each year we distribute an Early Dismissal Form. This form is to be com-
pleted by the child’s parent or guardian and informs the school as to what a child
should do in the event of an early dismissal. Please return the early dismissal
form as soon as possible. It is vital that you and your child have prearranged
what he/she should do. The form should indicate what your child should do if it is
different from his/her regular routine. Please do not indicate who he/she
should call. Under the best of circumstances, we would not have time to call for
individual students, and there is always the possibility of the phones not working.

ATTENDANCE
In order to receive a complete and well-rounded education, it is essential
that students be present in school on a regular basis. Consequently, every child
between the ages of seven (7) and sixteen (16) is required to attend school
unless legally sufficient reasons exist for nonattendance pursuant to Indiana’s
Compulsory Attendance Statute. For more information, please find enclosed the
complete HCCSC Attendance Policy.

CHANGE IN ROUTINE FOR STUDENT
If a student is to go home after school in a way that is not his/her normal
routine (bus instead of walking or vice versa, different bus, or someone picking
the student up, etc.), or if the student is to go home with a friend or to a neighbor’s
or relative’s house instead of his/her own, it is important that the child’s parent
send a note making absolutely clear that it is the parent’s wish for this change in
routine to take place. Students must have a note from their parent/guardian if
they are to ride a different bus. This note must be submitted to the student’s
school office and signed/stamped by the building administrator prior to boarding
the bus. Upon boarding the bus, this authorized note must be presented to the
bus driver. For the safety of our students we will make every effort not to allow a
change in routine unless we hear from the parent.

REQUEST TO LEAVE SCHOOL
A request to have a child excused from school early should be sent with the
child on the morning of the early dismissal. The time and reason for leaving
should be included.
A child will be released only to the parents unless the school has been noti-
fied by the parents that they have granted permission for someone else to pick up
their child.
All students will be dismissed through the office. All visitors must report
to the office immediately upon entering the school and are not to report to
classrooms. The person picking the child up will need to sign him/her out.
This gives the school an up-to-the-minute account of all students in the event of
an emergency.

RECESS
Recess will be held outside unless weather demands it be inside. If the
temperature or wind chill factor is below 20 degrees, inside recess will automati-
cally be in effect. Other possible reasons for inside recess are rain, excessive
snow, ice, etc.

CITIZENSHIP
It is each student’s responsibility to display qualities of good citizenship. Your
best conduct is expected in the halls, in the cafeteria, on the playground, in the
classroom, and when leaving school grounds. Teachers desire that students
become good citizens, and therefore, will give special emphasis to honesty, mo-
rality, and courtesy. Obedience to law, respect to our country’s flag, appreciation
of the Constitution of the United States, respect for parents and home, and recog-
nition of the dignity and necessity of honest labor are characteristics expected of
all our students.

FLAG ETIQUETTE
The Flag represents the hard work and sacrifice of millions of Americans
who have helped make the United States one of the greatest powers in the
world’s history. The Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem have deep
meaning for all Americans. Saying the Pledge and singing the Anthem are tradi-
tional ways for all people to state their loyalty and love for the United States and
its Flag as well as their beliefs in its Democratic principles. The Pledge of Alle-
giance and the Anthem requires us to stand with the right hand over the heart.
Civilians should always show full respect to the Flag by standing at attention and
men should always remove their hats.







5
ANNUAL LETTER OF NOTIFICATION FOR ASBESTOS
The Huntington County Community School Corporation has had asbestos
management plans prepared for all school buildings in the district. These plans
are available for your inspection Monday through Friday, during regular school
days, and normal school hours at the Administrative Service Center, and with five
(5) days notice Monday through Friday at each school office. Quite often, the
local school office copy will be made available upon your request.
In March, 1995, a periodic surveillance was conducted in each school build-
ing to inspect the condition of asbestos and no changes of condition were noted.
In March, 1995, ATEC & Associates, Inc. conducted a three year reinspection of
all asbestos at each school building. Their accredited inspectors not only
checked the condition of asbestos, but reassessed operations and maintenance
procedures that will keep this asbestos containing material in good condition.
Should you have any further questions, you may contact Ron Brinneman,
Director of Maintenance, who is the designated person for asbestos, located at
the Administrative Service Center, 1360 North Warren Road, Huntington, Indi-
ana. The telephone number is (260) 356-7812.

CHILD ABUSE/NEGLECT
The Indiana Juvenile Code requires any individual who has reason to be-
lieve a child is a victim of child abuse or neglect to report it to Child Protective
Services. All school personnel are obligated under this law. Any staff member
who has reason to believe that a child is a victim of abuse or neglect should
notify the principal or the principal’s designee (can be a counselor) to file a report
immediately with the Child Protection Services. The concept of privileged com-
munication does not apply where child abuse and neglect are concerned. Re-
porting sources are provided immunity from criminal and civil liability as long as
reports are made in good faith. Reporting sources remain anonymous during
investigations but may be required to testify in court if court action becomes
necessary.
In the event that any staff member has reason to believe that a child is
being physically or sexually abused by an employee of a public or private institu-
tion, the staff member will follow the same reporting procedure outlined above.

NOTIFICATION OF PARENTS AND STUDENTS OF THE
IMPLEMENTATION OF THE FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY
ACT OF 1974
TO PARENTS AND STUDENTS:
On August 21, 1974, the United States Congress adopted the ―Family Edu-
cational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974‖ dealing with student records. In broad
outline, this act provides for the following:

1. The act concerns the student records of both elementary and secon-

dary schools.

2. The parents’ right under this act extends until the student is 18 years

of age or is enrolled in a post-high school institution; thereafter, only

the student may exercise the rights.
3. Parents have the right to examine their children’s records at reason-

able times.

4. The parent has a right to have a record corrected if it is inaccurate,

misleading, or is otherwise in violation of the privacy or other rights of

students.
5.
A record must be kept for each student showing who examined it, the
date on which it was examined, and the purpose of the examination.
6. Certain persons may examine student records without parent’s con-
sent. School officials, including teachers who have legitimate educa-
tional interests, officials of other schools or school systems where a
transfer is made, and certain representatives to the State and Federal
Government, with various limitations.
7.
Any person may receive the records, if the parent(s) execute a written
consent specifying the records to be released, the reasons for such
release, and the person to whom they are to be released. A copy will
be sent to the parents in such case if requested. Parent(s) may also
request and receive a copy of any student record forwarded to an-
other school or school system with a transfer.
8.
A copy may also be furnished pursuant to a court order or subpoena,
but only if a reasonable effort is made to provide the parents and/or
student with advance notice. The Board of School Trustees has
adopted policy implementing this act. A copy of this policy and the act
are available for inspection at the Office of the Superintendent of
Schools or online at www.hccsc.k12.in.us (click on Board Policies).
PARENTAL ACCESS TO EDUCATION RECORDS
Indiana Code 20-33-7 provides for the following: SEC. 1. as used in this
chapter, ―education records‖ means information that:
1. is recorded by a nonpublic or public school; and
2. concerns a student who is or was enrolled in the school.
SEC. 2(a) except as provided in subsection (b), a nonpublic or public school must
allow a custodial parent and a noncustodial parent of a child the same access to
their child’s education records. (c) A nonpublic or public school may not allow a
noncustodial parent access to the child’s education records if:
(1)a court has issued an order that limits the noncustodial parent’s
access to the child’s education records; and
(2)the school has received a copy of the court order or has actual

knowledge of the court order.

MEDICATION POLICY
State Law regarding medication: The Attorney General has stated in refer-
ence to the Acts of 1949, Chapter 196, Section 2, that anyone giving medication
who is not a licensed physician is practicing medicine illegally. This includes
teachers, nurses, or other school personnel who give children any medicine,
including aspirin, without a physician’s order.
Procedure for dispensing medication at schools:
1.
No prescription medication shall be given or dispensed unless
the dispensing school personnel has on file a medication au-
thorization form signed and completed by the doctor and legal
custodian of the child. Such consent shall be valid for no more
than one (1) year. Parent may withdraw consent (in writing) at
any time.
2.
At each school, two (2) delegated individuals should have the
sole responsibility of giving or dispensing all medication. One
(1) should normally do the dispensing with the other available if
needed.
3.
All medication prescribed for an individual child should be kept in
the original container bearing the original pharmacy label and
the child’s name. The pharmacist will provide an additional
bottle with proper label, upon request.
4. All medication should be kept in a secure place, inaccessible

to students.
5.
All medication should be destroyed or returned to the legal cus-
todian when no longer useful or needed. Destruction of the
medication should be done in such a manner as to ensure no
other student can obtain possession of it. The school corpora-
tion can no longer, under state law, send home medication
with a student when it is no longer needed or at the end of
the school year. Medication that is kept at the school for
administration during school hours or at school functions
for a student in grades kindergarten through grade 8 may
be released only to:
A. The student’s parent; or
B. An individual who is at least 18 years of age; and
designated in writing by the student’s parent to
receive the medication.
6.
Students with a chronic disease or medical condition may pos-
sess and self-administer medication for the chronic disease or
medical condition during school hours or at school functions if
the following conditions are met:
A. The student’s parent has filed an authorization with
the school for the student to possess and self-
administer the medication.
B.
A physician states in writing that:
1.
the student has an acute or chronic dis-
ease or medical condition for which the
physician has prescribed medication;
2.
the student has been instructed in how to
self-administer the medication; and
3.
the nature of the disease or medical condi-
tion requires emergency administration of
the medication.
C.
The authorization and statement described in subsec-
tions A and B must be filed with the student’s school
annually.
6
LEAVING SCHOOL GROUNDS
No student is allowed to leave school grounds at any time without per-
mission. Permission to leave can only be granted by administrators or personnel
appointed by them and the school nurse.

STUDENT ATTENDANCE POLICY

ATTENDANCE & DISCIPLINE GUIDELINES
ATTENDANCE POLICY
Students are expected to attend school regularly to derive maximum benefits from
the instructional program. Since business, industry, and the professions expect and
demand a high level of attendance and time-on-task, the education of students must
reflect those expectations and responsibilities. Through the combined efforts of
parents, students, and the school, the goals of punctuality, self-discipline, and re-
sponsibility can be developed as students are prepared for entry into the adult
world.
The school corporation considers the development of good attendance habits as a
vital and desirable undertaking for two essential reasons. First, it is difficult for
young people to learn if they are not in class: the teaching – learning process builds
upon itself. Secondly, research shows that educational achievement is directly re-
lated to attendance. A student who misses a day of school, misses a day of educa-
tion that cannot be retrieved in its entirety.
All parties involved in the education of students should assist in the maintenance of
excellent attendance and the development of self-discipline. Promoting and foster-
ing desired attendance habits requires a commitment from everyone. A professional
staff member’s responsibility includes, but is not limited to:
A. providing meaningful learning experiences every day;
B. speaking frequently of the importance of students being in class, on time, and
ready to participate;
C. keeping accurate attendance records;
D. incorporating daily student participation as part of the learning process;
E. requiring that quizzes, tests, and pertinent assignments be completed and sub-
mitted within the specified period for make-up work.

EXEMPT ABSENCES
Exempt absences will not be counted toward the ten (10) day maximum for each
school year. The Huntington County Community School Corporation and/or State of
Indiana considers an absence to be exempt for the following reasons (IC 20-8.1-3-
18, 20-8.1-3-22):
Serving as a page in the General Assembly.
Serving at the polls on Election Day.
Court appearances documented by a probation officer or officer of the court.
Religious observances.
Doctor or dental appointments verified by a physician or dentist. (This in-
cludes other medical absences approved by the school and verified by a
physician.)
College visitations by seniors and second-semester juniors (limit of two (2) per
year) with prior approval.
National Guard duty for not more than ten (10) days per school year.

PARENT/GUARDIAN REPORTED ABSENCES
A Parent/Guardian reported absence is when a parent calls the school to report the
student absent, and the reason for the absence does not meet the criteria listed
above as ―exempt‖ absences. Parent/Guardian reported absences are considered
unexcused absences by the State. The state views all absences as unexcused
other than those that fall under the exempt category. The state allows each stu-
dent 10 absences per school year (excluding exempt days) that the parent can
manage. Any absences beyond the 10 days can fall under the definition of habitu-
ally truant. Parents are responsible to account for their children’s absences and
reasons for such absences. (IC 20-33-2-18) Parents must contact the office of the
school from which their children are to be absent, within one (1) hour of the start of
the school day. The school will make a reasonable effort to contact those who have
not reported their children absent. In cases where a parent does not have a tele-
phone, the school must receive a signed written excuse upon the child’s return to
school. If no communication is received within twenty-four (24) hours after a stu-
dent’s return to school, that child’s absence will be considered truant. In considera-
tion of the state compulsory attendance laws the school corporation has adopted
the following attendance guidelines.
Pre-Arranged Absences – Family Vacations- Students must be in school to de-
rive the maximum benefit from their educational experience. The school corporation
strongly discourages students to miss instructional time in order to accompany
parents or guardians on vacations. These days will be counted as part of the ten
(10) days of parent/guardian reported absences. Such absences may be approved,
provided they meet the following guidelines.
A. Students must be accompanied by at least one (1) parent or guardian.
B. Pre-Arranged Absence Request should be submitted to the office of the school
where the student attends, no less than two (2) weeks prior to the first day of
the requested absence.
C. Prior to administrative review, a student requesting an absence must take the
Pre-Arranged Absence Request to each teacher prior to the absence. Teachers
should document the student’s current grade and convey any assignments, if
known, to the student. To the extent possible, students should complete assign-
ments in advance. Next, the parent/guardian must sign the pre-arranged ab-
sence request form. Finally, the form should be submitted to the Attendance
Office for final review and approval by an administrator.
D. A maximum of Five (5) days absence will be permitted for pre-arranged ab-
sences. Requested days beyond the maximum will not be approved and will be
considered unexcused.
E. Only one (1) pre-arranged absence is permitted per student, per school year.
F. Pre-arranged requests for the weeks set aside for final examinations and re-
quired standardized testing will not be approved. Parents should note that in-
clement weather may result in an extended school year. Absences requested
during such extensions may not be approved.
G. Parents with special circumstances may appeal to the Attendance Committee.
This must be done two weeks prior to the vacation.

Excessive Absences- A student who accumulates more than ten (10) days of
nonexempt absences (including a pre-arranged absence) in the school year, may
be considered to be excessively absent or habitually truant. Excessive absences
may be referred to the Huntington County Probation Department or the Huntington
County Division of Family Services. It is the PARENT’S RESPONSIBILITY to ac-
count for their children’s absences and reasons for those absences.

Extended and Chronic Illness- Students who have a chronic illness may be ab-
sent at various times throughout the year, due to the nature of the illness. Students
with a chronic illness must submit a Certificate of Incapacity, completed by a
physician.

Opportunities to Make up Work- Students will be given the opportunity to make up
work missed due to exempt and parent/guardian reported absences. The length of
time for completion of make-up work will be commensurate with the length of the
absence.

Truancy- Truancy demonstrates a deliberate disregard for the educational program
and is considered to be a serious matter. A student shall be considered truant each
day or part of the day s/he is absent from his/her assigned location without parental
knowledge or permission from school personnel. Truancy applies to students who
remain in restrooms due to illness. (Students who become ill are to report to class
where a pass to the Health Clinic may be obtained.) Students who leave the
building without permission granted by school personnel are considered
truant. Signing out is not considered permission to leave. (Signing out is what a
student is instructed to do after permission to leave school has been granted.)

Habitual Truant- A student shall be designated as a habitual truant when the stu-
dent has been chronically absent, by having unexcused absences (nonexempt)
from school for more than ten (10) days in one (1) school year (Indiana Law effec-
tive July 1, 2005). Parent/Guardian reported absences are considered unex-
cused by the State.

Receiving Truant Students- When a principal receives a truant student during the
school day, s/he shall immediately place the student in his/her appropriate class
and may not detain the child after school. As promptly as is reasonably possible
after placing the child in class, the principal shall attempt to advise the child’s
7
parents of the facts by telephone. In all cases, the principal shall advise the child’s
parents of the facts by mail on the same day s/he receives the child. (IC 20-8.1-3-
29,30)

Tardiness- Students who are not in their assigned locations at the beginning of
the school day must report to the office to sign-in. When school personnel detain
a student, preventing him/her from reporting to class without being late, they are
to issue a pass or otherwise communicate such circumstances to appropriate staff
to prohibit the student from being classified as tardy. A student will be considered
tardy rather than absent if s/he is in his/her assigned location within fifteen (15)
minutes after the official start of the school day. Students will be considered
excessively tardy when they have been tardy four (4) or more times in a semes-
ter. Students who are excessively tardy may be assigned reasonable conse-
quences as determined by the building administration. Tardies other than at the
start of the school day or the student’s arrival to school will be handled by the
classroom teacher.

Recording and Reporting Requirements- An accurate daily record of atten-
dance must be kept in each school. IC 20-8.1-3-25

ATTENDANCE REVIEW COMMITTEE
All schools shall have an attendance review committee. This committee will re-
view special cases and make recommendations to the principal. The principal is
the official attendance officer of the school and his/her decision is final

ATTENDANCE/PARTICIPATION
The school assumes that a student who is unable to attend school because of
illness will also be unable to attend extracurricular functions later the same day.
Note: Perfect attendance is defined as: Present and on time for each class. The
only exceptions would be in the case of a school related function, such as a field
trip.

DRESS CODE
Students are allowed to wear clothing that does not disrupt the learning
process and is in good taste. Throughout life, many social responsibilities dictate
appropriate attire and appearance. In keeping with this concept, faculty and staff
expect students’ appearance at school to reflect neatness, cleanliness, and ap-
propriate dress. In addition, students should consider the temperature controlled
environment of some buildings and the current weather conditions in choosing
appropriate dress that will not only comply with dress code regulations but will
also make provision for the students’ health and comfort.
Violators of the dress code will be sent to the principal or assistant princi-
pals’ office. The building principal is the final judge of appropriate attire. Students
will be asked to wear clothing the school has available. If appropriate attire cannot
be obtained, the students will be assigned to supervised study for the remainder
of the day. Repeated violations of the dress code will subject a student to further
disciplinary action.
School attire should conform to the following general regulations which are
not intended to be all inclusive:
A. Health and Safety
1. Unsafe clothing or wearing apparel should not be worn during

the school day or at school activities.
2. Shoes must be worn.
3. Outdoor jackets/coats are not to be worn to class.
B. Appropriate Dress
1. Students will not be permitted to display on their person,


binders, books, handbooks, and other like items — or to


wear clothing/apparel that glorifies, advertises, or promotes


the use of or engagement in alcohol, tobacco, illegal sub


stances, sexual conduct, violence (such as WWF or other


professional wrestling organizations), gang symbols and/or


signs, or related activities.
2. Students will not be permitted to wear clothing or apparel


depicting or expressing obscenities or satanic references.
3. Students will not be permitted to wear apparel, jewelry, or


any other item(s), including extremely dark lipstick and/or


fingernail polish, coloring of hair, glitter, and stickers/


tattoos, that disrupts the learning atmosphere, is not in good


taste, or could prove injurious to oneself or other stu


dents — this could include nose rings, body rings, chains


attached to such rings, or chains attached to pocket


watches or billfolds.


4. Shorts will be allowed at appropriate times (times will be


announced by administration). Athletic shorts, biking shorts,


short shorts, or similar types of shorts (to those already


listed) are not allowed.


5. Clothing that has been cut, ripped, torn, manufactured with


holes, or consists of see-through materials is not permitted.


6. Extremely baggy and/or sagging pants will not be allowed.


This may include other types of clothing that may be very


large or baggy in nature.


7. Tank tops, blouses, shirts, or dresses with open backs, low


necklines, thin straps, strapless, open down the sides, or of


bare midriff design are not allowed.


8. Tight-fitting, leotard-like pants are not permitted unless a


dress or long top is worn over the pants.
9.
Students are not allowed to wear hats, sunglasses, or vi-
sors in the building.
10. For students’ safety, footwear must provide a firm walking
surface and good balance. Shoes must be secured to the
front and back of the foot by strap or full enclosure.
C. Maintenance of School Plant


1. Footwear or items of clothing that would damage furniture,


floors, or walls are in violation of the dress code.

BASIC CONDUCT RULES
A few fundamental rules are essential for the successful operation of any
organization. If everyone obeys these few rules, which are not intended to be all-
inclusive, your hours at school will be more enjoyable:
1.
Running, shouting, loud-talking, whistling, and boisterous laughing in

halls will not be tolerated.
2.
Always remove hats upon entering the building.
3.
No one is to be in the halls during class time without permission and a

hall pass.

4. The contents of desks and lockers are an individual’s personal posses

sion. However, lockers and other storage areas provided remain the

property of the school and are subject to inspection. Further informa

tion can be found in the search and seizure section of the handbook.
5.
No possession/use of tobacco in the building or on the school grounds

at any time.
6.
There will be no snowballing at any time on school grounds.
7.
No gum/candy.
8.
Do not deface or damage school property.
9.
No radios, headphones, tape players, CD players, cellular phones,
beepers, electronic games, or other pieces of electronic equipment
that may disrupt the learning atmosphere (unless specifically re-
quested by teachers).
10. No baseball cards or other types of collectibles (unless specifically

requested by teachers).
11. Use of profanity and/or other objectionable language will not be toler

ated.
12. Fighting will not be allowed — you can expect stern disciplinary action

if you are involved.
13. Gleeking or spitting will not be tolerated.
14. Students are to only be in supervised areas throughout the school day

and at school functions.
15. Disruption in the classroom, of any type, is a violation of school rules
and the Indiana Code.
16. Truancy—students truant from school may suffer the penalty of re-
duced grade(s) for the grading period. The reduction will be at the
discretion of the administrator(s), individual teacher, and/or teacher
teams.
17. No toy guns, knives, or weapons of any kind should be brought to
school.
18. Bullying and other forms of harassment are prohibited.
8
19. No hairstyles or colors that distract from the educational process, such
as mohawk hairstyles or colors outside of the normal hair colors
(example: green).

DISCIPLINARY ACTION

The following are possible disciplinary actions to school personnel.
When administering discipline, the student’s age, severity of the offense, and any
previous misconduct will be considered. In all cases, it is deemed important that
student safety is preserved and that consequences correspond with the consid-
erations listed above. Consequences available to school personnel in matters of
discipline include, but are not limited to, the following actions:
•
Counseling with a student or group of students
•
Conferences with a parent or group of parents
•
Assignment of additional work
•
Rearrangement of class schedule
•
Requiring students to remain in school after school hours to do additional
school work or for counseling
•
Restriction of extracurricular activities
•
Removal from class
•
Assignment of a special course of study or to an alternative education pro-
gram
•
Corporal punishment
•
Removal from school-sponsored transportation
•
Referral to juvenile authorities
•
Suspension from school
•
Expulsion from school

DISCIPLINE REFERRAL SLIPS
Discipline referral slips are forms that teachers fill out when sending a stu-
dent to administration for discipline. Many times these will be shared with parents
so the school and the parent can work as a team in correcting problems.

TEACHER SUSPENSION OF STUDENTS
Each teacher shall, when students are under his/her charge, have the right
to take any action reasonably necessary to prevent an interference with the edu-
cational function of which he/she is in charge.

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT
The Law of Indiana clearly accords to the public school teacher, in proper
cases, the same right over a child in his/her school as is possessed by the parent,
and this includes the right to administer corporal punishment when it is appropri-
ate. The law is well settled in this state that the teacher stands in loco parentis to
the child, and his/her authority in this respect is no more subject to question than
is the authority of the parent. The teacher’s authority and the kind and quantum
of punishment employed to meet a given offense is measured by the same rules,
standards, and requirements as fixed and established for parents.
Indiana Supreme Court-Case of Indiana State Personnel Board V. Jackson,
192 N.E.2d 740, 743-744 (IND. 1963)
Corporal punishment is reserved for cases where the administration be-
lieves it to be effective in helping a child change his/her conduct pattern.
1.
Corporal punishment shall be administered in the presence of the
principal, assistant principal, or administrative assistant. This is not to
be done in the presence of other students.
2.
After the reasons for the punishment have been explained to the wit-
ness to his/her satisfaction, and the student has been given the oppor-
tunity to explain his/her conduct, the punishment is administered.
3.
Students who refuse corporal punishment as a method of disciplinary
action, may receive a three (3) day out-of-school suspension. If a
parent refuses corporal punishment as a method of disciplinary action
for his/her child, an out-of-school suspension for their child may also
be utilized.
OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION
1.
Students receiving out-of-school suspension (OSS) will be able to make up
work missed. Credit for completed assignments will be at the discretion of
individual teacher(s) and/or teacher teams.
2.
During the OSS period, students are not permitted on school property.
3.
Students may not participate in any extracurricular activities for the entire
duration of the suspension period.
4.
The parent/guardian must contact the school to discuss the necessary pro-
cedures for the student’s re-entry into school.

GROUNDS FOR SUSPENSION OR EXPULSION
Grounds for suspension or expulsion are student misconduct and/or sub-
stantial disobedience. Examples of student misconduct and/or substantial disobe-
dience for which a student may be suspended or expelled include, but are not
limited to:
1.
Using violence, force, noise, coercion, threat, intimidation, fear, pas-
sive resistance, or other comparable conduct constituting an interfer-
ence with school purposes, or urging other students to engage in such
conduct. The following enumeration is only illustrative and not limited
to the type of conduct prohibited by these rules:
A. Occupying any school building, school grounds, or part thereof
with intent to deprive others of its use.
B.
Blocking the entrance or exits of any school building or corridor
or room therein with intent to deprive others of lawful access to or
from, or use of the building, corridor, or room.
C. Setting fire to or damaging any school building or property.
D.
Prevention of or attempting to prevent by physical act the con-
vening or continued functioning of any school or educational
function, or of any meeting or assembly on school property.
E.
Continuously and intentionally making noise or acting in any
manner so as to interfere seriously with the ability of any teacher
or any of the other school personnel to conduct the educational
function under their supervision.
2.
Causing or attempting to cause damage to school property, stealing or
attempting to steal school property.
3.
Causing or attempting to cause damage to private property, stealing or
attempting to steal private property.
4.
Disorderly conduct by a student(s) which interferes materially or sub-
stantially with the operations of the school by defacing or destroying
school property by rioting, breaking-in, sitting-in, lying-in, smashing-in,
or picketing to force students not to cross picket lines. Disorderly
conduct shall mean any unlawful student assemblage; or group act of
violence, disruption, vandalism, or any building seizure; or interference
with the functioning of school personnel or any student or group of
students.
5.
Intentionally causing or attempting to cause physical injury or intention-
ally behaving in such a way as could reasonably cause physical injury
to any person. Self-defense or reasonable action undertaken on the
reasonable belief that it was necessary to protect some other person
does not, however, constitute a violation of this rule.
6.
Threatening or intimidating any student for any purpose, including
obtaining money or anything of value from the student.
7.
Performing any act of coercing another, including the victim, to perform
any act of initiation into any class, group, or organization that causes
or creates a risk of causing mental, emotional, or physical harm.
8.
Possessing, handling, transmitting, or failure to report knowledge of a
weapon or object represented to be a weapon. A weapon means any
object which, in the manner in which it is used, intended to be used, or
represented, is capable of inflicting serious bodily harm or property
damage, as well as endangering the health and safety of persons.
Weapons include, but are not limited to firearms, guns of any type—
including loaded or unloaded air and gas powered guns—knives, ra-
zors, clubs, electric weapons, metallic knuckles, martial arts weapons,
ammunitions, and explosives. A knife is defined as an instrument that:
(1) consists of a sharp edge or sharp pointed blade capable of inflicting
cutting, stabbing, or tearing wounds; and (2) is intended to be used as
a weapon.
Elementary School Note: A student who must use a knife as part of

an organized activity held by an organization that has been approved

by the principal of the school is exempt so long as the knife is used as

part of or in accordance with the approved organized activity.
9.
Possessing, using, transmitting, or being under the influence of any
narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, mari-
juana, alcoholic beverage, or intoxicant of any kind. Use of any drug
authorized by a medical prescription from a physician for the individual
using the drug is not a violation of the rule.
Elementary School Note: Further information regarding the school’s

policy with regard to violation of the above can be found in this hand

book under the title ―Student Assistance Policy.‖
10. Engaging in the unlawful selling of a controlled substance or engaging
in a criminal law violation that constitutes a danger to other students or
9
constitutes an interference with school purposes or an e d u c a t i o n a l
function.
Elementary School Note: Knowingly possess, use, provide, or transmit

to another person or be under the influence of any substance which is,

looks like, or which is or was represented to be a tobacco product, nar

cotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana,

alcoholic beverage, substance containing alcohol, heavily-based caf

feine product, substance containing phenylpropanolamine (PPA), ster

oid, stimulant, depressant, or intoxicant of any kind. Use of a drug au

thorized by a medical prescription from a physician is not a violation of

the above policy.
11. Failing in a substantial number of instances to comply with directions of
teachers or other school personnel during any period of time when the
student is properly under their supervision, where the failure constitutes
an interference with school purposes or an educational function.
12. Engaging in any activity, on or off school grounds, forbidden by the laws
of Indiana, that constitutes an inference with school purposes or an
educational function.
13. Violating or repeatedly violating any rules that are reasonably necessary
in carrying out school purposes or an educational function and are es-
tablished in accordance with Indiana Law, including, but not limited to:
A. Disobedience of administrative authority.
B. Willful absence or tardiness of students.
C. Use of abusive and/or vulgar language, indecent language,

or language which can reasonably be foreseen as likely to cause a
substantial disruption or interference with school purposes or an
educational function.

Elementary School Note: Engaging in speech or conduct, i n -
cluding clothing, jewelry, or hairstyle which is profane, indecent,
lewd, vulgar, or offensive to school purposes.
D. Refusing to identify him/herself to any teacher, member of the
administration staff, or any other authorized person.
E.
Possessing, using, or transmitting any substance which is repre-
sented to be or looks like a narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug,
amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverage, stimu-
lant, depressant, or intoxicant of any kind (see Student Assistance
Policy).
F.
Possessing, using, transmitting, or being under the influence of
caffeine-based substance, substance containing phenylpropanola-
mine (PPA), or stimulants of any kind, be they
available with or without a prescription (see Student Assistance

Policy).
G.
Throwing objects on school grounds, at or from a school bus, or in
buildings, in such a way as to be threatening to the general safety
of students, others, and school personnel.
H.
Engaging in voluntary or consensual sexually-related activity on
school property may result in suspension or expulsion; public
displays of affection will not be allowed.

Elementary School Note: Engaging in harassment of another
person, which includes sexually-related statements, gestures and/
or physical contact, as well as racial/ethnic remarks.
I. Using, selling, or possession of a tobacco product(s) on school

property.
J.
Cheating or plagiarizing may result in failing grades on the assign-
ment or test, failing the course for the nine-weeks, or in severe
cases, removal from class with loss of credit, supervised study or
out-of-school suspension or expulsion.
K. Writing unauthorized passes/notes, possessing blank or forged
passes/notes or distributing blank or forged passes/notes to other
students who could use the passes/notes in an unauthorized man-
ner may result in the following penalties: Saturday school, super-
vised study, out-of-school suspension, or recommendation for
expulsion.
14. Knowingly possessing or using on school grounds, during school hours,
an electronic paging device or a hand-held portable telephone in a
situation not related to a school purpose or educational function.

Elementary School Note: Any paging device or portable telephone
confiscated may be kept by the school administration until the conclu-
sion of the school year. The elementary school is not financially respon-
sible for confiscated electronic devices not claimed by the rightful owner
on the last day of school.
15. Preventing gang activity - presence of gangs and gang activities can
cause a substantial disruption to school and school activities. A ―gang‖
is defined as any group of students who are perceived as a distinct
group (not an approved organization), which prompts a disruptive re-
sponse in the school community. The following rules act to prevent
disruption and to prohibit gang activities by restricting those actions
which foster such activities
or which, because they may be per-
formed in relation to gang activities, endanger even those students who
do not intend to show gang membership or affiliation.
No student on school property or at any school activity:
A.
Shall wear, possess, use, distribute, display, or sell any clothing,
jewelry, emblem, badge, symbol, sign, drawing, graffiti, or other
items which may be viewed as evidence of membership or affilia-
tion in a gang.
B.
Shall commit any act or omission, or use any speech, either verbal
or nonverbal (gestures, handshakes, drawings, graffiti, other writ-
ten communications, etc.) showing membership or affiliation in a
gang.
C.
Shall use any speech or commit any act or omission in promoting
the interests of any gang or gang activity, including but not limited
to soliciting others for membership in any gangs, intimidating or
threatening any person, and violating any other rules as stated in
the handbook.
Violating any of the above gang prevention rules may result in suspen-
sion or expulsion.
16. Possessing a Firearm:
A. No student shall possess, handle, or transmit any firearm on school

property.
B. The following devices are considered to be a firearm under this rule:
• Any weapon that will, or is designed to, or may readily be converted

to, expel a projectile by the action of an explosive.
• The frame or receiver of any weapon described above.
• Any firearm muffler or firearm silencer.
• Any destructive device which is an explosive, incendiary, or poison

gas bomb, grenade, rocket having a propellant charge of more than

four ounces, missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more

than one-quarter ounce, mine, or similar device.
• Any weapon that will, or that may be readily converted to, expel a

projectile by action of an explosive or other propellant, and that has

any barrel with a bore of more than one-half inch in diameter.
• Any combination of parts either designed or intended for use in con-

verting any device into any destructive device described in the two

immediately preceding examples, and from which a destructive de

vice may be readily assembled.
• An antique firearm.
• A rifle or a shotgun which the owner intends to use solely for sporting,

recreational, or cultural purposes.
C. The penalty for possession of a firearm:
Suspension up to ten (10) days and expulsion from school for at least

one (1) calendar year with the return of the student to be at the begin

ning of the first semester after the one (1) year period. The length of the

expulsion may be reduced by the superintendent if the circumstances

warrant such reduction.
D. The superintendent shall notify the County Prosecuting Attorney’s
Office when a student is expelled under the above stated rule.
17. Possessing a Deadly Weapon:

A. No student shall possess, handle, or transmit any deadly weapon

on school grounds.
B. The following devices are considered to be deadly weapons as

defined in I.C. 35-41-1-8:

• A weapon, laser, or electronic stun weapon, equipment, chemical
substance, or other material that in the manner it is used, or could ordi-
narily be used, or is intended to be used,
is readily capable of caus-
ing serious bodily injury.

• An animal readily capable of causing serious bodily injury
a n d
used in the commission or attempted commission of a crime.
C. The penalty for possession of a deadly weapon: Up to ten (10) day-
suspension and/or expulsion from school for a period of not more
than one (1) calendar year.
D. The superintendent shall notify the County Prosecuting Attorney’s
Office when a student is expelled under this rule.
10
18. Student’s Legal Settlement not in Attendance Area: A student may be
expelled from school if the student’s legal settlement is not in the atten-
dance area of the school corporation where the student is enrolled. As
added by IC 20-33-8-17.
19. Bullying is prohibited in all HCCSC elementary schools. Bullying is
defined by the Act as ―overt, repeated acts or gestures, including verbal
or written communications transmitted; physical act committed; or any
other behaviors committed by student or group of students against
another student with the intent to harass, ridicule, humiliate, intimidate,
or harm the other student.‖

This rule will apply when a student is on school grounds immediately

before or during school hours, immediately after school hours or at

any other time when the school is being used by a school group, off

school grounds at a school activity, function or event; traveling to or

from school or a school activity, function, or event; or using property or

equipment provided by the school. While literally, the latter phrase

means that when a student is using a computer or laptop provided by

the school at his home and another student bullies the student
using

the computer, it would violate the rule.

Senate Enrolled Act 285 (SEA 285)
20. Additional Disciplinary Actions Authorized:
This section applies to a person who:
A. Is a member of the administrative staff, a teacher, or
B. Has students under the person’s charge.
A person may take disciplinary action in addition to suspension and expul-
sion that is necessary to ensure a safe, orderly, and effective educational environ-
ment. Disciplinary action under this section may include the following:
A.
Counseling with a student or group of students;
B.
Conferences with a parent or group of parents;
C.
Assigning additional work;
D. Rearranging class schedules;

E. Requiring a student to remain in school after regular school hours to do

additional school work or for counseling; and
F.
Restricting extracurricular activities.
The Grounds for Suspension or Expulsion listed above (#1-19) apply
when a student is:
A. On school grounds immediately before, during, and immediately after
school hours and at any

other time when the school is being used by a school group;
B. Off school grounds at a school activity, function, or event; or
C.
Traveling to or from school or a school activity, function, or event.
In addition to the grounds listed above, a student may be suspended or ex-
pelled for engaging in unlawful activity, on or off school grounds, if the unlawful
activity may reasonably be considered to be an interference with school purposes
or an educational function, or the student’s removal is necessary to restore order
or protect persons on school property. This includes any unlawful activity meeting
the above criteria which takes place during weekends, holidays, other school
breaks, and the summer period when a student may not be attending classes or
other school functions.

SUSPENSION PROCEDURES
When an administrator (or designee) determines that a student should be
suspended, the following procedures will be followed:
1.
A meeting will be held prior to the suspension of any student.
At this meeting, the student will be entitled to:
A. A written or oral statement of the charges;

B. If the student denies the charges, a summary of the evidence
against the student will be presented; and,
C. The student will be provided an opportunity to explain his or her con

duct.
2.
The meeting shall precede suspension of the student except where the
nature of the misconduct requires immediate removal. In such situa-
tions, the meeting will follow the suspension as soon as reasonably
possible following the date of the suspension.
3.
Following the suspension, the parent or guardian of a suspended

student will be notified in writing. The notification will include the dates
of the suspension, describe the student’s misconduct, and the action
taken by the administrator (or designee).

EXPULSION PROCEDURES
When an administrator (or designee) recommends to the superintendent (or
designee) that a student be expelled from school, the following procedures will be
followed:
1.
The superintendent (or designee) may conduct an expulsion meeting,
or may appoint one of the following persons to conduct the expulsion
meeting:
A. Legal counsel;


B. A member of the administrative staff who did not expel the

student during the current school year and was not involved in

the events giving rise to the expulsion.
2. An expulsion will not take place until the student and the student’s
parent are given notice of their right to appear at an expulsion meeting
conducted by the superintendent or the person designated above.
Failure by a student or a student’s parent to request and to appear at
this meeting will be
deemed a waiver of right administratively to contest the expulsion or to

appeal it to the school board.
3.
The notice of the right to an expulsion meeting will be in writing, deliv-
ered by certified mail or by personal delivery, and contain the reasons
for the expulsion and the procedure for requesting the meeting.
4.
At the expulsion meeting, the administrator (or designee) will present
evidence to support the charges against the student. The student or
parent will have the opportunity to answer the charges against the
student and to present evidence to support the student’s position.
5.
If an expulsion meeting is held, the person conducting the expulsion
meeting will make a written summary of the evidence heard at the
meeting, including a recommendation regarding the expulsion, and
submit both to the superintendent.
The student or parent has the right to appeal the decision of the person con-
ducting the expulsion meeting to the school board within ten (10) days of the re-
ceipt of notice of the action taken. The student or parent appeal to the school
board must be in writing. If an appeal is properly made, the board must consider
the appeal unless the board votes not to hear the appeal. If the board hears the
appeal, it will consider the written summary of the expulsion meeting and the argu-
ments of both the school administration and the student and/or the student’s par-
ent. The board will then take any action deemed appropriate.
Legal Reference:


I.C. 20-33-8
Date Adopted: June 24, 1996

EXPECTED CONDUCT OF STUDENTS ON SCHOOL BUSES


To be sure that students are transported safely, certain
behavior is expected of all students. Any behavior that interferes with a driver’s
ability to operate his/her bus safely, or behavior that jeopardizes the safety or
property of one’s self or peers, is considered inappropriate. All students are ex-
pected to:


1. Report to their loading locations five (5) minutes prior to scheduled

pick- up times.

2. Stay off roadways while waiting for their buses and remain off road

ways until buses come to a complete stop.

3. Be seated and remain in their seats, facing forward, while riding.

4. Use voices that are respectful and not disturbing.

5. Keep windows closed unless given permission to open them by their

bus drivers.

6. Keep hands and feet to themselves.

7. Carry only permissible items on the bus that can be held in their laps.

8. Ride the buses to which they are assigned.

9. Not throw objects of any kind, within the bus nor from the bus.

10. Put trash in wastebaskets and not leave refuse on the bus.

11. Move away from the roadway and directly onto a sidewalk or toward

their houses after disembarking.

12. Cross streets and roadways only in FRONT of buses, and do so at

least ten (10) feet from the front.

13. Not damage or deface any part of school buses or the property of

others.

14. Not use profane, indecent, or lewd language or gestures.

15. Keep all parts of their bodies within their school buses.

16. Not eat nor drink, and keep all objects out of their mouths.
11

17. Use electronic games and radios only with the permission of their

drivers.*

18. Act respectfully toward their drivers and obey their drivers’ direc

tives.

19. Not to be in possession of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or weapons of

any kind.
*At times, it may help students’ behavior if they stay engaged in a portable game or
listening to music. When approved to do so, games are to be played with the
sound off and portable stereos are to be used with headphones, so as not to dis-
turb the driver or other passengers.

Any violation of the bus rules may result in disciplinary action as follows:
1st Offense – Verbal Warning (behavior form goes to student)
2nd Offense – One day suspension from riding the bus
3rd offense – Three day suspension from riding the bus
4th Offense – Five day suspension from riding the bus
5th Offense – Suspension for rest of semester. Parent will be contacted before any
suspension begins.
It is important to realize that if the child is suspended from one bus, he/she cannot
ride another bus during the time of the suspension. This includes transportation for
field trips as well as buses for extracurricular activities. Days Absent due to illness
during the suspension do not count towards the days suspended.

TRANSPORTING LARGE AND DANGEROUS ITEMS

Students may transport on school buses, only those items that can be
secured out of the aisle and do not obstruct the view of the bus driver. Balloons,
large display boards, and other sizable items should be transported to and from
school in private vehicles, unless arrangements can be made to accommodate
them safely on a bus. Bus drivers have the right to make a determination as to
what items may be transported.


Students may transport live animals or insects only with prior approval
from their school bus drivers. Before such permission is granted, students must
ensure that the animals/insects being transported are contained in such a way that
they will not escape nor present a safety risk to other riders. It is suggested that
animals and insects be taken to and from school in private vehicles.


Any items that pose a danger to other occupants or impair the driver’s
ability to safely operate the school bus may not be transported on the bus by stu-
dents. Glass containers, flammable liquids, dangerous animals, alcoholic bever-
ages, drugs, ammunition, explosives, firearms, knives, and any object that can
reasonably be construed to be a weapon are examples of items that are forbidden.
Notwithstanding the above, if a student, upon boarding a bus notifies his/her driver
that he/she is unintentionally in possession of a legal object which is forbidden on
the bus or at school, the driver, if practical, will take possession of the object and
convey it to the principal upon arriving at school. Consequences, if any, shall be at
the discretion of the principal.

SCHOOL BUS DISCIPLINE
Students riding a school bus are under the jurisdiction of the school authori-
ties the same as if they are in the classroom . This gives the driver of the school
bus the same authority as a teacher in the classroom. A bus driver does not have
to put up with abusive language, threats, or other misconduct of students and is not
required to transport a student that will not conform to the rules and regulations.
Indiana Law states a student must attend school between the ages of seven
and sixteen. The law states the school corporation may provide transportation to
school; it does not say the corporation shall do so. If a student loses his/her school
bus privileges, it then becomes the responsibility of the parent or guardian to see
that the student attends school or he/she becomes truant and the parent can be
prosecuted under the Compulsory Attendance Law.

ELIGIBLE PASSENGERS ON SCHOOL BUSES

Each student must ride the bus to which he/she has been assigned,
unless arrangements have been made to ride as a guest on another bus. To ride
as a guest, a student must present to the bus driver, a note from his/her parent that
has been validated (signed or stamped) by his/her school’s principal (or designee).
In the event of a family emergency, students may be permitted to ride on another
bus. When this occurs, the driver of the bus to be ridden will be contacted by the
school’s principal or designee to arrange transportation.

DISEMBARKING AT A DIFFERENT LOCATION

Students are to be delivered only to the locations established as the
delivery point on drivers’ routes. A student may not disembark at another location,
unless the driver has in his or her possession a signed note from a child’s parents
indicating the date and alternate destination for their child. While alternative desti-
nations may be used for children on occasion, parents should work cooperatively
with the Transportation Department to establish a regular schedule. In emergency
cases, a student may be delivered to an alternate destination if the driver is con-
tacted by the child’s school and instructed to do so.

LOCKER POLICY
All lockers and other storage areas provided for student use on school prem-
ises remain the property of the school corporation and are provided for the use of
students subject to inspection, access for maintenance, and search pursuant to this
policy.
Lockers are subject to search at any time. Anything found in the course of a
search, which is evidence of a violation of student conduct standards or the law,
may be seized and:
1.
Admitted in evidence in a suspension or expulsion hearing.
2.
Turned over to a parent or guardian.
3.
Destroyed.
4.
Turned over to any law enforcement officer.
Students are expected to keep lockers in an orderly fashion and free of de-
bris, stickers, etc.
Items can only be attached to the inside of lockers with magnets. Do
not use tape or any other products that might stick permanently.
1.
Students are to use only the locker assigned to them. Students who
share lockers are in violation of this policy and are subject to disciplinary
action.
2.
Locker damage will be assessed and appropriate fees will be assessed

to students.
3.
If a locker is not functioning properly, please notify the office.
4.
Students are discouraged from bringing valuables (watches, necklaces,
rings, etc.) and large amounts of money to school. The school does not
assume responsibility for lost or stolen articles.
5.
Students are held responsible for the contents of their assigned lockers.
6.
It is the student’s responsibility to clean out his/her locker at the close of
each school year. Lockers will be cleaned and inspected immediately.
All items left in the lockers will be discarded and students will be as-
sessed a fine for lockers that are in less than acceptable condition.




HUNTINGTON COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION
1360 North Warren Road
Huntington, IN 46750
260-356-7812
The following is the policy of the Board of School Trustees of the Huntington
County Community School Corporation concerning search of student lockers and
storage areas, students, and motor vehicles. It represents a sincere effort to bal-
ance students’ right to privacy with our need to find and remove things which
threaten their health, safety, or the learning atmosphere in our schools. Your com-
ments and support would be appreciated.


BOARD POLICY
SEARCH AND SEIZURE ON SCHOOL PREMISES
OR DURING A SCHOOL ACTIVITY
Adopted September 8,1980
SEARCH AND SEIZURE—PROCEDURE—USE OF EVIDENCE
A. As used in this section, ―reasonable cause for a search‖ means circum-
stances which would cause a reasonable person to believe that the
search of a particular person, place, or thing will probably lead to the
discovery of:
1.
Evidence of a violation of the student conduct standards and/or

corporation policies and/or

regulations as contained or referenced in the student handbook;
2.
Anything which because of its presence presents an immediate
danger of physical harm or illness to any person or damage to
12
property.
B.
All lockers and other storage areas provided for student use on school
premises remain the property of the school corporation and are provided
for the use of the students subject to inspection, access for mainte-
nance, and search pursuant to this section. No students shall lock or
otherwise impede access to any locker or storage area except with a
lock provided by or approved by the principal of the school in which the
locker or storage area is located or his designee. Unapproved locks
shall be removed and destroyed.
1.
The principal, or a member of the administrative staff designated in
writing by the principal may search a locker and its contents at any
time where the person conducting the search or the principal des-
ignating the person to search has reasonable cause for a search
of the locker searched. Other than a general search of lockers of
all students, where the locker to be searched is assigned to a
particular student, where possible the student shall be present at
the search.
2.
The principal, a member of the administrative staff, or a teacher
may search a desk or any other storage area on school premises,
other than a locker, when the person conducting the search has
reasonable cause for a search.
C.
The principal, or another member of the administrative staff designated
in writing by the principal and acting at the direction of the principal, may
search the person of a student during a school activity if the principal
has reasonable cause for a search of that student. Searches of the
person of a student shall be limited to:

1. Searches of the pockets of the student;
2. Any object in the possession of the student such as a purse

or briefcase; and/or
3. A ―pat down‖ of the exterior of the student’s clothing. Searches of the
person of a student which require removal of clothing other than a coat or
jacket shall be referred to a law enforcement officer in accordance with
subsection G of this section. Searches of the person of a student shall
be conducted in a private room by a person of the same sex as the stu-
dent being searched. At least one, but not more than three additional
persons of the same sex as the student being searched shall witness but
not participate in the search. At the request of the student to be
searched, an additional person of the same sex as the student desig-
nated by the student, and then reasonably available on school premises,
shall witness the search. The parent or guardian of any student
searched shall be notified of the search as soon as reasonably possible.
D.
The principal or a member of the administrative staff designated in writ-
ing by the principal may request a law enforcement officer to search a
motor vehicle on school premises, subject to subsection G of this sec-
tion.
E.
Anything found in the course of a search conducted in accordance with
this section which is evidence of a violation of the student conduct stan-
dards and/or this corporation’s policies and/or regulation as contained or
referenced in the student handbook may be:
1.
Seized and admitted as evidence in any suspension or expulsion
proceeding if it is tagged for identification at the time it is seized
and kept in a secure place by the principal or the principal’s desig-
nee until it is presented at the hearing;
2. Returned to the parent, guardian, or the student from whom it was

seized; and


3. Destroyed (if it has no significant value) or turned over to any law

enforcement officer in accordance with subsection G.
F.
Anything found in the course of a search conducted in accordance with
this section which, by its presence, presents an immediate danger of
physical harm or illness to any person may be seized and:
1. Returned to the parent, guardian, or student from whom it

was seized;
2. Destroyed; or
3. Turned over to any law enforcement officer in accordance

with subsection G.
G.
The principal, or a member of the administrative staff designated in
writing by the principal, may request the assistance of a law enforce-
ment officer to:
1.
Search any area of the school premises, any student, or any motor
vehicle on school premises;


2. Identify or dispose of anything found in the course of a

search conducted in accordance with this section.
Where law enforcement officers respond to such a request, no school em-
ployee shall assist or otherwise participate in any search conducted.

HCCSC STUDENT ASSISTANCE POLICY
The Board of School Trustees supports the concept that students will function
at school with greater effectiveness if they are not under the influence or in illicit
possession of alcohol, controlled substances, or involved in the abuse or inappro-
priate use of prescription or over-the-counter drugs. The use of illicit drugs and the
unlawful possession and use of alcohol is wrong and harmful. The Board believes
that a penalty consisting of suspension or expulsion is appropriate and may act as
a deterrent for those who choose to illicitly use, at school or school-related func-
tions, alcohol or other substances in such manner that is likely to alter one’s mood
or lead to intoxication or chemical dependency. The Board believes that substance
abuse may lead to chemical dependency which is a disease of major proportions in
our society. The Board recognizes that chemical dependency is chronic, progres-
sive, but is also treatable.
The unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs or alcohol on
school premises or as a part of the school’s activities is strictly prohibited. Any
student who knowingly possesses, uses, provides, or transmits to another person,
or is under the influence of any substance which is, looks like, or which is or was
represented to be a tobacco product, narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, ampheta-
mine, barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverage, substance containing alcohol,
heavily-based caffeine product, substance containing phenylpropanolamine (PPA),
steroid, stimulant, depressant, or intoxicant of any kind, (use of a drug authorized
by a physician is not a violation of this subdivision) while on school premises or as
a part of any of the school’s activities is subject to disciplinary sanctions up to and
including expulsion from school and referral to local law enforcement authorities for
prosecution.
The Board believes that, in addition to a penalty or disposition, help should be
offered to those students found to be under the influence or in illicit possession of
alcohol/drugs, as described in the above paragraph.
Therefore, the Board mandates that students under the influence or in illicit
possession of alcohol, controlled substances, or involved in the abuse or inappro-
priate use of prescription or over-the-counter drugs shall be brought to the attention
of the core team leader. The core team leader will facilitate help in the form of an
assessment of chemical use, education, and/or further recommendations to the
family for professional counseling or treatment.
The administration shall inform parents and students that compliance with this
policy is mandatory and the disciplinary sanctions to be imposed for violation of this
policy. Parents and students shall further be notified concerning available drug and
alcohol counseling, rehabilitation, and re-entry programs.
Legal Authority:
Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989.
(Public Law 101-226); 20 U.S.C. 1145; 34 CFR Part 86
Adopted by the School Board of Trustees - February 11, 1991

SMOKE FREE POLICY
Property

The School Board is committed to providing students, staff, and visitors
with a tobacco-free environment. The negative health effects of tobacco use for
both users and non-users, particularly in connection with second hand smoke, are
well-established. Further, providing a tobacco-free environment is consistent with
the role-modeling responsibilities of teachers and staff to our students. The Board
also recognizes, however, the right of individuals under State law to use lawful
products, including tobacco, during non-working hours off Corporation premises.

Accordingly, the Board prohibits the use of tobacco including, but not
limited to, cigarettes, cigars, snuff, and chewing tobacco on Corporation premises,
in Corporation vehicles, within any facility owned or leased or contracted for by the
District, and used to provide education or library services to children and at all
Corporation-sponsored events.


SMOKE FREE POLICY
Students
The Huntington County Community School Corporation is committed to pro-
viding a school environment free of health hazards. The School Board recognizes
that the use of tobacco presents a health hazard which can have serious conse-
quences both for the user and the nonuser and is, therefore, of concern to the
Board.
In accordance with United States Federal and Indiana State Law, the use of
13
tobacco products, including cigar, cigarette, pipe, snuff, or any other matter or
substance that contains tobacco, is prohibited in any of the buildings, grounds, or
vehicles belonging to the Huntington County Community School Corporation, ex-
cept at designated times and places on school grounds.
1.
Building administrators and directors are instructed to include informa-
tion in building handbooks which reflects the Smoke Free Policy to
students.
2.
Huntington County Community School Corporation students will receive
education on tobacco health hazards, beginning with the 1995-96
school year and coordinated by Huntington County
Community School Corporation nurses, administrators, and health

teachers.
3.
Huntington North High School students shall not possess or use any
tobacco products on school grounds, beginning with the 1996-97 school
year.
4.
Appropriate supervisory personnel will be provided to enforce the Stu-
dent Smoke Free Policy at Huntington North High School.
5.
Violations of the Smoke Free Policy subject students to disciplinary
measures consistent with current due process policies.
Pro-Children Act of 1994, I.C. 16-41-37.
Adopted by the Board of School Trustees - June 26, 1995
Elementary School Note: Knowingly possess, use, provide, or transmit to
another person or be under the influence of any substance which is, looks
like, tastes like, smells like, or which is or was represented to be a tobacco p r o d
uct, narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, alco-
holic beverage, substance containing phenylpropanolamine (PPA), steroid, stimu-
lant, depressant, or intoxicant of any kind. Use of a drug authorized by a medical
prescription from a physician is not a violation of this policy.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY
Students: Drugs, Tobacco, Alcohol
Drugs: Using, Possessing, Selling
Substance abuse and addiction should be considered a medical/
psychological problem. The morality of substance use is not the issue in establish-
ing policy. The primary concern is the use of substances and the resulting injury to
everyone. The greatest need is for all to deal intelligently and knowledgeably with
the very difficult problem of substance abuse. The school should work with stu-
dents, parents, community agencies, and other community groups in helping to
develop realistic attitudes and behavior patterns in combating substance abuse.
It is expressly prohibited by the Board of School Trustees that any person or
persons carry, be in possession of, use, purvey, or place anywhere on school cor-
poration-owned premises (or within legal limits) and/or at and during school-
sponsored activities any substances or paraphernalia associated with substance
abuse.
The Board of School Trustees empowers and instructs the Superintendent of
Schools and his/her designee to establish administrative procedures for immedi-
ately removing students found in violation of this board policy from the company of
other students. The guidelines for the aforementioned actions shall include, but not
be limited to: Any student who knowingly possesses, uses, provides, or transmits to
another person, or be under the influence of: any substance which is, looks like, or
which is or was represented to be a tobacco product, narcotic drug, hallucinogenic
drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverage, substance contain-
ing alcohol, heavily-based caffeine product, substance containing phenylpropanola-
mine (PPA), steroid, stimulant, depressant, or intoxicant of any kind. (Use of a drug
authorized by a physician is not a violation of this subdivision.)
Students - Controlled Substances, Tobacco, Alcohol, Etc.
Guidelines for Handling Students Who Appear to be Under the Influence of a
Controlled Substance
Controlled substance effects can be manifested in a variety of ways depend-
ing upon the substance taken and the individual who takes the substance. There
are times when the individual’s behavior can be quite obvious, and thus, disturbing
and detrimental to the student and to others. At other times, the appearance of the
student can suggest that he/she is experiencing a substance effect, but the behav-
ior will not cause him/her to draw undue attention. These guidelines are designed
to give direction for handling cases where the most noticeable and disturbing be-
havior is evident, and when the student is not capable of functioning properly in the
classroom or in school. It should be kept in mind that there are causes other than
the illegal use of substances and alcohol which may produce behavior of a similar
nature: epilepsy, allergies, diabetes, hypertension, and other disorders are often
medicated with substances which produce similar effects. These guidelines will
serve to give direction to teachers, counselors, and administrators for assisting
students who demonstrate behavior of a questionable nature. In all cases, since
substance abuse is only suspected and not confirmed, discretion and ethical pro-
fessional behavior must be exercised by all school personnel. A good rule to apply
in these cases would be for each school person to ask, ―Who needs to be aware of
this incident, who is responsible for making them aware, and what action on my
part is necessary for the overall well-being of the individual student and the
school?‖ This will eliminate the discussions that often occur in these cases. The
guidelines presented herein apply to the general situation and again professional
judgment and discretion must be exercised in situations which require that there be
deviation from these guidelines:
1.
Guidelines for Teachers: If a teacher observes a student on school
property (or within legal limits) who appears to be in violation of the
substance abuse policy, the teacher should:
a.
approach the student in a non-threatening, non-judgmental, sup-
portive manner and ask the student if he/she is feeling well.
b.
encourage the student to accompany the staff member to the
principal’s office. If the principal is not in the office, the teacher
should call for a counselor.
c. describe to the principal the behavior observed and then return to

his/her assigned location.
d. submit a written statement of the incident to the principal.

In cases where the student will not willingly accompany the teacher

to the office, the teacher should:
e.
send another teacher or a reliable student to get the assistance of

the principal.
f.
encourage the student to remain in the class-room or in the build-
ing – exercise good judgment and reasonable restraint to see that
the student complies with this request.
g. keep the student under observation until assistance arrives.
Teachers who do not feel it advisable to leave their classrooms

under such conditions should:
h.
send a reliable student to the principal or ask a colleague to either
supervise the classroom or to accompany the student to the office.
2.
Guidelines for Counselors: If a student who is suspected to be under
the influence of a substance is observed by a school counselor while in
the guidance office area or on school property, the counselor should:
a.
inform the student that his/her condition is such that he/she cannot
participate in school and that he/she must go to the principal’s
office.
b.
accompany the student to the principal’s office and follow the
procedure as stated for the classroom teacher.
If the student will not go willingly to the principal’s office, the counselor should
follow the guidelines established for teachers under e, f, and g.
Counselors can be of great assistance in helping work with other students
who are not directly involved but who become emotionally upset when a friend has
a substance abuse problem. Teachers or administrators should send such stu-
dents to see their counselors if they notice that a student is extremely emotionally
upset because of a friend’s involvement with substance abuse.
3. Guidelines for Building Principal: The principal of the school is di-
rectly responsible for the health and safety of the faculty and students;
therefore, he/she should be kept totally informed of suspected

substance and/or alcohol abuse situations in the building. The building

principal should:

a. use his/her own prerogative in dealing with each individual case.
b. notify Huntington County security officers when indicated.
c. have turned over to him/her any substance or suspected substance
confiscated in the investigation of a particular incident. This is then
turned over to the Huntington County security officers.
d.
brief Huntington County security officers on all matters pertinent
to the individual case.
e.
keep the parent/guardian informed of any matters related to t h e
situation.

Disciplinary Action
The need for any disciplinary action and the nature of that action should be
guided by two (2) controlling principles: (1) a desire to help the individual and his/
her parents to recognize and deal with a potentially serious problem, and (2) the
need to prevent the actions of the individual from disturbing the order and effective
functioning of the school or from jeopardizing the welfare of other students. The
first of these principles is paramount, but in some situations it must give way to the
second principle.
Distinction should be made between the first-time offender and one who has
been involved in one (1) or more previous incidents of suspected or proven sub-
14