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Orangeburg Consolidated School District 4 Student Handbook 2009-2010 P.O. Box 68 Cope, South Carolina 29038 Telephone: (803) 534-8081 1-888-880-4420 Board of Trustees Mr. Paul Bidwell Mrs. Peggy J. Tyler Dr. William 0'Quinn Mrs. Mary Brant Mr. Joseph Garvin Mr. Ray Jameson Mr. Aaron Rudd, Chairman Important Telephone Numbers Branchville High School (803)274-8875 Edisto High School (803) 536-1553 Hunter-Kinard-Tyler High School (803) 263-4832 Cope Area Career Center (803) 534-7661 Star Center for Learning (803)533-1783 Carver-Edisto Middle School (803)534-3554 This agenda belongs to: Student: Phone: Address: City/State: PARENT AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT VOLUNTEER PROGRAM There are many ways to volunteer at the school level- booster clubs, PTSA/PTSO, School Improvement Council and the Volunteer Program. We encourage parents of students to volunteer. If you would like to volunteer on a regular basis or have your name added to the "on call" list, you can contact the main office of each individual school. BOOSTER CLUB For information on how to become a member of any booster club, contact the individual school. Band Booster Athletic Booster SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT COUNCIL The School Improvement Council is a committee made up of parents, students, teachers and administrators who are charged with the responsibility to develop an annual school improvement plan. The improvement plan will be reviewed annually and will have a five- school year focus. All major decisions affecting students will be discussed, voted on and recommended to the administration via this committee. The School Improvement Council meets monthly and all parents are eligible and encouraged to attend any and all meetings. The ultimate goal is to improve student achievement. PTSO Parent Teacher Student Association Organization The PTSA/PTSO was organized to create better communication between the school, the home and the community. Announcements will be sent home by the students several days prior to the meeting dates. Parents are urged to attend the meetings so that better parent/teacher communication can be established. PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES Parent-teacher conferences should be arranged through the guidance department. Teachers should be given 24 hours notice if possible in order to prepare for the conference and to make scheduling adjustments. Parents are encouraged to set up conferences with teachers if their child is having academic and/or behavior problems. ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE PLANS Orangeburg Consolidated School District 4 complies with the Educational Accountability Act of 1998. A part of the Act requires that schools offer academic assistance for students who are not working on grade level or who have not met the required basic score on the PACT test. An academic plan must be developed for the student to address areas of deficiency. The plan may include, but is not limited to, after school comprehensive remediation and/or summer school. If you have any questions about academic plans, you may call the school guidance counselor or the district office. The district office number is (803) 534-8081 or 1-888-880-4420. VISITORS The school policy is to accept only those visitors who have legitimate business at the school. Students are not allowed to have visitors at school. Parents are always welcomed, but they must check in at the main office. Visitors are expected to leave promptly when their business is completed. Any visitor must obtain a pass and register in the office. Visitors cannot come to school for "social" visitation unless given special permission by the principal. Those who wish to represent their university, college or military organization may make a request to the principal. Any exceptions must have permission/approval from the principal. Visitors on campus who do not check in at the main office will be considered as trespassing. The administration is empowered to take appropriate action against any individuals who invade the building, grounds or other school property. Such action will include the right to call in the police authorities and search out warrants. Pursuant to the law, persons entering school property are deemed to have consented to a search of their persons and/or property. TEACHING-LEARNING PROCESS The primary objective of Orangeburg Consolidated School District 4 is to promote the teaching-learning process. You deserve the best education that our schools are capable of providing. Before this objective can be adequately achieved, three conditions must be present: 1. You must be present at school and prepared for the day's work; 2. Teachers must be able to carry out their plans; and 3. The classroom atmosphere must be such that learning can take place. STUDENT BEHAVIOR CODE This handbook contains important rules, regulations and consequences pertaining to each school. You and your parents should carefully read and study this information. Familiarize yourself with the contents and keep this handbook for easy reference during the school year. Ignorance of the rule is not an acceptable excuse for violating school policy. The following rules, regulations and due process procedures are designed to protect all members of the educational community in the exercising of their rights and responsibilities. These rules are effective during the following times and in the following places: 1. On the school grounds during and immediately before or immediately after school hours. 2. On the school grounds at any other time when the school is being used by a school group. 3. Off the school grounds at a school activity, function or event. 4. En route to or from school in a school bus or other school vehicle. RESPECT FOR THE RIGHTS OF OTHERS Every right you have has an obligation attached to it. Your rights must be balanced against the rights of others and their rights must be balanced against yours. Also, the purpose of the school and the requirements of the educational process must be weighed deciding who has a right to do what and what behavior needs to be punished. Protecting your rights is the reason our society has laws and why a school has rules. If you are a student who wants to take full advantage of your rights and opportunities at school, while at the same time respecting the rights of others, your school personnel will support and help you. REGULATIONS This handbook presents general information related to school regulations. No attempt is made to include every situation which may arise during the school year. Administrators will deal with all occurrences through a fair, common sense approach. In addition to the material printed in these pages, students are responsible for information given during student orientation which takes place early in the school year. Attention should be paid to the announcements. All students should listen attentively to announcements or intercom messages that are being made. STANDARDS OF CONDUCT The administration, faculty and staff assume that secondary students are mature and responsible for their own proper behavior at school and that discipline matters can be handled in a calm and reasonable manner. The discipline plan allows teachers to handle inappropriate and disruptive behavior when necessary. Students, parents and teachers need to be aware that referrals to the office for repeated minor infractions and any referral from class for uncooperative disruptive behavior may result in suspension from school. Teachers will make an effort to deal with a student's misbehavior (minor) before referring to an administrator for disciplinary action. The teachers and parents should communicate by parent conference or by phone if problems arise in the classroom in an attempt to correct the inappropriate behavior before it is necessary to refer to an administrator for disciplinary action. The teacher also has the authority to require a student to report to "teacher-held detention" for disruptive or uncooperative behavior in class. Failure to report to teacher-held detention will result in after-school detention or suspension being assigned by an administrator. Of course, serious violations will result in removal from class and immediate referral to an administrator. SUPERVISION-RULES The administrators, faculty and staff take pride in creating and maintaining a safe, orderly school environment, which contributes to academic and social growth. In order to accomplish this, it is necessary for every student to know and follow the rules and policies regarding discipline and supervision. Those who choose to violate rules and policies will be subject to disciplinary action. As responsible young adults, all students are expected to behave in a manner which is acceptable to everyone. This includes other students, teachers, administrators, staff members, visitors and citizens of the community. TERMS AND DEFINITIONS RELATING TO SCHOOL AND DISTRICT DISCIPLINE POLICIES METHODS OF DISCIPLINE The Orangeburg Consolidated School District Four Board of Trustees affirms that every effort should be taken on the part of each school to work constructively with the student in such a manner that he is able to meet his educational goals. Disciplinary measures should be used constructively when possible, punitively when necessary. Each principal according to approved procedures may use the following modes of disciplinary action: (1) Detention, (2) Work Detail (3) Saturday School (excluding religious conflicts), (4) Withholding of Privileges, (5) Disciplinary Probation, (6) Suspension, (7) Shadowing, (8) Alternative School Placement, and (9) Expulsion. If the parent or student refuses punishment under (1) Detention, (2) Work Detail, or (3) Saturday School, the student will be suspended. This list is not intended to be used in consecutive order. Principals may authorize consequences appropriate to the offense. Definitions Detention The term “detention” applies to keeping a student in detention during recess, lunch, or after regular school day dismissal for a period of time not to exceed one (1) hour. Authority rests with the Principal or designee. A school official should give parent or guardian notice at least the day before a student will be detained over fifteen (15) minutes or will miss his regular transportation. When a student is detained at school beyond normal dismissal time, appropriate consideration to factors of student transportation, traffic patterns, weather, and any other extenuating circumstances shall be given. Work Detail The term “work” as used in this code means work required of a student as a mode of discipline. NO work will be assigned that will be harmful to a child. Authority rests with the Principal or designee. Types of work detail to be performed include yard work and janitorial work. It should be clear as to whether the work will be accomplished during the recess/lunch period or after regular school hours or during Saturday School (grade 6-12). The length of time involved should be considered. Work detail time must not exceed the time scheduled for recess plus one (1) hour after regular school hours. Work detail assigned at Saturday School can be for the full time spent at Saturday School. Work, as a form of discipline, cannot be performed during an academic period. Withholding of Privileges The term “withholding of privileges” as used in this code means the forfeiture of the student’s right to ride the bus, to participate in certain clubs, athletics, parking on campus or other approved area, or other activities sponsored by the school. Authority rests with the Principal or designee. Consistent Offender Whenever two or more faculty members and the principal of the school agree in writing that a student’s conduct is so consistently disruptive over a period of time that the teacher’s opportunity to teach and the other student’s rights to learn have been impaired, the parent(s) and/or guardian(s) of the student shall be notified in writing. The parents and the student shall be afforded the immediate opportunity of a parent conference. Unless the student’s behavior promptly and substantially improves, he/she will be recommended for expulsion. Shadow (Parent/Guardian/Mentor/Behavior Intervention Specialist) A parent must take responsibility for a student who is a consistent disciplinary offender. The principal may require a parent/guardian/mentor/behavior intervention specialist to attend school with the student for a number of days to be determined by the principal. The principal shall determine, upon request, if there are any extenuating circumstances that absolutely prevent at least one parent or guardian from attending class or any other circumstance that would necessitate an alternative punitive action. Economic hardship or loss of pay shall not be considered extenuating circumstances. In the event such extenuating circumstances (i.e. Both parents in the hospital, etc.) do exist, then out of school suspension will apply. Any parent or guardian who disrupts the classroom in any way shall be removed from school. If a parent refuses to accept shadowing, the principal will pursue the next appropriate consequence. Disciplinary Probation A student who has been found to be in violation of the Student Code of Conduct may be placed on probation by the Assistant Superintendent. School personnel must, however, follow the procedures outlined for short-term suspension, i.e., investigation, formal notice to student and parent, and opportunity for a parent conference. Disciplinary probation should be for a definite time period during which critical examination and evaluation of the student’s progress should take place. The student may be placed on probation by an administrator, teacher, or counselor. During the probation period, the student may be denied the privileges of participation in or attendance at all extracurricular activities. At the close of the probationary period, the individual case shall be reviewed, and the student may regain all privileges. If the student is further involved in an infraction of the school rules during the probationary period, he shall be suspended or expelled. Suspension The term “suspension” is used in this code to mean the temporary exclusion of a student from school grounds and participation in school-sponsored activities not to exceed five (5) days for a single offense. If another breach occurs while a student is under suspension, the suspension may be extended an additional five (5) days by the Assistant Superintendent. Students are entitled to make up work missed during suspension. A student is under suspension from the time he/she is notified by the principal. A suspension may be terminated as soon as the parental conference is held. The authority rests with the Principal or Assistant and present evidence and call witnesses. Procedures a. Investigation and documentation of charges b. Informal hearing with a student where he has the right to hear c. Formal notification to student and parent or guardian d. Immediate oral notification to parent or guardian if at all possible e. Written notice will be given to include the following: Statement of breach of conduct, length of suspension and inclusive dates, and opportunity for parent conference made available within first three (3) days of suspension.
Appeal to the Assistant Superintendent An appeal to the Assistant Superintendent, in writing, must be prior to completion of suspension. After holding the hearing with the principal, parent or guardian, and student, the Assistant Superintendent may affirm the principal’s decision or may reverse the principal’s decision and reinstate the student. The Assistant Superintendent shall have the option to add days of suspension to those already given by the school not to exceed a total of ten (10) days. If the Assistant Superintendent reinstates the student, all privileges will be restored and the student will be allowed to make up all work missed while absent as a result of procedures. A student shall not be suspended without the approval of the Assistant Superintendent during standardized testing periods or the last ten (10) days of school if the suspension will make the student ineligible to receive credit for the school year unless the presence of the student constitutes an actual threat to a class or school. CASA (Community Advocacy Program) – An alternative to Suspension This is a collaborative program between The Orangeburg Area Boys/Girls Club, CASA/Family Systems and Orangeburg Consolidated School District 4. This program addresses the needs of suspended students in the elementary and middle schools. This program is housed at the Orangeburg Area Boys/Girls Club’s Cannon Bridge Road facility. Students will be referred to the program by the school administration at the students’ schools. This could be an alternative for a student who is suspended. EXPULSION / PROBATION / STAR / LAW ENFORCEMENT Expulsion The term “expulsion” is used in this code to mean the forfeiture of a student’s right to attend school and school functions in Orangeburg Consolidated School District Four. A student excluded from any constituent district shall be ineligible to attend school in any other attendance zone. Every expelled student shall have the right to petition for readmission for the succeeding school year unless permanently expelled. Expulsion or suspension shall prohibit a pupil from entering the school or school grounds, attending any day or night school functions or riding a school bus. The provisions of this section shall not preclude enrollment in any adult night or community school program. Once the expulsion process is initiated and prior to the hearing before the board, a student cannot withdraw from school and enter another public school or be home schooled in order to avoid expulsion. Authority to expel a student rests with the Hearing Board. Appeals go to the Orangeburg Consolidated School District Four Board of Trustees. Expulsion Procedures a. The principal shall investigate and document all charges. b. If the principal suspends a student with the intent to recommend expulsions, written notice will be given to the student, parent, or guardian of the offense with sufficient specific facts to permit the student to understand the charges. c. The student may only be suspended for five (5) days until approved by the Superintendent or the Assistant Superintendent. The Principal will confer with the Assistant Superintendent when an expulsion is mandatory. If the Assistant Superintendent concurs in the recommendation of expulsion, the parent or guardian will be notified of the time and place of the hearing. If the Assistant Superintendent does not concur with this recommendation, the parent or guardian will be notified in writing and the student readmitted to school. Expulsion Hearing A hearing shall be provided within ten (10) days of the notice of referral to the Assistant Superintendent. When a hearing cannot be granted by the Hearing Panel within ten (10) days of the notice, the student shall be readmitted to school, on a probationary status, pending the hearing unless there is probable cause to believe that the student’s presence in school would constitute a threat to the safety or education of others. a. The parent or guardian of the student shall be notified in writing of the time and place of the hearing, of the student’s right to be represented by lay or legal counsel and his right to cross-examine witnesses and present evidence. b. At such hearing the student may be represented by lay or legal counsel but no counsel will be provided for him. c. The hearing will be conducted in a formal manner. d. The burden of presenting evidence and justifying the expulsion will rest with the principal or his representative. All witnesses shall be sworn and the student will have the right to cross-examine. e. The student may be heard and may present any evidence relative to the charges under consideration. f. The administration, where possible, will be available any witnesses or evidence within the control of the school system when requested to do so. g. Such hearing shall be held in closed session and will not be open to the public unless requested by the student or his parents or guardian. The decision of Orangeburg Consolidated School District Four shall be communicated in writing to the student’s parent or guardian by certified mail, and in the case of an adverse decision, shall specify the parent/guardians right to appeal to the ORANGEBURG CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL DISTRICT 4 Board of Trustees for available options. District Level Probation Students are allowed to attend school under special conditions recommended by administrators and/or special conditions set by the superintendent/school board. All students returning from expulsion will be placed on probation for a minimum of one semester. The student will be referred back to the school board with a recommendation for expulsion for violations of level two or three offenses as stated in the handbook. If the board denies a request to return to school, the student may submit another request for the following year. McCord Center The school intervention program is designed to help students who get involved with alcohol, drugs or tobacco. In some cases, it may be used to help students who have excessive referrals to the office for disruptive/uncooperative behavior. It is an early intervention program designed to promote an environment which fosters healthy living through its efforts with students, families, schools and communities. It seeks to provide information about adolescents and to help families learn and use skills needed to make healthier choices, both now and in the future. Any student referred to the McCord Center by an administrator (mandatory completion required) must satisfactorily complete the program or he/she will be subject to a three day suspension with the possibility of expulsion. If the McCord Center counselor should notify the school that the student referred by an administrator has been terminated for failure to cooperate, disciplinary action will be taken immediately (three days suspension with parental conference and possible expulsion by the school board). It is the responsibility of the student/parent to call 803-534-2328 to set up an appointment. STAR Center for Learning The Orangeburg Consolidated School District 4 STAR Center for Learning is an alternative school designed to serve at-risk students. It is designed to reduce school dropouts by providing a coordinated delivery of health, social, education and other support services at the school for the benefit of at-risk youth and their families. Those who are referred must have the desire to meet requirements to graduate. If a student is accepted to the STAR Center for Learning, he/she must attend.
Law Enforcement Your school administrators have the right to call law enforcement officers to handle any student misconduct which is in violation of state or federal law. Students who are in violation will be subject to arrest and/or prosecution. Law enforcement officers may also assist school officials in exercising their legal authority to maintain order in the schools. SPECIAL CONDUCT NOTICE: SAFE SCHOOLS Safe schools are of great concern in our state as well as in our community. A "Safe Schools Act" was recently put into law by our state government. The staff members intend to provide your child the safest educational environment possible by not tolerating fights, intimidation, threats, vandalism, trespassing, weapons or drugs at any time on our campuses. Suspension, expulsion or referral to law enforcement will be initiated against any violator. The following is a brief listing of South Carolina laws that address school safety and will be reported to the school resource officer: Disturbing Schools (Section 16-17-420): It is unlawful to interfere or disturb any student or teacher. Fighting, trespassing and use of offensive language to staff members are included within this provision. Carrying Weapons (Section 16-23-430): It is unlawful to possess a knife, blackjack, metal pipe, firearm or weapon which may be used to inflict injury. Threatening Life or Bodily Harm (Section 16-3-1040): It is unlawful for any person to deliver or convey to a teacher or principal any communication that contains a threat to take the life or inflict bodily harm. Drug Offenses (Section 44-53-445): It is unlawful to distribute, sell, purchase or possess a controlled substance within one half mile radius of the school. Stink Bombs (Section 16-7-160): It is unlawful to place or throw a stink bomb, tear-gas bomb or similar device which contains foul or offensive odors. Fire Alarms: It is unlawful for any person to intentionally set off alarms falsely. POSSESSION OF DANGEROUS WEAPONS Students are prohibited from carrying or possessing on school property, a school bus, or a District-related or school-related function any weapon, including but not limited to, switchblades, knives with a blade length over two inches, blackjacks, metal pipes or poles, firearm, or any type of weapon, device or object which may be used to inflict bodily harm or death. No student vehicles parked on District or school property may contain weapons of any type. Violators will not only incur school disciplinary action but also penalties under law. The district will expel for no less than one calendar year a student who has brought or possessed a firearm on school property, a school bus, at District-related or school-related functions, or any setting under the jurisdiction of the District. A firearm is generally defined as a gun or destructive device and will be interpreted in accordance with State and Federal law. BREACHES OF CONDUCT It is recognized that students in school must conduct themselves in a manner such as to maintain a climate in which learning can take place. It is believed that most students want to conduct themselves in a manner which fosters this desirable climate and that they will progress toward mature behavior and self-discipline if they are in an environment that nurtures personal responsibility. Since it is necessary for rules to be established, students are to be informed of the rules and actions leading to disciplinary action. Administrative authority will be used to enforce rules only when it becomes necessary. Individual rights should always be respected. In general, any conduct by a student, which is injurious to others, poses a threat to the health or safety of persons or property, or conduct which disrupts or interferes with the education of the student or other students shall result in disciplinary action. The following list of offenses and required actions is not intended as an all-inclusive list. The list provides some consistency in handling breaches of conduct throughout the district: MISBEHAVIOR / CONSEQUENCES LEVEL I: DISORDERLY CONDUCT – Behavior which affects a student’s educational progress. Level I offenses which related to problems in the classroom should be dealt with by the teacher until they reach chronic level (a minimum of 3 offenses) then violations may be moved to Level II. LEVEL II: DISORDERLY CONDUCT – Disruptive conduct is defined as those activities engaged in by student(s) which are directed against persons or property, and/or the consequences of which tend to endanger the health or safety of oneself or others in school. Some instances of disruptive conduct may overlap some criminal offenses, justifying both administrative sanctions and court proceedings. Disorderly conduct (Level I) may be reclassified as disruptive conduct (Level II) if it occurs 3 or more times. Six Level I offenses, 2 infractions, or 10 total suspension days shall result in distant learning. LEVEL III: CRIMINAL CONDUCT – Criminal conduct is defined as those activities engaged in by student(s) which result in violence to oneself or to another’s person or property, or which pose a direct and serious threat to the safety of oneself or others in the school. These activities require administrative actions usually which result in the removal of the student from the school, the intervention of law enforcement authorities, and/or action by the Board. Whenever a student is engaging or has engaged in activities including, but not limited to, one of the acts specified below while on school property or at school sanctioned or sponsored activity, and which an administrator or his/her designee has reason to believe may result or has resulted in injury or serious threat of injury to a person or to property, the administrator or his/her designee is required to notify law enforcement officials. Extenuating, mitigating or aggravating circumstances The Board confers upon the administration the authority to consider extenuating, mitigating or aggravating circumstances that may exist in a particular case of misconduct. The administrator should consider such circumstances in determining the most appropriate sanction. GENERAL PROCEDURES / RULES 1. Students may be required to pay all debts before they are allowed to receive report cards or receive textbooks for their classes. All debts need to be paid in order to be assured of receiving a schedule of classes. 2. Students who are not involved in after school (supervised) activities must leave the campus when school is dismissed. 3. Teachers are not to permit students to leave the classroom without an agenda/pass stating the student's name, date, time, destination and proper staff signature(s). Any student without a valid pass will be subject to disciplinary action. 4. No eating, drinking or open containers are allowed in the halls or classrooms. 5. No gum is allowed in school. Those who violate this policy will be assigned a minimum of 1 day in detention. 6. Any student suspended will not be allowed to attend or participate in any school activities until cleared by an administrator during a required conference. 7. Students who violate school rules regarding behavior or charged with a crime may be denied privileges to participate in extracurricular activities such as field trips, athletics, all programs, class trips, etc. 8. For the high schools, students are not allowed in the student parking lot during school hours without written permission from the office. Violators will be subject to consequences ranging from detention to suspension. 9. Students should not bring animals or insects to school without the prior approval of the principal. ACCIDENT / INSURANCE Every accident in the school building, on the school grounds, at practice sessions or at any athletic event sponsored by the school must be reported immediately to the person in charge and to the school office. Students may take insurance through the school at a low cost. It is not compulsory and the school cannot be responsible in case payment of claim does not come to expectations of students and parents. Information can be obtained in the main office. ARRIVAL ON CAMPUS Upon arrival on campus in the morning, students eating breakfast will report to the cafeteria. The building will not open before 7:30 A.M. High school students arriving by car will be dropped off in the designated student drop-off area. Parents should not park directly in front of the building when dropping students off. This is not a parking area. If it is necessary for a parent to enter the building, visitor's parking is provided in the parking lot. Students driving to school will park in the assigned student parking area. All bus students will enter the building through the Bus Port. ARTICLES PROHIBITED AT SCHOOL Problems arise each year because students have articles that are hazardous to the safety of others, or that interfere, in some way, with the educational process. Items prohibited include: electronic games pagers (beepers) skate boards toy/water guns knives radios tape recorders CD players curling irons firecrackers cigarette lighters playing cards laser lights I-Pod phones All prohibited items will be confiscated and appropriate disciplinary actions will be imposed. Parents may make arrangements to see an administrator to discuss the return of the confiscated contraband after 5 school days. Paging devices (including beepers and cell phones) are forbidden by state law and the Safe School Act. A person who discovers a person in possession of a paging device will report the violation to the appropriate administrator who will confiscate the device. The item will be given to a parent only. Failure to turn the device over to a school official could result in suspension for a period of time not to exceed ten days and/or a recommendation to the school board. Students are cautioned not to bring large amounts of money or valuable jewelry to school. Also, students who wear glasses or watches are encouraged to keep track of them at all times. Students, not the school are responsible for their personal property. CELL PHONES AND COMMUNICATIONS DEVICES No student shall use a cell phone or portable communications device on school property during the normal school day. During school hours, cell phones or communication devices must be turned off and stored out of sight in pockets, book bags, backpacks, etc. Using a cell phone or telecommunications device may include but not limited to text messaging, taking pictures, receiving and/or sending calls. Cell phones or telecommunications devices may not be used en route to or from school on school buses. While on a school bus, a student’s cell phone or telecommunications device must be turned off and stored out of sight in pockets, book bags, backpacks, etc. Students using or having cell phones or telecommunications devices visible during the school day shall have their cell phone or communications device confiscated. 1st Returned to parent/guardian 2nd Returned to parent/guardian after 5 days 3rd and future events returned to parent/guardian after 30 days. Students using a cell phone or telecommunications device to illegally enhance their own or another’s academic performance or to engage in any other illegal and/or unethical manner shall be banned from having such a device for the remainder of their attendance in an Orangeburg Consolidated School District Four School. Students found to be in violation of this policy may be subject to additional disciplinary action at the discretion of the principal and his/her designee. School personnel and/or administrators are not responsible for the loss or damage of any cell phone or telecommunications device brought onto school property. Any exception to this regulation must be approved in advance in writing by the principal. ASSEMBLIES At all times the student's behavior should be refined and courteous. An indication of the cultural level of a school is the conduct of its students at an assembly. Whether guests are present or not, each student is personally responsible for the impression made by the school as a whole. Unacceptable conduct would include whistling, uncalled-for clapping, booing, boisterousness, and talking during the program. Students who do not follow these guidelines will be disciplined. We will not allow a few students to disrupt programs - this includes pep rallies. ATHLETICS Sports are an important part of our school life. All sports are outgrowths of the health and physical training programs of the school. The competitive phase is considered a needed experience of our young people. The element of good, hard, fair play and discipline is emphasized, but a continuous effort is made to emphasize the spirit of good sportsmanship. The rules of scholastic eligibility are followed as set forth by the South Carolina High School League. To be eligible to participate in athletics, a student must have a passing average in at least four required subjects (English, Math, Science, and Social Studies) each semester of the school year. A valid birth certificate and a completed physical form must be submitted to the Coach or Athletic Director, and the athlete must adhere to the rules and regulations of each sport. Insurance (school or private) is required to participate in any sport. Athletes represent the school. They are not expected to be disciplinary problems. They are expected to excel in the classroom as well as on the court and field. Grades 7-8: In order for a student in grades 7 and 8 to play a sport, the student must be academically promoted according to district policy. This includes summer school promotion. To be eligible for second semester sport, a student must pass four out of five basic subjects with an overall passing average for all subjects taken. Exploratory/Related Arts courses are added to averages and counted as one subject at the end of the first semester. ATTENDANCE / TRUANCY School achievement begins with regular attendance. Parents/guardians must insure that all school-aged children in their care are in school and on time everyday. Additionally, school personnel must communicate any attendance problems or concerns to parent/guardians in a timely manner. Code of Laws of South Carolina Section 59-65-10 as amended reads: “All parents or guardians shall cause their children or wards who are in the age group of five to sixteen years inclusive, to regularly attend a public or private school or kindergarten of this state.” “All children are required to attend a public or private kindergarten beginning at age five. If parents choose not to send their children to kindergarten, they must sign a waiver, which may be obtained at the local school. Code of Laws of South Carolina Section 59-65-20 reads: “Any parent or guardian who neglects to enroll their child or ward or refuses to make such a child or ward attend school, shall upon conviction be fined not more than fifty dollars or be imprisoned not more than thirty days; each day’s absences shall constitute a separate offense; provided the court may in its discretion suspend the sentence of anyone convicted of the provision of this article.” LATE ARRIVAL TO SCHOOL It is imperative that students be on time at the beginning of the school day. The official school attendance documentation is recorded during this time. Schools are required to admit students to school regardless of the time they arrive. However, students who arrive late to school must first report to the appropriate administrative office to obtain a late pass before being admitted to any classroom or other area of the school. This pass must be shown to all of the student’s teachers as the student reports to each class during the day as well as the teachers of any missed classes during the next school day. If the student does not obtain and show the pass to all teachers, the tardy will be UNEXCUSED. Additionally, for the tardy to be excused, students are required to bring a note from the parents/guardians explaining the reason for the tardiness. However, only certain reasons will be considered excusable (i.e. emergencies, illness, accident, etc). When a student accumulates three (3) unexcused tardies, the parents will be contacted by the school representative to determine the reason for the student’s tardiness and resolve the issue. When a student accumulates five (5) unexcused tardies, the school will require a parent/guardian conference to develop a plan to arrive at school on time. When a student accumulates seven (7) unexcused tardies, the school will update the “on time” arrival plan indicating why the plan was unsuccessful and will prepare a referral to be sent to the office of the Assistant Superintendent. The parent or guardian and the student will be summoned to the Attendance Hearing Officer to discuss the reasons for the late arrivals. High School and Middle School: Students are required to make up class time missed after exceeding the maximum allowable days/hours per class. If time is not made up before the next grade reporting period (progress or report card), the grade will be withheld until time is made up. Time must be made up before final exams are taken to receive consideration for credit and/or promotion. Students must arrange with classroom teachers and the make up school supervisor for make up sessions to be held after school and/or on Saturday. A fee of $2.50 per hour for weekday sessions and $5.00 per hour for Saturday sessions will be charged. This fee must be paid to the office. LAWFUL ABSENCES All absences require a written explanation from the parents/guardians within two (2) school days from the date of return from the absence. Written explanation of the absences must include the parents/guardians full name and telephone number(s). Absence from school must including absence for any portion of the day, shall be considered lawful only under the following conditions: 1. Death in the immediate family. 2. Illness of the student. The principal shall require a physician’s certificate from the parents/guardian of a student reported continuously absent for illness. 3. Court summons. 4. Hazardous weather conditions. Hazardous weather conditions shall be interpreted to mean weather conditions that would endanger the health or safety of the student when in transit to or from school. 5. Work approved or sponsored by the school, the school district or the State Department of Education, accepted by the Assistant Superintendent or school principal or their designees as reason for excusing the student. 6. Observance of a religious holiday. 7. State Emergency. 8. Out of school suspension. 9. Lack of authorized transportation. This shall not include students denied authorized transportation for disciplinary reasons. 10. Other emergency or set of circumstances which, in the judgment of the Assistant Superintendent or designee, constitutes a good and sufficient cause for absence from school. 11. Students may be excused from attendance in class(s) for participation in activities representing the school if they have a passing average in each class they will miss and have not been excessively absent. All student absences for such school activities must have prior approval of the principal. Approved activities include the following: a. State and national competitions b. Ceremonies honoring outstanding students 12. Activities approved by the administrative team. 13. Absences with acceptable cause such as emergencies and/or conditions of which the parent/guardian and student have no control. Students are not considered absent for the following reasons: 1. Approved field trip 2. Students late due to bus problems. 3. Students assigned to in-school suspension programs. UNLAWFUL ABSENCES 1. Students who are willfully absent from school without the knowledge of their parents 2. Students who are absent from school without acceptable cause with the knowledge of their parents. GUIDELINES FOR IMPLEMENTING STUDENT ATTENDANCE PLANS When a student accumulates three (3) unlawful absences, the school notifies the parent or guardian by telephone or mail. When a student accumulates three (3) consecutive or a total of five (5) unlawful absences, the principal or designee completes a truancy investigation. A conference is requested with student and parent or guardian to develop a truancy intervention plan designed to improve student attendance and eliminate unlawful absences. A written truancy intervention plan shall be signed by all participants with a copy provided to the parent and student. When a student accumulates eight (8) unlawful absences, the school will update the truancy intervention plan indicating why the plan was unsuccessful and will prepare a truancy referral to be sent to the Office of the Assistant Superintendent to sign an attendance contract. The student absences will be monitored once the student returns to school. When the student is again unlawfully absent, a truancy referral will be made to Family Court through the school’s Attendance Clerk. The Solicitor’s Office will then summon the parents and student to appear in court to sign a Consent Order. If a student continues to be unlawfully absent, a second referral is made to Family Court and the parents may be charged with truancy and held in Contempt of the Consent Order. Juveniles found in contempt of the Consent Order may be sent to the Department of Juvenile Justice. At the discretion of the Court, parents or guardians may be fined not more than fifty dollars or be imprisoned more than thirty (30) days. ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR PROMOTION AND/OR CREDIT Students in grades K-8 may not be eligible for promotion if they have more than ten unlawful absences. Students in grades 9-12 may not be eligible for a Carnegie unit if they have more than five unlawful absences from a class. All absences will be documented. APPEAL PROCESS Consistent with state regulations, parents/guardians have the right to appeal attendance violations decisions and/or question the school records regarding attendance. The appeal should be made in writing to the school principal. The decision of the principal may be appealed to the Assistant Superintendent. The decision of the Assistant Superintendent may be appealed to the Board by written request for appeal within ten (10) days of receipt of the decision of the Assistant Superintendent. SCHOOL BUS CONDUCT ORANGEBURG CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL DISTRICT 4 operates a county-wide system of school bus transportation. This extensive operation involves transportation of many thousand of students between their homes and school each day. The drivers are adults who are specifically selected and trained for their jobs. The principal of each public school in Orangeburg Consolidated School District Four has local supervision of all buses operating to and from that school, to include the supervision of all students loading and off-loading and the conduct of the students being transported. In order that the buses may operate as safely and efficiently as possible, the following regulations are in effect: 1. Students should be seated so that the driver has an unobstructed view of the front, sides, or by means of mirrors, to the rear. State law does not allow anyone to stand in the stairwell or beyond the guardrails. 2. Students should be on time at the bust stop in the morning and when loading at school in the afternoon. Students must stay back until the bus comes to a complete stop and then board in an orderly manner – no pushing or shoving. 3. Students must go to their assigned seats and remain seated and quiet during the trip. Loud talking and noise will distract the driver. Arms and hands should be kept inside the bus windows and no items should be thrown out of the bus windows. Students should help keep the bus clean and attractive by not marking or cutting the seats or removing the safety padding from seat backs. 4. Students should get off the bus only at their regularly designated stop unless approved by the principal upon parent’s request. 5. When leaving, students should walk far enough in front of the bus to enable the driver to see their shoes in the event the student drops something. Students should always wait for the driver’s or patrolman’s signal before crossing a highway or street. 6. Students should use the rear door ONLY in an emergency. 7. Students should abide by all other school regulations governing conduct on buses, before, during, and after the ride. 8. Students may only ride their assigned bus unless given special permission by administration. PUNISHMENT FOR STUDENTS MISBEHAVIOR ON BUSES The driver shall be responsible for the conduct of passengers while riding on the school bus. Disciplinary problems that the driver is unable to control are reported to the principal/designee of the school that the student attends. Should a disciplinary problem, while the bus is en route to or from school be of such a nature that would affect the safe operation of the bus, the driver is instructed to park the bus in a safe location and call the transportation director. All disciplinary actions listed in this document are applicable to misconduct on the bus or while in sight of the driver at the bus stop. In addition, the privilege of riding a school bus may be withheld for student misbehavior on buses. OFFENSE/PUNISHMENT (BUS) 1st offense- minimum of 1 day suspension from bus 2nd offense- minimum of 2 days suspension from bus 3rd offense- minimum of 3 days suspension from bus 4th offense- minimum of 4 days suspension from bus 5th offense- minimum of 5 days suspension from bus with parent conference 6th offense or more MINIMUM of a 10 day suspension from riding the bus with a parental conference and possible denial of bus privilege for the remainder of the year/permanently and/or indefinitely. Note: 1. Inappropriate bus conduct may result in suspension from school. 2. Any student who rides a school bus while under bus suspension will be suspended from school for a minimum of 2 days with a parent conference. CAFETERIA Each student has a designated lunch period. They have the option of purchasing a school hot lunch or bringing a cold lunch from home. Eating in the school cafeteria is a privilege. It is a vital part of the health program at the school. To encourage good nutrition a well-balanced lunch is offered at a reasonable price. The lunchroom management and your fellow students will appreciate your cooperation. Please, follow the guidelines stated below. 1. Keep the noise level down. 2. Deposit all lunch litter in wastebaskets. 3. Return all trays to the dishwashing area. 4. Leave the table and the floor around your place in a clean condition for others. 5. Do not take trays outside of the cafeteria. Please, make sure that you behave appropriately in the cafeteria. You can be denied your cafeteria privilege, assigned detention or suspended for such things as cutting line, leaving trays/trash on table or loud/disruptive behavior in the cafeteria. Students who intentionally leave food, trays and trash will be subject to disciplinary action (work detention, detention or suspension). We utilize finger-imaging technology for accurate accounting in our lunch program. Parents/students have the responsibility for managing their lunch account and paying for any balance in their overdue account. CLASS SCHEDULE Students are not allowed to loiter on campus unsupervised. If your schedule has a blank period, you must report to the guidance office to get a class or study hall assigned. Again, all students should be in an assigned class unless given special written permission from the Principal. Failure to go to the guidance office to correct a schedule error (no class scheduled) may result in disciplinary action. NO student will be allowed to be on campus unsupervised. It is the student's responsibility to report to the guidance office to correct any schedule problem and report to assigned classes. CLOSED CAMPUS All schools operate under a closed campus policy. Students are not allowed to leave campus for any reason including lunch unless prescribed checkout procedures are followed. We solicit the cooperation of all students and parents in this matter. DISCIPLINE REFERRAL PROCESS Any student referred to an administrator for violating school policy and/or inappropriate behavior in class/school grounds will be dealt with in the following manner: 1. The teacher will discuss the problem with the student if possible and fill out the yellow discipline referral form which is given to the student to report to the office. Any student who refuses to report to the office as directed by the teacher or staff member will result in disciplinary action. Students, parents and teachers must understand that if inappropriate behavior is serious enough for a teacher to send a student out of class, it would certainly be a likely situation for a disciplinary referral. 2. An administrator will make a decision concerning disciplinary action and put it in writing and sign/date the discipline referral form. The student must give the pink copy to the teacher who made the referral and is required to take the yellow copy home to parent/guardian. The white copy is filed in the student's discipline folder. 3. If a student fails to take the pink copy of the referral form with the administrator's signature to the teacher who made the referral, the teacher is not to admit the student to class and must refer the student to the office immediately so that an administrator can resolve the matter. The importance of the yellow copy is to make sure that the student has seen an administrator and the discipline matter has been handled. 4. Any student who refuses to give his/her name to a teacher or staff member will be referred to the office for disciplinary action. ALCOHOL AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE Possession, distribution or being under the influence of licit or illicit, look-alike/imitation drugs, chemicals, alcohol, anabolic steroids, inhalants and any drug not prescribed for the student by a physician or any substance represented as a drug on school grounds or at school sponsored events is in violation of the Orangeburg Consolidated School District Four Policy. The principal shall recommend expulsion for any student found using or to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, in possession of drugs or alcohol, or drug paraphernalia. The principal shall recommend expulsion for all students involved in the distribution of drugs or alcohol. The principal or other responsible administrator shall report drug and alcohol related offenses by students to the appropriate police authority. The principal shall retain a copy of any written report filed with the police in a file established for that purpose. The District Hearing Officer can recommend a student’s attendance in and completion of an approved drug intervention program. If the parent or legal guardian chooses to have the student attend such a program, the student may, at the option of the principal and Assistant Superintendent, remain in school as long as the student meets ALL requirements of the program. FIGHTING / PHYSICAL OR VERBAL CONFRONTATION The penalty for fighting (exchange of physical blows by hitting, slapping, pushing, shoving) and serious verbal confrontations (excessive/argumentative verbal exchange causing a disruption) will result in one to five days out of school as well as possible recommendation for expulsion. Remember: If the investigation by the administrator indicates that a fight or attack did take place, the student will be suspended for five days and transported to the Law Enforcement Complex by a deputy.
FUND RAISING All fund raising projects must be approved by the Principal and the Superintendent. Projects which involve selling merchandise to residents of our community should be limited. Tickets or articles of any kind, other than those associated with school sponsored activities, are not to be sold on school property by students or outside organizations. LIBRARY / LIBRARY PROCEDURES The School Library serves as a vital part of the educational system of the school. The library is a learning lab where today's students are encouraged to utilize all available resources. In order to utilize the library's resources, students are requested to follow certain suggestions. Library rules are intended to create a pleasant atmosphere for studying and working. 1. To enter the library, students must have a pass signed by their subject teacher and must sign in on the sign-in sheet in the library. Prior to leaving the library, students should have their pass signed by the librarian or another staff worker in the library. When students leave the library they may only go back to their class from which they came. They shall not ask for a pass to go anywhere else other than the class they came from. 2. Books must be properly checked out at the circulation desk before being taken from the library. 3. Reference and reserved books are not to be checked out of the library unless a special request is granted. If permission is granted, two books may be checked out for overnight use. 4. A fine of (5) cents per day will be imposed for all overdue books. 5. A fine of (5) cents per period will be imposed on all reference and reserved books that are overdue after the first period. 6. All lost library books and fines must be paid before report cards are received. TECHNOLOGY AND THE INTERNET Students should use technology and the internet in an appropriate manner. Technology is an integral part of a student’s educational experience and must be used in support of education and research consistent with the educational objectives and the Technology Use Policy of Orangeburg Consolidated School District Four. Technology includes, but is not limited to, computers, other hardware, electronic devices software, internet, email, all other networks, etc. Student’s use of technology is a privilege. Students are responsible for appropriate use of all computers to which they have access. Obscene, pornographic, threatening, or other inappropriate use of technology, including, but not limited to, email, instant messaging, web pages, and use of hardware/software which disrupts or interferes with the safety and welfare of the school community, is prohibited, even if such uses take place off school property (i.e. home, business, private property, etc.) Altering the present ORANGEBURG CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL DISTRICT 4 software image is prohibited. General Terms and Conditions of Use 1. Transmission of any material in violation of federal, state, local law, or School Board policy, regulations or the Student Code of Conduct is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to the following: copyrighted material, threatening, violent, obscene, or pornographic material, material protected by trade secret, and uploaded and created computer viruses. 2. Use of technology for commercial purposes is prohibited unless explicitly permitted by the School Board. Commercial activity includes, but is not limited to, the following: a. any activity that requires an exchange of money and/or credit card numbers b. any activity that requires entry into an area of service for which the school will be charged a fee c. any purchase or sale of any kind; and d. any use for product advertisement or political lobbying. ACCEPTABLE / SAFE USE POLICY The following rules are in effect for all of Orangeburg Consolidated School District Four computers unless otherwise directed by a teacher or an administrator. 1. It is the responsibility of each student to ensure that student-loaded files and programs do not consume hard drive space needed for instructional or educational requirements. 2. Students are prohibited from accessing or attempting to access instant messages, chat rooms, forums, email, message boards, or hosting personal web pages during the educational day. Teachers may authorize students to use Internet communication that includes filtered email for instructional purposes only. 3. Pornographic, obscene, or vulgar images, sounds, video, language or materials, including screen savers, backdrops, and/or pictures, is prohibited. 4. Downloading, uploading, or importing games, screen animations as well as programs or files that can be run or launched as a stand-alone program is prohibited at all times. 5. Downloading, uploading, or importing music and videos is allowed outside school hours, so long as it does not violate copyright law or contain words or images that are pornographic, obscene, graphically violent or vulgar. 6. Illegal use or transfer of copyrighted materials is prohibited. Students should only download/import music or materials (files) to a school-owned computer that they are authorized or legally permitted to reproduce, or for which they have the copyright. 7. Students are prohibited from playing games during the instructional day unless otherwise directed by a teacher or an administrator. 8. File sharing must be approved and directed by the teacher. 9. Headphones may be used during the instructional day with teachers permission as long as the use does not interfere with the instructional program. 10. Students are prohibited from sharing passwords with anyone for any reason and should make every effort to keep all passwords secure and private. 11. Students should not introduce or knowingly allow the introduction of any computer virus to any ORANGEBURG CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL DISTRICT 4 computer. 12. Putting non-school related materials (files) on a school file server is prohibited. PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY AND INTEGRITY All who use ORANGEBURG CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL DISTRICT 4 technology resources must recognize that the work of all users is valuable; therefore, every user must respect the privacy of others. Users shall not intentionally seek information on, obtain copies of, or modify files, other data, or passwords belonging to other users, or misrepresent or assume the identity of other users. To protect students while at school, and to meet the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) requirements, access to the Internet is filtered through a commercial filtering system. All students are expected to behave responsibly and with integrity when using technology. These responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following: 1. Use of technology for school-related purposes only during the instructional day. 2. Revealing unauthorized personal information about yourself or others is prohibited. 3. Do not copy, change, read, or use files in another user’s storage area (such as hard disk space, diskettes, mail, server space, personal folders, etc.) without the user’s permission. SECURITY Security on any computer system is a high priority. Attempts of a user to log onto the ORANGEBURG CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL DISTRICT 4 network using another’s identity are prohibited. Bypassing or attempting to bypass ORANGEBURG CONSOLIDATED SCHOOL DISTRICT 4 filtering software is prohibited. All security problems must be reported to an administrator. Violations of these regulations will result in serious disciplinary action and may also result in criminal charges if the violation of the regulation is also a violation of state law. Examples of such dual violations are (i) computer hacking or trespassing, (ii) harassment or threats via computer, and (iii) computer fraud. Ignorance of these regulations will not excuse an infraction. Disciplinary actions may include long-term suspension, expulsion, or any action deemed appropriate by the principal, Student Placement Officer or Constituent Board in accordance with the Code of Student Council. Where South Carolina law is violated, legal action may be taken. LOCKERS Each student has the privilege of renting a locker for the storage of books and materials for a fee of $3.00. Each locker is designed to be used to store the materials of only one student. More than one student using a locker may cause damage to the locker. Students are encouraged to use their lockers before school, at lunch (if possible) and after school. Students will not share lockers. Any student who chooses to rent a locker is officially assigned a locker and that student, not the school, is responsible for the contents of his/her locker. Students are to keep lockers clean as well as locked at all times. Do not give the combination to anyone else. Do not leave money or any articles of value in your locker. Lockers are not safes. To the extent possible, the school will provide security for locker areas; however, the school cannot accept responsibility for theft from lockers. Since lockers are a permanent part of the building, students are expected to keep them in good, usable condition. Lockers may be searched by school officials and may involve law enforcement at any time if there is reason to believe that there is contraband in the locker. MEDICATION School personnel will not provide pupils with any medicine. If a student must take medication from home, he/she must take the medication to the school nurse with written instructions from the parent, guardian, or physician as to how it is to be administered. All schools will only dispense over-the-counter medications to students as deemed necessary by the school nurse or principal's designated trained personnel. A signed Consent for Medication and Medical Treatment form and/or oral permission from the parent will be obtained for each student prior to the administration of non-prescription medications. Non-prescription medications will be in the drug manufacturer's original container and will be given as recommended on the manufacturer's original container or as indicated by the physician. The school will provide a listing of all non-prescription medications available at school upon request. NURSE'S SERVICE The nurse will be available for emergency situations each day, unless otherwise indicated. Students who are in class and become ill must secure a pass from their teacher in order to report to the office. In emergency situations, when not in class, the students will report directly to the main office for assistance. PARKING AND DRIVING ON CAMPUS The operation and parking of a motor vehicle on the high school campuses is a privilege extended to those students who meet the State of South Carolina criteria for licensure and registration. The policy and procedures must also be followed by any student who drives a vehicle on campus. PUBLIC AFFECTION Public affection is in poor taste, and students should refrain from kissing, embracing, and similar behavior on school property, including parking lots. Chronic violations will result in disciplinary action such as warning, detention, parent notification and/or suspension. RESTROOMS Students are not allowed to loiter in the restrooms and are asked to help the custodians keep them clean by using them in a mature manner. Students are encouraged to make their restroom visits between classes so as not to interfere with their class work. RETURNED CHECK FEE Checks returned because of insufficient funds will incur a $25.00 service charge. SCHOOL CLOSINGS In the event of severely inclement weather or mechanical breakdown, school may be closed or starting time delayed. The same conditions may also necessitate early dismissal. School closings, delayed starting times, or early dismissals will be announced over local radio and television stations. If no report is heard, it can be assumed that school will be in session. RADIO STATIONS WGFG WIGL WSPX WORG WPJK WTCB (B 106) WWDM WWBD WSPX WCOS WSSB WQKI TELEVISION STATIONS WCSC-5 WLTX-19 WOLO-25 WJBF-6 WRDW-12 WIS-10 SEXUAL HARASSMENT / HARASSMENT Sexual Harassment Orangeburg Consolidated School District Four is committed to maintaining a learning environment for all students which provides for fair and equitable treatment, including freedom from sexual harassment. Sexual harassment includes any unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other inappropriate verbal, written, electronic, or physical conduct of a sexual nature that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. A student shall not sexually harass another student or any school employee, volunteer, student teacher, or any other person present in school facilities or at school functions. It is prohibited for any student, male or female, to harass another student by making unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual favors, or engaging in other verbal, written, electronic, or physical conduct of a sexual nature when: 1. submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as a basis for academic decisions affecting the student, or 2. such conduct creates an intimidation, hostile or offensive working or learning environment, or 3. submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of the student’s participation in school programs. Examples of activities which could constitute sexual harassment include, but are not limited to: 1. un welcomed leering, sexual flirtations or propositions, 2. un welcomed sexual slurs, epithets, threats, verbal abuse, derogatory comments or sexually degrading descriptions, 3. graphic comments about an individual’s body, or overly personal conversations, 4. sexual jokes, stories, drawings, pictures, or gestures, 5. spreading sexual rumors, 6. inappropriate or suggestive sexual gestures, 7. touching an individual’s body or clothing in a sexual way. 8. cornering or blocking of normal movements, or 9. displaying sexually suggestive objects in an educational environment. Any student who believes that he or she has been subjected to sexual harassment by another student, teacher, administrator, adult or agent of Orangeburg Consolidated School District Four should file a complaint of the alleged act immediately with the schools’ designated Complaint Manager or directly to the District Superintendent. The Complaint Manager shall request that the complaint be in writing. False charges of sexual harassment shall be treated as a serious offense, and those persons making false charges shall be subject to disciplinary action. HARASSMENT / INTIMIDATION OR BULLYING Harassment, intimidation or bullying, like other disruptive or violent behavior, is conduct that disrupts both a student’s ability to learn and a school’s ability to educate its students in a safe environment. School administrators, faculty, staff volunteers will demonstrate appropriate behavior, treating others with civility and respect, and refusing to tolerate harassment, intimidation or bullying. Persons who incite others to bully or who gather groups with the intent to bully shall be as guilty of the offense as those who perform these acts. Harassment, intimidation or bullying means any gesture or written, verbal, electronic, emotional, or physical act that takes place on school property, at any school-sponsored function on or off school property, or on a school bus and that: 1. is motivated by an actual or perceived characteristic, such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or a mental, physical or sensory disability, or 2. by any other distinguishing characteristic: and 3. a reasonable person should know, under the circumstances, that the act(s) will have the effect of harming a student or staff member or damaging the student’s property, or placing a student in reasonable fear of harm to his person or damage to his property; or 4. has the effect of insulting or demeaning any student, group of students, staff members or group of staff members in such a way as to cause substantial disruption in, or substantial interference with, the orderly operations of the school. At each school, the principal or the principal’s designee is responsible for receiving complaints alleging violations of this regulation. All school employees are required to report alleged violations of this regulation to the principal or the principal’s designee. All other members of the school community, including students, parents, volunteers, and visitor are encouraged or report any act that may be a violation of this regulation. Reports by students may be made anonymously, but disciplinary action may not be based solely on the basis of an anonymous report and will conform to the law and District policies regarding the process. Each school will provide students with a safe means of reporting incidents of harassment, intimidation and bullying. The principal and/or the principal’s designee are responsible for determining whether an alleged act constitutes a violation of this regulation. In doing so, the principal and/or the principal’s designee shall conduct a prompt, thorough, and complete investigation of the alleged incident. The school district prohibits reprisal or retaliation against any person who reports an act of harassment, intimidation or bullying. The consequence and remedial action for any person who engages in reprisal or retaliation shall be determined by the superintendent after consideration of the nature and circumstances of the act, in accordance with case law, federal and state statutes and regulations and district polices and procedures. Should reprisal or retaliation take place outside the jurisdiction of the school district, the district will cooperate to the fullest with law enforcement authorities. Consequences and appropriate remedial actions for a student found to have falsely accused another as a means of harassment, intimidation or bullying range from positive behavior interventions up to and including suspensions and expulsions. SIGN IN / OUT PROCEDURE Students are not permitted to leave the school grounds at any time during the school day without permission from the school office. If you must leave the building because of illness or any other emergency, an office staff member will assist you. A parent/guardian must be contacted by an office staff member by phone if a student is to leave school for any reason. The following information must be on the sign out sheet: 1. Staff member making call; 2. Number called; 3. Name of parent/guardian contacted. Parents must talk to a staff member in order for their child to leave school legally. Parents are encouraged to give permission to leave for doctor's appointments and emergency situations only. Students will not be called out of class during the period to leave for appointments. The office staff may require them to sit in the office until time to properly sign out through the main office. A note from a parent/guardian should be taken to the main office before first period begins. The required note must have a phone number to call for the purpose of verification by an office staff member. Remember: Students cannot leave without proper verification by an office staff member. When a student returns to school from an approved early dismissal, he/she must sign in with the attendance office before reporting to class. Failure to sign out properly without permission from an office staff member (student helpers cannot legally sign any student out) will be considered as leaving school without permission and appropriate disciplinary action will be taken. The parent or guardian must bring the student in to see an administrator, and appropriate disciplinary action will be taken. SMOKING / USE OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS The district does not allow students to use or possess tobacco products or tobacco paraphernalia. This restriction applies while students are on school grounds, in the school buildings, on buses or during any other time they are under the direct administrative jurisdiction of the school whether on or off the school grounds. In the event this happens, the following sanctions will be applied: 1st offense Three days suspension with parent conference 2nd offense Three days suspension with parent conference with mandatory enrollment in a treatment facility. Failure to complete the program could result in additional suspension or the recommendation of expulsion to the school board. 3rd offense Suspension from school with a recommendation for expulsion to the school board. STUDENT DRESS CODE The basic responsibility for the appearance of the students rests with the parents and the students themselves. Judgment of questionable dress determined by the administration as unacceptable or disruptive to the educational process may be prohibited. Any student improperly dressed at school may be removed from classes and/or school until acceptable attire is worn. The following guidelines must be followed: 1. Attire must not be destructive to school property 2. Dress must comply with the health and safety code of South Carolina. 3. Dress must not interfere with the educational process or the rights of others. Clothing considered inappropriate for school atmosphere will not be allowed. Inappropriate attire includes clothing that promotes weapons, drugs, alcohol or tobacco products 4. For health reasons, shoes must be worn. Bedroom slippers are not allowed 5. Head wear or hair rollers are prohibited in the building. 6. Sunglasses are prohibited in the building unless they are prescribed by a physician (based on an existing condition). 7. Clothing that is provocative, suggestive, or interferes with the educational process is prohibited. If in doubt, do not wear it. Students, who violate the policy, will be sent home to change or a parent contacted. Time missed out of class will be unexcused. Swim wear type clothing, see through blouses, bare midriffs, and undergarment type clothing, are prohibited. Pants with holes or partial holes above the knee, tank tops, and cutoffs are prohibited. Sagging pants and/or pants that hang low off the hips are not allowed. Pajama pants are not allowed. 8. Clothing or jewelry that is obscene, profane or provocative is prohibited. Obscene, profane language or provocative pictures on clothing or jewelry is prohibited. 9. Teachers/administrators will be allowed to restrict manner of dress or length of hair when it interferes with the educational process or pertains to the health/safety of a student. (Dresses, skirts and shorts must only be 2-3 inches above the knee) *Any dress code violations will result in the following: 1st offense – Warning and change of attire 2nd offense – After school detention and change of attire 3rd offense – Saturday school and change of attire Remember: Teachers will notify an administrator if there is a question whether the dress is inappropriate. STUDENT PARKING LOT / STUDENT VEHICLE POLICY Students who ride buses are not allowed in the student parking lot. Parking lots are off limits to all students during lunch unless legally signed out or driving/riding to Cope with proper permission. Students are encouraged to bring their belongings with them so they will not have the need to ask permission to go back to their car during the day. If it is necessary to return to a vehicle, students must have a pass to go to the student parking lot. Security and safety are major concerns on our campus. It is very important for vehicles to be identified easily and quickly so that trespassers can be dealt with in an appropriate manner. It is also important to keep the fire lanes open so that emergency vehicles have immediate access to the buildings. Those who choose to block fire lanes or other vehicles will be fined and/or towed if deemed necessary by school officials. Any student who chooses to drive a vehicle on campus must fill out a registration form and pick up a new parking permit from the office. The parent/guardian must sign the registration form in the appropriate area giving student permission to drive on campus and secure the appropriate parking permit. Any vehicle that is parked on the campus during the school day must have a valid parking permit displayed or be subject to parking/driving penalties ranging from twelve dollars and fifty cents to towing by a local wrecker service. Students who drive/ride to Cope Area Career Center must have a permission form signed by a parent/guardian. Parent/ guardians must come to the high school in person to sign the forms. Copies of these forms shall be forwarded to Cope Area Career Center. The rules and procedures are on or attached to the permission form. Students should make themselves familiar with the rules and the consequences for failing to follow the guidelines. Permission to drive must be on file in the office as well as the names of those transported in your vehicle. Bus transportation is also provided to Cope Area Career Center. Remember: Student driving is a convenience and privilege which benefits those who need/desire to drive to school. It remains, however, a privilege that can be revoked for failure to comply with the school's vehicle rules and regulations. The guidelines listed below must be followed by all students. Failure to do so will result in appropriate action by the school. 1. Any student who wishes to drive a vehicle on campus must pick up a parent permission form from the office and pick up a parking permit when the permission form is given to the bookkeeper. 2. Students must display a valid parking permit on the front mirror. The permit must be displayed on all vehicles by August 30th and thereafter or be subject to a $12.50 fine or towing at the owner's expense. 3. Drive safely and slowly on campus. Keep volume on radios/tape/CD players at a reasonable level. 4. Students will not be allowed to park in the road and/or block another vehicle. If you choose to block another vehicle or park improperly, you may be towed by a local wrecker service. The owner/driver will be responsible for the charges. 5. Parking is prohibited in driveways and the traffic circle. 6. Due to theft and vandalism in the parking lots, any student who returns to the parking areas without a pass will be subject to detention and/or suspension. Bus riders are not allowed to enter the student vehicle parking area. 7. No parking in areas designated for the handicapped. 8. Vehicles are to be locked and vacated immediately after parking on campus. PARKING / DRIVING PENALTIES • Warning (Verbal or Written) • Detention • Suspension • Denied privilege to drive on campus for a specific amount of time • Payment of $12.50 fine within 5 school days or subject to suspension or denial of the privilege to drive a vehicle on campus • Prosecution by law enforcement • Vehicle towed at owner's expense • Any other punishment deemed necessary by school officials SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS Our schools are fortunate in having local people to help us whenever our regular teachers are ill or attending conferences. A substitute teacher is an important visitor whose impressions of our school will be carried into the community. Let us be certain that these are good impressions by being polite, helpful and considerate, as you would be to your regular teacher. Failure to display proper behavior will result in disciplinary action. Substitute teachers have the same authority as a regular classroom teacher. TEXTBOOKS Free textbooks are issued to students each year. Costs for replacement and repair increase yearly. It is very important that students take care of all books issued and account for each book upon completion of the course or leaving school for any reason. Remember, students who owe for lost and damaged books may not be allowed to receive report cards, receive textbooks for classes, take exams and/or participate in graduation activities. Because of the expenses involved, a minimum of one dollar will be charged for any textbook damage. Those who continue to write on and rough handle their books will be charged a minimum of 25% of the contract price (if the book can still be used). Remember: Students must pay for lost and/or damaged textbooks before report cards or exams are given. Pupils, parents or guardians are required to pay for textbooks they lose and they may be denied further benefits of the Free Textbook Program until they comply fully with this requirement. The following schedule shall be followed in determining amounts to be charged for lost textbooks. Schools are required to collect appropriate damage fees from any pupil, parent or guardian for abuse or improper care of textbooks. The pupil, and the parent or guardian may be denied further benefits of the Free Textbook Program until they fully comply with this requirement. The amount to be charged shall be determined by the agent in charge of books, teacher or principal and shall in no case exceed the amount of charge applicable had the book been lost, provided that the pupil, parent, guardian shall have the option of paying the damage fee or purchasing the book according to the LOST TEXTBOOKS section. Books on which only a damage fee is collected shall remain the property of the state and shall remain with the school for further use. HARDBACK TEXTBOOKS CONDITION OF TEXTBOOK AMOUNT OF CHARGE New book put in use this year. 80% of contract price Book used one year before this year. 65% of contract price Book used 2 years before this year. 50% of contract price Book used 3 years before this year. 35% of contract price Book used 4 or more years before this year 25% of contract price VANDALISM AND PROPERTY DAMAGE Our school buildings and equipment costs the taxpayers to construct, purchase, and maintain. Students who destroy or vandalize school property will be required to pay for losses or damages. If students willfully destroy school property, suspension, restitution, and subsequent expulsion may be necessary. If you should happen to damage something by accident, you should report it to a teacher or the office immediately. VENDING MACHINES Students may purchase snacks from the vending machines in the break area(s) before school, and after school. Students use the vending machines at "their own risk". There will be no refunds given for money lost in the machines unless it is determined that there is a mechanical malfunction. Students should report any problems with machines to the main office so that office personnel can call a service representative. STUDENT RECORDS The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. They are: 1. The right to inspect and review the student’s educational records within forty-five (45) days of the day the District receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal (or appropriate school official) a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. 2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate or misleading. Parents or eligible students may ask the school district to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the District decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the District will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing. 3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception that permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff, and law enforcement personnel assigned to the school; a person serving on the Orangeburg Consolidated School District Four Board of Trustees; a person or company with whom the District has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational need to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. 4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 600 Independence Ave., SW Washington, DC 20202-4605 ACADEMIC, NONACADEMIC & EXTRACURRICULAR SERVICES & ACTIVITIES (In reference to Students with Disabilities) Orangeburg Consolidated School District 4 ensures that each disabled child shall have available to him/her the variety of educational programs and services available to non-disabled children including, but not limited to: art, music, industrial arts, consumer education, homemaking education and occupational education. Orangeburg Consolidated School District 4 shall take steps to provide nonacademic and extracurricular services and activities in such manner as necessary to afford disabled children an equal opportunity for participation in those services and activities. Nonacademic and extracurricular services and activities may include, but are not limited to: counseling services, athletics, transportation, health services, recreational activities, special interest clubs or groups sponsored by the district, referrals to agencies which provide assistance to disabled persons, and employment of students (including both employment by the district and assistance in making outside employment available). In arranging or providing the nonacademic or extracurricular services described above, Orangeburg Consolidated School District 4 shall ensure that each disabled child participates with non-disabled children in those services and activities to the maximum extent appropriate to meet the needs of that child.
GUIDANCE The purpose of the guidance program is to help each individual student achieve his/her highest growth mentally, emotionally, and socially. We try to do this in several ways: 1. Helping the new student feel at home in school with new teachers and friends in a different setting. 2. Individual conferences whenever a student, a teacher or the counselor deems it necessary. 3. A testing program designed to help the student learn as much as possible about his/her capabilities. 4. The counselor welcomes the opportunity to talk things over with any student, parent, or teacher. GRADE LEVELS 9th Grade: Must pass eighth grade 10th Grade: 6 units including 1 unit of English, 1 unit of Math and 1 unit of Science 11th Grade: 12 units including 2 units of English, 2 units of Math and 1 unit of Science 12th Grade: 17 units including 3 units of English, 3 units of Math, and 2 units of Science WITHDRAWAL AND TRANSFER 1. Secure authorization or transfer form from the Guidance Office. Have parents/guardian come in to verify action of withdrawal. 2. Report to the Guidance Office at least one day before withdrawal and have the form signed by your teacher in each class so as not to interfere with instructional time. 3. Return all school books and property to individual teachers/coaches, and make sure that all fees are paid. This is to be done during your assigned class time. Do not interrupt a class to have the form signed. 4. Take completed forms to the office for final clearance. 5. It is not the responsibility of the textbook coordinator or the guidance office personnel to turn in books to teachers. It is the student's responsibility to turn books back in to the issuing teacher if they wish to receive credit for having turned them in. Those students who fail to return their books to their respective teachers or fail to clear up any other debts will not have records or transcripts sent to another school until the matter is resolved. GRADING SYSTEM The school year is divided into two (2) semesters. A semester is 18 weeks, with two (2) reporting periods (nine weeks each). Reports will be issued to the students four times during the school year to take home to the parent or guardian. 93-100 = A SUPERIOR 85 –92 = B GOOD 77 - 84 =C FAIR 70 -76 = D POOR 69 AND BELOW = F FAILURE I = INCOMPLETE, NEEDS ADDITIONAL WORK AND/OR OWES FEES SCHEDULE CHANGES Any schedule change must be done in the guidance office and students should have written documentation (drop/add form from the guidance office) before going to any class that is different than that which is on the schedule. Teachers are not to admit any students to class without proper paperwork in regard to schedule changes. CHANGE OF ADDRESS Any change of address, telephone number, guardianship, etc. must be reported to the high school office and guidance office. ON-LINE COURSE POLICY 1. Courses offered at the home school cannot be taken as a virtual course unless there is an irresolvable conflict. 2. The School Principal, Department Chairperson and Guidance Counselor shall approve all requests for a virtual course prior to enrollment. Applications for virtual courses can be found in the guidance office. 3. All assessments must be monitored by approved district personnel. A Comprehensive Exam will be administered after completion of the virtual course. An on-site test shall count for 20% of the student’s final grade. For more information on virtual courses please refer to the school guidelines found on the application. REQUIREMENTS FOR A HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA A student must have earned at least 24 units of credit in the following: English/Language Art 4 units Mathematics 4 units Science 3 units United States History 1 unit Economics ½ unit Government ½ unit Social Studies Elective 1 unit Physical Education 1 unit Electives 7 units Computer Science 1 unit Foreign Language 1 unit A student must pass all areas of the HSAP- English, Language Arts and Math. A student who is unable to pass all areas of the exit exam will be awarded a certificate indicating the number of units earned and the grade level completed. PROCEDURES FOR GRADUATION • Students must pass all three parts of the HSAP and pass all the required courses listed in the DMP in order to receive a State High School Diploma. • Students failing any part of the exit exam but meeting all other requirements may receive a Certificate at Graduation. • Graduation exercises will be limited to those students who have met the State Requirements for a High School Diploma or Certificate. • All graduating seniors who expect to participate in the Commencement Exercises must follow the schedule given for rehearsal. REHEARSAL FOR THOSE STUDENTS PARTICIPATING IN GRADUATION IS MANDATORY. • Failure to follow the schedule for rehearsals, except for cases of extreme emergency, will exclude students from participating in graduation exercises. The principal must be notified in the event of an emergency. The notice must be given early enough so that a decision can be made as to the acceptance or rejection of the reason for not being able to attend rehearsal prior to the time the rehearsal is to be held. Any student who misses practice must have a valid excuse approved by the principal. GRADING SCALE POLICY The State Board of Education has adopted a uniform grading scale for the state of South Carolina for all students receiving Carnegie units. Numerical breaks for letter grades, weightings for specified courses, and a conversion chart for computing grade point ratio are shown in the chart on page 33. All report cards and transcripts will use numerical grades for courses carrying Carnegie units. Transcripts and report cards will show the course title and level/type of the course taken (i.e. English I College Prep, Algebra II Honors, AP English). The conversion scale should be printed on the report card. When transcripts are received from out-of-state (or in-state from other than public schools) and letter grades are recorded, the following process will be used to transfer the grades into the student's records: Unless numerical averages are provided by the sending institution, the following conversion system will apply: A=96; B=88; C=80; D=73; F=61 Grades lower than 70 received from another school, but which are indicated as a passing grade from the sending institution, will be converted to a 73 numerical grade on the new scale. A grade of P (passing) received from another school would be converted to a numerical designation based on information secured from the sending institution as to the approximate numerical value of the "P". The receiving school will make the final determination regarding the conversion of a grade P into the uniform grading scale. Two categories of weights are allowed: an additional .5 for Honors courses; and 1.0 for Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate courses and dual credit courses. 1. Transcripts will reflect honors designation for any honors course taken. Dual credit courses, whether the courses are taken at the school site or off campus, are defined as those courses for which the student has received permission from his/her home school to receive both Carnegie units and credit at another institution. 2. The uniform grading scale and system for figuring GPR and class rank will apply to all courses carrying Carnegie units, including units earned at the middle/junior high school. 3. Grade point ratios will be figured uniformly in all schools using the following formula. The formula will yield each student's GPR, which can then be ranked from the highest to the lowest rank in class. Computations will not be rounded to a higher number. All diploma candidates are included in the ranking. | Average | Letter Grade | College Prep/ Tech Prep | Honors | Advanced Placement/ Intl. Baccalaureate | | 100 | A | 4.875 | 5.375 | 5.875 | | 99 | A | 4.750 | 5.250 | 5.750 | | 98 | A | 4.625 | 5.125 | 5.625 | | 97 | A | 4.500 | 5.000 | 5.500 | | 96 | A | 4.375 | 4.875 | 5.375 | | 95 | A | 4.250 | 4.750 | 5.250 | | 94 | A | 4.125 | 4.625 | 5.125 | | 93 | A | 4.000 | 4.500 | 5.000 | | 92 | B | 3.875 | 4.375 | 4.875 | | 91 | B | 3.750 | 4.250 | 4.750 | | 90 | B | 3.625 | 4.125 | 4.625 | | 89 | B | 3.500 | 4.000 | 4.500 | | 88 | B | 3.375 | 3.875 | 4.375 | | 87 | B | 3.250 | 3.750 | 4.250 | | 86 | B | 3.125 | 3.625 | 4.125 | | 85 | B | 3.000 | 3.500 | 4.000 | | 84 | C | 2.875 | 3.375 | 3.875 | | 83 | C | 2.750 | 3.250 | 3.750 | | 82 | C | 2.625 | 3.125 | 3.625 | | 81 | C | 2.500 | 3.000 | 3.500 | | 80 | C | 2.375 | 2.875 | 3.375 | | 79 | C | 2.250 | 2.750 | 3.250 | | 79 | C | 2.125 | 2.625 | 3.125 | | 77 | C | 2.000 | 2.500 | 3.000 | | 76 | D | 1.875 | 2.375 | 2.875 | | 75 | D | 1.750 | 2.250 | 2.750 | | 74 | D | 1.625 | 2.125 | 2.625 | | 73 | D | 1.500 | 2.000 | 2.500 | | 72 | D | 1.375 | 1.875 | 2.375 | | 71 | D | 1.250 | 1.750 | 2.250 | | 70 | D | 1.125 | 1.625 | 2.125 | | 69 | F | .100 | 1.500 | 2.000 | | 68 | F | .875 | 1.375 | 1.875 | | 67 | F | .750 | 1.250 | 1.750 | | 66 | F | .625 | 1.125 | 1.625 | | 65 | F | .500 | 1.000 | 1.500 | | 64 | F | .375 | 0.875 | 1.375 | | 63 | F | .250 | 0.750 | 1.250 | | 62 | F | .125 | .625 | 1.125 | | 0-61,FA,WF | F | .000 | .000 | .000 | | --- | WP | .000 | .000 | .000 | GPR= sum (quality points x units) sum of units attempted The criteria for determining honor graduates, to include valedictorian or salutatorian, is a local decision based on state standards. Life Scholarships are determined at the conclusion of the senior year; however, local boards may establish earlier cut-offs (i.e. 7th semester or 3rd nine weeks of the senior year) for determining a rank for any local purpose. 4. With the first day of enrollment as the baseline, students who withdraw from a course within 3 days in a 45-day course, 5 days in a 90-day course, or 10 days in a 180-day course will do so without penalty. 5. Students who withdraw from a course after a specified time of 3 days in a 45-day course, 5 days in a 90-day course, or 10 days in a 180day course shall be assigned a WF and the F will be calculated in the student's overall grade point average/ratio as a 61. 6. The 3-, 5-, and 10-day limitations for withdrawing from a course without penalty, do not apply to a course or course level changes initiated by the administration of a school. 7. Students make retake the same course at the same difficulty level under the following conditions: • Only courses in which a grade of a D or F was earned may be retaken. • The course in which a D or F was earned may only be retaken during the current academic year and no later than the next academic school year. Both the D or F earned and the grade earned in the retake will be figured into the overall grade point ratio. Students taking courses for a Carnegie unit prior to their 9th grade year may retake any such course. In this case, only the 9th grade retake grade will be used in figuring the student's GPR and only the 9th grade attempt will show on the transcript. This rule will apply whether the grade earned is higher or lower than the pre-ninth grade attempt. HONORS / IB / DUAL CREDIT COURSES Honors courses are intended for students exhibiting superior abilities in the course content area. The honors curriculum will place emphasis on critical and analytical thinking, rational decision-making, and deductive reasoning. Honors courses should not encourage a student to graduate early, but should extend course opportunities at the high school level. School districts may designate honors courses and give the assigned weighting under the following conditions. • An honors course must have a published syllabus that verifies rigor that is sufficiently beyond the college prep or tech prep requirements. • Textbooks and/or other course materials must be differentiated and more rigorous than those used in college prep or tech prep courses. • Honors courses may be offered in English, Math, Science and Social Studies. Additionally honors courses may be designated in other content areas for courses where students are earning their 3rd or 4th Carnegie unit in the content area provided the standards listed above are met. END-OF-COURSE EXAMINATION PROGRAM (EOCEP) COURSES AND THE CREDIT RECOVERY OPTION Students who are enrolled in courses requiring state end-of-course examinations must take the examinations and fulfill all requirements outlined in Regulation 43-22-4. Students will be allowed to take the examination only once, at the end of the regular course duration and not at the end of an extended period granted through the credit recovery option. Students who repeat the course must be treated as though they are taking the course for the first time, and all requirements will apply. HONOR ROLL For a student to be on the honor roll he/she must have an overall average of 85 or above and have no D’s and/or F’s for the quarter. MERIT CARD Merit Cards will be awarded every quarter to students meeting all of the following criteria: 1. Honor roll or a five-point improvement in one subject while at least maintaining their grades in all other subjects (no F’s) 2. No discipline notices for the quarter. 3. No Unexcused tardies to school or class. 4. No suspensions 5. No Cheating. TRANSFER STUDENTS Students who transfer from schools accredited by a regional accrediting association (i.e., Southern Association of Colleges and Schools) may automatically transfer credit which has been awarded by the previous school attended. Students who transfer from non-accredited schools must have their credits or courses validated for credit at each high school. TRANSFER OF CREDITS Transfer of weighted credits is not automatic and must be reviewed by the Director of Guidance. A maximum of two accepted high school credits (English and Math) may be transferred from the eighth grade level. 
2009-2010 Calendar August 10 Opening Day for teachers August 10-14 Staff Development / Work Days August 17 School Opens – Full day for Students September 7 Labor Day Holiday September 14- October 5 MAP Testing September 28 No School/Mid Term Parent-Teacher Conf. (11:30-7:00) October 20 End of First Quarter October 20-22 HSAP Testing October 27 Grade Reports to Parents November 20 Mid-terms to Parents November 24 Early Dismissal (12:05pm) November 25-27 Thanksgiving Holidays December 18 Early Dismissal (12:05 pm) December 21-Jan 1 Winter Holidays January 4 School Reopens for Students January 4-29 MAP Testing January 8 End of Second Quarter January 11-12 Staff Development / No school January 15 Grade Reports to Parents January 18 Martin Luther King Holiday February 15 President’s Day Holiday February 22 No School/Mid-term Parent-Teacher Conf. (11:30-7:00) March 8-31 MAP Testing March 16-17 PASS Testing (writing test) March 19 End of Third Quarter March 25 Grade Reports to Parents April 5-9 Spring Holidays-No School April 20-22 HSAP Testing April 27 Mid-terms to Parents May 11-14 PASS Testing May 27-28 Exams- Early Dismissal (12:05) May 28 Last Day for Students / Graduation May 31 Last Day for Teachers / Work Day June 1 Make-up Day Grade Reports mailed to Parents SCHOOL WIDE EXPECTATIONS BRANCHVILLE IS A RAILROAD SCHOOL | |  RESPECT RESPONSIBILITY SAFETY BRANCHVILLE IS A PBIS SCHOOL (POSITIVE BEHAVIOR INTERVENTION SUPPORT) While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this handbook, changes in policy may require adjustment in content. Students remain responsible for updates and changes in policy. Orangeburg Consolidated School District 4 affirms that the schools are in compliance with the requirement of Title IX which states: "No person in the United States shall on the basis of sex be excluded from participating in, be denied the benefits of or be subject to discrimination under any educational program or activity receiving Federal Financial Assistance... " Further, Orangeburg Consolidated Four is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, sex, age, handicap in emission to, access to, treatment in, or employment in its programs and activities. Inquiries concerning application of Title IX or complaints alleging noncompliance should be directed to the Personnel Director, Orangeburg Consolidated School District Four, PO Box 68, Cope, South Carolina 29038.
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