Handbook 2001-02
Buffalo High School
145 Bison Lane
Buffalo, TX 75831
903-322-4243
CRITICAL INFORMATION FOR PARENTS
REPORT CARDS, PROGRESS REPORTS, AND CONFERENCES
STUDENT OR PARENT COMPLAINTS AND CONCERNS
CURRICULUM-RELATED INFORMATION
CREDIT BY EXAMINATION—If You've Taken the Course
CREDIT BY EXAMINATION—If You've Not Taken the Course
DUAL CREDIT COURSES / COLLEGE COURSEWORK
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, AND ORGANIZATIONS
COURSES OFFERED
OTHER GENERAL INFORMATION AND REQUIREMENTS
COMMUNICABLE DISEASES / CONDITIONS
DISTRIBUTION OF PUBLISHED MATERIALS OR DOCUMENTS
PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS / HEALTH SCREENINGS
To Students and Parents:
Welcome to school year 2001-2002! Teachers and other school staff members want this year to be an especially good one for each child, with many interesting learning experiences. For this to happen, we all have to work together: students, parents, and teachers. This Student Handbook is designed to help us do this.
The Buffalo High Student Handbook contains information that you are likely to need during the school year. The handbook is divided into three sections:
the first for parents, with information all parents will need about assisting their child and responding to school-related issues;
the second for students, to provide information about courses to take, extracurricular and other activities, and a Quick Reference section about day-to-day questions; and
the third, general information regarding school operations and requirements.
We have attempted to make the language as informal as possible, particularly in the first two sections; however, in parts of the handbook please be aware that the term "the student's parent" is used to refer to the parent, legal guardian, or other person who has agreed to assume school-related responsibility for a student.
Both students and parents also need to be familiar with the Buffalo ISD Student Code of Conduct, where you will find the consequences for inappropriate behavior. The Student Code of Conduct is required by state law and is intended to promote school safety and an atmosphere for learning. That document may be found as an attachment to this handbook and posted at each campus.
In case of conflict between Board policy or the Student Code of Conduct and any provisions of student handbooks, the provisions of Board policy or the Student Code of Conduct that were most recently adopted by the Board are to be followed.
Please note that references to alphabetical policy codes are included so that parents can refer to current policy. A copy of the District's Policy Manual is available in the school office or online at www.tasb.org/policy/pol/private/145901/.
BISD does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, or disability in providing education services, activities, and programs, including vocational programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.
The following District staff members have been designated to coordinate compliance with these requirements:
Title IX Coordinator for concerns regarding sex discrimination:
Paul Vranish, Superintendent
Section 504 Coordinator for concerns regarding disability discrimination:
Paul Vranish, Superintendent
This section of the Buffalo High School Student Handbook is intended to give information on procedures of particular interest to you as a parent. It includes information about working with the school in guiding your child's education, such as:
· your child's grades and progress reports;
· records pertaining to your child;
· conferences with your child's teacher;
· the District's procedure to follow if you have a concern that isn't resolved by a conference; and
· school events and school-related groups that would welcome your attendance or participation.
We strongly recommend that you review the entire handbook with your child and keep it as a reference during this school year. If you or your children have questions about any of the material in this handbook, please contact a teacher, the counselor, or the principal. Also, please complete and return the acknowledgment form, so that we have a record of your choices listed there.
A child's education succeeds best when there is a strong partnership between home and school, a partnership that thrives on communication. Your involvement in this partnership may include:
Encouraging your child to put a high priority on education and working with your child on a daily basis to make the most of the educational opportunities the school provides.
Becoming familiar with all of your child's school activities and with the academic programs, including special programs, offered in the District. Discuss with the counselor or principal any questions you may have about the options and opportunities available to your child. Monitor your child's academic progress and contact teachers as needed. See Academic Counseling on page 16.
Attending scheduled conferences and requesting additional conferences as needed. To schedule a telephone or in-person conference with a teacher, counselor, or principal, please call the school office at 322-4243 for an appointment. A teacher will usually return your call or meet with you during his or her conference period or at a mutually convenient time before or after school. See Report Cards, Progress Reports, and Conferences on page 9.
Exercising your right to review teaching materials, textbooks, and other aids, and to examine tests that have been administered to your child.
Your child will not be required to participate without parental consent in any survey, analysis, or evaluation funded in whole or in part by the U.S. Department of Education that concerns:
· Political affiliations.
· Mental and psychological problems potentially embarrassing to the student or family.
· Sexual behavior and attitudes.
· Illegal, antisocial, self-incriminating, and demeaning behavior.
· Criticism of other individuals with whom the student or the student's family has a close family relationship.
· Relationships privileged under law, such as relationships with lawyers, physicians, and ministers.
· Income, except when the information will be used to determine the student's eligibility to participate in a special program or to receive financial assistance under such a program.
You will be able to inspect any teaching materials used in connection with such a survey, analysis, or evaluation. For further information, see policy EF.
Reviewing your child's student records when needed. You may review (1) attendance records, (2) test scores, (3) grades, (4) disciplinary records, (5) counseling records, (6) psychological records, (7) applications for admission, (8) health and immunization information, (9) other medical records, (10) teacher and counselor evaluations, (11) reports of behavioral patterns, and (12) state assessment instruments that have been administered to your child. See Student Records on page 11.
Granting or denying any written request from the District to make a videotape or voice recording of your child. State law, however, permits the school to make a videotape or voice recording without parental permission for the following circumstances:
· when it is to be used for school safety;
· when it relates to classroom instruction or a co-curricular or extracurricular activity; or
· when it relates to media coverage of the school.
Removing your child temporarily from the classroom, if an instructional activity in which your child is scheduled to participate conflicts with your religious or moral beliefs. The removal cannot be for the purpose of avoiding a test and may not extend for an entire semester. Further, your child must satisfy grade-level and graduation requirements as determined by the school and by the Texas Education Agency.
Becoming a school volunteer. For further information, see policy GKG and contact Paul Vranish, Superintendent.
Participating in campus parent organizations. Parent organizations include: Band Booster, Athletic Booster Club, and PTO.
Offering to serve as a parent representative on the District-level or campus-level planning committees, assisting in the development of educational goals and plans to improve student achievement. For further information, see policies at BQA and BQB, and contact Paul Vranish, Superintendent or Hugh Piatt, Principal
Attending Board meetings to learn more about District operations, including the procedure for addressing the Board when appropriate. See policies BE and BED for more information.
Corporal punishment spanking or paddling the student may be used as a discipline management technique in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct and policy FO(LOCAL) in the District's policy manual.
For each 6 weeks, daily grades will count ½ of the 6 weeks average, major grades will count 1/3 and the 6 weeks test will count 1/6. The semester average will be determined by counting each 6 weeks grade twice and the semester test counting 1/7 of the semester grade.
Progress reports will be issued every three weeks of each grading period.
When law enforcement officers or other lawful authorities wish to question or interview a student at school:
The principal will verify and record the identity of the officer or other authority and ask for an explanation of the need to question or interview the student.
The principal ordinarily will make reasonable efforts to notify the parents unless the interviewer raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection.
The principal ordinarily will be present unless the interviewer raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection.
The principal will cooperate fully regarding the conditions of the interview, if the questioning or interview is part of a child abuse investigation.
State law requires the District to permit a student to be taken into legal custody:
To comply with an order of the juvenile court.
To comply with the laws of arrest.
By a law enforcement officer if there is probable cause to believe the student has engaged in delinquent conduct or conduct in need of supervision.
By a probation officer if there is probable cause to believe the student has violated a condition of probation imposed by the juvenile court.
To comply with a properly issued directive to take a student into custody.
By an authorized representative of Child Protective Services, Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services, a law enforcement officer, or a juvenile probation officer, without a court order, under the conditions set out in the Family Code relating to the student's physical health or safety.
Before a student is released to a law enforcement officer or other legally authorized person, the principal will verify the officer's identity and, to the best of his or her ability, will verify the official's authority to take custody of the student.
The principal will immediately notify the Superintendent and will ordinarily attempt to notify the parent unless the officer or other authorized person raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection to notifying the parents. Because the principal does not have the authority to prevent or delay a custody action, notification will most likely be after the fact.
The District is also required by state law to notify:
All instructional and support personnel who have responsibility for supervising a student who has been arrested or referred to the juvenile court for any felony offense or for certain misdemeanors.
All instructional and support personnel who have regular contact with a student who has been convicted or adjudicated of delinquent conduct for any felony offense or certain misdemeanors.
For further information, see policy GRA.
A student may be promoted only on the basis of academic achievement or demonstrated proficiency of the subject matter of the course or grade level. To earn credit in a course, a student must receive at least a grade of 70 based on course-level or grade-level standards.
Promotion standards, as established by the individual education plan (IEP), or grade-level classification of students eligible for special education shall be determined by the ARD committee.
In assessing students of limited English proficiency for mastery of the essential knowledge and skills, the District shall be flexible in determining methods to allow the students to demonstrate knowledge or competency independent of their English language skills in the following ways:
Assessment with multiple varied instruments. [See EHBE]
For further information, see policies at EHBC, EI, and EIE.
Exit-level assessment testing for high school graduation purposes may be found at Graduation on page 19.
Written reports of your child's grades or performance and absences in each class or subject are issued to you at least once every 6 weeks.
At the end of the first three weeks of a grading period you will be given written notice if your child's performance in any course in English language arts, mathematics, science, or social studies is near or below 70, or is below the expected level of performance. If your child receives a grade lower than 70 in any class or subject during a grading period, you will be requested to schedule a conference with the teacher of that class or subject.
The report card or unsatisfactory progress report will state whether tutorials are required for a student who receives a grade lower than 70 in a class or subject.
Materials that are part of the basic educational program are provided with state and local funds and are at no charge to a student. A student, however, is expected to provide his or her own pencils, paper, erasers, and notebooks and may be required to pay certain other fees or deposits, including:
Costs for materials for a class project that the student will keep.
Membership dues in voluntary clubs or student organizations and admission fees to extracurricular activities.
Personal physical education and athletic equipment and apparel.
Voluntarily purchased pictures, publications, class rings, yearbooks, graduation announcements, etc.
Voluntarily purchased student accident insurance.
Personal apparel used in extracurricular activities that becomes the property of the student.
Fees for lost, damaged, or overdue library books.
Fees for optional courses offered for credit that require use of facilities not available on District premises.
Summer school for courses that are offered tuition-free during the regular school year.
A fee not to exceed $50 for costs of providing an educational program outside of regular school hours for a student who has lost credit because of absences and whose parent chooses the program in order for the student to meet the 90 percent attendance requirement. The fee will be charged only if the parent or guardian signs a District-provided request form.
Any required fee may be waived if the student and parent are unable to pay. Application for such a waiver may be made to the building principal. For further information, see policy FP.
Because you and your child will incur expenses in order to participate in the traditions of graduation, such as the purchase of invitations, senior ring, cap and gown, and senior picture, you and your child should monitor his or her progress toward completion of all requirements for graduation. The expenses often are incurred in the junior year or first semester of the senior year.
Usually student or parent complaints or concerns can be addressed simply by a phone call or a conference with the teacher. For those complaints and concerns that cannot be handled so easily, the District has adopted a standard complaint policy at FNG(LOCAL) in the District's policy manual. In general, you or your child should first discuss the complaint with the campus principal. If unresolved, a written complaint and a request for a conference should be sent to the Superintendent. If still unresolved, the District provides for the complaint to be presented to the Board of Trustees.
Some complaints require different procedures. Any campus office or the Superintendent's office can provide information regarding specific processes for the following complaints. Additional information can also be found in the designated Board policy, available in the principal's and Superintendent's offices or on the District’s Web site at www.tasb.org/policy/pol/private/145901/
Both federal and state law safeguard student records from unauthorized inspection or use and provide parents and "eligible" students certain rights. For purposes of student records, an "eligible" student is one who is 18 or older OR who is attending an institution of postsecondary education.
The law specifies that certain general information about BISD students is considered "directory information" and will be released to anyone who follows procedures for requesting it. That information includes:
A student's name, address, telephone number, and date and place of birth.
The student's photograph, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, and weight and height of members of athletic teams.
The student's dates of attendance, grade level, enrollment status, honors and awards received in school, and most recent school attended previously.
The student's e-mail address.
The parent or an eligible student may prevent release of any or all directory information regarding a student. This objection must be made in writing to the principal within ten school days after you have been provided this notice. See the acknowledgment form.
Virtually all information pertaining to student performance, including grades, test results, and disciplinary records, is considered confidential educational records and may be released to:
The parents whether married, separated, or divorced who will generally have access to the records. A parent whose rights have been legally terminated will be denied access to the records if the school is given a copy of the court order terminating these rights. Federal law requires that, as soon as the student becomes eligible, control of the records go to the student. However, the parents may access the records if the student is a dependent for tax purposes.
District staff members who have what federal law defines as a "legitimate educational interest" in a student's records. Such persons would include school officials such as Board members, the Superintendent, and principals), school staff members (such as teachers, counselors, and diagnosticians), or an agent of the District (such as a medical consultant).
Various governmental agencies or in response to a subpoena or court order.
A school to which a student transfers or in which he or she subsequently enrolls.
Release to any other person or agency such as a prospective employer or for a scholarship application will occur only with parental or student permission as appropriate.
The Superintendent is custodian of all records for currently enrolled students at the assigned school. The Superintendent is the custodian of all records for students who have withdrawn or graduated.
Records may be reviewed during regular school hours. If circumstances effectively prevent a parent or eligible student from inspecting the records, the District shall either provide a copy of the requested records, or make other arrangements for the parent or student to review the requested records. The records custodian or designee will respond to reasonable requests for explanation and interpretation of the records. The address of the Superintendent's office is: 708 Cedar Creek Road
A parent (or the student if he or she is 18 or older or is attending an institution of postsecondary education) may review and inspect the student's records and request a correction if the records are considered inaccurate or otherwise in violation of the student's privacy rights. If the District refuses the request to amend the records, the requestor has the right to request a hearing. If the records are not amended as a result of the hearing, the requestor has 30 school days to exercise the right to place a statement commenting on the information in the student's record. Although improperly recorded grades may be challenged, contesting a student's grade in a course is handled through the general complaint process defined by policy FNG. See Student or Parent Complaints and Concerns on pages 10-11 for an overview of the process.
Copies of student records are available at a cost of ten cents per page, payable in advance. If the student qualifies for free or reduced-price lunches and the parents are unable to view the records during regular school hours, upon written request of the parent, one copy of the record will be provided at no charge.
Please
note:
Parents or eligible students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if they believe the District is not in compliance with the law regarding student records. The District's complete policy regarding student records is available from the principal's or Superintendent's office.
The parent's or eligible student's right of access to, and copies of, student records does not extend to all records. Materials that are not considered educational records such as teachers' personal notes on a student that are shared only with a substitute teacher and records on former students after they are no longer students in the District do not have to be made available to the parents or student.
To receive a high school diploma, students must successfully pass exit-level tests. See Graduation on page 19 for information regarding new exit-level tests required by state law.
Most colleges require either the American College Test (ACT) or the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) for admission. Students are encouraged to talk with the counselor during their junior year to determine the appropriate exam to take; entrance exams are usually taken at the end of the junior year. Prior to enrollment in a Texas public college or university, students must take the Texas Academic Skill Program (TASP) test, unless they are exempt from taking the test based on their ACT, SAT, or TAAS scores. Check with the counselor for more information.
Test results will be reported to students and parents; parents may review any assessment test that has been given to their child.
Certain students some with disabilities and some with limited English proficiency may be eligible for exemptions, accommodations, or deferred testing. For more information, see the principal, counselor, or special education director.
For safety purposes, video/audio equipment will be used to monitor student behavior on buses (and in common areas on campus). Students will not be told when the equipment is being used.
The principal will review the tapes routinely and document student misconduct. Discipline will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.
A parent who wants to view a videotape of the incident leading to the discipline of his or her child may request access in accordance with policy FL in the District's policy manual.
A student may be withdrawn from school only by a parent. The school requests notice from the parent at least three days in advance so that records and documents may be prepared. A withdrawal form may be obtained by the parent from the principal's office. On the student's last day, the withdrawal form must be presented to each teacher for current grade averages and book clearance; to the librarian to assure a clear library record; to the clinic for health records; to the counselor for the last report card and course clearance; and finally, to the principal. A copy of the withdrawal form will be given to the student and a copy placed in the student's permanent record.
A student who is 18 or older, who is married, or who has been declared by a court to be an emancipated minor, may withdraw without parental signature.
This section of the handbook contains pertinent requirements for academics and activities. Much of this information will also be of interest to your parents and should be reviewed with them especially if you are entering 9th grade or are a transfer student. The section includes information on graduation programs and requirements; options for earning course credit; extracurricular activities and other school-related organizations; and awards, honors, and scholarships.
Valedictorian and Salutatorian Class Rank
The valedictory honors will be given to the boy or the girl making the highest average during their four years of high school study. Salutatory honors will be awarded to the boy or the girl making the second highest scholastic average. These honors are determined soon after the end of the first semester reporting period of the senior year. Scholarships to various colleges and other awards are given to the highest-ranking seniors on graduation night. Only students who attend a minimum of four regular semesters of school at BHS will be eligible for graduation honors. Students who transfer from other accredited schools are eligible for academic honors at Buffalo High provided they meet the four-term requirement. Credits which are designated, as Advanced will be accepted as Advanced credit in transfer from other institutions only if a similar Advanced course is offered at BHS. If a similar advanced course is not offered as part of the Buffalo curriculum, the credits will be accepted as a regular course and calculated this way for the determination of the valedictorian and salutatorian. The credits required by the Texas Education Agency must be made up of enriched, or regular, non-modified courses.
For two school years following their graduation, students who are ranked in the top ten percent of their graduating class are eligible for automatic admission into four-year public universities and colleges in Texas. Students and parents should contact the counselor for further information about how to apply and the deadline for application.
For further information, see policies at EIC.
Students who have financial need according to federal criteria and who complete the Recommended High School Graduation Program may be eligible under the Texas Grant Program for tuition and fees to Texas public universities, community colleges, and technical schools, as well as to private institutions. For information, see the principal or counselor and see policies at EIC and FJ.
AVERAGE
STANDARD
RECOMMENDED ADVANCED
AP
100
3.0
4.0
5.0
5.5
99
2.9
3.9
4.9
5.4
98
2.8
3.8
4.8
5.3
97
2.7
3.7
4.7
5.2
96
2.6
3.6
4.6
5.1
95
2.5
3.5
4.5
5.0
94
2.4
3.4
4.4
4.9
93
2.3
3.3
4.3
4.8
92
2.2
3.2
4.2
4.7
91
2.1
3.1
4.1
4.6
90
2.0
3.0
4.0
4.5
89
1.9
2.9
3.9
4.4
88
1.8
2.8
3.8
4.3
87
1.7
2.7
3.7
4.2
86
1.6
2.6
3.6
4.1
85
1.5
2.5
3.5
4.0
84
1.4
2.4
3.4
3.9
83
1.3
2.3
3.3
3.8
82
1.2
2.2
3.2
3.7
81
1.1
2.1
3.1
3.6
80
1.0
2.0
3.0
3.5
79
0.9
1.9
2.9
3.4
78
0.8
1.8
2.8
3.3
77
0.7
1.7
2.7
3.2
76
0.6
1.6
2.6
3.1
75
0.5
1.5
2.5
3.0
74
0.4
1.4
2.4
2.9
73
0.3
1.3
2.3
2.8
72
0.2
1.2
2.2
2.7
71
0.1
1.1
2.1
2.6
70
0.0
1.0
2.0
2.5
Students may change their schedule within the first two weeks of the school year.
To prepare you for an increasingly computerized society, the District has made a substantial investment in computer technology for instructional purposes. Use of these resources is restricted to students working under a teacher's supervision and for approved purposes only. Students may use e-mail for educational purposes. You and your parents should be aware that electronic communications e-mail using District computers are not private and may be monitored by District staff.
For additional information, see policy CQ.
The District permits high school students to take correspondence courses courses by mail for credit toward high school graduation.
A maximum of 2 credits may be earned through correspondence courses. Grades for correspondence courses will not be used in figuring the students GPA. Check with the counselor for more information.
For further information, see policy EEJC.
You and your parents are encouraged to talk with a school counselor, teacher, or principal to learn about course offerings, the graduation requirements of various programs, and early graduation procedures. Each spring, students in grades 8 through 11 will be provided information on anticipated course offerings for the next year and other information that will help you make the most of academic and vocational opportunities.
To plan for your future, including attendance at a college, university, or training school or pursuing some other type of advanced education, you should work closely with the counselor so that you take the high school courses that best prepare you. The counselor can also provide information about entrance examinations and deadlines for application, as well as information about automatic admission to state colleges and universities, financial aid, housing, and scholarships.
The school counselor is available to assist students with a wide range of personal concerns, including such areas as social, family, or emotional issues, or substance abuse. The counselor may also make available information about community resources to address these concerns. Students who wish to meet with the counselor, should contact Karen Helmcamp.
Please note: The school will not conduct a psychological examination, test, or treatment without first obtaining your parent's written consent, unless required by state or federal law for special education purposes. For more information, refer to policy FFE.
A student who has received prior instruction in a course or subject but did not receive credit for it may, in circumstances determined by the teacher and counselor or principal, be permitted by the District to earn credit by passing an examination on the essential knowledge and skills defined for the course or subject. To receive credit, a student must score at least 70 on the examination. A student must have received a grade of at least 60 in the course failed in order to gain credit by such an examination.
The attendance review committee may offer a student with excessive absences an opportunity to receive credit for a course by passing an examination. A student may not use this examination, however, to regain eligibility to participate in extracurricular activities. For further information, see policy EEJA.
A student will be permitted to take an examination to earn credit for an academic course for which the student has no prior instruction.
The passing score required to earn credit on an examination for acceleration is 90.
The Superintendent or designee shall be responsible for development or selection of tests to be used to grant credit to students without prior instruction in a subject area or grade level. Whether tests are developed by the District or purchased from a State Board-approved university or other appropriate source, each examination shall thoroughly test the essential knowledge and skills in the applicable grade level or subject area.
The Superintendent or designee shall establish a schedule of dates when examinations for accelerations shall be administered and shall ensure that such dates are published in the student handbook and in other District publications, as appropriate.
A student planning to take an examination for acceleration shall be required to register with the principal or designee no later than 30 days prior to the scheduled testing date on which the student wishes to take the test.
No fee shall be charged for an examination for acceleration provided by the District. If a parent or student requests an alternate examination, the District may administer a test purchased by the parent or student from a State Board-approved university.
Approval of credit or advancement on the basis of an examination for acceleration shall be by the Superintendent or designee, in accordance with State Board rules.
If you plan to take an examination for acceleration, you (or your parent) must register with the principal no later than 30 days prior to the scheduled testing date. The District will not honor a request by a parent to administer a test purchased by the parent from a State Board-approved university. For further information, see EEJB.
Dual Credit courses are available from any approved college. Students must have permission from the high school principal and approval from the Superintendent. Dual credit courses will count toward the students GPA at the recommended level on the grade point average scale.
Participation in school and school-related activities is an excellent way for you to develop talents, receive individual recognition, and build strong friendships with other students; however, participation is a privilege.
Eligibility for participation in many of these activities is governed by state law as well as rules of the University Interscholastic League (UIL) a statewide association of participating districts.
A student who receives at the end of a grading period a grade below 70 in any academic class, other than a class identified as advanced by either the State Board of Education or by the local Board, may not participate in extracurricular activities for at least three school weeks.
A student with disabilities who fails to meet the standards in the individual education plan (IEP) may not participate for at least three school weeks.
An ineligible student may practice or rehearse.
A student is allowed in a school year up to 10 absences not related to post-district competition, a maximum of five absences for post-district competition, prior to state, and a maximum of two absences for state competition. All extracurricular activities and public performances, whether UIL activities and other activities approved by the Board are subject to these restrictions.
A student who misses a class because of participation in an activity that has not been approved will receive an unexcused absence.
Please note: Sponsors of student clubs and performing groups such as the band, choir, and drill and athletic teams may establish standards of behavior including consequences for misbehavior that are stricter than those for students in general. If a violation is also a violation of school rules, the consequences specified by the Student Code of Conduct or by local policy will apply in addition to any consequences specified by the organization.
Membership in the local chapter is an honor bestowed upon a student. Selection for membership is by Faculty Council and is based on outstanding scholarship, character, leadership, and service. Once selected, members have the responsibility to continue to demonstrate the qualities of scholarship, character, leadership, and service.
Members who are seniors in good standing are eligible to be nominated by their chapters to compete in the National Honor Society Scholarship Program.
A National Honor Society member who transfers from another school and brings a letter from the former principal or Chapter advisor shall be accepted automatically as a member in the new school’s chapter. Transfer members must meet the new Chapter’s standards within one semester in order to retain membership.
Members who resign or are dismissed are never again eligible for membership or its benefits.
To be eligible for membership the candidate must be a member of those classes (sophomore, junior, senior), designated as eligible in the chapter bylaws. Freshmen are not eligible. Candidates must have a cumulative scholastic average of at least 90 or better.
Candidates shall then be evaluated on the basis of service, leadership, and character.
The Faculty Council in compliance with the rules and regulations of the National Honor Society shall determine the procedure for dismissal.
After the ninth grade, students are classified according to the number of credits earned toward graduation.
Credits Earned Grade Placement
5 10
10 11
15 12
To receive a high school diploma from the District, you must successfully complete the required number of credits and pass a statewide exit-level examination.
The District will be implementing, in accordance with TEA requirements, new assessments for the exit-level examination that will be required for graduation in school years 2003-2005. Students who were 8th graders in school year 1999-2000 must pass the new assessment exam to graduate in school year 2003-2004; while students who were 7th graders in school year 1999-2000 must pass the new assessment exam to graduate in school year 2004-2005. See Testing on page 12.
The Buffalo Ind. School District offers the following graduation programs. The counselor can help you decide which program is best for you.
Number
of Credits 2001-2002
| Senior | Junior | Sophomore | Freshmen | |
| Minimum |
25 |
26 |
27 |
29 |
| Recommended |
25 |
26 |
27 |
29 |
| Distinguished Achievement |
25 |
26 |
27 |
29 |
PROGRAM
PROGRAM
PROGRAM
English
4
4
4
Mathematics
3
3
3
Science
2
3
3
U.S.
History
1
1
1
World
History and/or Geography 1
2
2
Government/Economics
1
1
1
PE
Equivalent (includes
PE, Athletics, Band, Belles)
1 ½
1 ½
1 ½
Health
½
½
½
Spanish
0
2
3
Fine
Arts (Theater, Art, Band, & Belles) 0
1
1
Speech
½
½
½
Technology
1
1
1
Extra
Sciences/Social Studies
1
0
0
Electives*
8 ½
4 ½
3 ½
Additional
Components
0
0
^
(Choose
ONE of the following:)
TOTAL
25
25
25
*Additional
electives will be required for Juniors, Sophomores, and Freshmen to meet local
graduation requirements.
Electives
and Option II may be selected from the following Career Pathways:
Electives
and Option III may be selected from the following Career Pathways:
^In addition, students following the Distinguished Program must also earn and/or complete a combination of any four of the following advanced measures:
· A score of 3 or above on the Advanced College Board Placement Exam
· A score of 4 or above on an international Baccalaureate Exam
· A score on the PSAT that qualifies as a Commended Scholar or higher
· A grade of 3.0 or higher on courses that count for college credit
· A product of professional quality as judged by a panel of professionals
·
A research project conducted under the direction of mentors and
reported
| Standard | Recommended | Advanced |
AP |
| Basic classes |
English 1,2,3,4 |
Pre-Calculus | Calculus AP |
| Algebra 1,2 | Chemistry |
English 3 AP |
|
| Geometry | Physics | English 4 AP |
|
| Math Models/w Applications | Anatomy/Physiology | Biology 2 AP | |
| Integrated Physics and Chemistry | Spanish 2,3 | ||
| Environmental Systems | Accounting | ||
| Biology 1 | Computer Science | ||
| U.S. History since Reconstruction | HTML | ||
| Business Law | |||
| World Geography | |||
| Psychology/Sociology | |||
| Government/Economics | |||
| Keyboarding | |||
| Bank.&Fin.Sys./Bus.Ownership | |||
| Record Keeping | |||
| Journalism | |||
| Newspaper | |||
| Yearbook | |||
| Theatre Arts | |||
| Art | |||
| Applied Music | |||
| Concert Band | |||
| Marching Band(Fine Art) | |||
| Belles(Dance) | |||
| Health | |||
| Communication Application | |||
| Business Computer Information Systems | |||
| Spanish 1 | |||
| Intro. to Ag. Science/Applied Ag. Sci. Tech | |||
| Intro. to Ag. Mech./Plant & Animal Reproduction | |||
| Personal Skills/Wildlife & Recreation Mgmt. | |||
| Ag. Metal Fabrication/ Animal Science | |||
| Range Mgmt./Forest Wood Tech. | |||
| Ag. Biotechnology/Food Tech. | |||
| Ag. Mecanics | |||
| Personal & Family Development | |||
| Nutrition/Food Science Tech. | |||
| Housing/Interior Design | |||
| Child Development/ Apparel |
Physical
Education
Athletics
Marching
Band (PE)
Belles
(PE)
Ag.
Leadership
A certificate of coursework completion will not be issued to a senior student who successfully completes state and local credit requirements for graduation, but fails to perform satisfactorily on the exit-level or end-of-course examinations.
Upon the recommendation of the admission, review, and dismissal committee, a student with disabilities may be permitted to graduate under the provisions of his or her individual education plan (IEP).
Homework is an integral part of any successful educational system, and students are expected to complete all assigned work. Homework is a strategy that is designed to reinforce and provide the opportunity to practice what is taught in the classroom. We feel strongly that it is the responsibility of all parties involved including teachers, students, and especially parents to encourage daily completion of homework assignments. In the event a student fails to complete assignments for some reason, he/she will face disciplinary procedures.
The District provides special programs for gifted and talented students, bilingual students, migrant students, students with limited English proficiency, dyslexic students, and students with disabilities. The coordinator of each program can answer questions about eligibility requirements, as well as programs and services offered in the District or by other organizations. A student or parent with questions about these programs should contact the campus principal.
Summer school may be offered on a year-by-year basis. The decision to have summer school will be based on available funds and student needs.
Topics in this section, while students and parents may not need them as frequently, contain important information regarding school operations and requirements. Included are provisions such as health and safety issues; various aspects of attendance; the school's expectations for student conduct; textbooks; and cafeteria, library, and transportation services. For additional information or questions you may have, please see the principal.
Regular school attendance is essential for the student to make the most of his or her education—to benefit from teacher-led activities, to build each day's learning on that of the previous day, and to grow as an individual. Absences from class may result in serious disruption of a student's mastery of the instructional materials; therefore, the student and parent should make every effort to avoid unnecessary absences.
The state compulsory attendance law requires that:
A student between the ages of 6 and 18 must attend school and District-required tutorial sessions unless the student is otherwise legally exempted or excused. A student who voluntarily attends or enrolls after his or her eighteenth birthday is required to attend each school day. However, if a student 18 or older has more than five unexcused absences in a semester, the District may revoke the student's enrollment. The student's presence on school property is then unauthorized and may be considered trespass.
School employees must investigate and report violations of the state compulsory attendance law. A student absent from school without permission from any class, from required special programs, such as basic skills for ninth graders, or from required tutorials will be considered truant and subject to disciplinary action. Truancy may also result in assessment of a penalty by a court of law against the student and his or her parents.
State law and Board policy permit certain absences, including:
An extracurricular activity or public performance, approved by the District's Board of Trustees.
A District-approved mentorship designed to meet requirements for the Distinguished Achievement graduation program.
Required screening, diagnosis, and treatment for Medicaid-eligible students.
Observance of religious holy days, including travel for that purpose.
A documented health care appointment if the student begins classes or returns to school on the same day as the appointment.
A temporary absence resulting from any cause acceptable to the teacher, principal, or Superintendent, including personal illness, or illness or death in the immediate family.
A juvenile court proceeding documented by a probation officer.
An absence required by state or local welfare authorities.
A family emergency or unforeseen or unavoidable instance requiring immediate attention.
An approved visit to a college campus.
To receive credit in a class, a student must attend at least 90 percent of the days the class is offered. A student who attends fewer than 90 percent of the days the class is offered may be referred to the attendance review committee to determine whether the absences can be excused or how the student can regain credit.
If credit is lost, the attendance committee will decide how the student may regain credit. The student or parent may appeal the committee's decision to the District's Board of Trustees by filing a written request with the Superintendent.
The actual number of days a student must attend in order to receive credit will depend on whether the class is for a full semester or for a full year.
When a student must be absent from school, the student upon returning to school must bring a note, signed by the parent, that describes the reason for the absence. A note signed by the student, even with the parent's permission, will not be accepted unless the student is 18 or older.
A student absent for any reason should promptly make up specific assignments missed and/or complete additional in-depth study assigned by the teacher. A student who does not make up assigned work within the time allotted by the teacher will receive a grade of zero for the assignment. Students shall be given 1 day for every day they are absent to make up work.
Because class time is important, doctor's appointments should be scheduled, if possible, at times when the student will not miss instructional time.
A student who is less than 10 minutes late to class will be considered tardy and subject to disciplinary action. A student who is between 10 and 30 minutes late to class will be considered short truant. Short truancy is subject to disciplinary action. A student who misses an entire class period or day will be considered long truant and shall suffer disciplinary action. Repeated instances of tardiness will result in more severe disciplinary action. See Student Code of Conduct, page 19.
Students that are absent on the day of their extracurricular event may or may not participate in that event. Participation will be at the discretion of the extracurricular coach or sponsor.
A parent wishing to withdraw a student from school must present a signed statement to the principal explaining the reason for the withdrawal and the effective date. The student must then follow the procedure outlined at Withdrawal from School on page 13 on the last day of attendance.
The District may initiate withdrawal of a student for nonattendance under the following conditions:
As an incentive to improve attendance and behavior, students who have not missed any days, have not received any disciplinary referrals, or that are on the 90 average honor roll will earn the right to an award trip. Each teacher will also get to nominate one student whom they believe deserves to go on the trip. All nominations will be at the discretion of the principal.
For further information, see policies at EHBC, EIA, FDC, and FDD.
To obtain a driver license, a student between the ages of 16 and 18 must annually provide to the Texas Department of Public Safety a form obtained from the school verifying that the student has met the 90 percent attendance requirement for the semester preceding the date of application. The student can obtain this form at the campus Superintendent’s office.
A student will not be released from school at times other than at the end of the school day except with permission from the principal or designee and according to the campus sign-out procedures. Unless the principal has granted approval because of extenuating circumstances, a student will not regularly be released before the end of the instructional day.
A student who will need to leave school during the day must bring a note from his or her parent that morning and give it to the office personnel before the start of school. Office personnel will issue a pass to the student allowing them to be dismissed from class at the appropriate time. A student who becomes ill during the school day should, with the teacher's permission, report to the school nurse. The nurse will decide whether or not the student should be sent home and will notify the student's parent.
To protect other students from contagious illnesses, students infected with certain diseases are not allowed to come to school while contagious. Parents of a student with a communicable or contagious disease should phone the school nurse or principal so that other students who might have been exposed to the disease can be alerted. These diseases include:
|
Amebiasis |
Impetigo |
Salmonellosis, including Typhoid fever |
|
Campylobacteriosis |
Infectious mononucleosis |
|
|
Chicken pox (varicella) |
Influenza |
Scabies |
|
Common cold with fever |
Measles (Rubeola) |
Shigellosis |
|
Fifth disease (Erythema Infectiosum) |
Meningitis, Bacterial |
Streptococcal disease, Invasive (group A or B) |
|
Mumps |
||
|
Gastroenteritis, Viral |
Pinkeye (Conjunctivitis) |
Tuberculosis, Pulmonary |
|
Giardiasis |
Ringworm of the scalp |
Whooping Cough (Pertussis) |
|
Head Lice (Pediculosis) |
Rubella (German Measles), Including congenital |
|
|
Hepatitis A (acute) |
|
Further information may be found at policy FFAD.
In order for students to take advantage of available learning opportunities and to be productive members of our campus community, each student is expected to:
· Demonstrate courtesy even when others do not.
· Behave in a responsible manner, always exercising self-discipline.
· Attend all classes, regularly and on time.
· Prepare for each class; take appropriate materials and assignments to class.
· Meet District or campus standards of grooming and dress.
· Obey all campus and classroom rules.
· Respect the rights and privileges of other students, teachers, and other District staff.
· Respect the property of others, including District property and facilities.
· Cooperate with or assist the school staff in maintaining safety, order, and discipline.
· Avoid violations of the Student Code of Conduct.
To achieve the best possible learning environment for all our students, Buffalo ISD rules and discipline will apply whenever the interest of the District is involved, on or off school grounds, in conjunction with or independent of classes and school-sponsored activities. The District has disciplinary authority over a student:
During the regular school day or while a student is going to and from school on District transportation.
During lunch periods in which a student is allowed to leave campus.
Within 300 feet of school property.
While a student is in attendance at any school-related activity, regardless of time or location.
For any school-related misconduct, regardless of time or location.
This includes school social events to which a student brings a guest. Guests are expected to observe the same rules as students attending the event, and the person inviting the guest will share responsibility for the conduct of the guest.
A student attending a social event will be asked to sign out when leaving before the end of the event; anyone leaving before the official end of the event will not be readmitted.
When retaliation against a school employee or volunteer occurs or is threatened, regardless of time or location.
When a student commits a felony, as described by Texas Education Code 37.006.
When criminal mischief is committed on or off school property or at a school-related event.
For information regarding Searches of student lockers and vehicles brought onto school property, see page 33.
As required by law, the District has developed and adopted a Student Code of Conduct that prohibits certain behaviors and establishes standards of acceptable behavior both on and off campus and consequences for violation of the standards. Students need to be familiar with the standards set out in the Student Code of Conduct, as well as campus and classroom rules.
In order to protect student safety and sustain an educational program free from disruption, state law permits the District to take action against any person student or nonstudent who:
Interferes with the movement of people in an exit, an entrance, or a hallway of a District building without authorization from an administrator.
Interferes with an authorized activity by seizing control of all or part of a building.
Uses force, violence, or threats in an attempt to prevent participation in an authorized assembly.
Uses force, violence, or threats to cause disruption during an assembly.
Interferes with the movement of people at an exit or an entrance to District property.
Uses force, violence, or threats in an attempt to prevent people from entering or leaving District property without authorization from an administrator.
Disrupts classes while on District property or on public property that is within 500 feet of District property. Class disruption includes making loud noises; trying to entice a student away from, or to prevent a student from attending, a required class or activity; entering a classroom without authorization, and disrupting the activity with profane language or any misconduct.
Interferes with the transportation of students in District vehicles.
Students are not permitted to possess such items as radios, CD players, tape recorders, camcorders, cameras, or electronic devices or games at school, unless prior permission has been obtained from the principal. Without such permission, teachers will collect the item and turn it in to the principal's office. The principal will determine whether to return the item at the end of the day for the student to take home or whether the parent will be contacted to pick up the item. Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.
Harassment will not be tolerated by the District. Students are expected to treat other students and District employees with courtesy and respect; to avoid any behaviors known to be offensive; and to stop these behaviors when asked or told to stop.
A substantiated complaint against a student will result in appropriate disciplinary action, according to the nature of the offense and the Student Code of Conduct.
The District encourages parental and student support in its efforts to address and prevent harassment in any form in the public schools. Students and/or parents are encouraged to discuss their questions or concerns about the expectations in this area with a teacher, counselor, principal or designee, or.
Students must not engage in harassment behaviors motivated by race, color, religion, national origin, or disability directed toward another student.
A student who believes he or she has been harassed by another student or by a District employee is encouraged to report the incident to the principal or. The allegations will be investigated and addressed.
The student or a parent may appeal the decision of the principal regarding the outcome of the investigation in accordance with policy FNG(LOCAL). See also policy FNCL.
Students must not engage in unwanted and unwelcome verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature directed toward another student or a District employee. This prohibition applies whether the conduct is by word, gesture, or any other sexual conduct, including requests for sexual favors. All students are expected to treat other students and District employees with courtesy and respect; to avoid any behaviors known to be offensive; and to stop these behaviors when asked or told to stop.
The District will notify the parents of all students involved in sexual harassment by student(s) when the allegations are not minor, and will notify parents of any incident of sexual harassment or sexual abuse by an employee. To the greatest extent possible, complaints will be treated as confidential. Limited disclosure may be necessary to complete a thorough investigation.
A complaint alleging sexual harassment by another student or sexual harassment or sexual abuse by a staff member may be presented by a student and/or parent in a conference with the principal or Superintendent or with the Title IX coordinator.
The student or parent may appeal the decision regarding the outcome of the investigation in accordance with policy FNCJ(LOCAL).
Publications prepared by and for the school may be posted or distributed, with prior approval by the principal, sponsor, or teacher. Such items may include school posters, brochures, murals, etc.
The school newspaper, and the yearbook are available to students.
All school publications are under the supervision of a teacher, sponsor, and the principal.
Unless a student (or a non-student) obtains specific prior approval from the principal, written materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, petitions, films, tapes, posters, or other visual or auditory materials may not be posted, sold, circulated, or distributed on any school campus. If the material is not approved within two school days of the time it was submitted to the principal, it should be considered disapproved.
Disapprovals may be appealed by submitting the disapproved material to the Superintendent; material not approved by the Superintendent within three days are considered disapproved. This disapproval may be appealed to the Board in accordance with policy FMA(LOCAL). Any student who posts material without prior approval will be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. Materials displayed without this approval will be removed.
The principal has designated Mrs. Hillis’ office as the location for approved non-school materials to be placed for voluntary viewing by other students.
The District's dress code is established to teach grooming and hygiene, prevent disruption, and minimize safety hazards. Students and parents may determine a student's personal dress and grooming standards, provided that they comply with the following:
The guidelines listed below are not intended to be complete. Any other attire that in the opinion of the principal seems distracting or inappropriate shall not be accepted. The final authority to enforce the dress code rests with the principal.
If the principal determines that a student’s grooming violates the dress code, the student shall be given an opportunity to correct the problem at school. If not corrected, the student shall be assigned to in-school suspension for the remainder of the day or until the problem is corrected.
A student whose clothing violates the dress code shall be assigned to in-school suspension either for the remainder of the day or until a parent or designee brings an acceptable change of clothing to the school.
Repeated dress code offenses may result in more serious disciplinary action. Appropriate discipline procedures shall be followed in all cases in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.
The principal, in cooperation with the sponsor, coach, or other person in charge of an extracurricular activity, may regulate the dress and grooming of students who participate in the activity. Students who violate dress and grooming standards established for such an activity may be removed or excluded from the activity for a period determined by the principal or sponsor, and may be subject to other disciplinary action, as specified in the Student Code of Conduct.
Students enrolling in Buffalo ISD who are foreign exchange students should expect that the primary purpose of the foreign exchange program be for enriching the student’s knowledge and understanding of the culture and life in the United States and in the State of Texas. Exchange students will be enrolled in courses that highlight American History, United States government, economics, and American Literature, among other basic and elective courses. Exchange students will be enrolled and assigned to either the ninth, tenth, or eleventh grade following an evaluation of their transcript from their home nation. A foreign exchange student who wishes to receive a high school diploma from Buffalo High School and the State of Texas must complete all requirements for the diploma including all course requirements, credit requirements, and must meet minimum expectations on all parts of the TAAS-exit. Therefore, a foreign exchange student who wishes to graduate from Buffalo High School and the State of Texas should plan to be enrolled and attend a minimum of four(4) semesters, or two(2) full school years. Credits earned by foreign exchange students prior to enrollment in an accredited school in the United States will not be calculated for grade point average or class ranking.
Student clubs or classes, outside organizations, and/or parent groups occasionally may be permitted to conduct fund-raising drives for approved school purposes. All fund-raising projects shall be subject to the approval of the principal or superintendent.
A student must be fully immunized against certain diseases or must present a certificate or statement that, for medical or religious reasons, the student will not be immunized. The immunizations required are: diphtheria, rubeola (measles), rubella, mumps, tetanus, and poliomyelitis. The school nurse can provide information on age-appropriate doses or on an acceptable physician-validated history of illness required by the Texas Department of Health. Proof of immunization may be personal records from a licensed physician or public health clinic with a signature or rubber-stamp validation.
If a student's religious beliefs conflict with the requirement that the student be immunized, the student must present a statement signed by the student (or by the parent, if the student is a minor) stating that immunization conflicts with the beliefs and practices of a recognized church or religious denomination of which the student is an adherent or member. This statement must be renewed yearly.
If a student should not be immunized for medical reasons, the student or parent must present a certificate signed by a U.S. licensed physician stating that, in the doctor's opinion, the immunization required would be harmful to the health and well-being of the student or any member of the student's family or household. This certificate must be renewed yearly unless the physician specifies a life-long condition. For further information, see policy FFAB.
A student who must take prescription medicine during the school day must bring a written request from his or her parent, and the medicine in its original, properly labeled container, to the campus office. The secretary will either give the medicine at the proper times or give the student permission to take the medication as directed. For further information, see policy FFAC.
In order to participate in UIL athletic events, upon entering high school, a physical examination signed by a physician is required. Each year thereafter either a physical examination signed by a physician or a medical screening is required. A standardized form is available from the office.
Each student has a right to individually, voluntarily, and silently pray or meditate in school in a manner that does not disrupt instructional or other activities of the school. The school will not require, encourage, or coerce a student to engage in or to refrain from such prayer or meditation during any school activity.
Student safety on campus and at school-related events is a high priority of the District. Although the District has implemented safety procedures, the cooperation of students is essential to ensure school safety. A student should:
Avoid conduct that is likely to put the student or other students at risk.
Follow the behavioral standards in this handbook and the Student Code of Conduct, as well as any additional rules for behavior and safety set by the principal, teachers, or bus drivers.
Remain alert to and promptly report to a teacher or the principal safety hazards, such as intruders on campus and threats made by any person toward a student or staff member.
Know emergency evacuation routes and signals.
Follow immediately the instructions of teachers, bus drivers, and other District employees who are overseeing the welfare of students.
Soon after school opens, parents will have the opportunity to purchase low-cost accident insurance that will help in meeting medical expenses, in the event of injury to their child. Under state law, the District cannot pay for medical expenses associated with a student's injury.
From time to time, students, teachers, and other District employees will participate in drills of emergency procedures. When the alarm is sounded, students should follow the direction of teachers or others in charge quickly, quietly, and in an orderly manner.
Fire Drill Bells
3 bells leave the building
1 bell halt; stand at attention
2 bells return to the room
Tornado Drill Bells
1 continuous bell - students will move quietly but quickly to the designated locations
2 bells - return to classroom
If a student has a medical emergency at school or a school-related activity when the parent cannot be reached, the school will need to have written parental consent to obtain emergency medical treatment and information about allergies to medications, etc. Therefore, parents are asked each year to complete an emergency care consent form. Parents should keep emergency care information up-to-date (name of doctor, emergency phone numbers, allergies, etc.). Please contact the school nurse to update any information.
The District may close schools because of bad weather or emergency conditions. When such conditions exist, the superintendent will make the official decision concerning the closing of the district’s facilities. When it becomes necessary to open late or to release students early, school officials will notify the following radio stations:
Certain areas of the school will be accessible to students before and after school for specific purposes. Students are required to remain in the area where their activity is scheduled to take place.
Unless the teacher or sponsor overseeing the activity gives permission, a student will not be permitted to go to another area of the building or campus.
After dismissal of school in the afternoon, and unless involved in an activity under the supervision of a teacher, students must leave campus immediately.
Teachers and administrators have full authority over student conduct at before- or after-school activities on District premises and at school-sponsored events off District premises, such as play rehearsal, club meetings, athletic practice, and special study groups or tutorials. Students are subject to the same rules of conduct that apply during the instructional day and will be subject to consequences established by the Student Code of Conduct or any stricter code of conduct established by the sponsor in accordance with Board policy.
Loitering or standing in the halls between classes is not permitted. During class time, a student must have a hall pass to be outside the classroom for any purpose. Failure to obtain a pass will result in disciplinary action.
The District participates in the National School Lunch Program and offers students nutritionally balanced lunches daily. Free and reduced-price lunches are available based on financial need. Information about a student's participation is confidential. See Mrs. Hillis to apply.
The library is a learning laboratory with books, computers, magazines, and other materials available for classroom assignments, projects, and reading or listening pleasure. The library is open for student use during regular school hours.
Students are permitted to meet with non-curriculum-related groups during the hours designated by the principal before and after school. These groups must comply with the requirements found in policy FNA.
A list of these groups is available in the principal's office.
The taxpayers of the community have made a sustained financial commitment for the construction and upkeep of school facilities. To ensure that school facilities can serve those for whom they are intended both this year and in the coming year littering, defacing, or damaging school property is not tolerated. Students will be required to pay for damages they cause and will be subject to criminal proceedings as well as disciplinary consequences in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.
In the interest of promoting student safety and attempting to ensure that schools are safe and drug free, District officials may from time to time conduct searches. Such searches are conducted without a warrant and as permitted by law.
Students' desks and lockers are school property and remain under the control and jurisdiction of the school even when assigned to an individual student. Searches of desks or lockers may be conducted at any time there is reasonable cause to believe that they contain articles or materials prohibited by the District. The parent will be notified if any prohibited items are found in the student’s desk or locker.
Students are fully responsible for the security and contents of the assigned desks and lockers. Students must be certain that the locker is locked, and that the combination is not available to others.
Vehicles parked on school property are under the jurisdiction of the school. School officials may search any vehicle any time there is reasonable cause to do so, with or without the presence of the student. A student has full responsibility for the security of his or her vehicle and must make certain that it is locked and that the keys are not given to others. Upon arrival, vehicles are to be parked in the appropriate space and not to be driven until the student is dismissed from school. Loitering in the parking area is not permitted. See also the Student Code of Conduct.
The District shall use specially trained non-aggressive dogs to sniff out and alert officials to the current presence of concealed prohibited items, illicit substances defined in FNCF(LEGAL), and alcohol. This program is implemented in response to drug and alcohol related problems in District schools, with the objective of maintaining a safe school environment conducive to education.
Such visits to schools shall be unannounced. The dogs shall be used to sniff vacant classrooms, vacant common areas, the areas around student lockers, and the areas around vehicles parked on school property. The dogs shall not be used with students. If a dog alerts to a locker, a vehicle, or an item in a classroom, it may be searched, school officials may search it. Searches of vehicles shall be conducted as described above.
At the beginning of the school year, the District shall inform students of the District’s policy on searches, as outlined above, and shall specifically notify students that:
The student’s parent or guardian shall be notified if any prohibited articles or materials are found in a student’s locker, in a student’s vehicle parked on school property, or on the student’s person, as a result of a search conducted in accordance with this policy.
Students may use the telephone with permission from the office staff for emergencies only. The office cannot take calls for students during school time except in cases of extreme emergency. PARENTS, EMPLOYERS, AND FRIENDS ARE ASKED NOT TO CALL A STUDENT TO THE PHONE EXCEPT IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY. You will be asked the nature of the emergency and it will be at the discretion of the principal as to whether it is a real emergency that a student should be pulled from a class. Students may use the payphone during breaks.
State-approved textbooks are provided free of charge for each subject or class. Books must be covered by the student, as directed by the teacher, and treated with care. A student who is issued a damaged book should report the damage to the teacher. Any student failing to return a book issued by the school loses the right to free textbooks until the book is returned or paid for by the parent. However, a student will be provided textbooks for use at school during the school day.
Students who participate in school-sponsored trips are required to use transportation provided by the school to and from the event. The principal, however, may make an exception if the parent personally requests that the student be permitted to ride with the parent, or the parent presents before the scheduled trip a written request that the student be permitted to ride with an adult designated by the parent.
Students are expected to assist District staff in ensuring that buses remain in good condition and that transportation is provided safely. When riding school buses, students are held to behavioral standards established in this handbook and the Student Code of Conduct. Students must:
Follow the driver's directions at all times.
Enter and leave the bus in an orderly manner at the designated bus stop nearest home.
Keep feet, books, band instrument cases, and other objects out of the aisle.
Not deface the bus or its equipment.
Not put head, hands, arms, or legs out of the window, hold any object out of the window, or throw objects within or out of the bus.
Wait for the driver's signal upon leaving the bus and before crossing in front of the bus.
When students ride in a District van or passenger car, seat belts must be fastened at all times.
Misconduct will be punished in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct; bus-riding privileges may be suspended.
Parents and others are welcome to visit District schools. For the safety of those within the school and to avoid disruption of instructional time, all visitors must first report to the principal's office.
Visits to individual classrooms during instructional time are permitted only with approval of the principal and teacher and so long as there duration or frequency does not interfere with the delivery of instruction or disrupt the normal school environment. Students are not allowed to bring other children with them to school without written permission from the principal. At least one day of notice shall be given to the principal prior to the request.
Since visitors may serve as role models to students, all visitors must adhere to the highest standards of courtesy and conduct
To maintain an effective discipline management program, there must be fair expectations, appropriate responses to offenses, and consistent enforcement of the rules with all students. While students and/or parents may not always agree with the decisions of the administration, they must be able to take some comfort in knowing that all offenders are punished equally for equal offenses. Because the school is not able to discuss one student’s punishment with anyone but that student’s family, we cannot always explain the circumstances behind a discipline disposition decision. Parents and BHS students can be assured, however, that the policy will be used fairly for every offender.
To achieve consistency in dealing with discipline resulting from students committing a breach of rule or policy within the school environment, Buffalo High School will employ a Phased-Response Discipline Management Plan. It is important to remember that students who are at a school-sponsored activity are under school rules and jurisdiction just the same as if they were in a classroom.
The essence of the Phased-Response Plan is that standard infractions are defined, standard responses and equivalent responses are defined, and the responses are matched to the infractions. These outcomes can be modified by the administrator in the case of mitigating circumstances, a situation of repeated offense, multiple offenses in one incident, or a case of extremely unacceptable behavior. Any deviation from standard punishment will be documented in the student’s record.
This simply means that there will be a standard punishment for each offense for a student with a perfectly clean record. The punishment can be increased if the student has had repeated offenses, etc. If any punishment is altered from the standard, it will be noted in the student’s file with an explanation as to why the change was made.
Our goal is to get students to class promptly and to increase their time on task in the classroom. While many of our students are never late to class, some students willfully choose the consequences of tardiness over getting to class on time. Usually, students are tardy because they are busy socializing with friends between classes. This policy is designed to provide an immediate consequence for tardiness. Students will receive warnings for their first two tardies each 6 weeks. Every time a student has an unexcused tardy after that, he or she will be assigned a minimum of one (1) lunch detention. Students who are habitually tardy will receive additional consequences, which may result in ISS.
Parking on school property is a privilege granted by the board of trustees of the Buffalo Independent School District. As such, this privilege may be modified or revoked by the administration as needed. Illegally parked cars or cars parked in the teachers’ parking areas are subject to being towed. Reckless driving will result in the suspension of parking privileges and disciplinary action.
Students may not enter cars during class time without a pass. Remember that automobiles are not to be used as school lockers.
The cafeteria is maintained at the high school for students’ convenience. Standards of conduct and dress will be enforced at the cafeteria. It is expected that students will not cut in the serving line and that the will dispose of their trays and return their utensils when finished eating.
Students are expected to follow the guidelines specified by their teacher. An orderly classroom environment is essential to the learning process. The teachers are given full authority to promote such an environment. No student will be allowed to interfere with the other students’ right to learn or the teacher’s ability to conduct the class.
Students are encouraged to present a neat appearance. Any clothing, items, or hairstyles that draw undue attention, create disruption, or present safety hazards will not be allowed. Please refer to the Dress Code Section in the Student Handbook for specific rules.
Radios, tape decks, cassette players, compact disc players, cell phones, pagers, etc., are not allowed at school. These items will be taken up by the principal and returned to students at the end of the 6-week period or to parents of the student upon personal request. Continued violations will result in the items being kept until the end of school or in school suspension.
Excessive affection demonstrated among students is not appropriate on a public school campus. Personal intimacy should be practiced at the proper time and place; the public school is not the proper setting.
Violation of the above-listed campus guidelines will result in a Level 1-discipline response for the first-time offender with no prior discipline record. The intensity or the frequency of the infraction may result in a modification of the disciplinary response.
Cheating or copying the work of another student is an unsound practice and will result in disciplinary action. Dishonesty or lying will not be tolerated and will be punished according to the Code of Conduct.
School officials will remove items that threaten the safety of students or staff members, or may be distracting or interfere with the educational program, from the student’s possession. Examples of these items include items defaced with profanity, small knives, lighters, matches, fireworks, etc. No student will be permitted to carry a knife or a sharp instrument on the school grounds. If an object is classified under the state law as an illegal weapon, the issue will be treated as a Level 5 offense.
Students who need to leave campus during the school day must check out through the principal’s office.
Any game of chance where anything of value may be exchanged among participants is not permitted on campus. Gambling items (cards, dice, etc.) are not to be brought to school.
Any willful act done by a student, either individually or with others, to another student for the purpose of subjecting the other student to indignity, humiliation, intimidation, physical abuse or threats of abuse, social or other ostracism, shame, or disgrace is hazing and will be punished appropriately.
Students shall not engage in any form of hazing, nor shall any student encourage or assist any other person in hazing. Students who engage in hazing, either individually or in concert with other students, shall be subject to disciplinary action, including a suspension in some circumstances.
Any person employed by the district, or any student who observes any other student engaged in any form of hazing, shall report that fact or suspicion.
A student’s language should be appropriate at all times. The use of profanity, vulgar language, or obscene gestures is prohibited. Engaging in verbal abuse, such as name-calling, racial or ethnic slurs, or derogatory statements toward others is not to be practiced. Profanity directed at school personnel is a Level 3 offense.
Students who are more than ten (10) minutes late for class or miss up to three (3) periods without permission will be considered truant.
Violation of the guidelines listed in this section will result in a Level 2-discipline response for a first-time offender with no prior discipline record. The intensity or the frequency of the infraction may result in a modification of the disciplinary response.
Students are required to remain on the school grounds from the time they arrive until they are dismissed. Parental permission is required in order for a student to be dismissed from campus during school hours. Failure of students to check out properly will violate the closed campus policy.
Students are expected to treat all school personnel respectfully and follow their directions. Language or action that expresses willful disobedience is considered a major infraction. Examples of insubordination include running from or refusing to accompany school personnel, communicating obscenities to school personnel, giving false names or refusing to provide identification, refusing to follow instructions, refusing to sign discipline slips, and failing to report to the office when sent by a teacher.
A long truancy is any absence without permission of more than three (3) periods and is a violation of state law. Any student who is on campus but does not attend an assigned class will be considered truant. Excessive truancies may result in a loss of credits.
Any act of stealing is considered a serious offense. In addition to school disciplinary action, students who commit theft may face criminal penalties.
Possession of tobacco products of any kind on campus or at school functions is not permitted at any time and is a violation of the Code of Conduct
Students who are on any BISD campus during a suspension will be considered trespassing. Trespassers may be subject to criminal penalties. Violation of the guidelines listed in this section will result in a Level 3-discipline response for a first-time offender with no prior discipline record. The intensity or the frequency of the infraction may result in a modification of the disciplinary response.
While on the school grounds of any BISD school at any time or while attending a school function, students are prohibited from possessing, using, distributing, buying, or being under the influence of an alcoholic beverage.
Insubordination, which is so extreme that the student’s behavior threatens the safe operation of the school, is grounds for placement in an Alternative Education Program. Examples of this infraction include refusing a direct order from an administrator to go to the office, interfering with school personnel while they are breaking up fights or detaining students, and threatening school personnel or their family members with off-campus retaliatory behaviors or actions.
Fighting at school, on school property, at school activities, or on the way to and from school is considered extreme misbehavior. Students who instigate, stand lookout for, gang up with, or aid and abet another student who engages in a fight are equally guilty under this policy.
Phone calls, threats, pranks, etc., of this type constitute a felony offense and is subject to criminal prosecution as well as school disciplinary action.
State law prohibits smoking or the use of smokeless tobacco.
Breaking or defacing property will not be tolerated. In addition to facing disciplinary action and possible criminal prosecution, vandals will be expected to make restitution for damage to property.
Violation of the guidelines listed in this section will result in a Level 4-discipline response for a first-time offender with no prior discipline record. The intensity or the frequency of the infraction may result in modifications of the disciplinary response.
Students are forbidden from assaulting another student or any district employee. A pupil who assaults a teacher or other individual on school property, or while attending any school-sponsored activity, may be removed immediately from class and expelled without resort to an alternative program under Section 37.007 of Senate Bill 1. A student commits an assault when he or she:
1. Intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes bodily harm to another.
2. Intentionally or knowingly threatens another with imminent bodily injury.
3. Intentionally or knowingly causes physical contact with another when he or she knows or should reasonably believe that the other will regard the contact as offensive or provocative (Section 22.02, Penal Code).
An offense under (1) above constitutes a Class A misdemeanor when committed against a classroom teacher, counselor, principal, or other similar instructional or administrative employee of a primary or secondary school while such employee is engaged in performing his educational duties. An offense under (2) or (3) is a Class B misdemeanor. The district shall cooperate with appropriate law enforcement officials in the enforcement of this policy.
No student shall knowingly possess, use, transmit, or be under the influence of marijuana, a hallucinogenic, amphetamine, barbiturate, inhalant, glue, aerosol, paint, or other substance used to induce intoxication, or any other dangerous or potentially dangerous substance prohibited under the Texas Controlled Substances Act or the Federal Drug Abuse Prevention Control. Act, while in school or while attending a school-sponsored function. Promoting any substance as a drug or controlled substance (i.e., dummy pills, caffeine, aspirin, etc.) is also considered a violation of this policy and like consequences will result.
Marijuana or a controlled substance, as defined by Chapter 481, Health and Safety Code, or by 21 U.S.C. Section 801 et seq.; or a dangerous drug, as defined by Chapter 483, Health and Safety Code.
In addition to removal from school, violators will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Possession or distribution of a felony amount of these substances will result in the automatic expulsion of the student.
Persistent misconduct consists of repeated occurrences of the same infraction or single violations of more than one published standard of behavior. A student may be recommended for removal when it is determined that:
1. The student has engaged in persistent misconduct that disrupts the educational process.
2. The misbehavior violates specific, published standards of student conduct as outlined in the Student Handbook.
3. A variety of discipline management techniques have been previously employed to correct the student’s misbehavior.
No student may bring onto the school property, or off the school grounds at any school activity, function, or event, any firearm or other instrument, which might reasonably be considered dangerous to the possessor or to other students. Specifically, students are prohibited from possessing a firearm as defined by Section 46.01 (3), Penal Code, an illegal knife as defined by Section 46.01 (6), Penal Code, or a club as defined by Section 46.05, Penal Code. Violators will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
Violation of the guidelines listed in this section will result in a Level 5-discipline response. If a student commits any of the above extreme misbehaviors at any time on the property of any BISD school or while attending a school-sponsored or school-related activity, he or she may be removed from class and expelled or removed to an alternative education program.
Those students who are tardy will be written up and processed by the administration. A warning is a verbal correction that will be used when the offense is minor and the administrator determined that the issue could be resolved by the use of verbal correction
Lunch detention is a discipline strategy used for Level 0 and 1 offenses. Students will eat their lunch isolated from the student body and are required to stay during the entire lunch period. Socializing will be prohibited during lunch detention.
Corporal punishment is used as a discipline strategy/technique in Buffalo ISD. Corporal punishment shall be limited to spanking or paddling the student, and occurs only in accordance with the following guidelines:
· The student is told of the reason corporal punishment is being given.
· The student is given a choice of corporal punishment or another discipline technique.
· The superintendent must approve the instrument (paddle) to be used.
· An administrator may administer corporal punishment at all grade levels only in an administrator’s office with a certified teacher as the witness.
If parents wish to state that they did not want their child to receive corporal punishment, the parents may submit a statement indicating that this is their desire. This statement must be signed by the parents and turned in to the child’s principal each school year.
Buffalo ISD operates a supervised in-school suspension program. In-school suspension, or ISS, may be used as a discipline strategy/technique for Level 0,1,2, and 3 rule infractions, or for continual rule infractions when other, less restrictive strategies/techniques have not successfully corrected the misbehavior.
When assigned to in-school suspension, the students will be removed from regular classes and will have assignments delivered to them in the in-school suspension room. The ISS supervisor, with the approval of the principal, will have the authority to make additional assignments for the student to complete, if the regular class work is not sufficient to occupy the student’s time. Lunch will be consumed while under direct supervision.
While a student is in ISS, the student will not be permitted to participate in any school activities or events.
A student may be removed from the school environment for one to three days at a time, with no cumulative limit. Home suspension is a serious situation as is indicated that the student is not responding to the citizenship expectations of the district. Any class- work missed may be made up, but it will be the student’s responsibility to accomplish this task.
Students who are assigned to the AEP will be required to attend classes at that campus where they will spend the school day. An AEP assignment will be for the remainder of the semester, with an automatic review not later than one hundred and twenty (120) days after enrollment. The length of the assignment will be commensurate with the nature of the student’s disciplinary history and the offense in question. Students assigned to the AEP for disciplinary reasons will not be allowed to participate in any school activities or attend any school-sponsored events.
Occasionally, there are students who have committed an extreme offense or who have been constantly in trouble. In these cases the school and the student would both be better served by severing connections. The principal may act upon the removal of the student, which is the total denial of educational services from the district. If a student who has been expelled enrolls in another district before the expulsion period has expired, a copy of the removal order will be sent to the receiving district along with other student records.
When a student has been recommended for removal and her or she desires to stay in school, a meeting must be arranged with the superintendent and the parents of the student. If the superintendent upholds the removal, the student may then ask for a hearing with the Board of Education.
My child and I have
received a copy of the Buffalo High Student Handbook and the Student Code of
Conduct for 2001–2002. I
understand that the handbook contains information that my child and I may need
during the school year and that all students will be held accountable for their
behavior and will be subjected to the disciplinary consequences outlined in the
code.
Regarding student
records, I understand that federal law and state law require that
"directory information" on my child be released by the District to
anyone who requests it unless I object in writing to the release of any or all
of this information. The objection
must be filed within ten school days of the time this handbook was given to my
child.
Directory information
includes my child's:
1.
name,
2.
address,
3.
telephone number,
4.
date and place of birth,
5.
photograph,
6.
participation in officially recognized activities and sports,
7.
weight and height of members of athletic teams,
8.
dates of attendance,
9.
grade level,
10.
enrollment status,
11.
honors and awards received in school
12.
most recent previous school attended, and
13.
e-mail address.
In exercising my
right to limit release of this information, I have marked through the items of
directory information listed that I direct the District to withhold about my
child. Please return to
principal’s office by August 24th.
Print name of student:
Signature of student:
Signature of Parent:
Date: