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Palm Beach Central High School

2016-2017

STUDENT and FAMILY HANDBOOK

Mission Statement

Palm Beach Central High School will provide a safe, supportive and engaging learning

environment, where strong relationships set high, yet personalized, expectations for staff and

students. By collaborating with all stakeholders, Palm Beach Central High School will offer a

diverse array of rigorous educational experiences that will provide all students the opportunity

to acquire the skills they will need after graduation with the goal of developing a culture of

mutual respect and academic excellence. By nurturing our students’ social, physical and

intellectual growth, our mission is to encourage our students to become responsible citizens,

lifelong learners, and leaders in a global community.

Alma Mater

Hail to Palm Beach Central, loudly we do sing.

Broncos rule forever. May your praises ring.

Proud to wear the cardinal red, reaching for the sky.

Hail our alma mater. Palm Beach Central High!

Mascot

Bronco

Principal Mr. Darren Edgecomb

Assistant Principals Alpha

Ms. S. Butler A - F

Mrs. L. Dorta J - P

Mrs. N. Garcia Q - Z and ELL

Mr. L. Greenberg ESE

Mr. D. Snider G - I

Mr. J. Fogarty Adult and Community School

Guidance Counselors Alpha

Ms. N. Heredia ALL ELL Students

Ms. A. Lutz A-Z – All 9th grade

Mr. Amisial Gs-L - 10th – 12th Grade

Ms. J. Feliciano A – Co – 10th – 12th Grade

Mr. C. Green T-Z – 10th – 12th Grade

Mrs. M. Mills M-Pe – 10th – 12th Grade

Ms. K. Sargent Cp-Gr – 10th – 12th Grade

TBA Pf – S – 10th – 12th Grade

While this handbook is intended to inform parents and students of the various details of campus life, obviously

it does not contain each and every detail. The information presented and the rules set forth are general and are

not in any way intended to be finite. Policies and procedures are subject to change to fit the situation or to

conform to Federal, State, Local and School District policies. Such policies may or may not be included in this

handbook but are expected to be upheld and followed.

Contact Information

Main Office

561-304-1000

Athletic Director – Mr. R. Atkins

561-304-1071

Student Services

561-304-1040 / 561-433-7949

Guidance Dept

561-304-1009

Academy Coordinator – Ms. Arensdorf

561-433-7904

Student Activities Director – Mrs. Baxter

561-433-7929

Testing Coordinator – Mrs. Hernandez

561-433-7975

Transcripts – Mrs. Harris

561-304-1038

Adult & Community School

561-304-1008

remind 101

Class of 2017: Text @pbchs2017 to 81010




tel:%28561%29%20600-9476

TABLE OF CONTENTS

BELL SCHEDULE 6

SCHOOL CLUBS/ CO-CURRICULAR 7

REPORT CARD/PROGRESS REPORT SCHEDULE 8

SCHOOL CALENDAR 8

ACCIDENTS/INJURIES (STUDENT) 9

ARRIVAL TO SCHOOL 9

ASSUALT UPON INSTRUCTIONAL PERSONNEL 9

ATHLETIC PROGRAMS AND ELIGIBILITY 9

ATHLETIC PROGRAMS AND ACADEMIC STANDING 9

ATTENDANCE, ABSENCE AND EXCUSE REQUIREMENTS 10

AUTHORITY OF THE PRINCIPAL 11

BULLYING AND HARASSMENT POLICY 11

CAFETERIA 13

CELL PHONES 13

CLINIC 14

CLOSED CAMPUS AND LUNCH 14

COMMUNITY SERVICE AND GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS 14

DANCE/PROM ATTENDANCE AND GUEST POLICY 14

DELIVERIES FOR STUDENTS 15

DIPLOMAS 15

DISCIPLINE AND CODE OF CONDUCT 15

DRESS CODE 16

DRIVER’S LICENSE LAW REQUIREMENTS AND SCHOOL ATTENDANCE 16

EARLY DISMISSAL OF STUDENTS 17

EARLY EXAMS 17

EDLINE 17

EMERGENCY INFORMATION 17

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES 18

EYE PROTECTIVE DEVICES 18

FEES 18

FIELD TRIPS, STUDENT ACTIVITIES AND TLE’S 18

FORGIVENESS RULE 19

GRADE CLASSIFICATION 19

GRADING POLICY 19

GUIDANCE SERVICES 20

HONOR CODE 21

HONOR ROLL 21

INSULTING SCHOOL PERSONNEL AND/OR SCHOOL DISRUPTIONS 21

INTERNET AND LOCAL AREA NETWORK POLICIES 21

LIBRARIES (ELECTRONIC) 22

LOCKERS 22

LOITERING 22

LOST AND FOUND 22

MAKE-UP WORK 22

MEDIA CENTER 22

MORAL AND ETHICAL ISSUES 23

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY 23

PARENT CONFERENCES 23

PARKING 23

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 24

PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION 25

REGISTRATION AND SCHEDULE CHANGES 25

SCHOOL ADVISORY COMMITTEE 25

SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER 25

SEARCH AND SEIZURE 25

STATEMENT OF NON-DISCRIMINATION 26

STUDENT IDENTIFICATION BADGE POLICY 26

SUSPENSIONS 27

TARDINESS 27

TESTING PROGRAM 28

TEXTBOOK POLICY 28

TRANSCRIPTS 29

TRANSPORTATION 30

VALEDICTORIAN/SALUTATORIAN COMPUTATIONS 30

VIDEOTAPING 31

VISITORS 31

VOLUNTEERS 31

WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL 31

6


2016-2017 BELL SCHEDULE

Regular Day Schedule (7:35 am to 2:50 pm)

Warning 7:30 am

Period 1 7:35 - 8:25

Period 2 8:30 - 9:20

Announcements 9:25 - 9:30

Period 3 9:30 - 10:20

Period 4 10:25 - 11:15

Period 5 11:15 - 1:00

Lunch First Lunch: 11:15 - 12:00 Second

Lunch: 12:15 - 1:00

Period 6 1:05 - 1:55

Period 7 2:00 - 2:50

LTM Schedule (10:25 am – 2:50 pm)

NO LUNCH SERVED Warning 10:25 am

Period 1 10:30 - 11:02

Period 2 11:07 - 11:39

Announcements 11:44 - 11:50

Period 3 11:50 - 12:22

Period 4 12:27 - 12:59

Period 5 1:04 - 1:36

Period 6 1:41 - 2:13

Period 7 2:18 - 2:50

7


CLUBS/ORGANIZATIONS 2016-17

SERVICE CLUBS: CO-CURRICULAR/District Supported:

Key Club Meyers/Elysee Drama Club Marshall

Interact Antonacci FBLA

UNICEF Biferie FFEA

T.A.G. Holtzer

S.G.A. Barrios/Cordeiro

HONOR SOCIETIES:

BETA Club Pepe Debate Team Hall

N.H.S. Cordeiro/Valenti Skills USA Ayo

Spanish Honor Aviles/Torres Bronco Olympians Fleming

French Honor Conway, C. Best Buddies Mills, S.

National Tech Honor Settembre Chess Club Ayo

Tri-M Music Houchins Model UN Knapp/Zaremba

Science Honor Bartenslager A Team Norbeck

Natl. Speech & Debate Hall SS Academic Games Verticchio/Wynn

Rho Kappa (History) Kelley Art Club Morgan

English Honor Society Donath Women of Tomorrow Butler

Thespian Honor Society Marshall Safe School Ambassadors Peggs

Natl. Art Honor Society Barnett Yearbook Lezark

MU Alpha Theta (Math) Folino Newspaper Biferie

Environmental Society Riebe

CLASSES:

Freshmen

Sophomore Dell

Junior Donath

Senior Cordeiro

8

Report Cards/Progress Reports Schedule

Report Cards Distributed November 7, 2016

Report Cards Distributed January 24, 2017

Report Cards Distributed April 11, 2017

Report Cards Distributed Mailed After June 21, 2017

2016/2017 School Calendar

First day for students August 15, 2016

LTM Day-Late Start- 10:35 am August 30, 2016

Labor Day Holiday September 5, 2016

LTM Day-Late Start- 10:35 am September 15, 2016

Fall Holiday October 3, 2016

Fall Holiday October 12, 2016

LTM Day-Late Start-10:35 am October 13,2016

End 1st Nine Weeks October 20, 2016

Teacher Work Day (EMD) October 21, 2016

Begin 2nd Nine Weeks October 24, 2016

LTM Day – Late Start – 10:35 am November 3, 2016

Teacher Work Day (EMD) November 8, 2016

Veteran’s Day Holiday – No School November 11, 2016

Thanksgiving Holiday-No School November 23-25, 2016

LTM Day-Late Start December 8, 2016

End 2nd Nine Weeks December 22, 2016

Teacher Work Day (EMD) December 23, 2016

Winter Break Holiday-No School December 26-January 6, 2017

Begin 3rd Nine Weeks January 9, 2017

M.L. King’s Birthday Holiday-No School January 16, 2017

LTM Day-Late Start- 10:35 a.m. January 19, 2017

LTM Day-Late Start- 10:35 a.m. February 2, 2017

Teacher Work Day (President’s Day)-No

School for Students (EMD) February 20, 2017

End 3rd Nine Weeks March 16, 2017

Teacher Work Day (EMD) March 17, 2017

Spring Break-No School March 20-24, 2017

Begin 4th Nine Weeks March 27, 2017

Spring Holiday April 14, 2017

Memorial Day Holiday-No School May 29, 2017

Last Day of School for Students June 2, 2016

9

Accidents and Injuries (Student)

Notify your teacher(s) or an administrator immediately. Student insurance is available at the beginning of each school

year and/or at the time of enrollment. More information is available from the School Insurance of Florida at

1-800-432-6915. All students/parents must apply for insurance through the company directly.

Arrival to School

Students are supervised on this campus from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Students must remain on campus once they

arrive in the morning. Once on campus, leaving without permission will result in disciplinary action

Assault upon School Board Personnel

Any parent or other person not subject to the discipline of the school who assaults any person employed by the

School Board of Palm Beach County on school property shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree,

punishable as provided by law. The principal at his/her discretion may prohibit anyone from re-entering the

campus.

Athletic Programs and Eligibility

To participate in athletics at Palm Beach Central High, a student must:

1. Present birth certificate to the athletic director;

2. Reside in the school’s attendance boundaries or be reassigned to that school by the School District;

3. Present a physician’s statement of physical eligibility to the athletic director dated no earlier than May 15

for each school year;

4. Complete the Athletic Eligibility Packet and submit required payment for insurance.

5. Submit the above information to the Athletic Office ten (10) days prior to the first practice/competition.

6. Clear of any school financial obligations. (i.e. textbooks, sports, clubs).

Athletic Programs and Academic Standing

A student must have a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or above on a 4.0 un-weighted scale or its equivalent

in all courses taken that are required by s.232.245(1) Florida statutes, at the conclusion of each semester to be

eligible during the following semester. A student whose cumulative high school grade point average is below a 2.0

on a 4.0 unweighted scale, or its equivalent, in all courses taken that are required by s.232.245(1), Florida Statutes at

the conclusion of a semester, shall not be eligible during the following semester.

The student shall be eligible during the first semester of his/her ninth grade year provided that it is the student’s first

entry into the ninth grade and he/she was regularly promoted from the eighth grade the preceding year.

A student who is ineligible during the second semester of his/her ninth grade year or during the first semester of

his/her 10th grade year because the student’s cumulative high school grade point average was below a 2.0 at the

conclusion of the previous semester and continues to be below a 2.0 at the conclusion of the semester of

ineligibility may regain his/her eligibility for the following semester provided:

1. The student signs an academic performance contract with his/her school at the beginning of the semester in

which he/she is ineligible that states at a minimum that the student will attend a credit recovery course or

its graded equivalent and,

2. Earn a grade point average of 2.0 or above on a 4.0 unweighted scale, or its equivalent, in all courses

taken during the semester of ineligibility.

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A student who is eligible or ineligible based upon the previous cumulative grade point average will become eligible

on the seventh calendar day after the last day of the previous semester. In order to be declared eligible for the

succeeding semester, the student must have been enrolled in, been in regular attendance at, and received grades for

all courses taken during the previous two consecutive semesters.

A student who was eligible at the beginning of a semester because of his/her academic record shall be eligible

during the semester except for lack of attendance, improper conduct, or other valid reasons which may cause his/her

principal to declare him/her ineligible before the end of the semester. His/her eligibility for each succeeding

semester shall depend upon his/her academic record through, and including, the preceding semester.

A student shall be eligible for no more than four (4) consecutive academic years upon first successful completion of

the eighth (8) grade as defined by the Pupil Progression Plan of the school in which the student is enrolled. Four years

from the date he or she first successfully completes the eighth grade, he or she shall become ineligible for further

interscholastic athletic competition. A student who does not attend school, repeats any grade, is declared ineligible to

participate, or otherwise fails to exercise the opportunity to participate for any reason for any length of time during

this four-year period shall not be entitled to any additional period of eligibility. Original school records shall be

submitted to the Commissioner in the event of conflicting information as to the date of first successful completion

of the eighth grade.

The age limit for participation in interscholastic athletic competition is 19 years, 9 months. Upon reaching the

age of 19 years, 9 months, the student shall be ineligible for further participation in interscholastic athletic

competition.

Attendance Policy

Please refer to the School District of Palm Beach County “School Code of Conduct”.

All students in grades nine (9) and ten (10) must enroll and be in attendance for a full day of classes. Upper

Classmen (grades 11 and 12) may participate in certain Junior and Senior Privilege classes when authorized by

administration. Schools are authorized to promote responsible student behavior and encourage parent participation in

managing a student’s school attendance by drafting school-based attendance procedures consistent with the

following:

The total amount of student absences will be determined by the teachers’ records, not by what is listed on the

district’s electronic “terms” screen. The teachers’ records are used due to the terms screen not differentiating

between single and double block days.

The above rules are to be used only to determine mastery of a course.

All students participating in school-sponsored trips or activities on or off school grounds shall be

counted as present for attendance purposes. The appropriate paperwork must be on file with the school

On the Job Training (OJT) students are required to attend all their scheduled classes on LTM days.

There will be no early dismissal for work on LTM days.

The school may, at the discretion of administration require a doctor’s note in the case of excessive

absences or tardies.

Students arriving late to school must present a note to the main office in order for the tardy to be

excused. Failure to provide this note will result in being marked tardy to school and appropriate

disciplinary action will be taken. Only three notes per semester will be allowed before disciplinary

consequences are issued.

11

Examples of excused absences (P-5.09)

Student Illness: If a student is continually sick and repeatedly absent from school, he or she must be

under the supervision of a physician in order for the absences to continue to be excused. If a student is

absent five (5) consecutive days or ten (10) days in a semester, a physician’s note is required.

Observance of a religious holiday or service that is recognized as such by all members of the faith 9 P-

5.095). The student must be provided the opportunity to make up missed work without adverse effects.

Medical Appointments

Death in the family

Subpoena by law enforcement agency or mandatory court appearance.

Other individual student absences beyond the control of the parent or student, as determined and

approved the principal or principal’s designee.

Authority of the Principal

Subject to Florida State statues and Palm Beach County School district policies, the principal or designated

representative may suspend a student from school or the school bus for violations of school disciplinary policies.

The principal may recommend expulsion of a student for serious breach of conduct, including but not limited to

willful disobedience, open defiance of authority, violence against any persons or property, or any other action

which substantially disrupts the orderly conduct of school.

Prohibiting Bullying and Harassment

Purpose: The paramount goal of the School Board is to ensure a safe, secure, civil and respectful learning

environment for all students and school employees. Bullying or harassment, like other disruptive or violent

behaviors, is conduct that disrupts both a student's ability to learn and a school's ability to educate its students in

a safe environment. It is important to change the social climate of schools and the social norms with regard to

bullying and harassment. This requires the efforts of everyone in the school environment - teachers,

administrators, counselors, other non-teaching staff, parents or legal guardians, and students. The purpose of

this policy is to assist the School District in its goal of preventing and responding to acts of bullying or

harassment and its compliance with the Jeffrey Johnston Stand Up for All Students Acts, Section 1006.147, and

Florida Statutes.

General Applicability of Policy: This policy applies not only to students or school employees who directly

engage in an act of bullying or harassment, but also to students or school employees who, by their indirect

behavior, condone or support another student's or employee's act of bullying and harassment. The misuse of

technology including, but not limited to, teasing, intimidating, defaming, threatening, or terrorizing another

student, teacher, administrator, volunteer or other employee of the school district by sending or posting e-mail

messages, instant messages, text messages, digital pictures or images, or Web site postings, including blogs,

also may constitute an act of bullying or harassment regardless of whether such acts are committed on or off

school district property and/or with or without the use of school district resources. This policy applies to any

students or school employees whose conduct at any time or in any place constitutes bullying or harassment that

interferes with or obstructs the mission or operations of the school district or the safety or welfare of the student,

other students, or employees.

***BULLYING HOTLINE PHONE NUMBER 561-433-7944***

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Statement of Policy: The School District prohibits bullying and harassment of any type of students or school

employees, by either a student or a group of students, a school volunteer or visitor, or a school employee.

Bullying and harassment are expressly prohibited on school district property or at school-related functions.

Definitions.

Bullying means systematically and chronically inflicting physical hurt or psychological distress on one or more

students or school employees. It is further defined as unwanted and repeated written, verbal, or physical

behavior, including any threatening, insulting, or dehumanizing gesture, by an adult or student, that is severe or

pervasive enough to create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment; cause discomfort or

humiliation; or unreasonably interfere with the individual's school performance or participation; and may

involve but is not limited to:

i. Teasing

ii. Social exclusion

iii. Threat

iv. Intimidation

v. Stalking

vi. Physical violence

vii. Theft

viii.Sexual, religious, or racial/ethnic harassment

ix. Public humiliation

x. Damaging or Destruction of property

xi. Placing a student in reasonable fear of harm to his or her person or property

xii. Cyber bullying, as defined herein.

xiii.Cyber-stalking as defined herein.

Cyber bullying means the use of electronic communication or technology devices, to include but not be limited

to, e-mail messages, instant messaging, text messaging, cellular telephone communications, internet blogs,

social websites (e.g. My Space, Face book, etc.), internet chat rooms, internet postings, digital pictures or

images, and defamatory websites to engage in acts of bullying or harassment regardless of whether such acts are

committed on or off school district property and for with or without the use of school district resources. For off-

campus conduct, the School District shall be responsive in cases where the off-campus conduct causes, or

threatens to cause, a substantial disruption at school or interference with the rights of students to be safe and

secure.

Cyber stalking means to engage in a course of conduct to communicate, or to cause to be communicated,

words, images, or language by or through the use of electronic mail or electronic communication, directed at a

specific person, causing substantial emotional distress to that person and serving no legitimate purpose, as

defined in Sec. 784.048(1) (d), F.S., as now or hereafter amended.

Harassment means any threatening, insulting or dehumanizing gesture, use of data or computer software, or

written or verbal or physical conduct directed against a student or school employee that

i. Places a student or school employee in reasonable fear of harm to his/her person or damage to

his/her property;

ii. Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student's educational performance,

opportunities, or benefits;

iii. Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school; or

iv. Amounts to cyber bullying as defined herein

13

Bullying and Harassment also encompass

Any act of retaliation by a student or school employee against another student or school employee who

alleges, asserts or reports a violation of this policy or participates in the investigation of a bullying or

harassment complaint. Reporting an act of bullying or harassment that is not made in good faith is

considered retaliation.

Perpetuation of conduct listed in the definition of bullying or harassment by an individual or group with

intent to demean, dehumanize, embarrass, or cause emotional or physical harm to a student or school

employee by:

A. Incitement or coercion;

B. Accessing or knowingly and willingly causing or providing access to data or computer software

through a computer, computer system or computer network within the scope of the School

District system.

C. Acting in a manner that has an effect substantially similar to the effect of bullying or harassment;

D. Cyberstalking as defined herein; or

E. Hazing as defined by Section 1006.135, Florida Statues as now or hereafter amended.

Unwanted harm towards a student in regard to his/her actual or perceived traits or characteristics, including but

not limited to age, color, creed, national origin, race, religion, martial status, sex, sexual orientation, gender

expression, and/or identity, physical attributes, physical, mental or educational ability or disability, ancestry,

socioeconomic background, political beliefs, linguistic preferences or familial status.

On district property or at school related functions means all school district buildings, school grounds, school bus

stops, school buses, school vehicles, school contracted vehicles, or any other vehicle approved for school

district purposes, the area of entrance or departure from school grounds, premises or events and all school

related functions, school sponsored activities, events or trips. School district property also may mean a

student’s walking route to or from school for purposes of attending school or school related functions, activities

or events. While prohibiting bullying and harassment at these locations and events, the school district does not

represent that it will provide supervision or assume liability for incidences at these locations and events.

Cafeteria

Eating is restricted to the cafeteria, the adjacent patio area and courtyard. Students are not permitted to enter the

classroom buildings during the lunch periods, unless they are under the direct supervision of a teacher or other

staff. Students must remain in the cafeteria, patio lunch area, or in the courtyard during the assigned lunch

period. Students are expected to keep all areas clean. Respect the cafeteria in compliance with SWPBS (School

Wide Positive Behavior Support).

Cell Phones

Cellphones are permitted for personal use before and afterschool. For the 2016-2017 school year we will

“pilot” the personal use of cellphones during lunch for the 1st semester. Students will be allowed to use ear

buds during lunch in one ear only. Student cellphone use during non-permitted times or areas will result in

confiscation and a Saturday School detention. Only a parent/guardian may pick up the phone between 2:50 pm

and 3:30 pm in the Student Services. Refusal to turn over cell phone may result in an out of school suspension.

(Please see full policy in the student handbook located on our website).

14

Clinic

The clinic is for first aid and emergencies only. It is not a place for snacks, rest, relaxation or naps. Students must

obtain a pass from their teacher prior to going to the clinic. A school nurse will operate the clinic. If it is not open,

students should go to the Student Services office.

Any student who brings medication from home must provide the following information to the school nurse:

1. Written authorization from parent/guardian.

2. Physician’s signed authorization, indicating:

Name of drug

Dosage and time interval

3. The medication must be in the original labeled container

4. Appropriate District paperwork must be filled out and turned into the school nurse.

The medicine must be secured in the clinic and administered by the school nurse. A record of the dates of all

administrations of the drug will be kept on file for each student who is receiving medication during school hours

under the supervision of the school. Any student in possession of unauthorized prescribed or over the counter

medication is subject to disciplinary action.

Closed Campus and Lunch

Palm Beach Central High School is a closed campus in order to satisfy state and school board requirement for the

supervision of students.

Students are not permitted to leave the campus during the school day without

permission from their parent and school administration.

Deliveries of lunch or lunch money are not permitted.

During lunch, students must be in the lunchroom or designated areas.

Students who bring disposable items to school for lunch must place their trash in the trash receptacles.

Students who have a parking permit to park on campus will have their parking permit immediately

revoked for leaving campus without permission. NO REFUNDS WILL BE ISSUED.

Community Service and Graduation Requirements

All students that attend school in Palm Beach County are REQUIRED to complete 20 hours of community

service in order to graduate. Students who do not complete this requirement will not graduate. Please see

Guidance with any questions or for clarification.

Dance/Prom Attendance and Guest Policy

Permitted Guests:

Current Palm Beach County public school students in good standing.

(Written verification and approval required)

Current Home School students residing in PBCHS attendance boundaries in good standing. (Written

verification and approval required.)

Current Palm Beach County private school students in good standing. (Written verification and approval

required.)Palm Beach Central High School graduates under the age of 21 on date of event. (Prospective

guests must complete a Security check on the Florida Department of Law Enforcement website

www.FDLE.state.fl.us ), Cost to applicant - $24.

http://www.fdle.state.fl.us/

15

All prospective guests must see the Student Activities Director for a dance guest application

School Administration reserves the right to deny any current school student or guest based upon the severity

of the behavior. These offenses include, but are not restricted to the following incidents:

fighting

crimes against persons

alcohol/drug/tobacco

disorderly conduct/weapons

threat of violence

The Palm Beach Central High School Administration reserves the right to deny anyone admittance to a school

sponsored activity/event.

Deliveries for Students

Palm Beach Central High School permits two student deliveries per semester. Our focus is student achievement and

interruption of class instruction must be kept to a minimum. Our goal is to instill responsibility in our students and

we ask for parental support and understanding of this policy.

Diplomas

In order for a student to receive a high school diploma and to participate in commencement exercises, he/she must

complete all Palm Beach County School District requirements, prior to Graduation Day. The following awards are

made to graduating seniors:

- Standard

- Merit

- Scholar

- AICE

Discipline and Code of Conduct

The Palm Beach County School district has established 4 levels of disciplinary incidents. They are as follows:

Level 1 - Attendance issues, rules violation incidents, and disruptive incidents. The actions against these

activities range from warnings to detentions based upon the number of referrals a student has accumulated and

their severity.

Level 2 - Disruptive/physical***/verbal incidents, property incidents, rules violation incidents, and

serious incidents. The actions against these violations are usually detentions, School-Based Team referrals,

suspension; again this is based on the seriousness and number of referrals.

Level 3 - Crimes against persons, property incidents, alcohol and drug incidents, disorderly conduct,

weapons incidents. The action against these violations will range from restitution to out-of-school suspensions,

law enforcement action and also possible expulsion.

Level 4 – Criminal incidents. These incidents will be followed by the following actions: Report to law

enforcement, 10-day suspension and recommendation for expulsion.

***Students running towards a fight is a safety concern and will be considered participants and subject

to disciplinary action.

16

At Palm Beach Central High School students, teachers and administrators came together to develop a discipline plan

across campus that ensures all students to be treated fairly and consistently for all committed infractions.

Dress Code

Students and staff need to concentrate on the learning/teaching process. In order to be sure they can focus on

learning in the classroom, it is important to have as few distractions as possible. Appropriate dress and grooming can

help create that focus. A student who wears items of clothing which, because of fit, design, color, texture, or

inadequate coverage of the body, creates classroom or school disorder, or which creates a safety or health hazard will

be required to change the clothing to eliminate the disorder, distraction or hazard. Discipline as a result of the

enforcement of a student dress is the responsibility of the principal or the principal’s designee. The following

guidelines will be enforced:

Shoes shall be worn at all times. No bedroom slippers.

Clothing made of net, mesh or sheer-type material cannot be worn.

Absolutely no tank tops, spaghetti straps or A-shirts.

Costumes are prohibited unless associated with an approved school sponsored activity.

Female upper garments must fit at the waist below the navel. No cleavage can be visible. No open

backs.

Bare midriffs should not be visible at any time.

Belts, if worn, must be buckled.

Sleeping attire is not permitted.

Shorts, skirts, and dresses must be no shorter than 4” above knee.

Undergarments shall not be worn as outer garments, and shall not be visible at

anytime.

Trench coats are not permitted.

Pants must be worn at the waist.

Head/neck coverings, (hats, scarves, etc.) are not permitted indoors unless they are required by safety in

specific programs or are worn for bona fide religious or medical reasons.

Sunglasses may not be worn indoors unless a doctor’s note is on file.

Any article of clothing or jewelry that can cause injury is not permitted.

Articles of clothing that display illegal substances, paraphernalia, alcohol, nudity or any other image

that may be deemed inappropriate by school administration is not permitted.

Defacing, altering or improper displaying of the national emblem is

unacceptable.

Sport jerseys can not be worn alone. A shirt with sleeves must be worn

underneath.

The School District of Palm Beach County recognizes only one flag for the United States. All other

flags including the “Confederate Flag” and any other flags resembling the Confederate Flag are

considered inappropriate and should not be worn or shown in anyway.

Progressive discipline will be enforced for those students who habitually dress inappropriately.

Driver’s License Law and School Attendance Requirements

Students under 18 who drop out of school or have 15 unexcused absences within 90 calendar days will have their

licenses suspended by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles or will not be issued a license if

they apply for one. Additional information about procedures and waivers is available from school

administration or guidance offices. F.S. 322.091:1003.27(2).

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Early Dismissal of Students

Parents/Guardian may sign out their student for early dismissal between the hours of 7:35 and 2:15 in the front

+office. Students who drive themselves must obtain Permission to Leave (PTL) pass from Front Office before they

can sign themselves out in the front office. Parents may send a note requesting a certain time for dismissal which

the student will take to the Main Office for their PTL. Once the pass is obtained, the student will advise their teacher

and come to the front office to leave at the appropriate time. Failure to follow the early dismissal procedures will

result in an unexcused absence and possible disciplinary action. Students returning to school during the same day or

next day must check in through the Main Office with documentation to have absence excused.

Early Exams

Students in grades 9 – 11 who leave school prior to the last two weeks of the term will not be granted credit unless

they enroll in another school and complete the course requirements including examinations if applicable. Students

who are required to leave school during the last two weeks of the year must show evidence that the withdrawal is

mandatory and must successfully complete any necessary final examinations, as appropriate, in order to receive

course credit. Principals are authorized to make arrangements for the administration of examinations.

Edline

Parents, guardians and students are able to log onto the Palm Beach County School District web page

https://www.edline.net/pages/Palm Beach County to receive updated information on the student’s academic

progress. Students will be issued an edline sign on the 1st month of school and parents are encouraged to use

edline as a valuable tool to monitor their child’s grades. Returning students may use their previous passwords.

It is important for parents to have their own registration on Edline so that school news and announcements

are sent directly to their email address. The frequent usage of Edline will ensure your student’s success in

High School.* If you are in need of an Edline activation code, please see guidance and they will give this

information to you.

Emergency Information

Emergency information must be updated on the yearly registration form. Each student must have up to date

emergency information on file. It is imperative that the school be able to contact a parent or guardian at anytime.

Emergency Codes for School

Code Red – Lockdown – No Movement

Code Yellow – Lockdown – Limited Movement of the Crisis Response Team (CRT)

Code Blue – Evacuation or Shelter in Place

Code White – Bomb Threat – Evacuation or Shelter in Place. (Shelter in Place – students lock themselves into

the nearest secured area [classroom, office, etc.] as directed by faculty or staff until the all clear is announced.)

Do not adjust lights or electric, no use of cellular phones or radios.

Code Green – All Clear

https://www.edline.net/pages/Palm

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Extra-Curricular Activities

Students may be excluded from extra-curricular activities for the following reasons:

1. Students not meeting or failing academic requirements (2.0 minimum cumulative GPA).

2. Discipline/behavior concerns as determined by the Principal or designee.

3. Students with financial obligations.

Eye Protective Devices

Students, teachers and visitors whenever engaged in or observing an activity or using hazardous substances which

may cause injury to the eye, shall wear eye protective devices. Safety glasses or devices for students, teachers and

visitors shall be provided. Shatterproof prescription safety glasses are the responsibility of the individual.

Fees

No fee or charge may be required of any student as a condition of attendance and full participation in any class.

Principals are permitted to request that students voluntarily purchase prescribed consumable items that might aid

their learning. No penalty may be imposed upon any student who fails to purchase a requested item. Provision for

equipment learning opportunity must be made for any student who fails to purchase a requested item.

Students will normally pay for materials used in the production of a major project that is to be kept by the student. If

the school furnishes materials that are consumed or used in the learning process, the student is not necessarily

entitled to the finished project.

Field Trips, Student Activities and TLE’s

Any time a student leaves campus on an approved school sponsored event, all requirements must be completed in

the allotted time as prescribed by the Student Activities Director.

Temporary Learning Elsewhere (TLE)

1. Signed field trip parent permission forms (PBSD 0755) and TLE forms will be returned to the trip sponsor no

later than five (5) school days prior to the field trip.

2. The sponsor will check the students for textbook obligations and financial obligations. Co-curricular field

trip will not require an obligation check.

3. Four (3) school days prior to the field trip, sponsors will submit the alphabetized list of participating students

via e-mail to the Activities Director. Signed parent permission forms and TLE forms will be submitted to the

Activities Director at this time also.

4. The Activities Director will forward the approved list of field trip attendees to the staff two (2) school days

prior to the trip

5. The field trip sponsor will send a follow-up e-mail to staff upon return to school indicating the students that

did not attend the trip.

6. Students that are required to take FSA/EOC/AP/AICE tests will not be permitted to attend an event that

coincides with the above testing.

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Forgiveness Rule

For students entering high school during the 2003/2004 school year and thereafter, a course is forgiven if a student

receives a grade of C or higher on the repeat effort of that same course. Students earning a grade of D on the repeat

effort of the same course earn credit for that course; however, the initial failing grade is not forgiven. Students may

again choose to repeat the same course and upon earning a grade of C or higher, all earlier grades for that course will

be forgiven. The Pupil Progression Plan permits high school students to take through Adult Education up to two

courses, which may be counted for credit toward graduation PROVIDED that the principal has given prior

permission.

Grade Classification

The following requirements are used to determine grade classification to the next grade level. At the end of the

school year, students will be promoted as follows:

9th grade students will be promoted to 10th grade;

10th grade students will be promoted to 11th grade;

11th grade students will be promoted to 12th grade; and

12th grade students who do not meet graduation requirements will be retained in 12th grade.

Grading Policy

Progress reports will be issued at the midway point of each quarter grading period. A report card will be

given out at the end of each nine weeks and a final grade at the end of the semester.

Students’ marks shall be based on a combination of test grades, homework assignments, and class

work and not on a single project.

A standard grading policy is used to calculate semester grades. The semester grade is based on grades

from the two-quarter grading periods and on the semester final exam.

Grading Procedures for Courses with an End-of-Course (EOC) Assessment

A student’s performance on the statewide EOC Assessment constitutes 30 percent of the student’s final

course grade. All high school courses with statewide EOC Assessments will be recorded as yearlong

courses.

Honor Level Points

1. The School District uses a weighted system to calculate the student’s Honor Point Average (HPA).

The standard scale is based on 4.0 “A”, 3.0 “B”, 2.0 “C”, 1.0 “D” and 0 for any other grade. The

grade received in a course is weighted and awarded according to the Florida Course Code Directory

or as determined by the SDPBC.

2. Regular-level courses use the standard scale.

3. Honors-level and gifted-level courses are weighted at 1.125 times the standard scale.

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Standard grading scale in the state of Florida is:

A = 90%- 100% B = 80%- 89%

C = 70%- 79%

D = 60%- 69%

F = 0%- 59%

Student grades cannot be lowered as a disciplinary measure.

When courses and grades are recorded in the student cumulative records, all Regular (R), Honors (H), and

Advanced Placement (AP), AICE courses are so labeled.

Honor point computations and class rank are determined by using a value of points earned as indicated

below:

Advanced Placement/AICE 1.50 weighting Honors Courses 1.125

Regular Courses 1.00

Students in Advanced Placement /AICE courses will take the AP/AICE Examination and receive 1.50 times

the value of the points earned in regular courses; therefore:

A = 6.00 points B = 4.50 points C = 3.00 points

D = 1.50 points F = 0.00 points

Students in Honors courses receive 1.125 times the value of the points earned in Regular courses.; If a

student chooses not to participate in the AP/AICE examination, their final transcript will reflect a change

in the course to that of honors and a corresponding HPA reduction:


D = 1.13 points F = 0.00 points

Students in Regular courses receive:


D = 1.00 points F= 0.00 points

Teachers shall inform students in writing of the method of grading and final grades will be determined.

For high school students, there are full year grades in all End of Course (EOC) courses (Alg I/Alg

II/Geometry/Biology/US History). All students must take the EOC exams in order to get credit in an EOC

class.

All students must take the semester exam except students who have earned an exemption.

Guidance Services

Get acquainted with your guidance counselor early. If you don’t know your counselor, visit the guidance section of

the school’s web site www.palmbeach.k12.fl.us/palmbeachcentralhs/ or look for a list of counselors posted in each

teacher’s classroom. The Guidance Office is located in Building 1 Room 107 next to the administrative offices.

Our mission in the Palm Beach Central High School Guidance Department is to provide challenging opportunities for

all students to gain a better knowledge of themselves and reach their fullest potential in the areas of academic

development, personal/social development and career development.

http://www.palmbeach.k12.fl.us/palmbeachcentralhs/

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The guidance services department consists of professionally trained counselors as well as other support staff

who are ready to assist all students at PBCHS with:

1. Individual and group counseling for students.

2. Planning and scheduling educational programs.

3. Information on occupations, vocations, training programs, colleges and scholarships as well as information

on testing requirements for graduation and college entrance.

4. D.A.T.A. counselor is on site for any counseling needs.

5. Supervision of student cumulative records.

Students wishing to see a counselor should:

1. Stop by the guidance department (before school not later than 7:30 am, during lunches and/or after school

until 3:00 pm) and make an appointment with the secretary to see their counselor. Upon making an

appointment, the student will receive an appointment card to be used as their pass to allow them out of class

to come to guidance at the designated time and date on the appointment card.

2. Students should not come to the guidance office between classes. In the case of an emergency, students may

obtain a pass from their teacher to see a counselor.

Parents wishing to see a counselor should call the guidance secretary at 304-1009 and make an appointment to

see the counselor assigned to their child. Parent Teacher conferences are available everyone Tuesday at 3:00

p.m. Please make an appointment with the Guidance secretary. (See Parent Conferences section of this

handbook).

Honor Code

Academic Integrity is our commitment to four fundamental values; Honesty, Respect, Responsibility and Trust.

At our school all submitted work must be guided by the Honor Code.

Violations of the Honor Code include but are not limited to cheating and plagiarism. The following

consequences will be in effect for students violating the Honor Code (Honor Code Handbook Attached):

A grade of “F” will be given on the activity, project, or test on which the

cheating/plagiarism occurred.

Teacher/Administration will inform any Honor Society advisor or others whose bylaws prevent

membership due to an infraction of the honor code.

Honor Roll

A/B Honor Roll – Students earning no less than A’s and/or B’s for the 9 week with no 1’s and/or 2’s in conduct.

Principals Honor Roll – Students earning all A’s for the 9 weeks with no 1’s and/or 2’s in conduct.

Insulting School Personnel and/or Disrupting School Functions

Any person who abuses or insults any member of the PBCHS staff on school property and/or at a school activity,

or any person not otherwise subject to the rules and regulations of the school who creates a disturbance on the

property or grounds of any school, who commits any act that interrupts the orderly conduct of a school or any

activity thereof, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided by law.

Internet and Local Area Network Policies

School Conduct Codes

The Palm Beach County Net is used as part of a school activity. The school’s code of conduct applies to network

activities as well. These rules apply to vandalism of computer equipment, unauthorized access to information, computer

piracy, and tampering with hardware or software. Viruses may cause other types of damage and information loss to

a computer system. If you are responsible for a computer becoming infected with a virus, you could be held

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liable. These rules further apply to the electronic use of harassing and abusive or obscene language. You may not

use the network to annoy, harass, or offend other people. Unauthorized software is not permitted to be installed or

downloaded to computers.

Libraries (Electronic)

Guidelines for access to information have already been established in the Library Bill of rights if 1980. These

principles can be applied to the Internet. School libraries are required to build collections of resources which support

the curriculum and which are consistent with the philosophy, goals and objectives of the School District. This

means that students have the right to information, but the school has the right to restrict any information that does

not apply to the approved curriculum. It is not farfetched to consider the Internet as a vast digital library. After all,

the electronic-database and information-research tools it uses are rapidly becoming part of school media centers and

libraries and many public libraries are beginning to offer some type of network access as part of their services. The

Palm Beach County net is beginning to provide just such a connection to establish direct access to the

appropriate materials that support curricular concerns. Each student who uses these electronic resources is required to

have the Consent/Waiver Form signed by the student, parent/guardian and the principal or designee of the school.

Lockers

Locks and lockers can be rented for $10.00. Students may not change locker assignments unless approved by the

administrator responsible for lockers. Students are prohibited from sharing their lockers or combinations with other

students. Only school-approved locks are allowed to be used. All other locks are unacceptable and will be cut off.

Any locker or lock problems are to be reported to the Student Services Office. Student personal belongings

should NOT be left in lockers overnight. All student lockers are subject to search without warning pursuant to Florida

Law FS2321.250. Book bags are subject to search without warning with reasonable suspicion. All lockers must be

emptied prior to the last two (2) weeks of the school year. The school is not responsible for articles left in lockers.

Loitering

Students may not loiter on any school campus during the school day. Students who have fewer than 7 classes on

campus are expected to depart from school immediately after their last class. Students are not permitted on campus

after 3:15 pm unless they are in a supervised after school activity, club or athletics. Students who fail to comply with

this policy are subject to disciplinary action.

Lost and Found

Lost and found articles will be turned into Student Services and discarded at the end of each semester.

Make-Up Work

Please refer to the Staff Handbook.

Media Center

The library is open from 7:20 am to 3:30 pm for quiet study, research and reading. Students using the library before

school, at lunch or during classes must have a pass signed by a teacher. When returning to a class, students must

have the pass signed by the librarian. Students causing a disturbance will be sent back to class or to the Student

Service office. Students on OJT or senior privilege must see the librarian if they wish to use the media center after

their hours. No food or dink is permitted in the library at anytime. Materials taken from the library must be checked

out. Borrowers must pay for the repair, replacement and damage of lost books as determined by the librarian.

Students will lose library privileges until obligations are cleared. Students may use the library computer for

research and word processing. Fees are charged for printing and for using the copy machine. It is suggested

students bring their own paper for printing and/or copying.

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Moral and Ethical Issues

The moral and ethical issues involving the use of worldwide information systems deal with the appropriate access to

information, the type of information accessed, and the behavior of the user. The Palm Beach County Net wants to

provide you with a stimulating educational environment, but at the same time we want to protect you from

information that is not appropriate for student use.

We acknowledge the fact these materials exist and do everything we can to actively avoid them, including using

filtering software. However, it is difficult to weed out all of the materials that are unacceptable for academic

purposes, and it should be clearly understood by all students that access to such material in any form is strictly

forbidden. The network is designed to achieve and support instructional goals, and any information that does not support

classroom learning is prohibited.

If you or a fellow student stumbles onto the information while doing legitimate research, you should contact your

teacher or the person responsible for technology at your school for appropriate action.

National Honor Society

The National Honor Society Chapter at Palm Beach Central High School conducts its annual induction during

Semester 2. In order to be eligible for membership, a student must have a cumulative grade point or honor point

average of 3.65. Students who are eligible will be notified and told that for further consideration for selection they

must complete the NHS Application form. Faculty may submit comments about a candidate’s qualifications relative

to the four cornerstones of the National Honor Society: scholarship, leadership, service, and character. This

information is given to the Faculty Council, a committee appointed by the principal to determine actual selections.

If the Council so desires, they may request an interview with any student and/or supervisor of student cumulative

records. Candidates who are chosen are notified by letter and asked to attend the induction ceremony. Any selected

candidate who does not attend the induction is not considered a member of the organization.

Parent Conferences

Parent/teacher conferences provide a great opportunity for home and school to collaborate in an effort to

enhance a child’s academic, personal/social and career growth. Parents are encouraged to communicate with

teachers by the following:

Email is the quickest and easiest way to make contact with a teacher. Please visit the PBCHS web site at

www.palmbeach.k12.fl.us/palmbeachcentralhs/ for a listing of teacher email addresses. You may also

call the office at 561-304-1000 to request a teacher’s email address.

Tuesdays from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. will be designated as parent/teacher conference day. If a parent wishes

to speak with their child’s teachers, they should contact the guidance office at 304–1009 to schedule a

conference. A week’s notice of conference will be provided to teachers whenever possible so that they

can make arrangements to be present.

Students and parents are encouraged to use Edline regularly to monitor academic progress. Through

Edline parent also have direct access to teachers.

Parking

Parking permit decals are required on all student vehicles, and parking is considered a privilege. Parking decals

are purchased for a fee and are to be displayed and visible in the rear window of the vehicle at all times;

motorcycles are to display decal on the right side of the front fork. Students must submit a parking application

for approval before a decal is issued. Student parking is for 11th and 12th grade students only.

All vehicles parked on the school ground must be registered with the school.

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Student must park in their assigned spot in student parking. Students parking anywhere other than the

designated areas are subject to suspension and towing at owner’s expense.

Palm Beach Central High School and The School District of Palm Beach County cannot be held

responsible for any damage or theft to an automobile or the contents of an automobile while it is parked

in the student parking area.

All students desiring to park a vehicle on school site property shall be required to sign a consent form

allowing their vehicle, upon reasonable suspicion, to be searched by the principal or a school employee

designated by the Principal upon the Principal’s or designee’s request. Upon execution of said consent

form, a permit will be issued to the student authorizing the student to park on the school campus.

Refusal of a student to cooperate in the request to search his/her vehicle shall result in the revocation of

the student’s parking permit and possible other legal action.

Only authorized cars may park in the parking lot. Unauthorized cars may be towed at the owner’s

expense.

No cars will be left in the parking lot after hours or on the weekend with the exception of approved

school activities.

Any reckless driving will be dealt with by an Administrator and or a school resource officer and will

have their parking decal revoked.

Any forgery of the parking sticker will result in no parking privileges on the school property.

Students are not to transport other students to/from school as per school board policy and will lose their

parking privilege immediately.

Students may have no more than 10 unexcused absences and/or 10 tardies during the present and

previous semesters or their decal may be revoked.

A student, who has his /her parking permit revoked, may not apply for another permit for the remainder

of that year.

Parking permits are non-transferable and the act of transferring a permit will result in the loss of parking

privileges.

Any inappropriate articles (such as bumper stickers, flags, etc.) on vehicles are subject to removal,

discipline and/or loss of privilege and must be picked up by a parent/guardian.

Multiple discipline referrals may result in the loss of parking privileges.

Removal of booted tires or the removal of boot from a vehicle without permission will result in an out of

school suspension.

Please refer to the parking application for any additional information or questions.

PALM BEACH CENTRAL IS A CLOSED CAMPUS, STUDENTS MAY NOT LEAVE CAMPUS

WITHOUT PARENT AND SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE PERMISSION. LEAVING CAMPUS

WITHOUT PERMISSION WILL RESULT IN LOSS OF PARKING PRIVILEGE, AND THE

VEHICLE SEARCHED

Pledge of Allegiance

The state of Florida (FLORIDA STATUE 1003.44 School Board Policy 5.40) requires that the Pledge of Allegiance be

recited at the beginning of the day in every Florida public elementary, middle, and high school. Schools must

post in a conspicuous place a notice stating the students’ right not to stand or recite the Pledge to the Flag and

advising of the written opt-out option.

1. A student under the age of 18 who is not emancipated must stand and recite the Pledge of Allegiance,

unless excused in writing by the parent. An 18 year old or older or an emancipated high school student

has personal authority and cannot be required to stand and recite the Pledge of Allegiance.

2. A student excused from reciting the Pledge of Allegiance is also excused from standing.

3. In the event of a non-participating student without an opt-out, the school personnel:

a. Cannot single out the student in front of the class;

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b. Must counsel with the student (who is not 18 years of age or older, or an emancipated high school

student) privately and notify the parent for parental resolution, and any conflict between the parent

and child should be resolved by the parent;

c. Cannot discipline a student for failing to stand and/or pledge;

d. May issue disciplinary action if a student materially disrupts the Pledge.

Posters and Decorations

Posters and Flyers must be submitted to the Student Activities Director for approval before posting.

Public Display of Affection

Public displays of affection are not permitted at Palm Beach Central High School or by the School Board.

Disciplinary consequences will be imposed to students not abiding by this rule.

Registration and Schedule Changes

Students registered for 2016/2017 classes in the spring and students who did not return registration sheets at the

designated time:

1. Will be registered by the guidance department.

2. Will not be allowed to make subsequent schedule changes.

Schedule changes must be completed within the first 2 weeks of class. All changes must be administratively

approved, require parent and teacher signatures and will be granted only for the following reasons:

Student completed class in summer school, credit lab, virtual school, etc.

Graduation requirement

Prerequisite not met

Administrative changes due to closing, adding, balancing of classes or class size reduction laws.

Level change (i.e. Advanced Placement/AICE, Honors, or Regular.

Elective are not subject to change due to limited availability.

School Advisory Committee

Palm Beach Central High School’s School Advisory Council (SAC) meeting dates are posted on the school

website and Edline. Meetings are held in our school Media Center every third Tuesday unless otherwise

posted.

School Resource Officer

The Police Department of Palm Beach County School District has assigned a School Resource Officer to Palm Beach

Central High School on a full time basis. For FY 17 we have two school officers, Officer Schnaderbeck and Officer

Longo.

Search and Seizure

The School Administration reserves the right to search any school property (e.g. lockers) for suspected

contraband (e.g. drugs, weapons, etc.). Student’s clothing, persons, property, and vehicles may also be

searched for contraband when reasonable suspicion or evidence exists.

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Statement of Nondiscrimination

Discrimination on the basis of religion, race, national origin, color, sex, marital status, parental status, or handicap is

prohibited in the admission, selection, scheduling, or other treatment of any student in any activity or educational

program conducted by the Palm Beach County School System except as may be operationally required and

authorized through Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.

Student Identification Badge Policy

The purpose of this policy is to ensure safety and security on the campus of Palm Beach Central High School

for the approximate 3000 individuals who are on the campus each day.Student Identification Cards will be

provided to every student. Just as a driver’s license authorizes driving a vehicle, a student ID card authorizes a

student to be on campus. EVERY student must wear their school-issued ID card with grade appropriate lanyard

at all times while on school grounds. Administration and teachers try very hard to be familiar with all of our

students. However, it is a challenge for every staff member to know each of our 3000 students. Therefore, it is

crucial that we are able to identify everyone on campus. Identification of staff and students is a safety issue and

will not be compromised when it comes to safety of students and staff. ID cards help us in identifying students

as well as trespassers.The School Leadership Team has adopted the Student Identification Card Policy.

Following are the procedure that all teachers and administrators will use to encourage our students who need

assistance in complying with the policy.

Grade Level Lanyard Colors

Freshmen: RED Sophomore: BLACK Juniors: YELLOW Seniors: BLUE

1. All students must wear their school-issued ID card and grade level lanyard in order to:

Be in class

Move between classes and to the restroom

Buy breakfast/lunch

Use the Media Center

Receive textbooks

Obtain early dismissal

Participate in campus activities (assemblies, prom, etc)

Be on campus before or after school

2. The ID card must be worn on a school-issued lanyard hanging from their neck.

School IDs cannot be worn on a shirtsleeve, pants, outside of pockets, under a coat/jacket or at the

bottom of their shirt.

If a student is wearing a jacket, the lanyard must be on the outside of the jacket and visible.

The ID card with lanyard must be presented to any school staff member or person of authority when

seeking student identification.

The front and back of the ID card must remain plain and free of stickers, markings, other photos, etc.

3. Teachers will do an ID check at the beginning of each class period each day. For a student who does not have

his/her ID card and lanyard, they will adhere to the following procedures:

The teacher will send student(s) to Student Services to receive a replacement I.D.

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Student Services will issue the student(s) a replacement I.D. and consequence.

The fee for issuing a replacement I.D. and lanyard will be $5.00. Lanyards alone will be $1.00.

IDs and lanyards purchased before school until 7:35 am will not receive a disciplinary action.

Student will not be admitted back to class without an I.D. and lanyard.

Student ID Policy

Students are required to wear their student ID at all times around their neck. Please continue to enforce this

policy with consistency.

Student ID Progression Plan

Student ID Violation 1: Documented Warning

Student ID Violation 2: Documented Warning

Student ID Violation 3: Administrative Detention



Student ID Violation 6: Conference with Guidance, Parent Contact, and Saturday Detention

Student ID Violation 7: Saturday Detention




Suspensions

A student who is suspended from school for a disciplinary problem will be permitted to make up all work and

semester exams. Suspended students may not participate nor attend any school functions including evening and

weekend activities or be on any school board property during the suspension. Students on suspension caught

on any school board property is subject to arrest.

Tardiness

Tardiness is disruptive to the learning environment and has a negative impact on student achievement.

Tardiness, excused and unexcused will be determined by School Board Policy 5.09 which is used for absences

as well. Progressive discipline will be enforced for those students who are habitually tardy.

Our school has implemented a new tardy system. Here are the things that you need to know:

There are multiple tardy check-in kiosk stations located throughout the school. o When tardy you must use the nearest check-in kiosk station.

Every time you are tardy, an email and/or text message is sent to your parent/guardian notifying them that you were tardy and what the discipline you will receive for being tardy.

If you are assigned a discipline for being tardy you must serve the discipline by the appointed time. Failure to do so will result in an escalation of discipline. This system allows your principals, coaches, sponsors, counselors, and parents to easily track what disciplines have been served.

The process is simple when you are tardy.

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o Scan your Student ID into the nearest Check-In Tardy Station.

o Take your tardy receipt and read the discipline you have been assigned for being tardy.

o Go to Class and show the tardy receipt to your teacher as your pass to class.

o Then serve the assigned discipline.

Keep in mind that all tardy stations are monitored with cameras and support staff and further discipline

will occur with the improper use of a check-in tardy station.

Students, you can avoid the consequences of being tardy by “ALWAYS BEING ON TIME.”

Tardy Progression Plan

Tardy 1: Warning

Tardy 2: Warning

Tardy 3: Administrative Detention



Tardy 6: Conference with Guidance, Parent Contact, and Saturday Detention

Tardy 7: Saturday Detention




Excessive tardiness and failure to serve prescribed disciplinary actions as outlined above may result in loss of

extracurricular privileges (i.e. Sports, clubs, etc.) and/or out of school suspension.

TEACHER DETENTIONS

A teacher may assign before or after school detentions (15 or 30 minutes) for behavioral problems. Students and

parents will be given at least 24-hour’s notice. Failure to serve Teacher detention will result in a discipline

referral.

Testing Program

Standardized testing is an important part of the school and individual assessment program.

Students are encouraged to utilize the testing programs. See your Guidance counselor for details on SAT, ACT,

PSAT, PERT (Post-secondary Education Readiness Test and ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude

Battery).

Textbook Policy

The district board has the duty to provide adequate instructional materials for all students. The term “adequate

instructional materials” means a sufficient number of textbooks or sets of materials serving as the basis for

instruction for each student in the core courses of mathematics, language arts, social studies, science, reading

and literature, except for instruction for which the school advisory council approves the use of a program that

does not include a textbook as a major tool of instruction.

Students/Parents should check with the school to obtain access methods for online textbooks and student

editions on CD-Rom. A list of all district adopted textbooks and those that are available online and via Edline

can be found at the following link: www.palmbeach.k12.fl.us/instructionalmaterialsdept/adoptions.htm. At

the beginning of the school year, teachers will advise you in person or by newsletter of the core materials they

plan to use and how homework will be assigned. In some instances, there may be no textbook because other

materials are more appropriate or up to date for content purposes. In some other instances, class sets (books not

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assigned to students but used in class and available to students and parents as needed for use at home) may be

assigned when the text is used as a reference and other materials are more appropriate for outside of class

assignments.

Responsibility of students and parents for instructional materials (1006.42)

All instructional materials are the property of the district school board. When distributed to the students, these

instructional materials are on loan to the students while they are pursuing their courses of study and are to be

returned at the direction of the school principal or teacher in charge. Each parent of a student to whom or for

whom instructional materials have been issued, is liable for any loss or destruction of, or unnecessary damage

to, the instructional materials or for failure of the student to return the instructional materials when directed by

the school principal or teacher in charge, and shall pay for such loss, destruction, or unnecessary damage as

provided by law. When textbooks, library books or other instructional materials are lost or damaged, the parent

is financially responsible for the book. Parental and student responsibility as to instructional materials, debts for

loss, damage or destruction, and accountability procedures are set forth in Policy 8.1225.

Textbooks will be assigned to each student via Destiny (Textbook Management Program). Each textbook has a

fourteen (14) digit barcode that is specifically assigned to a student. Students must make sure that the barcode

remains on the textbook. If a textbook is returned without a barcode, the book is considered lost as it can

not be traced back to a particular student. Parent/student will be responsible for 100% payment of the

cost of the book. (F.S. 1006.42) Failure to pay for lost or damaged textbooks may result in the student’s

suspension from extracurricular activities. After reasonable attempts by the principal/designee to collect, the

debt shall be referred to the Palm Beach School District Legal Department for further assistance.

Lost Textbooks

Students who have lost a textbook will report their loss to the textbook manager located in Student Services.

A new textbook will be issued only when payment is made for the lost book. Students are encouraged to keep

their receipt for payment in the event that the book is found. Refunds are only given within three months of

payment. No refund can be made without a receipt. The textbook manage will not issue additional textbooks to

a student until all obligations are cleared. Final report cards will not be mailed until obligations are cleared.

Students on textbook obligation will not be permitted to check out books until the obligation is fulfilled or

arrangements have been made with the textbook manager.

Textbook Fines

Fines are accessed throughout Palm Beach County as follows:

Missing page – Full price Broken Backs – 25% of cost Dirty Binding - $1.00

Missing Book – Full price Profane Notes – Full price Writing - $1.00/page

Book unusable – Full price Defacing cover – 25% of cost Missing bar code label – Full price

Lost Book – Full price Pages torn - $1.00/page

Transcripts

When requesting transcripts:

I. Students must order transcripts on parchment.com. Please allow at least 48 hours for a transcript request to

be honored, including electronic transcripts.

II. Transcript fees (per transcript):$5.00

III. Transcripts can be ordered for all Colleges/Universities, Scholarships, and the NCAA.

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IV. All transcripts will include immunization records, SAT and ACT test scores. AICE transcripts must be

ordered through Cambridge. All AP test scores must be ordered through collegeboard.com.

Transportation

To be eligible for school bus transportation, a student must live a distance of two (2) miles or more from school by

the most direct route possible to travel. Bus students must get on and off at their assigned school stop. Bus students

must remain in the bus-loading zone after school to retain their bus riding privilege. All students must register online

at the school district website of www. Palmbeachschools.org. The following rules must be observed while riding

the bus:

Stand off roadway while awaiting the bus.

Cross the roadway immediately in from of the bus.

Wait for the driver’s signal before crossing.

Be on time; the bus cannot wait for those who are tardy.

Remain in your seat at all times while bus is moving.

Keep arms and heads inside windows.

Avoid unnecessary conversation with the driver.

Keep conversation at normal tone. No food or drink to be consumed on the bus. No smoking or other tobacco products.

Do not throw anything out of the windows.

Students may only the bus assigned to them. If they are going home with a friend, they must make

their own transportation arrangements.

Valedictorian/Salutatorian Computations

To be eligible for either award, the student must have been enrolled in and attended the same public high school in

Palm Beach County for three years, two of which must be the junior and senior years. A student who changes

schools due to boundary changes made by the district will be eligible to share recognition as valedictorian or

salutatorian without meeting the attendance requirement of three years in the same public school. The student must

meet the requirement of enrollment for three years in a district public school. Early admission students taking

classes at a university or college will not be eligible for this recognition.

Calculation for Valedictorian/Salutatorian

The valedictorian is the student with the highest honors point average (HPA). The HPA calculation will be

carried to the ten-thousandth place.

The salutatorian is the student with the second highest honors point average (HPA). The HPA calculation

will be carried to the ten-thousandth place.

In the case of a tie, co-valedictorians will be named with the student with the third highest HPA

designated as salutatorian. In case of a tie for the second highest HPA, co-salutatorians will be named.

The calculation for valedictorian/salutatorian will be determined at the end of the seventh semester. The

calculation will include the following:

Grades earned after promotion from eighth grade Grades earned from approved dual enrollment courses taken at institutions entered into the district

inter-institutional articulation agreement. As per the student progression plan, the Valedictorian and Salutatorian will be determined by the

Meritorious ranking on February 1st of each school year.

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Recognition of valedictorian and salutatorian does not ensure that the students earning this recognition will address

the graduation class. The School Principal has the authority to exclude any student from the above recognition.

The Top 20 Seniors of the graduating class will have the honor of leading the graduates in the

commencement processional. The Top 20 Seniors will be determined on February 1st of graduation

year by the ranking on the TERMS 14 screen.

Videotaping

It is permissible to videotape student activities in a classroom if the resulting videotape is shown only in that

classroom and only to student’s peers. If the videotape will be shown to other audiences, (for example; parents, other

adults or classes) permission from the parents must be obtained. If you object to your student being videotaped,

please fill out the notice that appears in the District’s Student Handbook and return to school center.

Visitors

Adult visitors are always required to check in through the Main Office. No student visitors.

Volunteers

Volunteers are encouraged and welcomed. Please contact the school volunteer coordinator or the receptionist at the

front desk if you are interested in volunteer work. As per state law, and to protect the safety and security of

students and staff, volunteers must submit to a criminal background screening as required by Fla. Stat. §

943.04351. Prospective volunteers may register on a school computer at https://vips.palmbeach.k12.fl.

Withdrawal from School

Parents and/or guardians must contact the Guidance Office to authorize a student’s withdrawal. All textbooks

and materials must be returned to the school and all financial obligations must be paid off. A transcript release

form must also be signed by the parent/guardian before a student’s record is forwarded from Palm Beach

Central High School.

Withdrawal Prior to the End of the Semester: Students who leave school prior to the last two (2) weeks of any

semester will not be granted credit unless they enroll in another school and complete the course requirements

including examinations if applicable. Students who are required to leave school during the last two (2) weeks

of the year must show evidence that the withdrawal is mandatory and must successfully complete any necessary

final examinations. Principals may waive the requirements for early withdrawal when unusual circumstances

preclude full compliance by the student. Approval is mandatory prior to the student’s leaving school. There

will be no semester exams given early due to a student withdrawing.

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PALM BEACH CENTRAL

BRONCO

BRONCO PRIDE!

33


2016/2017

Parent/Student Acknowledgement of

Student Rules and Regulations/Student Code of Conduct

Student First Name_____________________ Last Name____________________

Student #_________________

Students, parents’, teachers, counselors, administrators, and office staff all have important roles to play in our

school. Policies & Procedures have been made to address possible issues that may occur. Like laws, rules that

apply to everyone. They work only when everyone knows what they are.

The Student and Family Handbook/Student Code of Conduct lists many of our School and School District rules

for parents in Palm Beach County. The rules apply to all activities occurring on school grounds, on other sites

being used for school activities, and for any vehicles authorized for the transporting of students. Please read

carefully. Parents, students, school faculty, and staff need to know all policies & procedures as they can be held

responsible for the actions of their children.

Parents need to become involved in the education of their children and have the responsibility to provide the

school with the current emergency contact person(s) and telephone numbers. They also have the responsibility

to notify the school of anything (such as medical information) that may affect their child’s ability to learn, to

attend school regularly, or to take part in school activities.

Signed forms must be part of every student’s record. Your signature below means that you have reviewed the

Student and Family Handbook/Student Code of Conduct and know the policies and procedures. (it does not

mean that you agree or disagree with them).

*Wherever the word “parent(s)” appears, it shall also refer to “guardian(s) or persons acting as a parent.*Further, wherever student responsibilities are described, it is

understood that parents jointly share those responsibilities with their children.

_____________________________________________________________________

Signature of Parent or Guardian Date

______________________________________________________________________

Signature of Parent or Guardian Date

______________________________________________________________________ Signature of Student Date

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