Appling County SchoolsGrades PreK-5

Parent/Student Handbook of Information2013-2014

ACESDebra CrosbyPrincipal680 Blackshear Hwy.Baxley, GA 31513Phone: (912) 367 – 8640FAX: (912) 367 - 8649

ACPSBrenda HarveyPrincipal678 Blackshear Hwy.Baxley, GA 31513Phone: (912) 367 – 8642FAX: (912) 367 - 8141

AESDr. Edie BaxleyPrincipal344 Altamaha School Rd.Baxley, GA 31513Phone: (912) 367 – 3713FAX: (912) 367 - 2609

FDESGreg WilliamsPrincipal13396 Blackshear Hwy. SESurrency, GA 31563Phone: (912) 367 – 3250FAX: (912) 367 - 0992

DISTRICT VISION AND MISSION STATEMENT

Vision Appling County Schools will be a system of excellence for all learners.

MissionWe are committed to providing a quality education that promotes maximum individual achievement and social responsibility.

This handbook belongs to:

Name_____________________________________________________________

Phone_____________________________________________________________

Homeroom Teacher__________________________________________________

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title I Parent Information & Discovery Place Parent Resource Center 2-6Calendars 7-8Policies & Procedures 9-18Instructional Assistance 19Nutrition 19-20Health Related Issues 21-22Textbook and Media Information 22-23Dress Code 23Class Behavior & Expectations 23General Conduct & Bus Conduct 24-26Code of Discipline 26-29Seclusion & Restraint 30-31Child Find 31Special Needs & 504 32-35Bring Your Own Technology (BYOT) 36-38

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APPLING COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEMTitle I Schools

SCHOOL-PARENT COMPACT2013-2014

(Revised April 18, 2011)

Mission StatementThe Appling County School System is committed to providing a quality education that promotes maximum individual achievement and social responsibility.

School ResponsibilitiesAs an administrator, I will:

Provide a safe and orderly environment conducive to learning. Provide an environment that allows for positive communication among the teachers, parents, and

students. Support teachers in providing high quality instruction. Provide an open door policy for parents.

As a teacher, I will: Believe that each child can learn. Show respect for each student and his/her family. Provide a safe, positive, caring environment, conducive to learning. Help each child grow to his/her greatest potential. Provide meaningful and appropriate homework activities. Provide meaningful teaching activities for various learners. Enforce rules fairly and consistently. Demonstrate professional behavior and a positive attitude. Seek ways to involve parents in school activities. Come to class well prepared to teach. Communicate regularly with families about students’ progress.

Parent/Guardian ResponsibilitiesAs a parent/guardian, I will:

See that my child attends school every day and is on time. Show respect and support for my child, the teachers, and the school. Communicate with my child’s teachers on a regular basis. Insist that all homework assignments be completed. Read with my child and let my child read to me. Talk with my child about his/her daily school experiences. Regularly monitor my child’s progress (report cards, student planner, progress reports, and

weekly signed papers). Participate at school in activities such as parent-teacher conferences, PTO meetings, Open

House and other special events.

Student ResponsibilitiesAs a student, I will:

Come to school every day, prepared to do my best. Show respect for myself, my classmates, my teachers, my school, and my community. Tell my teacher or family if I need help. Obey all school and bus rules. Read on my own and with my family every day. Write down assignments, do my homework every day, and turn it in when it’s due.

Parent/Guardian’s Signature: _____________________________________________Date: _________

Teacher’s Signature: ___________________________________________________ Date: _________

Student’s Signature: ____________________________________________________Date: _________

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APPLING COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEMEscuelas de Title 1

COMPACTO ENTRE LA ESCUELA Y LOS PADRES2013-2014

(Revisado el 18 de abril de 2011)

Declaración de missionLa Sistema Escolar de la Condad de Appling está comprometido de proporcionando una educación de calidad que promove ejecución máximo del individual y responsibilidad social.

Responsibilidades de la escuelaComo el director/subdirector, voy a:

Proveer un ambiente seguro y con orden, donde los estudiantes pueden aprender. Proveer un ambiente que permite comunicación buena entre maestra, padres, y estudiante. Apoyar a las maestras en dando instrución de calidad alta. Proveer una puerta abierta para los padres

Como maestra, voy a: Creer que cada estudiante puede aprender. Dar respeto por cada estudiante y su familia. Proveer un ambiente seguro y cariñoso, donde los estudiantes pueden aprender. Ayudar cada niño a crecer a su pontencial más alto. Proveer tarea que es apropriada y significativa. Asegurar que soy justo y regular con aplicación de las reglas. Demonstrar comportamiento profesional y una actidud positive. Buscar maneras para incluir los padres en actividades escolares. Venir a clase preparado a enseñar. Communicar con regularidad con familias sobre el progreso de estudiantes.

Responsibilidades de los padresComo padre, voy a:

Asegurar que mi hijo/a está asistiendo escuela cada día, a la hora apuntada. Dar respeto por mi hijo/a, las maestras, y la escuela. Communicar con las maestras de mi hijo/a con regularidad. Insistir que toda la tarea sera completada. Leer con mi hijo/a, y permitir que el/ella puede leer a mi. Hablar con mi hijo/a sobre sus experiencias escolares diariamente. Seguir el progreso de mi hijo/a (con su horario, papeles, notas, etc). Participar en las actividades escolares (como juntas).

Responsibilidades del estudianteComo estudiante, voy a:

Venir a escuela cada día, preparado de hacer lo mejor que puedo. Dar respeto por mi mismo, mi clase, mis maestras, mi escuela, y mi communidad. Avisar a mi maestra y mi familia si necesito ayuda. Seguir todas las reglas escolares y del autobús. Leer solo y con mi familia cada día. Apuntar mis tareas, hacer mis tareas, y entregar mis tareas diariamente.

Firma de los Padres: ____________________________________________________Fecha: _________

Firma de la Maestra: ____________________________________________________Fecha: _________

Firma del Estudiante: ___________________________________________________Fecha: _________

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Appling County School System

TITLE I-A PARENT INFORMATION2013 - 2014

(Revised May 31, 2013)

Title I, Part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) enables the federal government to

provide funds to eligible K-12 schools based on the prosperity level of households. These funds are utilized to ensure that

students receive a quality education and meet high academic standards. Five schools identified as Title I schools in the

Appling County School System are Appling County Primary School, Appling County Elementary School, Fourth District

Elementary School, Altamaha Elementary School, and Appling County Middle School. As Title I funding recipients, these

schools must set goals for improvement, measure student progress, develop supplemental programs in addition to regular

classroom instruction, and involve or inform parents on various aspects of the programs available.

Title I schools can choose to implement what is called a schoolwide program or a targeted assistance program.

Schoolwide programs have much flexibility in how to spend their Title I, Part A funds as long as they engage in strategies

that improve the quality of the learning environment with a high-quality curriculum for all students. Targeted-assistance

programs may use the funds for a smaller number of eligible students who are failing or are at risk of failing to meet state

academic content standards through supplementary educational services.

The Appling County Middle School, Appling County Elementary School, Fourth District Elementary School, Altamaha

Elementary School, and Appling County Primary School are schoolwide programs which means Title I funds are

appropriated for each student. These schools are permitted to use Title I funds to provide high-quality educational

programs, supplemental resources, well-trained staff, and promote school, family, and community relationships in order to

raise the academic achievement of students. However, certain provisions are in place for each school and system that

utilize funds from Title I.

Each school must hold an annual meeting to inform parents or guardians of how Title I affects their child’s school.

Title I’s funding, requirements, and the parents’ right to be involved are explained. Schools recognized as Title I schools

must develop a parental involvement plan. This plan describes what the school will do to involve and inform parents about

the Title I program. It states how the school involves parents and how parents are informed on key issues such as the

school's performance, student assessment results, and the school curriculum. During the year, the plan is studied and

revised as needed. Each school’s plan can be viewed at the school’s media center, main office, school website, or district

website. In addition to a school-level plan, school systems must have a district-level parental involvement policy. The

Appling County School System does have such a policy. Parents may request a copy at the board office or find it online

at the school system website.

In addition to the school parental involvement plan, each school must develop and distribute a school-parent compact.

A copy of each school’s compact is given to the parents/guardians each school year for approval. It outlines how

parents, school staff, and students share responsibility for improved student achievement.

The parental involvement plan and compact are developed by each school’s staff and parent representatives. An

annual parent survey is also given to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the parental involvement component of

Title I. If you are interested in participating in this process, please contact your child’s school principal.Title I schools inform parents or guardians of student performance and progress. This is accomplished through

diversified avenues of correspondence such as weekly papers and/or weekly progress reports, planners, mid-semester

progress reports, report cards, or summaries of state test results.

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Title I schools encourage the involvement of parents. Parents can actively participate in the educational process of

their child through varied means such as school committees, PTO/PTA, school meetings, parent/teacher conferences,

volunteering, or parent sessions. Parents may monitor their child’s progress by checking a planner or weekly progress

report, homework, graded work, mid-semester progress reports, report cards, or assessment scores. There are many

strategies parents can use to support or enhance their child’s learning experience such as using flash cards to remember

basic facts, having hands–on materials such as beans to solve problems, or asking the child questions during a story to

check for understanding. Additionally, many of these strategies are demonstrated in parent sessions that are offered

throughout the school year.

To encourage parental involvement at home, parents also have access to monthly newsletters concerning relevant

parenting topics and a parent resource center called Discovery Place. Discovery Place Parent Resource Center is funded

through the Title I and Prekindergarten program. Supplemental educational materials are provided to assist parents and

students in the home. The Discovery Place representative is available to help parents and students understand grade

level expectations, assessment components, or strengths and weaknesses of students in regards to assessment results.

Please call 367-8821 for more information concerning Discovery Place Parent Resource Center.

For more information on Title I or parent resources, a contact list is provided below.

Georgia Department of Education – (404) 463-1956 or www.gadoe.org

Appling County School System – (912) 367-8600 or www.appling.k12.ga.us

Appling County Middle School – (912) 367-8630 or www.appling.k12.ga.us/ApplingMiddle/

Appling County Primary School – (912) 367-8642 or www.appling.k12.ga.us/ACPS2/

Appling County Elementary School – (912) 367-8640 or www.appling.k12.ga.us/ACES/

Fourth District Elementary School – (912) 367-3250 or www.appling.k12.ga.us/FDESWeb/

Altamaha Elementary School – (912) 367-3713 or www.appling.k12.ga.us/altamaha/

DO YOU WANT YOUR CHILD TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN SCHOOL? Check out the educational treasures found at Discovery Place Parent Resource Center! Discovery Place Parent Resource Center has educational materials that support skills taught in the classroom and encourage school-family partnerships for FREE. The center is provided by the Appling County School System’s Title I and Prekindergarten Programs.

DISCOVERY PLACE PARENT RESOURCE CENTER678 BLACKSHEAR HIGHWAY

BAXLEY, GA(LOCATED BEHIND APPLING COUNTY PRIMARY SCHOOL ON AUBURN STREET IN THE

PREKINDERGARTEN WING)PHONE: 367-8821

HOURS OF OPERATION DURING THE SCHOOL YEARWednesday – 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Thursday and Friday – 12:30 PM to 4:00 PMHOURS OF OPERATION DURING THE SUMMER

Wednesday – 12:30 PM to 5:30 PM******Days of Teacher In-Service and Holidays – CLOSED******

Please call 367 – 8821 to schedule an appointment if you cannot visit Discovery Place at the times listed above.

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170 Day Calendar

1st Semester 43/42 – 8 ½ Weeks2nd Semester 42/43 – 8 ½ Weeks

Pre-Planning August 2nd, 5th , 6th , 7th

First Day of School August 8th

Labor Day September 2nd

End of 1st 8 ½ Weeks October 8th

In-Service Day October 10th

Holidays October 11th & 14th

Veterans Day November 11th

Thanksgiving Holiday November 25th – November 29th

End of 2nd 8 ½ Weeks December 18th

End of 1st Semester December 18th

Christmas Holidays December 19th – January 3rd

In-Service Day January 6th

Holiday January 20th

Holiday February 17th

5th Grade Writing Assessment March 5th

End of 3rd 8 ½ Weeks March 7th

In-Service Day March 10th

Spring Break March 24th – March 28th

CRCT M April 1 - 3CRCT April 15-17, 22-23

Holiday April 18th

End of 4th 8 ½ Weeks May 16th

Last Day of School May 16th

Graduation May 16th

Post Planning May 19th,20th, 21st

Testing Calendar 2013-2014

Fall Winter Spring Summer2013 - 2014 Page 7

GKIDS Entry & Reporting by May 2, 2014

(Kindergarten) (Due to GaDOE May 9, 2014)

Writing Grade 3 Window March 17-28, 2014Due March 28, 2014

Writing Grade 5 March 5, 2014Make-up March 6, 2014

CRCT -M April 1-3, 2014 Retest Gr. 3, 5, 8

(Grades 3-8) Make –up April 4 & 7, 2014 May 19–20, 2014

CRCT April 15-17 & 22-23, 2014 Retest Gr. 3, 5, 8

(Grades 3-8) Make –up April 21, 24-25, & 28 2014 May 19–20, 2014

STUDENT EDUCATIONAL RECORDSAs a parent, you have the right to (1) inspect and review your child records; (2) request the amendment of your child records which you believe are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights; (3) provide consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the records except those disclosures which are allowed by law without parent permission; (4) file with the U. S. Department of Education a complaint concerning alleged failures of the school or system to comply with these requirements. School officials defined as certificated employees of the school system may have access to records on a need to know basis. If you wish to review, inspect, or request an amendment of your child educational record you should contact your child Principal. When a student reaches 18 years of age or is attending an institution of postsecondary education these parent rights transfer to the student.

NOTICE OF DIRECTORYThe Appling County School System, with certain exceptions, must obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child education records. However, Appling County Schools may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written consent, unless you have advised the school system to the contrary in accordance with system procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the school system to include this type of information from your child education records in certain school publications. Examples include: A playbill, showing your student’s role in a drama production; the annual yearbook; honor roll or other recognition lists; graduation programs, school’s internet website, and sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling, showing weight and height for team members.

Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. Schools must provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory information categories—names, addresses and telephone listings—unless parents have advised the school that they do not want their child’s information disclosed without their prior written consent.

If you do not want the Appling County School System to disclose directory information from your child’s education records without your prior written consent, you must notify your child’s Principal in writing within ten (10) school days of receipt of this notification.

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The following information has been designated as directory information: student’s name; address; telephone listing; photograph; date and place of birth; major field of study; dates of attendance; grade level; participation in officially recognized activities and sports; weight and height of members of athletic teams; degrees, honors, and awards received; and the most recent educational agency or institution attended.

TEACHER QUALIFICATIONSParents may request information about the professional qualifications of their child’s teacher(s). The following information may be requested: (1) whether the teacher has met the Georgia Professional Standards Commission requirements for certification for the grade level and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction; (2) whether the teacher is teaching under an emergency or other provisional status through which Georgia qualification or certification criteria have been waived; (3) the college major and any graduate certification or degree held by the teacher; (4) whether the student is provided services by paraprofessionals, and if so, their qualifications. If you wish to request information concerning your child’s teacher’s qualification, please contact your child’s principal.

ASBESTOS MANAGEMENTAnnual notification relative to asbestos management plans is hereby provided for parents/guardians of all students who attend classes in Appling County Schools. Each school has an Asbestos Management Plan that shows the location of materials that contain asbestos or materials that are assumed to contain asbestos. The plan is on file in the principal’s office and may be reviewed or obtained during normal business hours. Annual notification is required even if the school contains no asbestos.

ATTENDANCE POLICIES AND PROCEDURESAttendance Requirements

In responding to student attendance issues, the school system shall comply with all requirements of state law, State Board of Education rule, and the Student Attendance Protocol that has been developed by the county's Student Attendance Protocol Committee.

Students are expected to be in attendance in Appling County Schools in accordance with compulsory attendance laws and for the number of full-length days prescribed by law. A student shall not be absent from school

or from any class or other required school hours except for illness or other providential cause, unless with written permission of the teacher, principal, or their duly authorized school official. No student shall encourage, urge or counsel other students to violate this policy.

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Georgia Code 20-2-690.1Parents/guardians of students who miss more that five (5) days unexcused absences shall be considered in violation of Georgia Code 20-2-690.1 and upon conviction shall be subject to a fine not less than $25.00 and not greater than $100.00, imprisonment not to exceed 30 days, community service, or any combination of such penalties, at the discretion of the court.

A student who is absent from school should bring a written excuse from his/her parent/guardian for the absence on his/her first day back to school. Excuses for absences shall be furnished in writing, signed by the student’s parent or guardian, and shall specifically state the reason(s) for the absence. All excuses will be evaluated by the principal or his designee to determine if the absence is excused or unexcused. Excuses, which are received after the third day back to school, shall not be accepted and the absence shall be considered unexcused.

Appling County Board of Education policy (JB) states that students may be excused for the following reasons.

1. Personal illness or attendance in school that endangers a student's health or the health of others. 

2. A serious illness or death in a student's immediate family necessitating absence from school. 

3. A court order or an order by a governmental agency, including pre-induction physical examinations for service in the armed forces, mandating absence from school.

4. The observance of religious holidays, necessitating absence from school. 5. Conditions rendering attendance impossible or hazardous to student health or

safety. Unexcused absences are all other absences that are not defined as excused by

Policy JB.

Family Leave AbsencesA parent may request Administrative approval for up to two (2) days Family Leave Absence (FLA) per semester. The FLA will be considered an unexcused absence but the student may make up missed work for a grade. This request should be made prior to a planned FLA but must be requested within three days upon returning to school.

Grades and Absences   Final course grades of students shall not be penalized because of absences if the following conditions are met:

1.   Absences are justified and validated for excusable reasons.2.   Make up work for excused absences were completed satisfactorily.

Exemption PolicyStudents who have successfully completed assignments and school requirements, cleared fines and fees, and earned teacher and parent/guardian permissions may be exempt from no more than one-half of the school day on the last day of the first semester and/or the last day of the second semester of the 2012-2013 school year. Such students will be considered present on these days if they have attended at least one-half of each of the exemption days.

WALKERSWalking to or from school is discouraged unless a child is accompanied by a parent/guardian due to safety concerns.

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LATE BUSIf a bus comes in late, the bus student must check in with the front office for an excused admission slip. An announcement will be made from the Principal's office giving the bus number of the late bus(es).

PARENT TRANSPORTATIONParents/Guardians will use the designated areas to pick up or drop off students at assigned times. When you drop off your child in the morning you must pull to the side or park in a designated parking spot in order to NOT block the traffic flow. When you pick up your child in the afternoons, you may pull through the pickup line, or if you exit your vehicle, you must park in the designated areas and not block through traffic.

CHECK-IN POLICYAny student who arrives at school anytime past 7:50 AM must sign in through the front office. Students will be issued an Admittance Slip or a call from the front office denoting excused or unexcused tardy and time of arrival. Tardies will be included in the student’s tardiness record. Students arriving on late buses will be issued excused admission slips or a call from the front office. Early sign out will be documented as a tardy.

A student who is tardy to school must submit a note to the front office when signing in from parent/guardian or doctor explaining the tardiness. Examples of excused tardies are: visits to doctor, emergencies, or unexpected events as approved by the administration.

CHECKOUT POLICYThe clerical and administrative staff may not release students to anyone other than a parent or legal guardian or to those adults designated on the student information form in cases where the student becomes ill and the parent/guardian cannot be reached. This policy reflects concerns for the safety and well-being of our students. ONLY in situations involving emergencies at home or sickness of the student at school will the policy be waived. Early sign out will be documented as a tardy.

Students who become ill at school will be sent to the school nurse prior to the office staff contacting the parent to sign the student out.

Students may not sign out at lunch/homeroom unless a parent or guardian comes to campus and signs them out or the student has brought a verified doctor or dentist’s appointment to the office. Students will not be called from class during the last 15 minutes of school. The only checkouts permitted during the last 15 minutes of the day are those who have a verified checkout note in the front office. A student, who returns to school after signing out for any portion of the school day, must sign in with the front office upon return to the campus.

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Sign Out Procedures

1. Report to front office prior to homeroom.

2. Present a request in writing from a parent/guardian stating the reason for signing out and the name of the person who will sign student out.

3. The student must report to the Front Office at the designated time to be signed out by the staff.

For the purposes of determining perfect attendance for the year, students shall be counted present when they are in attendance at least one half (11:30) of the instructional day.

SUPERIOR PERFECT ATTENDANCE Superior attendance certificates will be given to students who meet the requirements set forth by Representative Tommy Williams (no tardies and no early sign-outs).

VISITORSAppling County Schools welcome parents and patrons who wish to visit the school. ALL VISITORS ARE REQUIRED TO ENTER AND EXIT SCHOOL VIA THE FRONT OFFICE. (Visitors are not allowed to enter/exit through classroom doors, backdoors, or side doors.) VISITORS MUST RECEIVE A PASS/PERMISSION TO ENTER SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE SCHOOL.

MESSAGESMiscellaneous messages cannot be delivered during the school day. Students receiving messages will be called to pick up their messages when announcements are made at the end of the day unless the message is an emergency. Students should discuss their appointments and other activities after school with their parents outside of school time.

TELEPHONE/MESSAGESThe front office will accept telephone messages for students only in case of an EMERGENCY. These messages must be from a parent or guardian. CLASSES WILL NOT BE INTERRUPTED FOR MESSAGES UNLESS IT IS AN EMERGENCY.

MOMENT OF SILENCEState law requires each public school to conduct a moment of silence during the school day to give students an opportunity to reflect on anticipated activities of the day. A moment of silence and the pledge of allegiance will be observed at the beginning of the school day.

EMERGENCY DRILLSFire drills and tornado drills are required by state law. Practice drills for fire and other emergencies are part of the Emergency Preparedness Program. Students will be provided information and practice on how to respond to each type of emergency. Evacuation routes, fire alarm and extinguisher locations, and information on tornado protection are posted in each classroom.

TRANSACTIONSStudents are not allowed to bring to the school or while riding the bus any item for the purpose of swapping or selling said item with any other student. Any deals or business

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arrangements made at home will need to be conducted at home. No trading cards will be allowed at school.

FIELD TRIPSStudents who do not receive permission will not be allowed to attend field trips. Students who are not in good academic standing and/or do not demonstrate appropriate conduct may not be allowed to attend field trips. These decisions will be made at the discretion of the administration.

REPORT CARDSReport cards are issued at the end of each grading period (two times during the semester). The semester grade is an average of these two report cards. Teachers will be using a computerized grading program called Infinite Campus. Each teacher will issue a progress report to all students at the midterm mark of each grading period. Parents may access student grades and other data utilizing Parent Portal. Pre-K will be using Work Sampling Online to document student progress.

Grading System

A 90 - 100B 80 – 89C 70 – 79F Below 70

Board Policy Descriptor Code: IHEPromotion and Retention

The practice of retaining students for athletic purposes is prohibited in the district schools of Appling County. It is the stated goal of Appling County Schools to provide the best possible education for all its students. We believe it is the joint responsibility of teachers, students, parents, and administrators to ensure that every student achieves at least a level of minimum competency required for economic and social survival in this county. To that end, the Appling County Board of Education has adopted this policy outlining the minimum requirements for promotion in kindergarten through eighth grade.

Standards have been set at every grade level, but failure to meet those standards does not dictate retention. Every student who fails to meet minimum standards must be referred for careful review by teachers, principal, and other specialists. Only when retention is determined to be of benefit to and in the best interest of the individual child is promotion denied. In every case, an alternative educational plan is to be devised for students retained in Kindergarten through grade 8.

All professional staff members should become familiar with the requirements and procedure set forth for their grade level teaching assignments. It is only in careful and systematic adherence to requirements and procedures at every grade level that all students will receive the fair, impartial, and equitable treatment that they deserve.

Any student who is not meeting promotion criteria during the school year should be placed in the Tiers of Intervention before being retained. Intervention strategies in the

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Tiers should be used before determining if a child needs to be retained. If the child is still not making progress during the retention year, then the child will move to a higher Tier, for example Tier 2 changing to Tier 3, for further interventions as needed with the child.

I.  DEFINITIONSA. Accelerated instruction - challenging instructional activities that are intensely focused

on student academic deficiencies in reading and/or mathematics. This accelerated instruction is designed to enable a student who has not achieved grade level, as defined by the Office of Student Achievement, to meet grade-level standards in the shortest possible time.

B. Additional instruction - academic instruction beyond regularly scheduled academic classes that are designed to bring students not performing on grade level, as defined by the Office of Student Achievement, to grade level performance. It may include more instructional time allocated during the school day, instruction before and after the school day, Saturday instruction, and/or summer/inter-session instruction.

C. Differentiated instruction - instructional strategies designed to meet individual student learning needs.

D. Grade level - standard of performance, as defined by the Office of Student Achievement, on a Criterion-Referenced Competency Test.

E. Placement - the assignment of a student to a specific grade level based on the determination that such placement will most likely provide the student with instruction and other services needed to succeed and progress to the next higher level of academic achievement.

F. Placement committee - the committee established by the local school principal or designee to make placement decisions concerning a student who does not meet expectations on the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test. This committee shall be comprised of the principal or designee, the student's parent or guardian, and the teacher(s) in the content area(s) in which the student did not achieve grade level on the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test.

G. Promotion - the assignment of a student to a higher grade level based on the student's achievement of established criteria in the current grade.

H. Retention - the re-assignment of a student to the current grade level during the next school year.

NOTE:  The Criterion-Referenced Competency Test (CRCT) is a state provided curriculum assessment and all CRCT references in this document will be based on the receipt of timely, valid reports from the state.

II.        PROMOTION STANDARDS AND CRITERIA

Kindergarten Criteria for PromotionStudents in kindergarten must be recommended for promotion by the classroom teacher.  The teacher's recommendation must be based on the results from the state-mandated kindergarten assessment.  The teacher's recommendation should be based on documentable data and might include other sources such as: class performance, subject area achievement, local curriculum benchmark assessments, teacher observations, and other sources.

Grade One and Grade Two Criteria for Promotion 1. Students must be recommended for promotion by the classroom teacher.  The

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teachers' recommendation should be based on documentable data and might include sources as: classroom performance, subject area achievement, local curriculum benchmark assessments, teacher observations, and other sources. The results of the Cumulative Benchmark Test must be reviewed and considered in making a decision about student placement and instructional support when required.

2. Earn a yearly average of 70% or higher in Reading.3. Earn a yearly average of 70% or higher in Math.

Grade Three Criteria for PromotionStudents in grade three must:1. Be recommended for promotion by the classroom teacher. The teacher's

recommendation should be based on documentable data and might include sources such as: class performance, subject area achievement, norm referenced test results when required, local curriculum benchmark assessments, teacher observations, and other sources.  The results of the CRCT must be reviewed and considered in making a decision about student placement and instructional support and meet the requirements as outlined in Section III of this policy (Georgia Requirements for grades 3, 5 and 8).

2. Earn a yearly average of 70% or higher in Reading.3. Earn a yearly average of 70% or higher in Math.

Grade Four Criteria for PromotionStudents in grade four must:1. Earn a yearly average of 70% or higher in Reading and Math and earn a yearly

average of 70% or higher on at least two of the following subjects:  language, science, and social studies.

2. Be recommended for promotion by the classroom teacher. The teacher's recommendation should be based on documentable data and might include sources such as: class performance, norm referenced test results when required, local curriculum benchmark assessments, work habits, and other sources.  The results of the CRCT must be reviewed and considered in making a decision about student placement and instructional support.

Grade Five Criteria for PromotionStudents in grade five must:1. Earn a yearly average of 70% or higher in Reading and in Math and earn a yearly

average of 70% or higher on at least two of the following subjects:  language, science, and social studies.

2. Be recommended for promotion by the classroom teacher. The teacher's recommendation should be based on documentable data and might include sources such as: class performance, norm referenced test results when required, work habits, and other courses.  The results of the CRCT must be reviewed and considered in making a decision about student placement and instructional support and meet the requirements as outlined in Section III of this policy (Georgia Requirements for grades 3, 5 and 8).

III.       GEORGIA REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADES 3, 5, AND 8A. Promotion of a student shall be determined as follows:

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1. No third grade student shall be promoted to the fourth grade if the student does not achieve grade level on the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test in reading and meet promotion standards and criteria established in this policy for the school that the student attends.

2. No fifth grade student shall be promoted to the sixth grade if the student does not achieve grade level on the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test in reading and the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test in mathematics and meet promotion standards and criteria established in this policy for the school that the student attends.

3. No eighth grade student shall be promoted to the ninth grade if the student does not achieve grade level on the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test in reading and the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test in mathematics and meet promotion standards and criteria established in this policy for the school that the student attends.

4. The school principal or designee may retain a student who performs satisfactorily on the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test but who does not meet promotion standards and criteria established in this policy.

B. When a student does not perform at grade level in grades 3, 5, or 8 on the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test(s) specified in section (A) above, then the following shall occur:1. Within ten calendar days, excluding weekends and holidays, of receipt of the

Criterion-Referenced Competency Test individual student scores, the school principal or designee shall notify in writing by first-class mail the parent or guardian of the student regarding the following:

i. The student's below-grade-level performance on the Criterion-Referenced Competency Tests;

ii. The specific retest(s) to be given the student and testing date(s);iii. The opportunity for accelerated, differentiated, or additional instruction

based on the student’s performance on the Criterion-Referenced Competency Tests; and

iv. The possibility that the student might be retained at the same grade level for the next school year.

2. The student shall be given an opportunity for accelerated, differentiated, or additional instruction in the applicable subject(s) prior to the retesting opportunity; and

3. The student shall be retested with appropriate section(s) of the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test(s) or an alternative assessment instrument that is appropriate for the student's grade level as provided for by the State Board of Education and this board.

C. When a student does not perform at grade level on the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test in grades 3, 5, and 8, and also does not perform at grade level on a second opportunity to take the assessment, then the following shall occur:1. The school principal or designee shall retain the student for the next school

year except as otherwise provided for in this policy.2. The school principal or designee shall notify in writing by first-class mail the

parent or guardian of the student and the teacher(s) regarding the decision to retain the student.

i. The notice shall describe the option of the parent or guardian or teacher to appeal the decision to retain the student;

ii. The notice shall describe the composition and functions of the 2013 - 2014 Page 16

placement committee; andiii. The notice shall include the requirement that the decision to promote

the student must be the unanimous decision of the placement committee comprised of the parent or guardian, teacher(s), and principal or designee.

3. If the parent or guardian or teacher(s) appeals the decision to retain the student, then the school principal or designee shall establish a placement committee to consider the appeal.

i. The placement committee shall be comprised of the principal or designee, the student's parent or guardian, and the teacher(s) of the subject(s) of the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test or the alternative assessment instrument on which the student failed to perform at grade level.

ii. The principal or designee shall notify in writing by first-class mail the parent or guardian and teacher(s) of the time and place for convening the placement committee.

iii. The placement committee shall review the overall academic achievement of the student in light of the performance on the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test or the alternative assessment instrument and promotion standards and criteria established in this policy for the school that the student attends, and make a determination to promote or retain.

iv. The decision to promote must be the unanimous decision of the placement committee and must determine that if promoted and given accelerated, differentiated, or additional instruction during the next year, the student is likely to perform at grade level by the conclusion of the school year.

v. The placement committee shall prescribe such additional assessments as may be appropriate in addition to assessments administered to other students at the grade level during the year.

vi. The placement committee shall provide for a plan of continuous assessment during the subsequent school year in order to monitor the progress of the student.

4. A plan for accelerated, differentiated, or additional instruction must be developed for each student who does not achieve grade level performance in grades 3, 5, or 8 on the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test(s) specified in section (A) above whether the student is retained, placed, or promoted for the subsequent year.

5. A student who is absent or otherwise unable to take the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test in reading and/or mathematics on the first administration or its designated make-up day(s) shall take the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test in reading and/or mathematics on the second administration day(s) or an alternative assessment instrument that is appropriate for the student's grade level as provided for by the State Board of Education and this board. Placement or promotion of these students shall follow the same procedures as students who do not achieve grade level on the first administration of the assessment.

6. A student's failure to take the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test in grades 3, 5, and 8 in reading and/or mathematics on any of the designated testing date(s) or an alternative assessment instrument that is appropriate for

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the student’s grade level as provided for by the State Board of Education and this board shall result in the student being retained. The option of the parent or guardian or teacher(s) to appeal the decision to retain the student shall follow the procedure set forth in this rule.

7. For students receiving special education or related services, the Individualized Education Plan Committee shall serve as the placement committee.

8. The decision of the placement committee is final and may not be appealed.

IV. STUDENT SUPPORT, TESTING AND NOTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADES 1-8

a. Each school principal shall distribute student data from the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test (CRCT) to teachers prior to the beginning of each school year, provided the CRCT data is available from the state.  Each teacher shall use data to focus instruction on identified student academic performance in grades 1-8.

b. Each school principal or designee shall establish a committee to develop an instructional plan for each student in grades 1, 2, 4, 6, and 7 who does not achieve grade level on reading and/or mathematics sections of the criterion-referenced competency test.  The instructional planning committee shall:

i. Determine whether each student shall be retained or promoted based on a review of the overall academic achievement of the student as well as the student’s Criterion-Referenced Competency Test performance when required;

ii. Develop an accelerated, differentiated, or additional instruction plan for each student who does not achieve grade level on the reading and/or mathematics sections of the criterion-referenced competency test; and

iii. Develop a plan of continuous assessment during the following school year in order to monitor the progress of the student.  A referral to RTI (Response to Intervention) may be considered if the student does not make satisfactory progress.

c. Students shall be tested in accordance with requirements specified in State Board Rule 160-3-1-.07 Testing Programs - Student Assessment

d. The school principal or designee shall annually notify parents or guardians that placement or promotion of a student into a grade, class, or program will be based on the academic achievement of the student on criterion-referenced assessments and other criteria established in this policy.

HONOR ROLLThe Honor Roll will be announced at the end of each grading period, as calculated by the school data program.

HONORS AND AWARDSIndividual Schools have unique ways of recognizing student achievements. Each school website has additional information concerning Academic Recognition.

RESPONSE TO INTERVENTION2013 - 2014 Page 18

Response to Intervention (RTI) is a multi-step approach to providing services and interventions to students who struggle with learning at increasing levels of intensity. The progress students make at each stage of intervention is closely monitored. Results of this monitoring are used to make decisions about the need for further research-based instruction and/or intervention in general education, in special education or both. Referenced from NCLD.org.

HOSPITAL-HOMEBOUND INSTRUCTIONA student who has a medically diagnosed physical condition that is non-communicable and restricts him/her to home or to a hospital for a period of time which will significantly interfere with the student’s education may be eligible for services of an itinerant hospital-homebound instructor. The counseling office should be contacted to make arrangements for this program.

NUTRITION PROGRAMThe Nutrition Program provides a well-planned, nutritious and delicious breakfast and lunch to all students and teachers. The cafeteria features two choices from which students may select.

Note: Please remember to include your lunch account number on the Pre-Pay envelope. Every child and teacher has a lunch account number. By participating in our PPS (PrePay Service), you will never have to scramble for lunch money again.

You can now pay online for your child’s meals and we encourage you to do so.  LunchPrepay.com allows you to make meal payments on the internet using your credit card, check your child’s meal account balance, get low balance alerts by e-mail, and see what your child is purchasing.  Using LunchPrepay.com will remove the stress that comes with making sure your student has cash for lunch.  It is an easy, secure and convenient way to pay for meals. Go to www.lunchprepay.com to register.

Applications for free and reduced meals are available at the beginning of the school year. Please complete and return to your SNP manager to see if your family qualifies. Pre-Pay Breakfast Lunch Reduced

BreakfastReduced Lunch

Employee Visitor

Daily $0.80 $1.35 $0.30 $0.40$1.95 (B) $2.75 (L)

$2.00(B) $3.00(L)

1 week $4.00 $6.75 $1.50 $2.002 weeks $8.00 $13.50 $3.00 $4.004 weeks $16.00 $27.00 $6.00 $8.001 year $136.00 $229.50 $54.00 $72.00

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Charge Policy The Appling County School Nutrition Program is a non-profit organization; therefore, we have established a charge policy. Notification of account low balance will be given to the student at the time of meal service and charge letters will be sent home with the student. It will be the responsibility of the parents and students to make sure that parents receive the written notice from their children. Please check to see if your child has information from the school for you to review, just as you would check graded papers, etc. from their teacher(s).

We encourage all parents to prepay on their child(ren)’s account. We also encourage parents to pay any outstanding balances for charges that have acquired. We would also like to remind parents to fill out a free/reduced meal application. These applications may be picked up from their child(ren)’s school cafeteria or from the Board of Education at 249 Blackshear Hwy, Baxley, GA 31513. Please note that if your income goes down or if you should lose your job, you may apply for free or reduced meals anytime during the school year.

CHARGE LIMITSPrimary/Elementary Students: $5.00 After the charge limit has been reached, the student will not be allowed the regular school meal, but will be given an alternate meal until the account is brought current. No extra purchases (juice, milk, extra servings) are allowed if there are outstanding meal charges.

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CAFETERIAThe school cafeteria is maintained as a vital part of the health program of the elementary

schools. To encourage good nutrition, a well-balanced breakfast and lunch are offered at a reasonable price. You are to observe the following rules:

1. All children who eat breakfast must go directly to the lunchroom upon entering the building.

2. Any student disrespectful or disobedient to teacher(s) or staff engaged in a fight going to breakfast, at breakfast, or coming from breakfast will be punished.

3. Stay in single file going to and coming from the cafeteria. Avoid pushing, shoving, and breaking in line.

4. A student will either eat in the cafeteria or bring his/her lunch from home.5. All food must be eaten in the cafeteria. No food is to be carried out.6. No chewing gum is allowed in the cafeteria.7. Everyone must drink milk unless special permission from physician is obtained in

writing; then, substitutions will be made.8. Chairs must not be moved from one table to another.9. Remain in the cafeteria as a group during the lunch period.10.Leave the area around your table in a clean condition for your classmates.11.No competitive food will be allowed in the cafeteria in original wrapper, unless a

student has it in a lunch box as a part of his/her lunch (candy, etc.).12.Parents are invited to eat lunch with their child at least one time during the school

year.The school lunchroom will work with parents and teachers in any way possible if a child

has a special diet (example-diabetic; extreme allergies) or a religious belief that prevents him/her from eating certain foods. The lunchroom manager should be consulted when there is a problem that needs special attention.

ACCIDENT INSURANCEInsurance for all students is no longer provided by the Appling County Board of Education. The school offers parents an optional insurance at a nominal fee, which covers students while being transported on buses and during school hours. There is also a 24-hour policy available.

IMMUNIZATIONGeorgia Law requires that all students have a current immunization certificate on file at school.

SCHOOL NURSEStudents may visit the nurse by appointment or in cases of injury or illness at school. The nurse will also provide health counseling, dispense medication and monitor students who have medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes or sickle cell anemia. A health information form must be completed and on file before a student can be administered medication (prescribed or over-the-counter).

MEDICATIONS AT SCHOOLSchool nurses are employed full-time at Appling County Schools. No medication will be administered to students without written permission from parents. Medication required for students must be brought to school by parents. Parents must provide the school with written instructions for proper dosage, time of medication, and time period. Medication must be stored in the school nurse’s office and will not be administered by teachers. The school will not administer medication unless the parents have complied with the above. When the nurse is not on campus, designated school staff will see students who become ill or injured.

ASTHMA MEDICATIONA student who has asthma may possess and use his/her asthma medication as prescribed:

While in school; At a school-sponsored activity; While under the supervision of school personnel; or Before-school or after-school on school operated property.

ILLNESS OR INJURY AT SCHOOLWe recognize that students become ill or injured at school. Initially, students will be referred to the school nurse. If the illness or injury is serious, parents/guardians will be contacted. Parents are urged to maintain an updated listing of emergency phone numbers with the school for swift communication in the event of an emergency situation regarding illness or injury. If an emergency, 911 will be called.

NO NIT Effective April 7, 1997, Appling County schools initiated a NO NIT procedure regarding lice/nits. The procedure reads, in part, as follows:

1. When lice or nits are discovered in a child's hair, that child will be immediately sent home for treatment.

2. Treatment will consist of a regimen as directed by the school. The regimen will be given to the parent/guardian when the child is picked up.

3. The child will be allowed to return to school only after it is determined by school 2013 - 2014 Page 21

personnel that the child's hair is free of lice and/or nits.

BED BUGSEffective March 12, 2012, Appling County schools initiated a procedure regarding bed bugs. The procedure read, in part as follows:

1. When bedbugs or what appears to be bedbug bites (unexplained rash) are found on a child, that child will be immediately sent home for medical evaluation/treatment.

2. The child will be allowed to return to school only under the direction of a Physician or Physician’s designee with documentation of treatment.

TEXTBOOKS, LIBRARY BOOKS, AND FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONSTextbooks and library books that are issued to or checked out by students must be returned to the teacher who issued the book or returned to the library and checked in accordance with library regulations. Those students who do not return property that belongs to the school or Board of Education must pay for the books, other property, or damages. Substitute books are unacceptable. The student must clear all financial responsibilities each semester. For those students who fail to meet their financial obligations, students will not be able to receive a report card or participate in some activities until payment is received.

Once these books are returned and all financial obligations are met, then restrictions will be removed. It is important to remember that school property is public property and must be used with care.

MEDIA CENTER1. An OPEN concept is the philosophy of the media center.2. Students should cease talking before entering the media center. Talking may

disturb someone who is reading, studying, or doing research.3. The media center allows students to use any book he/she chooses without checking

with the desk as long as they stay in the media center and place the book back on the shelf or on the desk when finished. When taking material of any kind out of the media center, it must be checked at the proper place and with the proper person.

4. Books are checked out for two weeks. Fines of $0.05 per day will be charged for

overdue books. Each student is responsible for books checked out to them. Report cards are held until fees for lost or damaged books have been paid.

5. Students using the media center do not talk loudly, chew gum, eat, or cause any unnecessary disturbance.

6. Many students use books, magazines, and media center facilities. DO NOT DIMINISH BOOKS’ USEFULNESS BY MARKING, TEARING, AND CHEWING!

7. Students may check out books or do research.8. Students are issued one I.D. card. The students must bring this card with them any

time they come to the media center. If the student loses the card, $5 may be charged to receive a new card. Students must use the media pass each time they visit the media center

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STUDENT DRESS AND APPEARANCE

Primary – PreK, K, 1, 2 Appropriate dress and manner are the accepted standard for all students. Students may wear shorts in warmer weather as long as they are of appropriate length. Tennis shoes are required for P.E. Hats, bandanas, do-rags inappropriate language on clothing, pants with holes or splits, pants with writing on the seat, oversized bagging pants, oversized shirts, dangling overall straps, dangling earrings/long earrings, shirts with the midsection showing, and cleats are not permitted. No visible underclothing or body piercings (excluding ear piercing). We request that names be written in jackets and encourage children to keep up with their possessions. Parents may be contacted when their child is inappropriately dressed.

Elementary - 3, 4, 5Appropriate dress and manner are the accepted standard for all students. Students may wear shorts and skirts as long as they are of appropriate length (no more than four inches above the knee). Sleeveless shirts must have at least a 2 - inch wide strap. Undergarments must not be visible. Students should wear clothing of sufficient length and fit to perform normal school activities without appearing immodest. Leggings must be covered by long shirts, dresses, skirts, or shorts. Hats, bandanas, do-rags inappropriate language on clothing, pants with holes or splits, pants with writing on the seat, oversized bagging pants, oversized shirts, dangling overall straps, sundresses without jackets, halter-tops/spaghetti straps, shirts with the midsection showing, and cleats are not permitted. No visible body piercings (excluding ear piercing). NO spray colored hair or face paintings are permitted. Tennis shoes are required for P.E. and dangling earrings must be removed during P.E. and recess. Parents may be contacted when their child is inappropriately dressed.

Note: Violations of the dress code will be handled as outlined in the Code of Discipline.

CLASS BEHAVIOR AND EXPECTATIONSStudents are expected to exhibit appropriate behavior in the classroom and on campus. They are to show respect to teachers, classmates, administrators and visitors. Students should follow all class rules and policies established by the teacher.

The classroom is a working, learning environment, and the student is an active participant in the learning process. If a student has a health problem that causes sleepiness, the school should be notified. Otherwise, the student should be alert. Students, who do not meet this expectation, can expect interventions.

Students are expected to come prepared for class. They should bring textbook, notebook, pencil and paper, and other supplies to each class and homework when it is due. When in class, students should pay attention to instruction, cooperate in classroom activities and help create a learning environment for themselves and their classmates.

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Teaching and learning are interdependent activities. In order for learning to occur, the student must be willing and ready to do his/her part. Parent involvement in supporting these expectations is essential.

CONDUCT IN HALLSStudents are to observe the follow rules:

a. Do everything possible to aid the orderly movement of traffic in the halls by observing rules of friendliness and courtesy.

b. Keep moving when the halls are crowded, thus avoiding pushing and blocking hall traffic.

c. Keep to the right when going to and from classes or lunchroom.d. Pass quickly and quietly through the halls.e. Do not linger near entrances or room doors.f. Enter and leave the building in a quiet and orderly manner through the nearest

exits.g. Avoid bumping into others when crossing from one side of the hall to the other.h. Students are to be in their desks prepared to begin class when the tardy bell

rings.i. A violation of any of the above rules will subject the student to punishment.

OFF LIMITS AREASStudents are expected to be in assigned areas. If students need to go to any area that is considered off limits, they must receive permission from a teacher or an administrator.

SEARCH AND SEIZUREAccording to law and board policy, delegated school officials may have access to student lockers, automobiles and personal belongings while under school supervision, and when there is reason to suspect the welfare of students and other personnel may be threatened, or when the violations of school rules are involved. A metal detector and/or alcohol breath analyzer may be used in searches if circumstances warrant and there is reasonable suspicion. The search shall be made in the presence of at least one witness except in emergencies, or if dangerous or illegal materials are in plain view. Discovery of dangerous or illegal materials shall be reported to proper authorities. Random searches may be conducted during the school year.

Delegated Search Officials: (1) Principal and/or assistant principals during both regular school hours and/or any function under school jurisdiction. (2) Certified school personnel who have responsibility for students who are required to be away from school before or after regular school hours. (3) School resource officer.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT - MISCONDUCTNo student, employee, or visitor, male or female, should be subjected to unsolicited and unwelcome sexual overtures or conduct, either verbal or nonverbal. Sexual harassment is a violation of Appling County Board of Education policy (GAF/JP, 12-9-93). This policy protects students from sexual harassment by other students, teachers, administrators, other school personnel, visitors, or independent contractors. It also protects teachers and other school staff and employees from harassment by students, other school employees, or visitors to campus.

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Examples of sexual harassment include verbal harassment or abuse, including jokes, name-calling and sexual rumors; repeated remarks to a person, with sexual or demeaning implications; unwelcome rubbing, touching in a provocative way, or pulling clothes; pictures, illustrations, or drawings with explicit sexual acts, suggestions, or other meanings; pressure for and/or soliciting sexual activity accompanied by implied or explicit threats concerning grades, job, evaluation, assigned duties, etc.

Instances of sexual harassment should be reported immediately to teachers, administrators, or other appropriate school officials. If a student is being subjected to sexual harassment by an adult, or school employee, or official, such instances should be reported to the principal or the superintendent. Sexual misconduct is subject to discipline as outlined in the ACHS Code of Discipline and/or Appling County Board of Education policy. All acts of sexual misconduct will be reported to the school social worker for review and referral to the Department of Family and Children Services (DFACS).

Because of the serious nature of sexual harassment, any person who intentionally or knowingly makes false allegations of sexual harassment is subject to severe disciplinary penalties.

BUS REGULATIONS – CONDUCTAll rules and policies are in effect while students are loading, unloading, being transported, and at bus stops.

Students are expected to follow behavior guidelines posted on Appling County school buses and any other reasonable requests made by bus drivers. Failure to cooperate with the driver may endanger other riders and result in suspension from the bus as outlined in the Code of Discipline.

BUS FIGHTSThe safety of all passengers on a school bus is a primary concern for the Appling County Schools. With the support of the Board of Education, a “zero tolerance” for fights on school buses for middle and high school students is currently in effect.

Unlike a playground, hallway, lunchroom or classroom, it is extremely difficult to seek safety inside a school bus when there is a fight, especially if the bus is moving. The risk for collateral injury to innocent students is much greater on a school bus than on a school campus, where innocent students could escape the immediate area for their own safety. There is great danger when fists, long fingernails or thrown objects miss their intended mark and instead injure an innocent student sitting nearby. This danger is even more likely for younger children such as pre-kindergarten students who sometimes must ride on buses with older students. When a bus driver is focused on the highway, there is little chance of the driver being able to immediately intervene and stop the fight, at least until he or she can safely stop the bus and break up the fight. The safety of innocent students depends on all students following bus rules, especially those related to fights and serious disruptions. A “zero tolerance” policy is in effect on all Appling County School buses.

BUS CONDUCT Students must follow all posted rules and reasonable requests made by the bus driver. Common courtesy in behavior and language should be observed at all times.

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Students shall be prohibited from acts of physical violence as defined by Georgia Code Section 20-2-751.6 bullying as defined by subsection (a) of Georgia Code Section 20-2-751.4 physical assault or battery of other persons on the school bus, verbal assault of other persons on the school bus, disrespectful conduct toward the school bus driver or other persons on the school bus and other unruly behavior. Students involved in a fight on a school bus may be suspended from riding the bus for 90 consecutive school days in addition to the school punishment for fighting.

Bus rider rules:1. Must never tamper with bus.2. Must not leave books, lunches, or other articles on the bus.3. Must not throw anything out of the windows.4. Are not permitted to leave their seats while the bus is in motion.5. Are expected to be courteous to fellow students and to the bus driver.6. Must be absolutely quiet when approaching a railroad crossing.7. Are subject to similar rules of behavior and punishment that apply while at school8. Continually violating these rules may result in losing riding privileges.9. Will not be allowed to bring live animals or insects on any bus to or from school.10. Will not be allowed to bring flowers in glass containers nor balloons.11. No baseball bats are permitted on the bus except when transporting a baseball team.12. Must never use devices that interfere with the school bus driver’s operation of the bus

(ex. mirrors, lasers, reflective devises, flash cameras, etc.)

CONSEQUENCES1st offense Warning2nd offense Writing Assignment3rd offense 1 day off bus4th offense 2 days off bus5th offense 3- 5 days off busContinued offenses may result in long term suspension.Bus suspension is at the administrator’s discretion.

CODE OF DISCIPLINEThe home, school, and community must work together to establish a fair and effective discipline program. Appling County School teachers and administrators believe that our students have been taught acceptable behavior at home, and that they know how to behave in a respectful manner. This includes accepting corrections of their behavior with respect. Young people will make mistakes, but it is expected that students will make a good faith effort to correct misbehavior and treat others --teachers, administrators, and classmates--with the same dignity and respect they expect for themselves. Our teachers, administrators and other staff members remain committed to a fair and impartial enforcement of the code.

It is expected that students will behave in such a way as to facilitate a learning environment for themselves and other students. Students are expected to respect each other and school district employees, obey student behavior policies adopted by the Appling County Board of Education and the student behavior rules established by the

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Appling County Schools. Students and parents should become familiar with the school policies, regulations, rules, and disciplinary consequences cited in the code.

All disciplinary options in the code of discipline are at the discretion of administrator or teacher. Individual circumstances, severity of offense, and other factors may be taken into consideration when decisions are made with an attempt to be consistent and fair, and every effort will be made to protect the rights and dignity of the student. Student support services that may help the student address behavioral problems may be utilized. The school, system, or other public entities and community organizations may provide these support services. Teachers are authorized and expected to maintain classroom discipline through student conferences, parent contact and conferences, teacher punishment and if the behavior persists or is severe referral to the administration. It should also be noted that corporal punishment may be administered. Corporal punishment will not be an option, however, if it proves to be ineffective for a particular student.

NOTE: Teachers and administrators have the authority to take customary and reasonable measures to maintain proper control among students placed under their care and supervision. Such measures may include the use of lawful authority to restrain or correct pupils and maintain order. Surveillance cameras will be used to monitor the campus and/or school buses, and recorded events will be used as evidence for disciplinary procedures.

CODE OF DISCIPLINE RULES

1. SCHOOL DISTURBANCESStudents are not to commit acts, which cause disruption of learning opportunities or threaten the safety of others. 2. CLASSROOM/HALLWAY DISTURBANCE OR DISRESPECT/INSUBORDINATIONStudents are not to cause classroom/hallway disturbances or show disrespect or insubordination. Teachers will attempt to resolve minor disturbances. A disturbance will be considered major if there is substantial disruption of learning and/or a threat to others.Disrespectful conduct including the use of vulgar or profane language during school hours and at school related functions directed toward teachers, administrators, students, other school personnel, and other persons will not be tolerated.

3. LUNCHROOM CONDUCT Lunchroom expectations are to be followed at all times.

4. ACADEMIC EFFORTA student will make a reasonable effort toward academic achievement and progress. Repeated refusal to complete class or homework assignments will be a violation.

5. MISUSE OF TECHNOLOGYThis includes, but is not limited to, unauthorized use of computers and other technology and/or the viewing of pornography and other information or programming that is unacceptable or of no educational value.

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6. BEING IN UNAUTHORIZED AREAS/OFF LIMITS Students should not be in off limit areas without permission.

7. DRESS CODE Students are expected to be in compliance with the guidelines as spelled out in our school dress code. Repeated attempts to disrupt the learning environment with improper dress will be a violation. The student will not be permitted to remain in class while in violation of this policy. 8. FAILURE TO PERFORM ASSIGNED CONSEQUENCES No student will fail to carry out assigned consequences for misconduct. Administrative discretion can be used in cases involving extenuating circumstances.

9. ELECTRONIC DEVICESAll students must adhere to BYOT policy.

10. USE OF PROFANE, VULGAR, OR OBSCENE WORDS, GESTURES, OR OTHER ACTIONSUse of profane, vulgar, or obscene words (written, verbal, in music, or drawn), gestures or actions during school, at school events or functions, or while en route to and from school or school events will not be allowed.

11. BULLYINGIn response to current Code Sections 20-2-145 and 20-2-751.4 in the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (School Law), “Bullying” is defined as:1. Any willful attempt or threat to inflict injury on another person, when accompanied by

an apparent present ability to do so; or2. Any intentional display of force such as would give the victim reason to fear or

expect immediate bodily harm.

12. CHEATING No student will demonstrate academic dishonesty by cheating on tests, class work, or homework. Students who knowingly allow students to copy their work are also considered cheating.

13. FORGERY/UNAUTHORIZED SIGNATUREParent or guardian signatures on school documents are not to be signed by anyone other than the parent or guardian; records are not to be altered. Unauthorized use of hall passes, notepads, initialing or signing notes, forms and other such documents for teachers’ signatures or approval, etc. is prohibited. Administrative discretion may be used depending on the severity of the forgery.

14. PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION No inappropriate public display of affection will be allowed during the school day.

15. WILLFUL REFUSAL TO CARRY OUT INSTRUCTIONS OR IDENTIFY HIMSELF/HERSELF Refusal to carry out instructions of faculty or staff or repeated violations of school and/or class rules will not be allowed. Refusal to identify him/her upon request will not be allowed.

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16. GAMBLING Students shall not engage in games of chance, which involve wagers of money or

tokens.

17. OTHER ACTS OF MISCONDUCT Some acts of misconduct may not be specifically stated in the Code of Discipline.

Such other acts will have disciplinary actions taken based on the nature and severity of the incident.

18. ILLEGAL ACTS Students may not violate, or attempt to violate, incite, advise, or counsel others to

violate a law of the State of Georgia and/or the United States of America or school policy or rule.

19. TERRORISTIC ACTS, BOMB THREATS, PULLING FIRE ALARMS, FALSE CALLS TO 911, AND FIREWORKS INCLUDING SMOKE BOMBS

Any student violating or attempting to violate a law of the State of Georgia or the United States of America while on the campus of any Appling County school or at any school function or event shall be subject to disciplinary action. (This includes calling in a bomb threat to any of the Appling County schools.)

20. ASSAULT ON FACULTY/STAFF MEMBER It is a violation of state law 20-2-751.5 for a student to physically or verbally assault and/or batter a teachers, administrators, other school personnel, or bus drivers.Physical Assault or Battery 20-2-751.6The penalty for committing a physical act of violence including making physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature or causing physical harm against a school employee is expulsion for the remainder of the student’s school years. Law enforcement authorities may be consulted for possible criminal arrest. The State Department of Public Safety will be notified to revoke driver's license.

21. VIOLENCE Physical assault and/or battery on any person (student or persons attending school related functions) on the school grounds; off the school grounds at a school activity, function, event; or en route to and from school or a school function, activity, or event on system-supported transportation will not be allowed.Categories:

1a: Verbal abuse or intimidation1b. Verbal assault, fighting words, minor push, or other actions that promote

violence1c: Fight (physical altercation) (direct or indirect) or battery

Note: Students who refuse to retaliate in a fight will not be punished. Students who are hit by another student should report the incident to an adult. When clearly evident, as witnessed by an adult, that a student did not return punches, action taken will be left to the discretion of the administrator. Offenses involving extreme violence or threats to do bodily harm will be referred to tribunal.

22. PORNOGRAPHY/SEXUAL HARASSMENT & MISCONDUCT

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No student shall sell, distribute, or possess pornographic material; subject another student to sexual harassment or intimidation or giving the appearance of sexual misconduct, including being in areas off limits to the opposite sex; or engage in acts of sexual misconduct. All acts of sexual misconduct will be reported to the school social worker for review and possible referral to the Department of Family and Children Services (DFACS).

23. ANTI-GANG POLICYThe Board recognizes that the harm done by the presence and activities of gangs in the public schools exceeds the immediate consequences of activities such as violence and destruction of property. Gang activities also create an atmosphere of intimidation in the entire school community. Both the immediate consequences of gang activity and the secondary effects are disruptive and obstructive of the process of education and school activities. It is therefore the policy of the Board of Education that gangs and gang activities are prohibited in the Appling County Public Schools. For purposes of this policy, a “gang” is any group of two or more persons whose purposes include the commission of illegal acts, or acts in violation of disciplinary rules of the school district. “Gang related or gang-like activity” includes, but is not limited to, the prohibited conduct set forth below. No student on, about school property, or at school related activities on or off school grounds shall:

Wear, possess, use, distribute, display, or sell any clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge, symbol, sign or other items that evidences or reflects membership in or affiliation with any gang.

Engage in any act, either verbal or nonverbal, including gestures or handshakes, showing membership or affiliation with any gang.

Engage in any act in furtherance of the interests of any gang or gang activity including but not limited to:

o Soliciting membership in, or affiliation with, any gango Soliciting any person, explicitly or implicitly, with violence or with any other

illegal or prohibited acto Painting, writing, or otherwise inscribing gang-related graffiti, messages,

symbols, or signs, on school propertyo Engaging in violence, extortion, or any other illegal act or other violation of

school policyo Soliciting any person to engage in physical violence against any other

person

“Wannabees” are groups of youth not affiliated with recognized gangs but who engage in gang-like activities and/or mimic gang behavior. “Wannabees” will be dealt with as gangs under terms of this policy. In determining whether acts, conduct, or activities are gang related, school officials are encouraged to work closely with local law enforcement officials. Students who violate this policy shall be subject to the full range of school disciplinary measures, including expulsion up to one calendar year, in addition to applicable civil and criminal penalties.

24. WEAPONS – GA. Code Section 16-11-127.1 Knife, Other, Handgun, Rifle

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Students cannot supply; possess, handle, use or transmit a knife or other objects that can be considered a weapon on the school grounds; off the school grounds at a school activity or event on system-supported transportation. "Weapon" means and includes any pistol, revolver, or any weapon designed or intended to propel a missile of any kind, or any dirk, bowie knife, switchblade knife, ballistic knife, any other knife having a blade of two or more inches, straight-edge razor, razor blade, spring stick, metal knucks, blackjack, any bat, club, or other bludgeon-type weapon, or any flailing instrument consisting of two or more rigid parts connected in such a manner as to allow them to swing freely, which may be known as a nun chahka, nun chuck, nun chaku, shuriken, or fighting chain, or any disc, of whatever configuration, having at least two points or pointed blades which is designed to be thrown or propelled and which may be known as a throwing star or oriental dart, or any weapon of like kind, and any stun gun or taser as defined in subsection (a) of Code Section 16-11-106. This paragraph excludes any of these instruments used for classroom work authorized by the teacher.

25. ALCOHOL AND DRUGSA student shall not possess, sell, use, transport, or be under the influence of any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, cocaine, marijuana, controlled substance, alcoholic beverage, anabolic steroids, or intoxicant of any kind

1. At school or on school property at anytime;2. Off the school grounds at a school sponsored activity, function, or event;3. During school transportation.

A student shall not attend school or any school event after having consumed any quantity of alcohol or other illegal substance. Use may be detected by observation, odor, or other means. A student known to be under the influence of such substances at school or school event may be suspended. Students in possession of drug related paraphernalia including but not limited to cigarette papers, pipes, bongs, and scales shall be handled at administrative discretion according to type of contraband.The school is available to assist students who use drugs or abuse alcohol by counseling, drug abuse education, and/or cooperation with other appropriate health care providers.Note: Use of a drug authorized by a medical prescription from a registered physician in the amount prescribed by the physician shall not be considered a violation of this regulation provided the medication is in its original container and given to the nurse when the student arrives on campus. Inappropriate possession or use of substances that look like or promoted as illegal drugs is a violation of this rule. Punishment for misuse of prescription and over the counter drugs will be based on the severity of the offense and at the administrator's discretion. Students needing to carry prescribed asthma medication must notify the school nurse. 26. TOBACCOStudents enrolled in Appling County Schools shall not possess, transmit, or use tobacco (or any paraphernalia such as lighters, matches, etc.) in any form on any school grounds during, before, or after school hours; or on any school grounds being used by any school group; en route to and from school while on system-supported transportation; off the school grounds while in attendance at any school function; or while otherwise subject to jurisdiction of school authorities.

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Other inappropriate items include but are not limited to; roller blades and skates, skateboards, shoes with hidden skates, scooters. These items are also not allowed on school buses. The item will be confiscated and returned to the parent/guardian upon request. Confiscated items not claimed at the end of the year will be disposed.

27. DESTRUCTION /THEFT FRAUD/ROBBERY BY INTIMIDATIONTheft of property, fraud or attempt to defraud by deception, willful and/or malicious destruction of, and /or threat to destroy, school property; willful vandalism including marking, defacing, or destroying public or private property while student is on campus and/or under school supervision; destruction or vandalism of any property belonging to any school personnel or any person legitimately at school will not be tolerated.Students are responsible for the security of their personal belongings and school property that has been issued to them. In cases of theft or loss, the administration will attempt to resolve the matter; however, students must be aware that the recovery rate is low. Students are asked to leave large sums of money at home and never leave money or other valuables unattended in cubbies, classrooms, etc.Students who tamper with technology/computers owned by the Appling County Board of Education will be in violation of this rule. This type of destruction would include loading viruses, unauthorized programs, or any other kind of alterations that interfere with the learning function of the school-owned property.

APPLING COUNTY K-5 PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES

When it is necessary to impose discipline, school administrators and teachers will follow a progressive discipline process. The degree of discipline to be imposed by each school official will be in proportion to the severity of the behavior of a particular student and will take into account the student’s discipline history, the age of the student and other relevant factors.

The Code of Conduct provides a systematic process of behavioral correction in which inappropriate behaviors are followed by consequences. Disciplinary actions are designed to teach students self-discipline and to help them substitute inappropriate behaviors with those that are consistent with the character traits from Georgia’s Character Education Program.

The following disciplinary actions may be imposed for any violation of this Code of Conduct based upon the level of the offense:

Level ILevel I discipline is used for minor acts of misconduct which interfere with orderly school procedures, school functions, extracurricular programs, approved transportation, or a student’s own learning process. Students may be disciplined by the professional staff member involved.

Professional staff members may utilize any of the discipline management techniques appropriate for the situation, including, but not limited to, the following:1. Classroom isolation from peers2. Loss of recess or other free choice time

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3. Isolation during lunch4. Development of a written or graphic representation that reflects understanding of the

specific misbehavior, the nature of the expected behavior, and the related character trait(s)

5. Conference with parent/guardian and teacher with and/or without the student6. Corporal punishment according to policy JDA 7. Any other disciplinary technique that positively promotes the student code of conduct

and desired character trait(s) that is approved by the building administrator.

Level IILevel II discipline offenses are intermediate acts of misconduct that require administrative intervention. These acts include, but are not limited to, repeated, unrelated acts of minor misconduct and misbehaviors directed against persons or property, but which do not seriously endanger the health, safety, or well being of others. Consideration of necessary behavior support services should be given, if not already provided.

Students guilty of a Level II offense may receive any of the discipline management techniques appropriate for the situation as determined by the administrator or designee, including, but not limited to the following:

1. Conference with parent/guardian, teacher, administrator and/or student to address misbehaviors.

2. The following consequences may be used to address misbehaviors: Restriction from programs and special events Assignment to lunchtime detention Referral to counselor or other service provider Corporal punishment according to policy JDA Partial or full day home time out (HTO) Partial or full day in-school suspension (ISS), if available Suspension from school (OSS) for up to three school days, which shall include

any time during which the student was subject to suspension pending investigation

Participation in the cleaning/repair of any damage caused to the school-related environment

Financial restitution for the repair of any damage caused to the school-related environment

Development of a written or graphic representation that reflects understanding of the specific misbehavior, the nature of the expected behavior, and the related character trait(s)

Participation in a school service project which enables the student to be engaged in the desired character trait(s)

Any other disciplinary technique that positively promotes the student code of conduct and desired character trait(s).

Level III

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Level III discipline offenses are serious acts of misconduct including, but not limited to, repeated misbehavior that is similar in nature, serious disruptions of the school environment, threats to health, safety, or property, and other acts of serious misconduct. These offenses must be reported to the administrator. Offenses include those that threaten the health, safety, or well-being of others. These violations are so serious that they may require use of outside agencies and/or law enforcement. Such acts may also result in criminal penalties being imposed. Student and parent/guardian participation in a conference with administration is a required element of all discipline actions in this category, even if such a conference has previously occurred. Initiation of necessary behavior support services should be given, if not already provided.

Students guilty of a Level III offense may receive any of the discipline management techniques appropriate for the situation as determined by the principal or designee, including, but not limited to, the following:

1. Restriction from programs and special events2. Full day in-school suspension (ISS) for up to ten school days, if available3. Suspension from school for up to five school days, which shall include any time

during which the students was subject to suspension pending investigation4. Participation in the cleaning/repair of any damage caused to the school-related

environment5. Financial restitution for the repair of any damage caused to the school-related

environment6. Development of a written or graphic representation that reflects understanding of the

specific misbehavior, the nature of the expected behavior, and the related character trait(s)

7. Participation in a school-service project which enables the student to be engaged in the desired character trait(s)

8. Any other disciplinary technique that positively promotes the student code of conduct and desired character trait(s)

9. Referral to outside agencies or law enforcement10.Expulsion as allowed under local board policy.

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT (PADDLING)

In compliance with the policy of the Appling County Board of Education and the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, Appling County Schools use corporal punishment as a secondary punishment. As such, the intent is not to use corporal punishment unless other means of discipline are used and are unsuccessful. Other means of discipline may be something as simple as eye contact, proximity control, a verbal warning, or other attempts to modify the child’s behavior.

Corporal punishment, when used, will be in the presence of a witness who has been advised of the violation that occurred. The witness will be the principal or a certified teacher. The child is given an opportunity to express him/herself relative to the disciplinary infraction prior to the paddling. Parents are advised of paddling through the student taking the discipline form home or through mailing the form to the address on

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file in the office. Parents are invited to discuss concerns with the principal. Parents may exempt the paddling option by submitting a written request to the principal.

SECLUSION AND RESTRAINT FOR ALL STUDENTS (O.C.G.A. §20-2-240)

(1) DEFINITIONS (a) Chemical restraint - any medication that is used to control behavior or restrict the student’s freedom of movement that is not a prescribed treatment for the student's medical or psychiatric condition. Use of chemical restraint is prohibited in Georgia public schools and educational programs.(b) Mechanical restraint - the use of any device or material attached to or adjacent to a student’s body that is intended to restrict the normal freedom of movement and which cannot be easily removed by the student. The term does not include an adaptive or protective device recommended by a physician or therapist when used as recommended by the physician or therapist to promote normative body positioning and physical functioning, and/or to prevent self injurious behavior. The term also does not include seatbelts and other safety equipment when used to secure students during transportation. Use of Mechanical restraint is prohibited in Georgia public schools and educational programs.(c) Physical restraint - direct physical contact from an adult that prevents or significantly restricts a student’s movement. The term physical restraint does not include prone restraint, mechanical restraint, or chemical restraint. Additionally, physical restraint does not include: providing limited physical contact and/or redirection to promote student safety, providing physical guidance or prompting when teaching a skill, redirecting attention, providing guidance to a location, or providing comfort.(d) Prone restraint - a specific type of restraint in which a student is intentionally placed face down on the floor or another surface, and physical pressure is applied to the student’s body to keep the student in the prone position. Use of prone restraint is prohibited in Georgia public schools and educational programs.(e) Seclusion - a procedure that isolates and confines the student in a separate area until he or she is no longer an immediate danger to himself/herself or others. The seclusion occurs in a specifically constructed or designated room or space that is physically isolated from common areas and from which the student is physically prevented from leaving. Seclusion may also be referred to as monitored seclusion, seclusion timeout, or isolated timeout. Seclusion does not include situations in which a staff member trained in the use of de-escalation techniques or restraint is physically present in the same unlocked room as the student, time-out as defined in paragraph (1)(g) of this rule, in-school suspension, detention, or a student-requested break in a different location in the room or in a separate room. Use of seclusion is prohibited in Georgia public schools and educational programs. (g) Time-out – a behavioral intervention in which the student is temporarily removed from the learning activity but in which the student is not confined.

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Parent Notification The student’s copy of his/her Discipline Report will be considered sufficient parental notification. Disciplinary actions involving Home-Time-Out or Out- of-School Suspension will also include parent notification by phone and/or mail.

(2) REQUIREMENTS(a) The use of seclusion is prohibited in Georgia public schools and educational programs. (b) The use of prone restraint is prohibited in Georgia public schools and educational programs. (c) The use of mechanical restraint is prohibited in Georgia public schools and educational programs. (d) The use of chemical restraint is prohibited in Georgia public schools and educational programs. (e) The use of physical restraint is prohibited in Georgia public schools and educational programs except in those situations in which the student is an immediate danger to himself or others and the student is not responsive to less intensive behavioral interventions including verbal directives or other de-escalation techniques. 1. Notwithstanding the foregoing, physical restraint is prohibited in Georgia public schools and educational programs: (i) as a form of discipline or punishment, (ii) when the student cannot be safely restrained, and (iii) when the use of the intervention would be contraindicated due to the student’s psychiatric, medical, or physical conditions as described in the student’s educational records. (f) All physical restraint must be immediately terminated when the student is no longer an immediate danger to himself or others or if the student is observed to be in severe distress. (g) Schools and programs that use physical restraint in accordance with paragraph (2)(e) of this rule must develop and implement written policies to govern the use of physical restraint. Parents must be provided information regarding the school or 3 program’s policies governing the use of physical restraint. The written policies must include the following provisions: 1. Staff and faculty training on the use of physical restraint and the school or programs policy and procedures, 2. Written parental notification when physical restraint is used to restrain their student within a reasonable time not to exceed one school day from the use of restraint, 3.Procedures for observing and monitoring the use of physical restraint. 4. The use of physical restraint to be documented by staff or faculty participating in or supervising the restraint for each student in each instance in which the student is restrained. 5. Procedures for the periodic review of the use of restraint and the documentation described in paragraph (2)(g)(4). (h) Schools and programs that use physical restraints in accordance with paragraph (2)(e) of this rule, must ensure that staff and faculty are trained in the use of physical restraint. This training shall be provided as a part of a program which addresses a full continuum of positive behavioral intervention strategies as well as prevention and de-escalation techniques. Schools and programs must maintain written or electronic documentation on training provided and the list of participants in each training. Records of such training must be made available to the Georgia Department of Education or any member of the public upon request. (i) Nothing in this rule shall be construed to interfere with a school system, school or program, or school or program employee’s authority to utilize time-out as defined in paragraph (1)(g) of this rule or any other classroom management technique or approach, including a student’s removal from the classroom, that is not specifically addressed in this rule. (j) Nothing in this rule shall be construed to prohibit a school system, school, or program employee from taking appropriate action to diffuse a student fight or altercation. (k) Nothing in this rule shall be construed to eliminate or restrict the ability of an employee of a school system, school or program to use his or her discretion in the use of physical restraint to protect students or others from imminent harm or bodily injury. Nothing in this rule shall be construed to impose ministerial duties on individual employees of a school system, school or program when acting to protect students or others from imminent harm or bodily injury.4 (l) In some instances in which a student is an immediate danger to himself or herself or others, the school or program must determine when it becomes necessary to seek2013 - 2014 Page 36

assistance from law enforcement and/or emergency medical personnel. Nothing in these rules shall be construed to interfere with the duties of law enforcement or emergency medical personnel. 1. Parents must be immediately informed when students are removed from the school or program setting by emergency medical or law enforcement personnel.

CHILD FINDThe Appling County School System is committed and obligated to identify, locate, and evaluate all children, birth thru twenty-one suspected of having disabilities and in need of special education services. These services are eligible to all children including Migrant, Homeless, and incarcerated children. If you suspect a child may have a disability and need services, please contact your school counselor or the Special Education Director.

GEORGIA SPECIAL NEEDS SCHOLARSHIPUnder a state law (Senate Bill 10) passed in 2007, parents of students with disabilities have options to exercise public and private school choice. If a parent chooses another public system (and the system accepts), the parent is responsible for transportation. In addition, parents may request a transfer to a private school and may be entitled to funding to offset tuition costs. To find out more about school choice, please contact your System Special Education Director or go to the Georgia Department of Education website.

SECTION 504 PROCEDURAL SAFEGUARDS

1. Overview: Any student or parent or guardian (“grievant”) may request an impartial hearing due to the school system’s actions or inactions regarding your child's identification, evaluation, or educational placement under Section 504. Requests for an impartial hearing must be in writing to the school system’s Section 504 Coordinator; however, a grievant’s failure to request a hearing in writing does not alleviate the school system’s obligation to provide an impartial hearing if the grievant orally requests an impartial hearing through the school system’s Section 504 Coordinator. The school system’s Section 504 Coordinator will assist the grievant in completing the written Request for Hearing.

2. Hearing Request: The Request for the Hearing must include the following: a. The name of the student.

b. The address of the residence of the student.c. The name of the school the student is attending.d. The decision that is the subject of the hearing.e. The requested reasons for review.f. The proposed remedy sought by the grievant. g. The name and contact information of the grievant.

Within 10 business days from receiving the grievant’s Request for Hearing, the Section 504 Coordinator will acknowledge the Request for Hearing in writing and schedule a time and place for a hearing. If the written Request for Hearing does not

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contain the necessary information noted above, the Section 504 Coordinator will inform the grievant of the specific information needed to complete the request. All timelines and processes will be stayed until the Request for Hearing contains the necessary information noted above.

3. Mediation: The school system may offer mediation to resolve the issues detailed by the grievant in his or her Request for Hearing. Mediation is voluntary and both the grievant and school system must agree to participate. The grievant may terminate the mediation at any time. If the mediation is terminated without an agreement, the school system will follow the procedures for conducting an impartial hearing without an additional Request for Hearing.

4. Hearing Procedures: a. The Section 504 Coordinator will obtain an impartial review official who will

conduct a hearing within 45 calendar days from the receipt of the grievant’s Request for Hearing unless agreed to otherwise by the grievant or a continuance is granted by the impartial review official. This official will not be an employee of the District and will have knowledge of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

b. Upon a showing of good cause by the grievant or school system, the impartial review official, at his or her discretion, may grant a continuance and set .a new hearing date. The request for a continuance must be in writing and copied to the other party.

c. The grievant will have an opportunity to examine the child’s educational records prior to the hearing.

d. The grievant will have the opportunity to be represented by legal counsel at his or her own expense at the hearing and participate, speak, examine witnesses, and present information at the hearing. If the grievant is to be represented by legal counsel at the hearing, he or she must inform the Section 504 Coordinator of that fact in writing at least 10 calendar days prior to the hearing. Failure to notify the Section 504 Coordinator in writing of representation by legal counsel shall constitute good cause for continuance of the hearing.

e. The grievant will have the burden of proving any claims he or she may assert. When warranted by circumstances or law, the impartial hearing officer may require the recipient to defend its position/decision regarding the claims (i.e. A recipient shall place a disabled student in the regular educational environment operated by the recipient unless it is demonstrated by the recipient that the education of the person in the regular environment with the use of supplementary aids and services cannot be achieved satisfactorily. 34 C.F.R.§104.34). One or more representatives of the school system, who may be an attorney, will attend the hearing to present the evidence and witnesses, respond to the grievant testimony and answer questions posed by the review official.

f. The impartial review official shall not have the power to subpoena witnesses, and the strict rules of evidence shall not apply to hearings. The impartial review official shall have the authority to issue pre-hearing instructions, which may include requiring the parties to exchange documents and names of witnesses to be present.

g. The impartial review official shall determine the weight to be given any evidence based on its reliability and probative value.

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h. The hearing shall be closed to the public.

Notice of Rights of Students and Parents Under Section 504 Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, commonly referred to as "Section 504," is a nondiscrimination statute enacted by the United States Congress. The purpose of Section 504 is to prohibit discrimination and to assure that disabled students have educational opportunities and benefits equal to those provided to non-disabled students. For more information regarding Section 504, or if you have questions or need additional assistance, please contact your local system’s Section 504 Coordinator at the following address:

System 504Coordinator

Address Phone Number

Email

Patrice Nelson 249 Blackshear Hwy.Baxley, GA 31513

912-367-8600

patrice.nelson@appling.k12.ga.us

School 504 Coordinator

Address Phone Number

Email

Altamaha ElementaryPatsy Johnson

344 Altamaha School Rd.Baxley, GA 31513

912-367-3713 Ext. 244

patsy.johnson@appling.k12.ga.us

Appling County ElementaryMelody Lewis

680 Blackshear Hwy.Baxley, GA 31513

912-367-8640 Ext. 617

melody.lewis@appling.k12.ga.us

Appling County HighSimikia Wright

482 Blackshear Hwy.Baxley, GA 31513

912-367-8610 Ext. 435

simikia.wright@appling.k12.ga.us

Appling County MiddleErin Thomas

2997 Blackshear Hwy.Baxley, GA 31513

912-367-8630 Ext. 530

erin.thomas@appling.k12.ga.us

Appling County PrimaryKandiss Taylor

678 Blackshear Hwy.Baxley, GA 31513

912-367-8642 Ext. 777

kandiss.taylor@appling.k12.ga.us

Fourth District ElementaryErin Thomas

13396 Blackshear Hwy.Surrency, GA 31563

912-367-3250 Ext. 370

erin.thomas@appling.k12.ga.us

The implementing regulations for Section 504 as set out in 34 CFR Part 104 provide parents and/ or students with the following rights:1. Your child has the right to an appropriate education designed to meet his or her

individual educational needs as adequately as the needs of non-disabled students. 34 CFR 104.33.

2. Your child has the right to free educational services except for those fees that are imposed on non-disabled students or their parents. Insurers and similar third parties who provide services not operated by or provided by the recipient are not relieved from an otherwise valid obligation to provide or pay for services provided to a disabled student. 34 CFR 104.33.

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3. Your child has a right to participate in an educational setting (academic and nonacademic) with non-disabled students to the maximum extent appropriate to his or her needs. 34 CFR 104.34.

4. Your child has a right to facilities, services, and activities that are comparable to those provided for non-disabled students. 34 CFR 104.34.

5. Your child has a right to an evaluation prior to a Section 504 determination of eligibility. 34 CFR 104.35.

6. You have the right to not consent to the school system’s request to evaluate your child. 34 CFR 104.35.

7. You have the right to ensure that evaluation procedures, which may include testing, conform to the requirements of 34 CFR 104.35.

8. You have the right to ensure that the school system will consider information from a variety of sources as appropriate, which may include aptitude and achievement tests, grades, teacher recommendations and observations, physical conditions, social or cultural background, medical records, and parental recommendations. 34 CFR 104.35.

9. You have the right to ensure that placement decisions are made by a group of persons, including persons knowledgeable about your child, the meaning of the evaluation data, the placement options, and the legal requirements for least restrictive environment and comparable facilities. 34 CFR 104.35.

10. If your child is eligible under Section 504, your child has a right to periodic reevaluations, including prior to any subsequent significant change of placement. 34 CFR 104.35.

11.You have the right to notice prior to any actions by the school system regarding the identification, evaluation, or placement of your child. 34 CFR 104.36.

12. You have the right to examine your child’s educational records. 34 CFR 104.36. 13.You have the right to an impartial hearing with respect to the school system’s actions

regarding your child's identification, evaluation, or educational placement, with opportunity for parental participation in the hearing and representation by an attorney. 34 CFR 104.36.

14.You have the right to receive a copy of this notice and a copy of the school system’s impartial hearing procedure upon request. 34 CFR 104.36.

15. If you disagree with the decision of the impartial hearing officer (school board members and other district employees are not considered impartial hearing officers), you have a right to a review of that decision according to the school system’s impartial hearing procedure. 34 CFR 104.36.

16.You have the right to, at any time, file a complaint with the United States Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights.

Matricula Escolar en virtud del artículo 504 de la Ley de Rehabilitación de 1973Cualquier estudiante, padre de familia o tutor (“agraviado”) puede solicitar una audiencia imparcial debido a las acciones u omisiones del sistema escolar respecto a la identificación, evaluación o colocación educativa bajo la Sección 504. Las solicitudes para una audiencia imparcial debe ser por escrito para la sección del sistema escolar Coordinador 504, sin embargo, falta del demandante para solicitar una audiencia no alivia la obligación del sistema escolar para ofrecer una audiencia imparcial si el agraviado verbalmente solicita una audiencia imparcial con el/la coordinador(a) a través de la Sección del sistema escolar 504. El/la coordinadora de la Sección 504 del sistema escolar, con la asistencia de un intérprete bilingüe, ayudara al agraviado en la 2013 - 2014 Page 40

realización de la solicitud por escrito para una audiencia. El/ Coordinador(a) de la Sección 504 puede ser contactado a través de la oficina central del sistema escolar. Una copia en español de las Garantías de Procedimiento y Notificación de Derechos de los Estudiantes y Padres bajo la Sección 504, se puede encontrar en la página de web del sistema en www.appling.k12.ga.us bajo la sección 504 (en la sección de Servicios del Estudiante) o se pueden recoger en la oficina central o en cualquiera de las oficinas de las escuelas. El/la Coordinador(a) de la Sección 504 de sistema escolar es la siguiente:Patrice H. Nelson, patrice.nelson@appling.k12.ga.us249 Blackshear Hwy., Baxley, GA 31513Teléfono: 912-367-8600 Ext. 164, Fax: 912-367-1011

INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE Descriptor: IFBG1. Acceptable use  - The purpose of the Internet is to support research and education in

and among academic institutions in the U. S. by providing access to unique resources and the opportunity for collaborative work. Internet use must be in support of educational endeavors and research consistent with the objectives of the Appling County School System.

2.  Privileges- The use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in cancellation of those privileges. Students will have access privileges only at school under the supervision of a teacher. The system administrators will deem what is inappropriate use and their decision is final. There is no appeal process. Also, the system administrators may deny access at any time, as required. An administrator, faculty member or staff member of the Appling County System may request denial, revocation, or suspension of a specific user.

3.  Guidelines for Use- The following guidelines shall be observed when using the Internet service through the school:These guidelines apply to all faculty, staff, and students.

Users shall be polite, courteous and respectful during all sessions on the Internet, including use of e-mail. Users must use appropriate language. Cyber bullying will not be tolerated.

Profanity, obscenity, vulgarity or other illegal activity is strictly prohibited. Transmission of any material in violation of any federal or state regulation is

prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, copyrighted material, threatening or obscene materials, inappropriate adult sites, or material protected by trade use.

Electronic mail (e-mail) and telecommunications are not to be utilized to share unauthorized confidential information about students and other employees.

Electronic Mail is NOT private, and inappropriate or illegal messages will be reported to the authorities.

The unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal information such as mailing address, phone number, or social security number, etc. are prohibited.

Use of the Internet for commercial activities, product advertisement or political lobbying is prohibited.

Attempts to obtain access to restricted sites, servers, files, and databases are prohibited.      

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Use of the network which causes disruption to others is prohibited. All communications and information accessible via the Internet should be

assumed to be subject to copyright law. When accessing information off-campus, all guidelines contained within the

Acceptable Use Policy still apply.4. Warranties - The Appling County School System makes no warranties of any kind,

whether expressed or implied, for the Internet service it provides. The school system is not responsible for any damages suffered by users. This includes the loss of data resulting from delays, nondeliveries, misdeliveries, or service interruptions caused for any reason. Use of information obtained is at the user's risk. The school system specifically denies responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through its Internet service.

5. Accountability - All users are fully responsible for their own actions, including legal, financial, or otherwise. Teachers cannot assume the responsibility for monitoring every document to which a student may gain access. Therefore, teachers are not to be held accountable for what the student may access through the Internet beyond instructional directives. All users must also abide by the terms and conditions in the Appling County Acceptable Use Policy. Any violation of this policy may be unethical, a breach in the Code of Ethics for Educators, and may constitute a criminal offense.

6. Security - Security on any computer system is a high priority, especially when the system involves many users. If you suspect a security problem on the school network or Internet, you are required to notify the principal or system administrator. 

Do not demonstrate the problem to other users.  Never use another individual's account.  Attempts to log on to the Internet as a network administrator will result in

cancellation of user privileges.  Any user(s) identified as a security risk or having a history or problems with

other computer systems may be denied access to the school network or Internet.

7. Vandalism -Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy computerized data of another user, on the Internet, or on other networks that are connected to any other network. This includes, but is not limited to, to uploading or creation of computer viruses. Vandalism will result in immediate disciplinary action.

8. Enforcement - Violating any of the guidelines may result in access privileges being revoked, disciplinary action being taken and/or appropriate legal action being initiated.

9. Permission for Use – The school system shall have in operation procedures or guidelines concerning online activities of students, developed by the Superintendent, administrators, and/or other appropriate personnel.  Such guidelines or procedures shall be designed to provide for students age-appropriate instruction regarding safe and appropriate online behavior, including interacting with others on social networking sites and in chat rooms; behaviors that may constitute cyber bullying; and how to respond when subjected to cyber bullying.  Any computer that provides access to the Internet will have filtering software installed to block or filter access to content that is obscene, pornographic, or harmful to minors on Internet-connected computers used by minors.

Users will be required to obtain permission from a teacher before using the Internet. 

All student users and their parents/guardians will be required to review the Appling County Acceptable Use Policy and school handbook prior to use. 

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Those that do not agree with the procedures and/or guidelines and choose not to allow their child/ren to use technology in the Appling County School System must submit a signed letter of non-agreement to the school media specialist.

Appling County School System“Bring You Own Technology” (BYOT)

Protocol for B ring Y our O wn T echnology on Appling County School System Campuses

As new technologies continue to change the world in which we live, they also provide many new and positive educational benefits for classroom instruction. To encourage this growth, students in select classes may now bring their own technology. Definition of “Technology”

For purposes of BYOT, “Technology” means a privately owned wireless and/or portable electronic hand held equipment that includes, but is not limited to, existing and emerging mobile communication systems and smart technologies, portable Internet devices, Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), hand held entertainment systems or portable information technology systems that can be used for word processing, wireless Internet access, image capture/recording, sound recording and information transmitting/receiving/storing, etc.

Internet Only the Internet gateway provided by the school may be accessed while on campus. Personal Internet connective devices such as but not limited to cell phones / cell network adapters are not permitted to be used to access outside Internet sources at any time.

Security and DamagesResponsibility to keep the device secure rests with the individual owner. The Appling County School System, nor its staff or employees, is not liable for any device stolen or damaged on campus. If a device is stolen or damaged, it will be handled through the administrative office similar to other personal artifacts that are impacted in similar situations. It is recommended that skins (decals) and other custom touches are used to physically identify your device from others. Additionally, protective cases for technology are encouraged.

B.Y.O.T. Appling County Student Agreement The use of technology to provide educational material is not a necessity but a privilege. A student does not have the right to use his or her laptop, cell phone or other electronic device while at school. When abused, privileges will be taken away. When respected, they will benefit the learning environment as a whole.

Students and parents/guardians participating in B.Y.O.T. must adhere to the Student Code of Conduct, as well as all Board policies, particularly Internet Acceptable Use (Policy IFBG). Additionally, technology: Must be in silent mode while on school campuses and while riding school buses.

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May not be used to cheat on assignments or tests, or for non-instructional purposes (such as making personal phone calls and text/instant messaging).

May not be used to record, transmit or post photographic images or video of a person, or persons on campus during school activities and/or hours.

May only be used to access files on computer or Internet sites which are relevant to the classroom curriculum. Games are not permitted.

Students acknowledge that: The school's network filters will be applied to one's connection to the Internet

and attempts will not be made to bypass them. Bringing on premises or infecting the network with a Virus, Trojan, or program

designed to damage, alter, destroy, or provide access to unauthorized data or information is in violation of Policy IFBG.

Processing or accessing information on school property related to “hacking,” altering, or bypassing network security policies is in violation of policy IFBG.

The school district has the right to collect and examine any device that is suspected of causing problems or was the source of an attack or virus infection.

Access to student drives allows downloading files but not always uploading files. Files may have to be saved on the C drive of the laptop, a jump drive, an external drive, or another media device.

Printing from personal laptops will not be possible at school. Personal technology is charged prior to bringing it to school and runs off its own

battery while at school. I understand and will abide by the above protocol. I further understand that any violation is unethical and may result in the loss of my network and/or technology privileges as well as other disciplinary action. Signing the acknowledgement form for student handbook will verify parent/guardian understanding of this protocol.

Board Policy IFBGE (Internet Safety)It is the policy of Appling County Schools to:

a) prevent user access over its computer network to, or transmission of, inappropriate material via Internet, electronic mail, or other forms of direct electronic communications;

b) prevent unauthorized access and other unlawful online activity;c) prevent unauthorized online disclosure, use, or dissemination of personal

identification information of minors; andd) comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act [Pub. L. No. 106-554

and 47 USC 254(h)].

DefinitionsKey terms are as defined in the Children’s Internet Protection Act.

Access to Inappropriate MaterialTo the extent practical, technology protection measures (or “Internet filters”) shall be used to block or filter Internet, or other forms of electronic communications, access to inappropriate information.

Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, blocking shall be applied to visual depictions of material deemed obscene or child pornography, or to any material deemed harmful to minors.

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Subject to staff supervision, technology protection measures may be disabled or, in the case of minors, minimized only for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.

Inappropriate Network UsageTo the extent practical, steps shall be taken to promote the safety and security of users of the Appling County Schools online computer network when using electronic mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, and other forms of direct electronic communications. Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, prevention of inappropriate network usage includes:

(a) unauthorized access, including so-called ‘hacking,’ and other unlawful activities; and

(b) unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors.

Supervision and MonitoringIt shall be the responsibility of all members of the Appling County Schools staff to supervise and monitor usage of the online computer network and access to the Internet in accordance with this policy and the Children’s Internet Protection Act. As required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, Appling County Schools will educate minors about appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other individuals on social networking websites and in chat rooms and cyberbullying awareness and response.

As required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, Appling County Schools will monitor the online behavior of students, including interacting with other individuals on social networking websites and in chat rooms and cyberbullying awareness and response. Procedures for the disabling or otherwise modifying any technology protection measures shall be the responsibility of the Chief Technology and Information Officer or designated representatives.

CIPA Definition of Terms:TECHNOLOGY PROTECTION MEASURE. The term "technology protection measure'' means a specific technology that blocks or filters Internet access to visual depictions that are:

1. OBSCENE, as that term is defined in section 1460 of title 18, United States Code;

        2. CHILD PORNOGRAPHY, as that term is defined in section 2256 of title 18,                United States Code; or

3. Harmful to minors.

HARMFUL TO MINORS. The term "harmful to minors'' means any picture, image, graphic image file, or other visual depiction that:

1. Taken as a whole and with respect to minors, appeals to a prurient interest in nudity, sex, or excretion;

2. Depicts, describes, or represents, in a patently offensive way with respect to what is suitable for minors, an actual or simulated sexual act or sexual contact, actual or simulated normal or perverted sexual acts, or a lewd exhibition of the genitals; and

3. Taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value as to minors.

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SEXUAL ACT; SEXUAL CONTACT. The terms "sexual act'' and "sexual contact'' have the meanings given such terms in section 2246 of title 18, United States Code.

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