Information

Code of Student Conduct

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY .................................................................................

ANNOUNCEMENTS .........................................................................................

ATTENDANCE ...................................................................................................

ATYP ...................................................................................................................

BICYCLES ..........................................................................................................

BUILDING OPENING AND CLOSING ............................................................

BUILDINGS, EQUIPMENT, AND BUSES .........................................................

BULLYING ..........................................................................................................

CLOSED CAMPUS .............................................................................................

CORRIDOR CONDUCT .....................................................................................

ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICES-STUDENTS ...........................

FAMILY RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT ............................................................

FIRE AND DISASTER DRILLS ..........................................................................

GRADING ............................................................................................................

HOMEROOM ......................................................................................................

LOCKERS .............................................................................................................

LOST AND FOUND ............................................................................................

LUNCH - FREE AND REDUCED .......................................................................

LUNCH .................................................................................................................

NON-DISCRIMINATION ...................................................................................

PROPERTY ...........................................................................................................

SALES IN SCHOOL ............................................................................................

SCHOOL RECORDS ...........................................................................................

SORORITY, FRATERNITY, OR SECRET SOCIETY .........................................

STUDENT INTERNS ............................................................................................

STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES ..................................................

TELEPHONE ..........................................................................................................

TEXTBOOKS AND OTHER SCHOOL MATERIALS .........................................

VISITORS ..............................................................................................................

WALKING TO SCHOOL .....................................................................................

II. SCHOOL FACILITIES AND SERVICES

CAFETERIA ..........................................................................................................

COUNSELING AND GUIDANCE SERVICES ....................................................

HEALTH ROOM ...................................................................................................

MEDIA CENTER ...................................................................................................

MEDICATION .......................................................................................................

POOL .....................................................................................................................

SPECIAL EDUCATION ........................................................................................

TRANSPORTATION .............................................................................................

WORK PERMITS ...................................................................................................

III. STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

MIDDLE SCHOOL LEVEL SUMMARY ............................................................

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES ..................................................................

CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT,
DISCIPLINE RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES .............................................

DISCIPLINE FOR STUDENT MISCONDUCT ..................................................

DISCIPLINARY APPEAL PROCESS .................................................................

DEFINITION OF TERMS ....................................................................................

ZERO TOLERANCE ............................................................................................

WEAPON FREE SCHOOL ZONE,
ARSON, CRIMINAL SEXUAL CONDUCT .......................................................

MATTERS RELATED TO PERSONAL CONDUCT ..........................................

MATTERS RELATED TO CRIMINAL ACTS ....................................................

CIVIL RIGHTS LEGISLATION ..........................................................................

CONCLUSION ...................................................................................................

IV. TECHNOLOGY

COMPUTER USAGE,
INTERNET ACCESS & ACCEPTABLE USE AGREEMENT ...........................

40 DEVELOPMENTAL ASSETS .......................................................................

GENERAL INFORMATION

ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY

Policy 5020 Revised 6/04

Student participation in co/extracurricular activities plays an important part in the development of self-concept, social skills and citizenship. The intent of the academic eligibility policy is to encourage academics success as well as these aspects of social growth.

At the middle school level, it is expected that students maintain passing grades. If a student fails to improve his/her grade to passing within a week, he/she becomes ineligible for a minimum of one week. Eligibility begins on Mondays and runs through the following Sunday. A student who is failing two (2) or more classes is ineligible.

A student may be excluded from participation in co/extracurricular activities at any time and for any duration deemed appropriate, based upon a building administrator's discretion, if improvement is not demonstrated by the student within a reasonable amount of time.

ANNOUNCEMENTSAnnouncements are given over the public address system each day. Any student or teacher desiring an announcement read should fill out the announcement form in the office. All announcements require a faculty signature.

ATTENDANCE

Policy: 5020 Revised 6-04 (Excerpt)

The purpose of the Portage Public Schools is to help develop students who are prepared to begin their adult lives. Regular school attendance is basic to much of the success students attain from their programs. For each student, daily teaching, interactions of students with teachers and with other students, discussions, lectures, clarifications, explanations, audio-visuals, reports, etc., cannot be duplicated and constitute valid and crucial parts of course work.

The Michigan School Code states that it is the responsibility of parents to see that their children between the ages of six and sixteen be in regular attendance at school. The District expects that all students, regardless of age, should attend 100% of all scheduled instructional days.

Non-attendance other than approved administrative absences will be recorded on the student's permanent record ( C.A. file). Excused absences are limited to those verified by a parent or guardian. Parents are expected to excuse only those absences inclusive of personal illness, professional appointments, observances of sacred holidays, college campus visits and other personal/family emergencies.

At all grade levels, school personnel will attempt to avoid scheduling major assignments, examinations, assemblies, field trips, auditions, and parent programs on the dates of holidays of major importance to various organized faiths. At the high school level, excused absences falling on these holidays will not be charged toward the nine-day attendance restriction per semester.

Teachers are expected to maintain accurate, daily attendance records. When excessive absences occur, the school shall initiate communication with parents/guardians. If chronic attendance problems persist for a student under 16, a building administrator will contact the county attendance officer and/or juvenile authorities for further assistance.

Parent Responsibilities for Notification of Student Absence

It is the responsibility of the parents to ensure that the school is promptly notified when a student is absent. The building administrator shall communicate to parents the notification procedures to be used.

Make-Up Work

A student is expected to make up all missed assignments promptly and as determined by the teacher(s). Generally, the school will need 24 hours notice to provide students with a full set of assignments if they are to be collected by the office and sent home. The parents share responsibility to ensure that the student completes the assignments in a timely manner.

It is the student's responsibility to make arrangements with his/her teacher(s) upon the first day back in class to make up assignments missed. A student on suspension is required to make up all assignments missed, or their equivalent, as determined by each teacher. When the disciplinary action taken is related to truancy, make up privileges may be denied.

In the event of an extended illness or other circumstances that result in considerable time lost from school, a maximum of ten day (from the date of return) will be granted for completion of make-up assignments. Exceptions must be approved by a building administrator.

Tardiness

Students are expected to arrive at school and follow their full assigned class schedules on time daily. Middle and high school students are expected to be seated and ready for instruction at the scheduled start of class daily. A student will be considered tardy upon arrival in the classroom after the scheduled start of class.

 ATYP

The Academically Talented Youth Program (ATYP) is a program available to middle school students seeking a greater challenge in the areas of Mathematics and English Language Arts.

Below is a summary of what is offered to students who choose to enroll in the ATYP English program, as indicated in the Portage Public Schools Program of Studies:

"Middle school students enrolled in ATYP who pass ATYP Writing Skills II and Literature II will receive one credit in high school English Language Arts."

•  No high school credit will be awarded for completion of ATYP Writing Skills I and Literature I.

•  Upon successful completion of ATYP Writing Skills II and Literature II, students will receive one high school credit for English 9.

The documentation that students receive upon completion of their coursework through the ATYP program provides a recommendation to the high school about the level of credit students should receive. Although the ATYP English program may suit the needs of middle school students seeking a greater challenge, it is not an adequate replacement for 9th Grade Honors English offered in Portage Public Schools.

Feel free to contact a high school building administrator or counselor if you have any questions.

BICYCLES

Students who ride bikes to school should park them in the racks provided and LOCK them. No riding is allowed during the school day. Students should ride their bikes carefully to and from school observing the proper rules, including riding on the right hand side of the road. They may be ticketed by the local police for not following the proper rules of the road.

BUILDING OPENING AND CLOSING

Each school building has established opening and closing times, which are based on the length of the normal school day. Students are not permitted to be in the building at any other time and are expected to leave school grounds immediately at the end of the school day unless under the direct supervision of a staff member or other qualified adult.

BUILDINGS, EQUIPMENT AND BUSES

In cases involving "willful destruction" or damage to school property, the student or the student's parents will be assessed by the school district to recover losses.

BULLYING

Bullying is a form of violence that is repeated, intentional, and involves an imbalance of power between the people involved. Bullying can take the form of a look, gesture, word, or action. Please see page 14, "Zero Tolerance".

CLOSED CAMPUS

Middle school students are expected to remain on school property after their arrival in the morning and until dismissal at the end of the day. If they need to leave for any reason, they are required to check out with the main office.

CORRIDOR CONDUCT

Students are expected to proceed to and from classes at a pace that enables them to arrive in class on time. Students are not allowed in the halls other than during passing time without a corridor pass. Presence in a hall during class time without a pass may result in disciplinary action. Students are not permitted in the school building during after-school hours unless they are participating in a supervised activity with a coach or sponsor present. Bare or stocking feet are not permitted due to State Health Regulations.

ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICES-STUDENTS

Policy: 5390 Revised 6-04

Students may be in possession of a cellular telephone, pager/beeper, or other electronic communications device subject to the terms of this policy and the administrative rules of the District. Use of the device shall be limited to the period before classes begin in the morning and after the student's last class in the afternoon. Such devices shall not be used on school premises during instructional time, the passing time between classes, or during the student's lunch period unless such use has been approved by the building administration.

Any student in possession of a personal communication device shall have a valid Acceptable Use Form on file and follow the guidelines set forth in that document for internet usage. In addition, students using communication devices will be expected to respect the privacy of others and refrain from use that would tarnish Portage Public Schools reputation.

The administration shall promulgate rules to enforce this policy in the Student Code of Conduct.

FAMILY RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT

The Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 requires school districts to make available to parents and students the contents of student records maintained by the school.

Although the law became effective November 21, 1974, it has required little, if any, change in the Portage Public Schools where records have generally been available to parents and students for the past several years.

However, a procedure has been established and parents who are interested in examining their children's records should contact the building principal where the child attends to make arrangements for the examination. If, after examination, the parent (or student who has reached the Age of Majority) concludes that the file is in error or in anyway disagrees with the contents, they are afforded the opportunity to challenge the records. Further, a due process hearing is afforded, if desired. Those who examine the records and conclude that they would like a copy will be able to obtain one from the school at a nominal fee.

In addition to providing the student and parent the right of access, the Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 restricts the availability of a student's records to the student, the student's parents, and those staff members who are working with the student, i.e. teacher, counselor, principal.

Data that can be given from the student record without consent to persons other than those mentioned above are name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, activities and sports, dates of attendance, degrees, and awards, and institutions previously attended. Student pictures and identifying names will be printed in the school annual and school papers and given to the local news media on those occasions that warrant it. Any eligible student, or the parents of students under 18 years of age, may request in writing to the Superintendent of Schools that his or her picture or directory information not be made available to legitimate sources, nor be published in school publications. The absence of such a letter on file constitutes approval for release.

When a family moves from the Portage School District to another school district, the Portage Public Schools will forward upon request of the receiving institution, the records of the student without prior approval of the student or parent, unless a letter is on file to the contrary.

In some instances the information can be released to State and Federal agencies. However, in all other cases the parent or guardian (or student if he has attained the Age of Majority) must sign a consent form which would authorize the school to release the information.

The official administrative student records contain such information as the record of academic work completed, level of achievement, intelligence and achievement test scores, attendance date, teacher or counselor ratings, etc.

 FIRE AND DISASTER DRILLS

In order that students may know how to act quickly and without confusion in emergencies, fire and disaster drills are held at regular intervals throughout the school year. Teachers will give students instructions after school begins. These instructions must be followed carefully. All students in the building must leave during each fire drill.

GRADING

GRADING AND REPORTING
The Portage Schools have long recognized that the search for excellence is not achieved by accident, but rather through consistent recognition of the District's mission of teaching and learning. The direction of the Portage Schools is founded on the principle that all students can learn. This end can be achieved through active and responsible partnerships developed with students and parents.

Scholastic Grade Determination
The purpose of grading in the Portage Public Schools is to assess and report K-12 student academic achievement with respect to mastery of predetermined, clearly defined instructional objectives while separately assessing and reporting behavior. The professional judgment of individual teachers is essential in the evaluation process. Additionally, a common marking system has been established to provide a consistent framework for the development of a set range of grades, a procedure for determining grades and a nine-week schedule for reporting progress.

MID MARKING PERIOD REPORT CARD

At the 4 1/2-week point, a progress report is issued for each student. The teachers indicate the level of work being done at that point and any appropriate comments. The student is responsible for delivering this card to parents. Copies are on file in the Guidance Office.

REPORT CARDS

Students will receive a scholastic and citizenship grade for each class one-week after the end of each nine-week marking period.

Scholastic Grades

The scholastic grades, A, B, C, D, are passing and E denotes failure. An Incomplete (I) must be made up not later than two weeks after distribution of report cards, or it automatically becomes an "E" (failing) grade.

Citizenship Grades

The citizenship grade on the report card is based on student performance in categories - such as:

Range of Scores		Grade
1. Cooperation		5. Behavior
2. Punctuality		6. Participation
3. Preparation		7. Respect
4. Listening

 

OFFICIAL ADMINISTRATIVE (CUMULATIVE) STUDENT RECORDS Policy: 5250 Revised 6-04

A student under 18 years of age and his or her parents have the right to inspect, review and challenge any and all official records related to the student. However, when a student reaches the age of majority, he/she has the sole right of inspection and review of his/her own record, except when the student is financially dependent upon the parent or guardian (as defined in Section 152 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954,) the parent shall also have the right to inspect, review and challenge.

In the event that a student leaves the District and upon request from the receiving district, Portage Schools shall forward a copy of the student's records.

All material in each student record shall be treated as private. Such information shall be available under the following circumstances:

•  To use "in-house" by local school officials and teachers who have a legitimate educational interest in the student
•  To send to another school district or institution in which a student seeks to enroll as officially requested
•  To honor federal requests not connected with financial aid. Except as provided in Public Law 93-380, the school shall not provide information that will identify students
•  To comply with a judicial order or subpoena.
•  To deal with any health or safety emergency.

Any review of the record made by a parent and/or eligible student must be done in the presence of a school official authorized by a building administrator.

Notice of the right to access and privacy of records shall be published annually.

HOMEROOM

All students entering the middle school at the beginning of the year are assigned to a homeroom for the purpose of completing personal information forms. In some schools, students continue to meet on a regular basis throughout the year as a "homeroom" in order to receive assistance or direction from a teacher regarding school related matters, such as distribution of report cards, locker checks, etc.

LOCKERS

Lockers remain the property of the school district and students are permitted to use them without charge. At the same time, students are reminded that they are responsible for the condition of their locker (inside and out). Assigned lockers must be kept reasonably clean. The school may assess a charge when damage has occurred to a locker. Lockers are school property and subject to search at any time.

Students are to keep their lockers LOCKED at all times. Students are not to share lockers or locker combinations or keys with friends.

Locker "popping" (not using combination to open lock) is prohibited.

LOST AND FOUND

The office is the "Lost and Found" headquarters. Do not bring large sums of money to school; but if it is absolutely necessary, students should leave it in the office for safekeeping.

LUNCH - FREE AND REDUCED

Free and Reduced price meal applications are available at any school office or at the district food service office. You may apply at any time during the school year. Only one form is needed per family, regardless of how many buildings your children attend. A separate form is needed for each foster child. If your family qualified for Free or Reduced price meals in the previous year, your children will automatically receive the same benefits for the first month of the new school year. YOU MUST REAPPLY for the program each year in order to receive benefits. Benefits do not begin until the application is processed and approved, which may take up to 10 days.

Certain fees will be waived for students who have a verified Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Form on file with the Food Group office by November 1. Some examples Extra-Curricular Participation Fees (only if millage does not pass), International Baccalaureate test fees, tuition for evening class make-up credit, assistance in purchasing workbooks, and participation in class field trips. All families are encouraged to complete the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch form.

LUNCH

The school features a daily selection of entrees. Students can choose from the main selections or from a à la carte menu.

The Food Service Department tracks lunch money via a computerized system. Envelopes are provided (or you can use your own envelope) to submit payments for your student(s). Please include students' first and last name, student ID number, amount enclosed and date. This will be deposited to your child's account and can be used for breakfast, lunch, extra entrees, snacks and milk. One milk is included in the price of breakfast and lunch. Do not include money for other school functions in the lunch envelope.

Balances on account at the end of the school year will be available when students return to school the following year (including changes in grade to other school buildings). Refunds will only be provided to those students leaving the district with a balance over $5.00. Refund requests may be made to the district food service office at 323-5155. Annually, balances under $5.00 and abandoned balances will be donated to a local food charity.

Students are encouraged to prepay for meals. Prepayments of $50 per student or more will earn a 5% bonus and will be applied to the account. No charges for meals are allowed.

Please be sure that all money for meals or milk is turned in for deposit at the beginning of the day. Money is collected at the cafeteria before 10 a.m. for deposit before the lunch service begins.

Parents may view the meal purchasing history and current balance on an account through the Parent Internet Viewer for your student. The report is accessible on the reports list (Lunch Report). This report will show all purchases on the account with the amount and description of each purchase. The report is updated each night and will be current as of the previous days' purchases. If you do not have internet access, you may contact the school cafeteria to get a printout of the information.

Students are expected to be responsible and cooperative in the cafeteria. No dishes, trays, or waste paper products are to be left on/under the tables.

NON-DISCRIMINATION

The Portage Public Schools Board of Education has affirmed that ".no person shall, on the basis of gender, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity." and, therefore, encourage students to take courses based on their interest, potentials, and abilities rather than past stereotyping cast upon them due to gender.

PROPERTY - Personal

Portage Public Schools strongly discourages students from bringing expensive personal property or items of great sentimental value to school. If they are brought to school, the district cannot be held responsible for theft or damage of said items.

Students are expected to respect the property of others (students, staff and visitors.)

Mopeds, scooters, and other motorized vehicles are not to be brought to school. Skateboards are not allowed on Portage Public School property (PPS Policy #1510).

PROPERTY - School

Wrongful Removal or Malicious Destruction of School Property: Policy: 5330 Revised 6/04

The Board of Education will not tolerate the wrongful removal or malicious destruction of school property. Any individual responsible for such an act, including loss of or damage to books and materials, shall reimburse the District for the full cost of his/her actions.

The Board authorized the Superintendent to offer, at his/her discretion, a reasonable cash reward for information leading to the apprehension of any person who wrongfully removes or maliciously destroys property of the District. The Superintendent shall report any reward offer to the Board at its next regular meeting.

Any student who wrongfully removes or maliciously destroys property of the District shall reimburse the District the amount of any reward that has been authorized and paid by the Board along with the amount of actual damages or restitution. If the responsible individual fails to make such payment voluntarily, a civil action for damages may be approved by the Board.

SALES IN SCHOOL

Students are not permitted to sell any items in school (candy, gum, etc.) except as a member of an approved school group. Sales by school sponsored groups are permitted only when given prior permission by the principal.

SCHOOL RECORDS

Official records regarding any aspect of a student's enrollment in school are considered confidential material. Any student tampering with school records will be in violation of the Family Rights and Privacy Act and will be subject to both disciplinary and legal action.

SORORITY, FRATERNITY, OR SECRET SOCIETY

Under the General School Laws of the State of Michigan , #380.1316, the existence of or membership in a public school sorority, fraternity, or secret society is prohibited.

STUDENT INTERNS

The past several years Portage has had student interns from area colleges and universities. Student interns have the same responsibility and authority as a faculty member.

STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Policy: 5380 Revised 6/04

Freedom of Speech

The Board recognizes and values individuals' rights. Therefore students will be permitted to express their personal convictions in school so long as their comments or actions do not convey disrespectful, profane, vulgar, slanderous, libelous or false intent. The school and the staff reserve the right to control the time and the place where students can voice their personal convictions.

Students who wish to use public address systems must have approval of a building administrator.

Freedom to Assemble

Students will be permitted to use school facilities to gather for those functions sponsored by the school so long as proper faculty supervision is present. When students assemble for purposes that are not sponsored by the school, one or more of the organizers of such gathering must receive prior written permission from the building administrator or his/her designees. Board of Education policies and regulations that apply must be followed by those desiring the use of District facilities.

 Freedom to Publish and Distribute

Each school may designate school publications through which student opinion and news may be published. Copy containing vulgar, profane, libelous and slanderous wording or false information will not be approved by a building administrator.

Persons who wish to distribute material through means other than school publications may request permission from a building administrator of the school to do so. The building administrator's decision will be based upon factors such as content, vocabulary, and the intent of the writer. Such material must be signed by at least one person who is responsible for the contents, and may not be sold on school property except as an outgrowth of a school-sponsored activity.

Posters and other materials advertising an event or activity must be approved by a building administrator or his/her designee and placed only in approved locations.

Student Searches

Given reasonable suspicion, school authorities may search a student, backpacks, purses, coats, lockers, automobiles and other possessions. An administrator or his or her designee may seize any illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials discovered in the search. The term "unauthorized" means any item dangerous to the health or safety of students or District personnel or disruptive of the function, mission or process of the school, or any item described as unauthorized in school rules. A student's failure to permit searches and seizures as provided in this policy will be considered grounds for disciplinary action.

The District also has the right to enlist the aid of an outside agency equipped with detection equipment and/or detection canines.

TELEPHONE

Office phones are not available except in emergencies. Students are not permitted to use the phone during class periods without a pass from a teacher. Refer to Electronic Communication Devices - Students for policy on cellular phones.

TEXTBOOKS AND OTHER SCHOOL MATERIALS

Textbooks, CD's and other materials are issued by the school for student use. Some of these may be issued for long periods of time while others may be checked out overnight from classroom teachers. Students are expected to care for any school materials issued to them and to return these materials in reusable condition. Students will be expected to pay the replacement cost for materials lost or damaged. Lesser charges may also be made for items returned which show damage in excess of normal use.

VISITORS

Students are not allowed to bring visitors to school. All adults visiting the school, for any reason, are asked to check in at the main office.

WALKING TO SCHOOL

Students who walk to school are encouraged to follow good safety rules, including walking on the sidewalk or facing traffic along the shoulder of the road. Students must be off the paved roadway and walk no more than two abreast. Students should respect people's property and not cut through yards.

SCHOOL FACILITIES AND SERVICES

CAFETERIA

Students are expected to cooperate in the cafeteria by observing the following rules:

All lunches are to be eaten in the cafeteria. No food is allowed in the halls.

•  Tables should be left as neat as possible. Spillage will be cleaned up by the student(s) involved. Throw all trash in the trash barrels.

•  Smashing milk cartons, banging silverware, popping bags, throwing food or other objects, and other attention getting behavior is not permitted. Students who initiate this may expect to be sent home and lose cafeteria privileges.

•  Students are not permitted "cuts" in the lunch line.

•  Students may be assigned seats if they cannot follow the cafeteria rules.

•  Students are to buy food items that will be consumed by themselves and are not permitted to make purchases for other students.

Students who violate cafeteria rules may be required to serve as cleanup helpers, spend some time in detention, and/or lose their cafeteria privileges.

COUNSELING AND GUIDANCE SERVICES

The Guidance Office is staffed with professional educators with specialized training in counseling and related guidance services. The counselor's major concern is to address the normal developmental needs and problems of students.

Through counseling, students are helped to understand themselves in relation to their world. They learn to accept themselves, to develop personal decision-making skills and to resolve special problems. It is the aim of the counselor to help students to discover and develop their potential and to cope with everyday challenges through rational decision-making .

Meaningful information about the student is interpreted to the student, to the parents, to teachers and to others who are professionally concerned in a strictly confidential relationship and atmosphere.

Some of the duties of the counselor include: giving information concerning school offerings, occupations, and further education, helping students make the transition from one school level to another, and making referrals to specialists and community agencies for services beyond those which the school can offer.

Students may come to the Guidance Office during noon hours, or before or after school to talk to their counselors. It is necessary to have a pass from a teacher to go to the Guidance Office during class time.

HEALTH ROOM

Minimal health services are offered to students in the health room. Simple first aid treatment is given when needed. If a student becomes ill at school, the health room staff will contact parents to make arrangements to transport a student home. No student is sent home without the permission of a parent, guardian or authorized contact person.

Students are not admitted to the Health Room without a pass from the teacher unless it is an emergency situation. Students should go to their assigned class first and then obtain a pass to the Health Room.

MEDIA CENTER

The goal of the Library Media program within the school is to help students become effective, independent users of ideas and information while fostering a sense of responsibility for shared materials. The media center supports the literature and reading needs of the curriculum as well as promotes independent reading with the goal of producing lifelong readers. The media center provides a variety of materials in print and electronic formats which supplement and enrich the school curriculum. Both a professional library media specialist and a paraprofessional aide are available to assist students in locating and utilizing materials.

Students may use the media center daily before school, between classes, and after school without a pass. Students may visit the media center at other times with a teacher's permission. Most print materials may be checked out from the media center, but a library card is required. There is a $1 replacement fee for lost library cards. A due date is stamped in each book and it is the student's responsibility to know when the book is due. A fine of 10¢ per item per day is charged for overdue materials. Students with overdue materials or unpaid fines will not be allowed to check out additional materials.

MEDICATION

Regulation: 5610 Revised 4/02

1. Authorization

Authorization to the school for the administration of medication by school personnel shall be in writing and shall be signed by the parents on a form furnished by the school. In addition, authorization shall include a written statement from the prescribing doctor stating the student's name, date of prescription, name of medication, dosage and frequency taken (including the date or time when medication shall be terminated) together with any special instructions.

2. Preparation of Medicine

The medication shall be delivered to the school in such form as necessary for its administration without any further preparation. All medication shall be in a suitable container and shall bear the pharmacist's label giving the name of the medication, instructions for administration of the medication and the name and phone number of the pharmacy.

3. Administration

When the student and the medication have been properly identified, it shall be administered and recorded by a building administrator, teacher, or other school employee designated by the building administrator. All medication must be administered in the presence of an adult witness.

4. Security

All medication shall be kept under such security as the Superintendent shall determine necessary.

5. Medication Supply

It shall be the responsibility of the person authorizing the medication to provide the school with such medication as shall be from time to time required without the prior request of the school. Unless the authorization shall otherwise expressly provide, the administration of the medication shall cease at the end of thirty calendar days.

6. RecordsThe building administrator's office shall maintain a list of students needing medication during school hours including type of medication, when given, and the dosage.

7. Self Administration of Medication

Except when specifically prescribed by a physician, only students at the high school level may self administer prescription drugs. When this is brought to the attention of school personnel the parents shall be notified to confirm the appropriateness of the student's actions. A student is not permitted to provide other students with prescription drugs. To do so is a violation of the Student Code of Conduct and shall result in disciplinary action.

8. Over the Counter Medicines

Under no circumstances should school personnel provide aspirin or other patent medicines or nostrum to students.

POOL

Each middle school has a swimming pool for instructional and recreational purposes. To ensure the safety of all students, the following rules are in effect:

1.  NO ONE is permitted in the pool area unless there is a qualified guard on duty. The person in charge of the group must be in the poolroom at all times when swimmers are in the room. In case of emergency, the supervisor may send for assistance, but is instructed not to leave while others are there.

2.  A bathing suit is required - no exceptions. The wearing of swimming suits outside of the pool area is not permitted.

3.  THERE WILL BE:

•  No shoes in the shower room or pool area.

•  No smoking in locker rooms, showers, pool area, or balcony.

•  No makeup, hairpins or clips, or jewelry in the pool area.

•  No running, playing tag, pushing, dunking, or roughhousing in the pool area

•  No artificial flotation devices such as bubbles, fins, masks, snorkels, rafts, and the like during recreational swims.

•  No diving or jumping into the water in front of the diving board from the sides of the pool

•  No swimming under the diving board.

4.  Only one person is allowed on the diving board at a time.

5.  No diving is permitted in shallow water unless during an instructional situation.

6.  Starting platforms are "off limits" to recreational swimmers.

7.  All spectators must sit in the balcony.

8.  No glass objects of any type or contact lenses are permitted in the pool area.

9.  No food, drink, or gum are allowed in the pool area.

10.  Students with a communicable disease or skin infection are not allowed in the pool.

11.  Students are responsible for their valuables.

12.  Enforcement of the above rules is the lifeguard's responsibility. Failure to comply with the lifeguard's directives will result in exclusion from the pool.

SPECIAL EDUCATION

Students are enrolled in specialized programs for various disabilities or impairments when qualified according to the Michigan Special Education Rules and Regulations. Services to be provided are specified at an Individualized Educational Planning Committee meeting and generally include a combination of regular and special classes.

Students who are suspected of qualifying for such services are generally referred by the classroom teacher, principal, other professional staff members or parents. More information can be obtained by calling the school principal.

TRANSPORTATION

The Portage Public Schools provides transportation for eligible students in grades Young Fives, Kindergarten through Twelve, and to and from the Curious Kids Child Care Program. State of Michigan , Public Act 187 of 1990, the Pupil Transportation Act, a complete copy of which is available for review in the Transportation Office or from the State of Michigan ,

•  Middle and Senior High School pupils may be expected to walk up to a mile and a half (1 ½) to board a bus and up to a mile and a half (1-1/2) to school, whenever appropriate walkways and traffic signs are available.

Since school bus transportation is provided only for certain eligible students, it shall be considered a PRIVILEGE to be enjoyed only as long as the students accept responsibility for their own personal conduct and carefully follow all rules and regulations. Most school bus riders other than certain children with special needs, as designated by an IEPC, may find it necessary to walk some distance to the designated bus stop.

When appropriate, a Transportation Advisory Committee shall review special transportation requests regarding bus stops and routes, evaluate the circumstances and make a final decision. The committee shall be composed of the manager of transportation, a law enforcement representative, and a parent/community representative. Such requests must be in writing and sent to the Transportation Manager. The request should include detailed information describing the situation and the desired remedy, whenever possible. If circumstances change, special requests may be reevaluated.

Portage Public Schools is concerned about the safety and security of all students. Therefore, any changes to the scheduled transportation for a student can only be made with written authorization in advance from the parent/guardian. All change requests should be directed to your student's home school office.

Call the Transportation Department in advance to verify seating availability. Bus capacity and assignments may limit changes. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee that extra groups will have adequate seating for scout meetings, birthday parties, etc.

A handbook that outlines Portage Public Schools transportation rules and regulations will be distributed to all eligible families. The handbook outlines responsibilities of the student, the parent, the bus driver and the District.

WORK PERMITS

Work permits are required of all persons under 18 years of age in order to work. These papers are secured from the Guidance Office. YOU MUST HAVE A JOB BEFORE APPLYING FOR A WORK PERMIT. Obtain an "Offer of Employment" slip from your employer, or the office, and have the employer fill it out. The filled out "Offer of Employment" form and your birth certificate must be brought to the office, and the work permit will be made out for you.

Administration Regulation #5302
Revised 6/04

SUBJECT: CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT
Middle School Level Summary

The primary purpose of the school is teaching and learning . In order to protect each student's right to the fullest educational opportunity available in the school system, rules and regulations governing student conduct and discipline have been developed. It is the purpose of the Code of Student Conduct to outline those standards of behavior which, if violated, will lead to some form of disciplinary action -- up to and including expulsion from school.

Provisions of the Code of Student Conduct are in effect during all daily classroom and/or building programs, including all field trips, out-of-state or international trips, extra-cocurricular activities, and other activities that are school-sponsored or school-related.

One of the most important responsibilities of a Portage student is to broaden himself/herself and to develop strength of character and ongoing sound physical health. Participation in extra cocurricular activities (i.e. athletics, debate, musical programs, etc.) is a privilege that allows students additional opportunities to grow physically, socially and emotionally toward adulthood. It is expected that students attend school all day in order to participate in after-school or evening activities scheduled on that date.

The following is a list of unacceptable student behaviors and the consequences that will result for any student, regardless of age, who is under the jurisdiction of the schools. The list is offered as an example of categories of misbehavior to provide clarification for students, and it is not intended to be all-inclusive.

A student on suspension will not be able to attend his/her regular classes or participate in extra/cocurricular activities during the dates of the suspension. There is a loss of all social and athletic privileges during the dates of the suspension. (Indented and added italics)

Parents shall be notified in all cases of suspension and/or when a student exhibits a history of unacceptable conduct. Records of such involvement shall be maintained in the building administrator's office.

Participation in Extra CoCurricular Activities

The Portage Schools also recognize that the use of illegal substances is a significant health problem for many adolescents, resulting in negative effects on behavior, on learning, and on the total development of each individual. Therefore, the Portage Schools have developed additional penalties related to participation in extra-/cocurricular activities for violations related to the use of mind-altering substances such as alcohol , tobacco , and drugs which occur throughout the course of the school year, either school or personally related. These penalties are described in the section of the Code of Student Conduct entitled, "Participation in Extra-/Cocurricular Activities".

When a student is unable to conduct him/herself in an appropriate manner, disciplinary action in the form of an in school or out-of- school suspension may be taken.

If a misconduct as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct occurs during an extra cocurricular activity then the minimum discipline will be the same as that described for Mood-Altering Chemicals (outlined below) unless coaches have outlined more stringent consequences with participants and parents.

Rule for Students Participating in Extra Cocurricular Activities
in Relationship to the Use of Mood-Altering Chemicals

The Portage Public Schools recognize that the use of mood-altering substances is a significant health problem for many adolescents, resulting in negative effects on behavior, on learning, and on the total development of each individual. The use of mood-altering substances also affects extra cocurricular participation and the development of related skills. Therefore, the Portage Schools have developed specific rules and regulations relating to this area.

Rule

Regardless of the quantity, a student shall not:

Use or consume, be under the influence of, have in possession, buy, sell, or give away any controlled substance - including look alike or what is represented as a drug, or any related paraphernalia.

This expectation applies to the entire school year. It is not a violation for a student to be in possession of a controlled substance specifically prescribed for the student's personal use by his/her doctor. It is however, the responsibility of the student to notify his or her coach that (s)he is taking such a medication

. EXTRA COCURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AFFECTED BY THE RULE

These are divided into two categories:

Category I = All activities which are part of the interscholastic Athletic program.

Category II = Academic activities and public performances (debate, band, choir, orchestra, clubs, etc.)

Consequences for Infractions of the Rule

Category I: Interscholastic Athletics

First Violation

The student shall lose eligibility for participation in 20% of that area's originally scheduled contests or 20% of the season, whichever is greater. The exclusion shall be consecutive, starting with the first scheduled event. The student must also meet with the School Counselor of his/her school and follow recommendations which are developed. No exception is permitted for a student who becomes a participant of a treatment program.

Second Violation

The student shall lose eligibility for participation in 50% of that area's originally scheduled contests or 50% of the season, starting with the first scheduled event. The student must also meet with the School Counselor of his/her school and follow recommendations that are developed. No exception is permitted for a student who becomes a participant of a treatment program.

Third & Subsequent Violations

The student shall lose eligibility for participation in all athletic areas for one calendar year. If after the third or subsequent violations, the student of his/her own volition becomes a participant in a chemical dependency or treatment program, the student may be certified for reinstatement in extra cocurricular activities after an ineligibility period matching the penalty designated for a second violation.

Penalties shall be cumulative, beginning with and throughout the student's participation in an extra cocurricular area for four years. Should there be multiple violations, the greater penalty will apply. Category I penalties which cannot be fully served during a season will carry over to future participation in athletic areas which the student has served in during the previous year. (Under extenuating circumstances, the discretion of the building administrator may be used in determining an area in which a student may finish serving his/her penalties

Category II: Academic Activities & Public Performances (Band, Choir, Orchestra, Clubs, etc.)

First Violation

The student shall lose eligibility for participation in the next two (2) consecutive public events or two (2) weeks of a season in which the student participates, whichever is greater. The student must also meet with the School Counselor of his/her school and follow recommendations which are developed. No exception is permitted for a student who becomes a participant of a treatment program.

Second Violation

The student shall lose eligibility for participation in the next six (6) consecutive public events or six (6) weeks of a season in which the student participates, whichever is greater. The student must also meet with the School Counselor of his/her school and follow recommendations which are developed. No exception is permitted for a student who becomes a participant of a treatment program.

Third & Subsequent Violations

The student shall lose eligibility for participation in all Category 11 areas for one calendar year. If the student, of his/her own volition, becomes a participant in a chemical dependency or treatment program, the student may be certified for reinstatement in extra cocurricular activities after an eligibility period matching the penalty designated for a second violation.

Penalties shall be cumulative, beginning with and throughout the student's participation in an extra cocurricular area for three years. Should there be multiple violations, the greater penalty will apply. Category II penalties, which cannot be fully served during a season, will carry over to future participation in areas which the student has served in during the previous year. (Under extenuating circumstances, the discretion of a building administrator may be used in determining an area in which a student may finish serving his/her penalties.)

CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT, DISCIPLINE RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Policy: 5300 Revised 6/04

The Portage School Districts shall maintain an educational environment that will assure the health and safety of the students and staff along with the protection of District property. Proper conduct is essential (1) to develop and maintain a healthy teaching/learning environment (2) to develop and maintain those conditions necessary for an orderly, safe and efficient operation of the school and the school program, and (3) to use as a teaching tool, illustrating the fact that appropriate conduct is required to be a productive citizen.

Discipline shall be administered in a firm, fair, consistent, expedient and equitable manner, recognizing individual differences and circumstances as they relate to the education of all students.

At the direction of the Superintendent of schools:

•  Regulations, rules and procedures governing student conduct and discipline shall be developed and published in a Student Handbook or planner.

•  The school staff shall monitor and enforce rules and regulations on any school owned property or at any school-approved function.

The Code of Student Conduct will:

•  Include discipline procedures to be followed by teachers and administrators

•  Define unacceptable behavior at school, in classrooms, on school-owned premises, or while participate in school-approved functions.

It is the responsibility of the building administrator to communicate the District's standards of behavior to his/her staff and students. It is the obligation of the parents of students to be aware of the Code of Student Conduct and building rules and procedures.

DISCIPLINE FOR STUDENT MISCONDUCT
Policy: 5350 Revised 6/04 (Excerpt)

The Superintendent, or his/her designee, shall have the power to suspend students temporarily from school when such disciplinary action is warranted.

The Board of Education has the authority to expel students from school in accordance with the provisions of Michigan School Code when the student's behavior indicates that his or her presence in school jeopardizes an effective teaching/learning situation or threatens the healthy environment of the school. Recommendation for expulsion shall be presented to the Board by the Superintendent.

General School Laws of Michigan

"Suspension or expulsion of pupils; handicapped pupils, evaluation: The Board may authorize or order the suspension or expulsion from school of a pupil guilty of gross misdemeanor or persistent disobedience. If there is reasonable cause to believe that the pupil is handicapped, and the School District has not evaluated the pupil in accordance with rules of the State Board, the pupil shall be evaluated immediately by the Intermediate School District of which the School District is constituent in accordance with section 1711. (MCL 380.1311.)"

Procedures for Imposing Discipline

•  Removal from Class

If a student disrupts or threatens to disrupt classroom instruction or poses a danger to persons or property, the student may be immediately removed from class and sent to the appropriate school administrator.

•  Teacher Imposed Suspensions

Portage Public Schools is committed to providing a safe and orderly environment in which students can learn and teachers can teach.

A teachers is authorized by Public Act 103 of 1999 to remove and suspend a student from a class, subject or activity when the student's behavior is so unruly, disruptive or abusive that it materially interferes with the teacher's ability to effectively teach the class, subject or activity, or the student's behavior interferes with the ability of other students to learn.

Any student suspended pursuant to this policy shall not be allowed to return to that class, subject or activity from which he or she was suspended until the passage of one full school day from the time of the student's infraction unless otherwise permitted by the teacher who initiated the suspension.

Students attending separate class periods throughout the school day shall be permitted to attend other classes taught by other teachers if the student's behavior does not rise to a level requiring a multiple day suspension in accordance with the school's Student Code of Conduct.

•  Out Of School Suspension

Suspension is the temporary exclusion of a student from education or student privileges for a period of ten (10) school days or less which is imposed as discipline for misconduct. If a student is suspended, his/her parents shall be provided a written notification of the suspension and the misconduct that resulted in its imposition.

•  Expulsion - Long Term Suspension

Expulsion is the exclusion of a student from education and all student privileges in the District by the Board of Education. A long-term suspension is the temporary exclusion of a student from education and/or student privileges for more than ten (10) school days by the Superintendent or Board. (Consult Board Policy #5350 for more information.)

•  Suspension of Special Education Students

Special Education students who violate school regulations or rules may be suspended. If a Special Education student accrues 10 days of suspensions, an IEPC meeting must be convened to determine if the student's conduct is a manifestation of his/her handicap. The student may remain in school pending the findings of the IEPC, unless the student cannot safely be contained within the school setting.

•  Administrator's Responsibility in Notifying Parents of Suspension

A building administrator or person so designated has the authority to suspend a student and establish the conditions under which the student will be readmitted.

A building administrator shall attempt to notify the parent or guardian of the suspension prior to the time the student leaves the school premises. In all cases of suspension, a building administrator shall notify the parent or guardian by mailing a written notice unless the student has declared adult status.

DISCIPLINARY APPEAL PROCESS

Students and parents have the right to appeal disciplinary decisions. In the event that a suspension is ten days or less, a student may be required to serve the suspensions while an appeal is in process. The order of appeal is as follows:

•  Within one working day, a student/parent must notify the Building Administrator of his/her intent to appeal the decision. The building Administrator or designee has three (3) working days in which to respond to the appeal.

•  If the student/parent wishes to appeal the Building Administrator's decision, he/she has five- (5) working days with which to notify the Assistant Superintendent of Instruction. The Assistant Superintendent of Instruction has five working days in which to respond to the appeal.

•  The Assistant Superintendent of Instruction is the final step in the appeal process.

DEFINITION OF TERMS

Persistent Disobedience - continued disregard for, and repeated infractions of, school regulations.

Weapon or Dangerous Weapon - includes: a firearm; gun; revolver; pistol; soft pellet gun; dagger dirk; stiletto; knife with a blade over three (3) inches in length; pocket knife opened by a mechanical device; iron bar; or brass knuckles.

Weapon Free School Zone - means school property and/or a vehicle used by the school to transport students to or from school property.

District Property - means a building, playing field, or property used for District purposes to impart instruction to students or used for functions and events sponsored by the District, and includes the area up to 1000 feet surrounding District property.

Firearms - means (a) a weapon (including a starter gun) which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by an explosive, or by gas or air; (b) the frame or receiver of any such weapon; (c) any firearm muffler or firearm silencer; or (d) any destructive device, including explosives, incendiaries, poison gas, or any weapon which will (or may readily be converted to) expel a projectile by the action of an explosive or other propellant. For the purposes of application and enforcement of this policy, a BB gun is considered to be a firearm.

Willful Destruction or Damage - the deliberate, unreasonable, and senseless damage to school or personal property and/or destruction of said property.

Detention - the assignment of a student to a designated area within the school for a specific period of time prior to or after the regularly scheduled school day. Students will be given at least one prior-days notice of a detention to be served and transportation arrangements become the responsibility of the student and/or parent. Students will be required to engage in their own school work, or school work assigned by the teacher supervising the detention. Failure to serve a detention may result in suspension.

Suspension - the exclusion of a student from school, from a particular class, or from attending regular classes and reporting to an assigned place within the school. The suspension is for a specific period of time or until the fulfillment of a specific set of conditions. Suspension for a period of time beyond ten (10) school days will result in a recommendation to the Board of Education for expulsion.

•  Removal from Class -- The permanent removal of a student from class for academic attendance or behavioral reasons. A failing grade for the course is issued to the student.

•  In-School Suspension -- The exclusion of a student from regular classes with the student serving the suspension in a designated area in the building.

•  Out-of-School Suspension -- The exclusion of a student from school premises for a specified period of time.

Most student suspensions will be in-school suspensions. However, sometimes suspensions will be served out-of-school or will be a combination of in-school and out-of-school. Building administrators have the authority to administer suspensions. Within the guidelines of the Code of Student Conduct, administrators decide the length of suspensions.

A student on suspension will not be able to attend his/her regular classes or participate in extra/cocurricular activities of any kind i.e., school parties, athletics, plays, etc. During the dates of the in-school or out-of-school suspension, there is a loss of all social privileges.

Parents or guardians shall be notified about the suspension of their son or daughter. Parents shall be informed and involved in any case of a student exhibiting a history of unacceptable conduct. Records of such involvement shall be maintained in the building administrator's office.

Expulsion - the exclusion of a student from school by the Board of Education.

WEAPON FREE SCHOOL ZONE, ARSON,

CRIMINAL SEXUAL CONDUCT

Excerpt from Revised School Code 380.1311

If a pupil possesses, in a weapon free school zone, a weapon that constitutes a dangerous weapon, commits arson in a school building or on school grounds, or commits criminal sexual conduct in a school building or on school grounds, the school board, shall expel the pupil from the school district permanently.

Policy 5360 Revised 6/04

From Revised School Code 380.1131:

If a pupil possesses in a weapon-free school zone a weapon that constitutes a dangerous weapon, commits arson in a school building or on school grounds, or commits criminal sexual conduct in a school building or on school grounds, the school board, shall expel the pupil from the school district permanently.

The Board of Education, as both an employer and a public school district, is concerned with and interested in protecting the health, safety, and welfare of students, employees, and visitors. The Board recognizes that District buildings, facilities, vehicles, grounds and other property are best utilized in the educational process in the absence of threats to physical well being and safety by individuals possessing weapons and/or dangerous weapons.

Accordingly, the Board shall permanently expel a student from attending school in the District, if the student possesses a weapon in a weapon-free school zone, commits arson, or commits criminal sexual conduct while on District property. Such expulsion is mandatory, unless the student establishes, in a clear and convincing manner, at least one of the following: