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 Table of Contents

Non-Discrimination Policy
Americans with Disabilities
Grievance Procedures
STUDENT POLICIES
Graduation Requirements, Transfer Student Procedures, Summer School
Attendance Regulations
Student Absences
Tardies
Teenage Parent Program
Attendance Requirements for Students to Obtain/Retain a Driver’s License
Leaving the School Grounds Before the End of the School Day
Dress Code
Hall Passes
Lockers
Student Functions
Secret Societies
Textbooks and Materials Loaned to Pupils
Alcohol, Tobacco and Illegal Drugs and Paraphernalia
Knives, Firearms and Drugs
Visitors
Communicable Disease
Telephone Use
Underage Children
Toys, Pets, Etc.
Closed Campus
Automobiles
Miscellaneous
Student Conduct on the Bus
Field Trip/Extra-Curricular Activity
Health and Safety
Insurance
PUPIL CONDUCT
Disruptive Behavior
Assault, Violence and/or Intimidation
Dangerous or Disruptive Items
Willful Disobedience
Public Affection
Theft and Pilfering
Extortion
Cheating
Profanity
Gambling/Games of Chance
Vandalism and Tampering
Arson
Bomb Threats and Throwing Explosive or Noxious Substances
Inciting Others or Disruption
PROCEDURES FOR DISCIPLINE
Teacher Involvement
Disciplinary Office Referrals
Suspensions
Suspension from Riding the Bus
Suspension/Dismissal Procedures
Dismissal of Student
Expulsion
After School Detention
In School Suspension (ISS)
Drugs and Alcoholic Beverages
STUDENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE FOR SEXUAL HARASSMENT
POLICY: PROHIBITION OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT BY STUDENTS (5.21)
PARENT RIGHTS
PROTECTION IN EVALUATION PROCEDURES
PROTECTION IN EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM PLACEMENT
PROTECTION IN IMPARTIAL HEARING PROCEDURES
PROTECTION FOR CONFIDENTIALITY OF INFORMATION
PARENTS’ RIGHTS IN STUDENT RECORDS
STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Assembly
Attendance
Free Speech and Student Publications
Knowledge and Observation of Rules of Conduct
Participation in School Programs and Activities
Privacy
Respect for Persons and Property
Right to Learn

Gilchrist County Middle/High School Student Policies

NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY
The School Board of Gilchrist County, Florida, adheres to a policy of non-discrimination in educational programs/activities and employment and strives affirmatively to provide opportunity for all as required by:

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 - Prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, or national origin.
• Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended - Prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of race, color, sex, or national origin.
• Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 972 - Prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex.
• Age Discrimination Act of 1975 - Prohibits discrimination on the basis of age between 40 and 70.
• Section 504 f the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 - Prohibits discrimination against the handicapped.
• Veterans are provided re-employment rights in accordance with P.L. 93-508 (Federal) and Florida State Law, Chapter 77-422, which also stipulates categorical preferences for employment.
• The Gilchrist County School District acts in compliance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.

The Gilchrist County School Board does not discriminate on the ground of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, physical handicap, or creed in recruiting, hiring, assigning, promoting, paying, demoting or dismissing of any School Board employee. No student in the Gilchrist County School District shall on the basis of sex be excluded from participating in any educational program or activity provided by the schools in the Gilchrist County School District.

Contact person: Mr. Don Thomas, 310 NW 11th Avenue, Trenton, FL 32693, (352) 463-3200.

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AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES
NOTICE: Gilchrist County Schools will provide, upon request, auxiliary aids and services to those disabled persons desiring to attend its scheduled meetings/activities. Persons needing assistance are to notify the Principal’s Office of their need at least two working days prior to the date of the meeting/activity.

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
You have the right under Florida Law to file a grievance if you feel a decision made by an employee of the Gilchrist County School Board was made unjustly or was unfair to you. You must follow the procedure to file a grievance.
1. Any student or applicant that feels they have been discriminated against should first discuss the alleged grievance with the employee concerned. It is best to work out any problem at the lowest possible level.
2. If a solution cannot be found, the student or applicant must give the Principal of the school the alleged grievance in writing within the next five working days.
3. The Principal has five working days to find a solution and furnish the aggrieved student or applicant an answer in writing.
4. If this answer is not satisfactory to the student or applicant, (s)he must give to the Superintendent the alleged grievance in writing within the next five working days.
5. The Superintendent has five working days to find a solution and furnish the aggrieved student or applicant with an answer in writing.
6. If this answer is not satisfactory to the aggrieved, (s)he must at that time request in writing a hearing before the School Board.
7. The Superintendent has 30 days in which to arrange for a hearing. The Gilchrist County School Board will sit as a Board of Hearing. The aggrieved will be given the time and place of the hearing in writing seven days prior to the hearing.
8. The Board of hearing will furnish all concerned parties their decision in writing within 10 days. The decision of the Board of Hearing will be final.
If you are not certain of the procedure to follow in filing a grievance, you may contact Mr. Don Thomas, 310 NW 11th Avenue, Trenton, FL 32693, (352) 463-3200.

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STUDENT POLICIES
First Time Students
Florida Statutes require that all pupils entering kindergarten and the first grade be immunized against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, rubella, measles, mumps, Hib meningitis, hepatitis B and varicella (or history of illness). These immunizations must be up-to-date. Students entering from out-of-state must have a physical. If under age 10, students must have above immunizations. A child is permitted to enroll in the first grade if he becomes six during the school year, if he has attended kindergarten and can pass a “readiness test.” A birth certificate is also required for students registering for the first time in public schools. Students enrolled in school must have an up-to-date shot record and birth certificate.

Progress Reports
1. All students will receive a progress report in week four for all classes (6-12).
2. Deficiencies will be sent home during week 7 of each grading period (for D or F grades).
3. Students will sign for deficiencies when they receive them.

Exams
1. Mid-term and final exams are required in all full credit courses.
2. Midterms are optional and final exams are required in .5 credit courses.
3. Exams may be performance based.
4. All students will take exams. Exams will count as 15% of grade for the nine weeks.
Students who had three or less excused absences, no unexcused absences and a C or better average will not have their grade lowered because of the exam.
5. There will be no new material to be covered on the exam introduced for two days prior to exams. This time should be used for exam review.

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GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS, TRANSFER STUDENT PROCEDURES AND SUMMER SCHOOL
Graduation Requirements
To meet course and credit requirements for graduation, students must have earned 28 credits including the following required credits:
English 4 credits
Mathematics (Algebra I or its equivalent) 3 credits
Science 3 credits
Social Studies
American History 1 credit
World History 1 credit
Economics .5 credit
American Government .5 credit
Additional Core 1 credit
Practical Arts/Vocational Education
or Exploratory Vocational Ed .5 credit
Performing Fine Arts .5 credit
Life Management Skills .5 credit
Personal Fitness .5 credit
Keyboarding/Computer Literacy .5 credit
Electives to meet 28 credits

1. A student must complete one additional credit in one of the core programs.
2. Algebra I or Algebra I-A and I-B must be successfully completed in the math credits.
3. One-half credit can be earned in each area or one full credit in either area.
4. The cumulative grade point average for graduation shall be 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.
5. Parents or guardians of students who have cumulative grade point averages less than 0.5 above the required graduation level shall be notified that the student is at risk of not meeting the graduation requirements.

The grading scale for students in the state of Florida follows:
A - 100 - 90 - 4.0 outstanding progress
B - 89 - 80 - 3.0 above average progress
C - 79 - 70 - 2.0 average progress
D - 69 - 60 - 1.0 lowest acceptable progress
F - 59 - 0 - 0.0 failure

1. Students must meet all minimum state standardized testing requirements.
2. All students must meet promotion requirements stated in the district’s Pupil Progression Plan.
3. Further information related to the Sunshine State Standards and FCAT can be obtained from the following Web site: www.Gilchristschools.org

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Attendance Regulations
It is the responsibility of all students to make up any missed work. Students are required to be in class every day of the grading period. If a student is absent, the student must make up the work.

Definitions
Excused absences: an excused absence shall be granted for personal illness or death of a member of the immediate family, established religious holidays, and emergencies approved by the principal upon request of the parent(s), legal guardian, or the adult student. Students must furnish a note for the absence within 3 days upon return to school.

Unexcused absences: Shopping trips, suspensions, vacations, truancy, dismissal from school, or other avoidable absences shall be deemed as unexcused absences.
1. For each unexcused absence, one point will be deducted from the final 9-week average.
2. Upon the sixth absence (excused or unexcused) in the grading period, the student shall fail the class unless they pass a mastery test for the class. For the student to be eligible to take the mastery test, a student must have a passing grade in the class. 3. A zero will be assigned for any work not made up.
4. Any assignment or test announced prior to an absence must be made up on the day the student returns (unless special arrangements are made with the teacher).
5. Work must be turned in within three days upon return (unless special arrangements are made with the teacher).
6. School related activities are not considered an absence.
7. Students must have notes for absences within three (3) school days upon their return to school or the absence will remain unexcused.
8. Any family trip must have PRIOR administrator approval for the absences to be excused.
9. Notes from parents will be accepted for 5 absences for each 18-week grading period. All absences over 5 per 18-week grading period will require further documentation (i.e. medical provider, religious official, or funeral program, etc.)

Student Absences
Any minor student who has been absent from school shall bring a note from a parent or legal guardian stating the cause of his/her absence. Failure to bring such a note or to file such statement as to the cause of the absence shall result in an automatic unexcused absence unless subsequently excused when a note or statement is presented.

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Tardies
Three tardies equal detention time after school with the teacher. If time is not served after school, an office referral will occur.

Teenage Parent Program
Students participating in Teenage Parent Programs shall be exempt from minimum attendance requirements for absences related to pregnancy or parenting responsibility, but shall be required to make up work missed due to absence.

Attendance Requirements for Students to Obtain/Retain a Driver’s License
Beginning October 1, 1989, 15, 16 and 17 year-old students who wish to obtain or retain a restricted or regular driver’s license must first meet the requirements of Florida Statute 322.0601.
1. The student must be in attendance in school.
2. The student must not have more than 11 consecutive unexcused absences.
3. The student must not accumulate 20 or more days of unexcused absences.
4. Any student habitually truant from school will be reported to the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) for the withholding or suspension of the driver’s license for the student who fails to attend school.

Leaving the School Grounds Before the End of the School Day
No student shall be sent from the campus during school hours to perform errands or act as a messenger except with the knowledge and approval of the Principal and then only for necessary and urgent school business. No student shall be permitted to leave school for the remainder of the school day prior to dismissal in the custody of a person other than the student’s parent unless that person has verified authorization of one of the parents. All students arriving late or leaving early must sign in or out at the designated location.

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Dress Code
Rule 5.22 - Dress Code for Students - This rule is made pursuant to Florida Statute 230.23(6) to provide for proper attention to health, safety, control and other matters relating to the welfare of students and shall be a part of the code of student conduct and be made available in the student handbook distributed to all teachers, students and parents at the beginning of every school year, as provided in Florida Statutes 230.23(6)(d). All students attending Gilchrist County Schools are required to dress in a manner that provides proper attention to health, safety and the orderly conduct of activities of all students, to avoid disruption and the orderly administration of the school program in each school for the welfare and best interest of all children attending school. For this purpose, the following regulations will be used as a guide to follow when selecting school clothing.

It is the obligation of the students to maintain their appearance and their personal belongings in a manner that reflects well on themselves and the school. It is their responsibility, as well as that of their parents, to see that they are properly dressed and well groomed. Any type of make-up, hair arrangement or garment that detracts from the proper social and academic atmosphere of the school will be prohibited by the school authorities.

1. Shoes must be worn by all students at all times except at the discretion of the teacher.
2. Tops and bottoms (items of clothing) must meet at the waistline at all times.
3. During school hours, hats or bandanas may not be worn on campus during regular school hours unless part of an approved school uniform.
4. Dark glasses may not be worn on campus without a written doctor’s prescription during regular school hours.
5. In grades 6-12, shorts, skirts and dresses may be worn if the length of each is not more than approximately five inches above the top of the knee cap. Biker shorts may be worn only if layered with other clothing. Mini-skirts are not considered appropriate for school.
6. Sleeveless/collarless shirts and dresses should not be loose or tight fitting to an extent that they reveal underclothing or inappropriate body areas.
7. Clothing may not contain words or pictures which are degrading or distracting. Headgear is included. Clothing shall not be worn in a manner that depicts gang symbols or affiliation. (This includes slogans or references to tobacco, sex, drugs, alcohol, gangs, cults, racists, or sexist oriented sayings or pictures.)
8. No pants shall be worn below the waistline.
9. Belt chains or wallet chains may not be worn on school grounds.
10. Any questionable clothing will be reviewed by the Principal/designee for a decision regarding appropriateness.

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Hall Passes
During class time, any student out of his/her regular scheduled class must have a completed hall pass. Only the official hall pass will be accepted.
Hall passes will not be issued to the gym or the telephone during instructional time.

Lockers
1. Students will use the locker assigned with no trading.
2. Students may not share their locker with others. Students are responsible for the contents of their locker.
3. Valuables are not to be brought to school. The school is not responsible for personal property.
4. Students should keep locker combinations secret.
5. Students should make sure their locker is closed and locked.
6. Students should keep their locker clean inside and outside.
7. Jamming locker mechanisms with paper wads, trading lockers, vandalism, etc., may result in loss of locker use.
8. Student who have a problem with their locker may check with the person in charge of lockers at their school.
9. Students are not to use cars as lockers.
10. No loitering at lockers.

Student lockers/storage spaces provided by the school system are the property of the Gilchrist County School Board and are subject to search by school authorities at any time. School authorities reserve the right to search and inspect any school owned property, private property or a student’s person on school grounds or at school events.

Student Functions
All school sponsored social functions shall be properly chaperoned by the school faculty or parents. A sponsor or teacher shall be present at all class or club activities and remain until all students leave.

Secret Societies
No fraternity, sorority or other organization which practices any form of initiation involving physical abuse, secret work or which has a ritual of secret signs and symbols shall be permitted in any of the schools of Gilchrist County. Hazing is prohibited. (School Board Policy)

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Textbooks and Materials Loaned to Pupils
1. Pupils are responsible for textbooks loaned for their use.
2. Parents or guardians are liable for any loss, destruction, unnecessary damage or failure to return such books. (233.47 Florida Statutes)
3. A pupil who loses, severely damages or fails to return a textbook shall not be issued additional textbooks until such books are paid for or replaced.
4. Monies collected from pupils shall be returned in the event the lost books are found and returned to the responsible teacher before June 30th of the current year. No refunds shall be made after that date.
5. Pupils are responsible for library books and other school materials loaned to them. They shall replace or reimburse the school for loss or unnecessary damage to such items. Report cards and diplomas may be held up until such items are cleared.

Alcohol, Tobacco and Illegal Drugs and Paraphernalia
Students are not allowed to bring, use or distribute tobacco products, illegal drugs, drug paraphernalia or alcohol on School Board property, school transportation, at bus stops, school sponsored events or any of its activities. Any student who violates the district, State or Federal policies relating to the unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs, drug paraphernalia and/or alcohol is subject to disciplinary sanctions up to and including expulsion and referral for prosecution.

Knives, Firearms and Drugs
1. Knives or other dangerous instruments are prohibited from the schools and school activities.
2. Firearms, ammunition, weapons or any item that can be used as a weapon (this includes firearms, guns, or replicas, thereof) are not to be brought on school property in a concealed or non-concealed manner.
3. Any student determined to have brought a firearm to school, any school activities or on any school sponsored transportation will be expelled for a minimum of not less than one full year and referred for criminal prosecution.

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Visitors
Parents or visitors to school shall clear through the Principal’s office and be issued a visitor’s pass. Anyone picking up students during the day or students who ride buses at any time will check them out with the Principal and bus driver. No student visitor permits will be issued. Students found associating with unauthorized visitors on campus may be subject to disciplinary action.

Communicable Disease
A student who has been ill of a dangerous communicable disease shall in no case be allowed to return to school except upon the written permission of the full-time health officer, nurse or other reputable physician licensed to practice in the State of Florida.

Telephone Use
School telephones are for business use. Their use by students is to be discouraged except in needed cases. No personal long distance calls shall be charged to the school.

Underage Children
The schools are not to be used as a baby-sitting agency. Small children distract the interest of students in school. Underage children habitually sent to the school with an older student will be cared for outside the classroom by the ones bringing them.

Toys, Pets, Etc.
Toys, pets, headphones, radios, CDS, CD players and any other items deemed inappropriate cause distractions and are an annoyance. They could be dangerous and are not to be brought to school.

Closed Campus
Students are required to eat in designated areas on the school campus.

Automobiles
1. Vehicles must remain parked during the school day and students may not return to the automobile unless permission is given by the Principal/staff Students will park in the designated student parking area.
2. No students are allowed to sit in automobiles before, during or after school. Students who need to drive a vehicle to a vocational or mechanics class for class work must drive it before the school day begins and pick it up at the end of the day.
3. Vehicle parking permits will be issued upon presentation by student/guardian of a valid driver’s license and registration.
4. Vehicle parking is a privilege and may be revoked.

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Miscellaneous
1. Students are to exhibit an attitude of good sportsmanship at all activities sponsored by the school.
2. Grade 6-12 students are to remain outside the building in the morning during fair weather. During bad weather, students will go to the areas designated by the Principal. 3. All persons are responsible to clean up spilled food, utensils, napkins, etc. in the cafeteria.
4. No food or containers are to be taken from the cafeteria unless authorized by the Principal.
5. All students, regardless of grade or age, should follow instructions and discipline of all school personnel, including but not limited to: teachers, bus drivers, cafeteria workers and others regardless of school hours.
6. Students are not to interrupt other classes unnecessarily and no student is to be excused from class unless prior approval of teacher or Principal is obtained.
7. Seniors are to be first in the lunch line and first to leave the assemblies.
8. Students must walk to the lunchroom.
9. Except in inclement weather, students will be expected to remain outside the building during their free time.
10. Students using county band instruments will be responsible for returning them undamaged.
11. Any student who checks out of school is to leave the school grounds and upon returning to school, the student must sign in through the office.
12. Any sales must be approved by the Principal.
13. Once a student arrives on campus (either by bus or private vehicle) they must remain on campus unless otherwise approved by the Principal or his designee. Students arriving in private vehicles are asked to come to the areas designated and not remain in the vehicles.
14. Thee shall be no sale of food or drink other than by the lunchroom during the school day.
15. Pupils shall not be permitted to bring bottled or canned drinks or foodstuffs except packed lunches on the school grounds during the school day.
16. Students bringing lunches to school are to put them in their lockers in order to eliminate the need for going to private vehicles during the school day to get lunches.
17. Prior to going to a parked car during school hours, students must obtain specific permission from a Principal/staff member.
18. Backpacks/book bags will not be allowed at school the last three days of school. (Preferably clear backpacks/book bags should be used.)
19. Students are responsible for taking home all papers sent by the school, Principal, staff, etc.

Student Conduct on the Bus
Each student who is eligible to be transported is entitled to free transportation only so long as the student abides by the rules of safety and behavior necessary for the operation of the system. Serious infraction of these rules may cause the student to lose this privilege. It is the responsibility of the parents to see that the student abides by regulation or to provide for the student’s own transportation. Suspension from a school bus does not affect the requirements of attendance laws and regulations. Any student transported at public expense shall:
1. Occupy the seat assigned by the driver and shall refrain at all times from moving around while the bus is in motion.
2. Observe at all times classroom conduct (except for ordinary conversation). Absolute silence on the bus shall prevail while the bus is stopped for railroad crossings or for discharging students. Singing or other unnecessary noise is prohibited. Wearing hats or caps is also prohibited unless part of a school approved uniform.
3. Obey the driver and report promptly to the Principal when instructed to do so by the driver.
4. Wait until the bus has come to a complete stop before attempting to get on and off the bus. Students shall form a line in order to insure safety in getting on or of the bus.
5. Observe proper rules of conduct while waiting for the bus. The student shall stay off the road and private property other than that on which the stop is established. Any misconduct while waiting on the bus is subject to disciplinary action by the school.
6. Enter or leave the bus only at the front door after the bus has come to a complete stop except in case of an emergency or on instructions from the bus driver.
7. If necessary, cross the highway in the proper manner and as instructed after leaving the bus. The student shall make certain that the bus has come to a complete stop. Upon exiting from the bus, stand at the side of the bus in sight and hearing of the driver and look to the right and to the left before proceeding to cross the highway.
8. Keep head, elbows and hands inside the bus windows at all times except in the case of an emergency.
9. Refrain from throwing objects inside or outside the bus at any time.
10. Refrain from the use of profane or objectionable language and from engaging in any other objectionable conduct. There shall be no pushing, fighting or any other type of misconduct at any time.
11. Avoid damaging or defacing the bus or bus equipment. The students shall be responsible for the cost of any such damage.
12. Refrain from displaying any sharp instrument or from bringing any type of weapon on the school bus.
13. Be on time because the bus cannot wait on students who are tardy.
14. Cross the roadway 10 feet in front of the bus.
15. Do not talk to the driver unless it is absolutely necessary.
16. Be absolutely quiet when the driver turns the dome lights on, blows whistle or raises a hand. One of these signals will be used at railroad crossings.
17. Do not eat, drink, chew gum or have tobacco products on the bus.
18. Bring no animal such as dogs, cats, rabbits, chickens, snakes, fish, etc. on the bus - dead or alive.
19. Bring nothing in a glass container on the bus including science specimens, etc.
20. Bring only band instruments which are on the approved list.
21. Backpacks/book bags will not be allowed on buses the last three days of school. (Preferably clear backpacks/book bags should be used.)
22. School buses shall not be used as dressing room facilities. All school dress codes will apply while on the bus.
23. Any request different from the above items will be reviewed by the Transportation Review Committee.
STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 230.22(2), FS Laws implemented: 230.23(6), 230.23(8), FS STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION RULE: 6A-3.017

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Field Trip/Extra-Curricular Activity
1. All students are subject to the Code of Student Conduct while on field trips and extra-curricular activity trips.
2. All students are required to ride to off-campus school events in Board approved vehicles except for prior approval of the Principal. All students are required to ride Board approved vehicles from off-campus school events with the following exceptions:
a. Student may ride home with parent/guardian that has personally spoken with the sponsor/coach.
b. Student may ride home with another responsible adult with a signed, notarized statement from the parent/guardian giving permission.

Health and Safety
Schools shall have provisions for caring for students who become ill at school. In cases of pupil’s injury, first aid shall be given and parents notified. If an injury appears to be serious, medical assistance will be secured as soon as possible. Parents are to furnish the school with the names of persons to contact in case of accidents, injury or illness. School health nurses are available at each school.

Insurance
Parents are urged to insure their children under the school insurance plan approved by the Gilchrist County School Board. The only liability insurance which the School Board is authorized to carry is protection of pupils while being transported by bus.

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PUPIL CONDUCT
The following policies shall be used to govern pupil conduct at all school-sponsored activities and at any time the pupil is under school jurisdiction. In cases of extremely disruptive or dangerous behavior, persons or groups involved may be suspended and ejected from the school campus without the necessity of a prior hearing. In such instances, however, each pupil shall be afforded the right to a due-process hearing at the earliest possible opportunity. Acts of conduct that are in violation of law shall be reported to the proper legal authorities. The Gilchrist County School Board reserves the right to punish behavior which is subversive to good order and discipline in the schools, even if such behavior is not specified in the following written rules.

Disruptive Behavior
Actions by pupils which show disrespect for any school personnel, fighting or violent antagonism toward classmates or general misconduct which disrupts the learning situation shall not be tolerated. If the situation cannot be handled by the teacher, it shall be referred to an administrator. Definite action shall be taken. Punishment may include disciplinary action up to and including suspension or expulsion.

Assault, Violence and/or Intimidation
Acts of assault, violence and/or intimidation shall immediately be reported immediately to the appropriate administrator. No one shall engage in harassment or discriminatory conduct which creates a hostile, intimating, abusive, offensive or oppressive environment. Disciplinary action may be up to expulsion and/or may be reported to the proper law enforcement agencies.

Dangerous or Disruptive Items
1. Any item which disrupts the class, detracts attention from the class program, defaces school property or in any way endangers the safety of any pupil, shall not be brought on the school buses or on campus. If a student is found to be in possession of such an item, it shall be taken by the teacher and delivered to the Principal/designee.
2. Pupils shall not carry objects that are generally considered to be weapons (including chemical sprays). If the administrator believes that the intent of the pupil possessing the item was that of harm to another person, the punishment shall be suspension until the School Board can rule on a request for expulsion.

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Radios, Record Players and Phone Beepers
Students are not allowed to bring radios, CDs, headsets, pagers, cell phones, etc. on the school bus, on school property or in attendance at school activities. Such articles will be taken and returned only to the parent/guardian.

Willful Disobedience
Pupils will at all times show the proper respect toward faculty members, student teachers, substitute teachers or other authorized school personnel. A pupil who willfully disobeys a faculty member or other authorized personnel shall be referred immediately to the appropriate administrator for disciplinary action. Pupils shall be made to understand that continued disobedience shall bring suspension and possible expulsion from school.

Public Affection
Pupils who continue to engage in public affection after being warned by school personnel shall be referred to the appropriate administrator. If after a warning from the administrator, the problem continues, constituting an act of willful disobedience, the penalty may be suspension. Inappropriate intimate conduct or behavior will result in disciplinary action up to expulsion.

Theft and Pilfering
A pupil involved in the act of stealing or in possession of stolen property may be suspended from school. Should a student be suspended, his/her parent/guardian may be required to come for a conference with school administrators before the pupil will be allowed to return to school. Efforts shall be made to secure reimbursement or replacement of the School Board property. Theft of student personal items may be reported to the law enforcement.

Extortion
A pupil who threatens or otherwise blackmails another pupil for the payment of money of any sum or any other consideration may be suspended from school and parents/guardians may be required to come to a conference with school officials. A second offense shall be that of mandatory suspension for 10 days and automatic recommendation for expulsion.

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Cheating
Cheating is an offense which shall be handled by the teacher and/or administration in whatever manner, in his/her judgment, will best serve the interest and development of the pupil.

Profanity
Profanity shall be interpreted as any profane, vulgar or unnecessarily cruel utterance or gesture. It shall not matter for disciplinary purposes whether it is directed toward the teacher, classmate or merely done overtly. Such instances shall be referred to the administrator with suspension a possibility.

Gambling/Games of Chance
Gambling or games of chance is/are not allowed on school property.

Vandalism and Tampering
Any deliberate abuse of school or private property shall be considered vandalism. Cases of vandalism by pupils shall be reported to the appropriate administrator as soon as possible. Actions, regardless of the value of the damage, may result in suspension/expulsion of the pupil from school until his/her parent/guardian meets with school officials and arrangements are made for restitution for damage. Cases will result in reporting to law enforcement.

Arson
A pupil who deliberately sets a fire, either as a prank or deliberately to do damage to property, shall be suspended from school. The parent/guardian shall come for a conference with school officials and make arrangements for restitution for damage. Maximum penalty, depending upon damage and intent, shall be expulsion.

Bomb Threats and Throwing Explosive or Noxious Substances
A pupil who threatens to, places, discharges or throws a destructive explosive or noxious substance in or on a school facility shall be suspended from school. The parents/guardians shall come for a hearing with school officials and make restitution for damages. The maximum penalty, depending on damage and intent, shall be expulsion. Authority: 790.164; 822.03; 806.111; 822.04; 822.02; 822.05 FS

Inciting Others or Disruption
A pupil who counsels another pupil to riot, disrupt, be absent or who himself/herself disrupts or interferes with the lawful administration of functions of the school shall be subject to suspension or expulsion depending upon the severity of the act. Authority: 877.13 FS

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Procedures for Discipline
Violations of the school rules and policies may result in one or more of the following:
1. Counseling
2. Detention
3. Parent Conference
4. Suspension-In or out of school
5. Expulsion
6. Referral to law enforcement agencies
7. Supervised upkeep and/or maintenance
8. Non-attendance to School functions
9. Parent Escort
10. Corporal Punishment
11. Physical Exam
12. Alternative placement

Subject to the rules of the District School Board, the Principal/designee may administer corporal punishment in attempting to comply with their responsibility for controlling and disciplining students assigned to them.

Teacher Involvement
Teachers shall correct discipline problems anywhere they occur on campus. Authority: 232.26; 232.27 FS

Disciplinary Office Referrals
1. Classroom teachers are provided with Disciplinary Office Referral (DOR) forms. This referral form is initiated when a teacher/administrator witnesses a student engaging in or displaying inappropriate behavior.
2. Depending upon the severity of the situation, the DOR and the student are sent to the office immediately or the referral is turned in at the end of the school day.
3. A copy of the DOR is given to the student the same day it is resolved. Efforts should be made to contact the parents.

Suspensions
1. When a pupil’s actions are disruptive to himself/herself or to the school as to violate law or School Board policies, the pupil may be suspended.
2. Suspension dictates that the pupil shall not be allowed to attend school or school sponsored activities for the prescribed number of days. The student shall be allowed to make up the work and time (up to five absences in the grading period) or the student’s grade will be penalized. (S)he will be remanded to the custody of his/her parents/guardians during school hours. In no case shall a teacher suspend a pupil from school or class.

Suspension from Riding the Bus
1. (By the Principal/designee) The safety and welfare of our students is a primary concern of the Gilchrist County School District. Students are expected to observe simple and basic guidelines for student behavior.
2. Any student who persists in ignoring or violating bus regulations will be subject to bus suspension or expulsion from the bus for the remainder of the school year.
3. Parents/guardians will be responsible for the student’s transportation to and from school during the period of suspension. A student with chronic bus violations is subject to expulsion from the school bus.

Suspension/Dismissal Procedures
1. The Principal/designee may suspend a pupil from school or from riding a bus for willful disobedience, for open defiance of his authority or that of a member of his staff for the use of profane or obscene language, for other serious misconduct or for repeated misconduct of a less serious nature; provided that such suspension with the reasons therefore, shall be reported immediately in writing to the parent/guardian and to the Superintendent; provided further, that no suspension shall be for more than 10 days and that no suspension shall be made a dismissal unless so ordered by the School Board in an expulsion hearing.
a. Where a pupil has attained 18 years of age, notice in writing, as required in Subsection I, shall be made directly to the student, but notice to the parent/guardian shall not be required except as provided in the School Board Policy. The Superintendent shall receive a copy of suspension notice to the student.
2. The Principal may suspend a pupil who is transported to and from school at public expense from riding a school bus for a period not to exceed 10 days; provided that written notice is given immediately to the parent/guardian and the Superintendent; provided further, that any student 18 years of age shall be given written notice directly and a copy thereof sent to the Superintendent as provided in these rules.
3. The following information shall be included in written notice of suspension to the parent/guardian or a student 18 or over and to the Superintendent:
a. Nature of the offense.
b. The date of the offense and the beginning date of suspension and the date on which the student may return to school.
c. Any conditions involving the suspension such as a possible reduction of the suspension following a conference and assurances from the student of a change of attitude.
4. A copy of a student’s suspension notice shall be sent home by the student and the parents shall be notified by telephone, if possible. A student 18/over shall be notified in person and given a copy of the suspension notice.
5. Whenever possible, a hearing shall be given the minor student and his parent/guardian or the student 18 or over prior to the effective date of the suspension. Where conditions do not judiciously allow a delay in the suspension, the parent/guardian and the minor student or the student 18 or over shall be offered a hearing at the earliest possible moment following the effective date of suspension. If a student 18 or over is involved (s)he shall be notified as to a conference date subsequent to the effective date of the suspension.
6. A probationary suspension will be indicated as such on the notice and may be revoked upon a parent conference.

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Dismissal of Student
The Principal/designee may suspend a student from school for a period not to exceed 10 days with a recommendation that (s)he be dismissed from school. Wherever possible, or if conditions permit, the Principal/designee shall hear the student’s defense or explanation of his/her conduct and shall explain to the student his/her reasons for the suspension with a recommendation of dismissal.

Whenever possible a hearing shall be given the minor student and his parent/guardian or to the student 18 or over prior to the effective date of suspension.

Where the presence of a disruptive student interferes with the orderly discharge of normal school functions, such student shall be suspended forthwith and the parent/guardian of the minor student or the student 18 or over notified as provided herein with an offer of a conference subsequent to the effective date of the suspension. In any case, the Principal/designee shall conduct an investigation into the charges and shall obtain written and signed statements from witnesses immediately after the incident. A tape recorder may be used with the knowledge of all parties concerned to record any proceedings with a parent/guardian or with students that could lead to a recommendation of dismissal. Where a pupil is suspended with a recommendation of dismissal being made, the following procedures shall be observed:
1. The suspension letter shall state the reasons for the suspension and the recommendation that the student be dismissed.
2. The letter of notice shall be delivered to the parent/guardian of a minor student and directly to the student 18 or over by the Principal/designee or sent by certified mail with a return receipt request. A copy of the suspension notice and recommendation of dismissal shall be sent to the superintendent.
3. Upon receipt of such notice, the Superintendent, if he concurs in the recommendation for expulsion, shall notify the parent/guardian of the minor student or the student 18 or over by certified mail with a return receipt request, stating that the School Board will meet at a specified time and place to hear the charges and to act on the expulsion recommendation. The parent/guardian of the minor student or the student 18 or over shall be full advised of the right to appear before the School Board during the hearing. The Principal and any witnesses shall also be informed as to the time and place of the hearing.
4. Any student whose expulsion is being considered shall be accorded due process of law prior to this expulsion and during any such hearing.

Due process shall include:
1. A written copy of the charges against the student shall be provided to the minor student and his parent/guardian or the student 18 or over.
2. The offer of a hearing at which the student may call witnesses and present evidence in his own behalf.
3. The right to cross-examine witnesses.
4. The right to defend his actions.
5. Legal counsel at his/her expense or other person to assist the student in presenting his/her defense.
6. A written copy of the findings or action of the School Board.
a. Where the Principal/designee suspends a pupil and recommends his dismissal, the Superintendent may extend the suspension assigned by the Principal beyond 10 days if such suspension period expires before the next regular or special meeting of the School Board.
b. Where such extension of a suspension is made by the Superintendent, (s)he shall notify the parent/guardian or the student 18 or over in writing prior to the expiration of the suspension as signed by the Principal.
c. A copy of the notice of the additional suspension shall be sent to the Principal. Authority: 232.26 FS

Expulsion
A Principal may recommend to the Superintendent the expulsion of a pupil. The Principal shall provide the Superintendent with an adequate history of the pupil’s actions relevant to the recommendation. Expulsion is determined by the School Board and dictates that a pupil shall not be allowed to attend any regular school programs/activities during the period of expulsion.
1. A student may be expelled for repeated disciplinary offenses as have been outlined above or for any misconduct deemed serious enough to warrant such action.
2. Any student recommended for expulsion will be given a hearing by the School Board and given the opportunity to have present their parent/guardian and/or legal counsel. Authority: 230.23 FS

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After School Detention
These programs may be used for students as an alternative to suspension or expulsion. These programs may involve work detail, tutoring and counseling for students.

In School Suspension (ISS)
Students may be removed from class(es) and assigned to in school suspension class or to other activities on the school campus as a result of misconduct.

Drugs and Alcoholic Beverages
No person shall be permitted to use, to be in possession of or to be under the influence of alcoholic beverages or unlawful substance while on school property. The term “alcoholic beverages” as used herein shall include all beverages containing more than one percent by weight. The term “unlawful substance” as used herein shall mean any drug or other controlled substance identified by Chapter 893, Florida Statutes, for which the individual does not have a prescription issued by a physician. All school personnel are required to report to the Principal/designee any suspected unlawful use, possession, sale of any controlled substance, counterfeit controlled substance, alcoholic beverage or model glue by a student. Students found in possession of alcoholic beverages or involved in the illegal use, sale or possession of controlled substances on school property or while attending a school activity shall result in the following:

1. A 10-day suspension.
2. Referred to the School Board for expulsion which may necessitate the Superintendent’s extending a 10 day suspension for an additional period of time (not to exceed 10 additional days) in order to afford the student due process.
3. The School Board’s expelling the student for the balance of the school year or the balance of the school year plus an additional school year.
Remember: The use of illicit drugs and the unlawful possession and use of alcohol is wrong and harmful.

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STUDENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE FOR SEXUAL HARASSMENT
1. Any student that feels they have been the victim of sexual harassment by a student or staff member should file a written complaint, stating the act or acts, stating the date(s), and stating the name of witnesses, with the building principal, assistant principal, guidance counselor, or school-based coordinator. The complaint must be signed by the complainant.
2. The principal, (Superintendent’s designee) shall investigate the alleged incident and shall render a decision regarding the incident. In determining whether alleged conduct constitutes sexual harassment, the totality of the circumstances, nature of the conduct, and the context in which the alleged conduct occurred will be investigated.
3. If the decision of the principal is not satisfactory to the victim of the alleged sexual harassment, the student may file a written complaint, stating the act or acts, stating the date(s), and stating the name of witnesses, with the Superintendent. The complaint must be signed by the complainant.
4. The Superintendent shall investigate the alleged incident and shall render a decision regarding the incident. In determining whether alleged conduct constitutes sexual harassment, the totality of the circumstances, nature of the conduct, and the context in which the alleged conduct occurred will be investigated.
5. The Superintendent’s decision shall be final.
6. The right to confidentiality, both of the complainant and of the accused, will be respected, consistent with the Board’s legal obligations and with the necessity to investigate allegations of misconduct and take corrective action when this conduct has occurred.

POLICY: PROHIBITION OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT BY STUDENTS (5.21)
The School Board desires to maintain an academic environment in which all students are treated with respect and dignity. A vital element of this atmosphere is the Board’s commitment to equal opportunities and the eradication of discriminatory practices including sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is specifically prohibited by state and federal law and instances of harassment may result in both civil and criminal liability on the part of the individual harasser as well as the School Board. Sexual harassment’s destructive impact wastes human potential, demoralizes students, and perpetuates the tendency to further unacceptable behavior. For these reasons, the School Board forbids harassment against any student on the basis of sex. The Board will not tolerate sexual harassment activity by any of its students.

(1) Definition. Sexual harassment consists of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other inappropriate verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, wherever such harassment occurs on school property or at a school-sponsored event, that is aimed at coercing an unwilling person into a sexual relationship whether or not it involves physical contact; or that substantially interferes with a student’s academic performance, or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive school environment.

Examples of sexual harassment may include but are not limited to the following:
a. Verbal harassment or abuse of a sexual nature;
b. Subtle pressure for sexual activity;
c. Repeated remarks to a person with sexual or demeaning implications (e.g., a person’s body, clothes, or sexual activity);
d. Unwelcome or inappropriate physical contact such as patting, pinching, or unnecessary touching;
e. Suggesting or demanding sexual involvement accompanied by implied or explicit threats;
f. Display of sexually suggestive objects, pictures, or written materials.

Sexual harassment does not refer to occasional compliments or welcomed interactions of a socially acceptable nature.

Specific Prohibition. It is sexual harassment for a student to subject another student or a school employee to any unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature on school property or at a school-sponsored event. Students who engage in such conduct shall be subject to penalties as described herein.

Procedures. Any student who alleges sexual harassment by another student should complain to the building principal, assistant principal(s), guidance counselors or school0based equity coordinator. Filing of a complaint or otherwise reporting sexual harassment will not affect the student’s status, extracurricular activities, grade or any other assignments. The complaint should: be in writing, state the act or acts, state the date(s), state the names of witnesses, and be signed by the complainant.

The right of confidentiality, both of the complainant and of the accused, will be respected, consistent with the Board’s legal obligations and with the necessity to investigate allegations of misconduct and take corrective action when this conduct has occurred.

In determining whether alleged conduct constitutes sexual harassment, the totality of the circumstances, nature of the conduct, and the context in which the alleged conduct occurred will be investigated. The Superintendent or designee has the responsibility of investigating and resolving complaints of sexual harassment.

Penalties. A substantiated charge against a student shall subject that student to disciplinary action consistent with the Code of Student Conduct. STATUTORY AUTHORITY: 230.22(2); 230.23(17), F.S. LAWS IMPLEMENTED: 228.2001; 230.23005(1), F.S.

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PARENT RIGHTS
In Evaluation, Placement, Hearings and Student Records Procedures Under state and federal regulations, the School Board of Gilchrist County is required to inform all parents of policies for protecting the confidentiality of child identification data. As part of this policy, the Exceptional Student Education Program must maintain confidentiality consistent with the student records procedures developed by this school district. These procedures are listed below.

Gilchrist County Schools actively seek to locate and serve exceptional students and maintain information on those students screened and identified as exceptional. The term “exceptional student” refers to all of the following: emotionally handicapped, specific learning disabled, mentally retarded, gifted, speech and language impaired, deaf or hard of hearing, physically impaired, homebound/hospitalized and blind or partially sighted. Several kinds of information are gathered to help schools locate and serve exceptional students. Such information may include the following areas of behaviors and abilities: social, emotional, physical, academic, psychological and communication.
Information is collected through screening programs, checklists, teacher and counselor observations, standardized tests and home visits. Persons from whom relevant information is gathered include parents, teachers, psychologists and other school specialists, physicians and other professional personnel as well as the child.

Data about students is used to help in the development of appropriate educational programs for exceptional students and for reports required by state and federal agencies. Students are screened periodically for vision, hearing, speech and academic achievement or readiness. These are the first steps in identifying students with suspected exceptionalities. If school personnel determine that further evaluation of a child is called for, the child’s parent/guardian will be consulted before the school proceeds. Although the School Board of Gilchrist County is responsible for providing an appropriate education for each student and is responsible for placement of exceptional students, parents/guardians have the right to due process. These rights may be exercised any time parents wish to appeal the assignment, reassignment or denial of assignment of their child in any exceptional education program. The procedural safeguards which provide for parent due process rights are listed below.

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PROTECTION IN EVALUATION PROCEDURES
Parents have the right to:
1. Review all records related to the identification, evaluation and placement of the child.
2. Review the procedures and instruments to be used in the evaluation.
3. Refuse consent to the evaluation (subject to the school system’s right to a hearing).
4. Be informed of the results of the evaluation.
5. Obtain an independent educational evaluation which will be considered in any decisions regarding the child.
6. Receive information upon request about where an independent evaluation by a certified examiner can be obtained.
7. Upon disagreement with the school system’s evaluation (subject to the school system’s right to a hearing), obtain an independent evaluation at public expense when ordered by a hearing officer or when agreed to by the School Board in the absence of a formal hearing.

PROTECTION IN EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM PLACEMENT
Parents have the right to:
1. Receive prior notification of changes in educational placement including recommendation for assignment, reassignment or denial of assignment in any exceptional education program.
2. Notification in their primary language or other primary mode of communication (unless it is clearly not feasible).
3. Refuse consent to initial placement in an exceptional education program (subject to school system’s right to a hearing).
4. Request an impartial hearing if they disagree with the recommendations for educational placement.

PROTECTION IN IMPARTIAL HEARING PROCEDURES
Parents have the right to:
1. Be accompanied and advised by counsel and experts in the pertinent area of exceptional.
2. Present evidence and confront, cross-examine and compel the attendance of witnesses.
3. Obtain an independent educational evaluation to be presented as evidence.
4. Examine and reproduce all relevant school records.
5. Prohibit introduction of evidence that has not been disclosed at lease five days prior to the hearing.
6. Have the child who is the subject of the hearing present and open the hearing to the public.
7. Obtain a record of the hearing.
8. Appeal the decision of the hearing.

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PROTECTION FOR CONFIDENTIALITY OF INFORMATION
Parents have the right to:
1. Inspect and review educational records.
2. Receive a response from the educational agency to reasonable requests for explanations and interpretations of records.
3. Obtain copies of the records.
4. Seek correction of records.
5. Prior consent for disclosure of personally identifiable information.
6. Request a hearing when there is a problem or question regarding confidentiality of information in their child’s records.

PARENTS’ RIGHTS IN STUDENT RECORDS
Annual Notification of Parents, Guardians and Adult Students of Their Rights Under the Provisions of Federal Privacy Rights of Parents and Students Act of 1974, Florida Statute, Chapter 228 and State Board of Education, Procedures 6A-1.955
The information that follows is to inform you of your rights as detailed in the legislation stated in the above title. The School Board of Gilchrist County has adopted policies and procedures to ensure compliance with these legislative acts. As a parent, guardian or adult student, you are entitled to the following information and statements of your rights:
1. The right to inspect all of the educational records of the student that contain personally identifiable information regardless of where it is located, other than the personal files of school personnel maintained solely for their own use. Reasonable, formal notice of your request will be required.
2. No individual, organization or agency outside the school system (other than those specified by law or Board Policy) will be permitted to inspect, have access to or be provided copies of a student’s educational records without your written permission.
3. A record will be maintained (1) of each request for information from a student’s educational record and of the nature of the information requested, (2) of each written permission received from you, authorizing the release of information from your student(s)’ record and (3) the nature of the information released and the name of the person and/or organization receiving the information. This record will be available for your inspection.
4. It is the policy of the School Board of Gilchrist County to send copies of student educational records, upon request, to other schools, school districts, colleges and universities without first obtaining your written permission as provided by law.
5. Upon your formal request to a Principal, you have the right to an informal hearing to challenge the content of the educational records or to request correction of any inaccurate or misleading information contained in the record. This includes the right to have a copy of the record provided at cost and the right to have the record reasonably interpreted by a school official. If, in the opinion of the school official, there exists a language barrier to non-English speaking eligible parties, an interpreter may be provided. If the results of the informal hearing are not satisfactory, you may appeal that decision to a higher authority or place a document in the student’s record stating your objections.
6. In certain situations, it may be to your advantage to waive our rights to inspect the student record or to inspect a certain part of the record. In these situations you may be advised to waive your right to inspect, but you may not be required by any school official to waive your right. You will be required to sign a formal written document if you choose to waive your right of inspection.
7. Student educational records are usually located at the school of attendance, but certain specialized records are located at the District Office. The Principal is obligated to make available, upon your request, a full disclosure as to the whereabouts of your student’s records.
8. The School Board may release “directory information/photographs” on the students to the general public which includes, name, address, telephone number, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height - if an athletic team member, name of the most recent previous school or program attended, dates of attendance at schools in the district and degrees and honors received, and date and place of birth. You have the right to restrict this information from the public records but this right must be a written request to the principal made within 30 days of receipt of the Code of Student Conduct.
9. Further details of this policy and procedures are available at any school and at the District Office. This policy and procedure will be made available for your inspection upon request during normal business hours.

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STUDENT RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Code of Student Conduct is concerned with those student rights and responsibilities this District feels are necessary if students are to progress successfully through our schools. These student rights and responsibilities are broadly stated and are meant to be used as principles upon which each school will base its rules and regulations. These rules and regulations should be developed in consultation with faculty, parents and students. The rules and regulations developed from these principles may vary from school to school; they may be treated differently depending on whether the school is elementary, middle or secondary. Whatever form the rules take, they must be consistent with the District’s and the School’s goals of education with due regard for the student’s health, safety and welfare.

These student rights and responsibilities in no way diminish the authority and responsibility of the Gilchrist County School Board, Principals, administrators and teachers as provided for in state statutes and School Board Policy. It is not the intention of this Code to create legally enforceable rights for students beyond those normally enforceable at law.

Assembly
The freedom of students to assemble in a non-disruptive manner shall be preserved.

Rights
Students have the right to assemble.

Responsibilities
Students have the responsibility to plan for, seek approval of and conduct those assemblies which are consistent with the educational objectives of the school.

Attendance
School attendance is necessary to education. School personnel and parents have an obligation to enforce school attendance policies, laws and procedures. School attendance is compulsory from the beginning of the normal school term for all children who are five years old or older on or before September 1st of any school year and who have not yet attained the age of 16 years, unless such a person is eligible for exemption under the applicable Florida Statute(s) or has been expelled by the School Board. A child who attains the age of 16 years during the school year shall not be required to attend school beyond the date upon which he attains that age.

Rights
1. Students have the right to information on School Board policies and procedures and individual school rules that pertain to attendance.
2. Students have the right to make up (within three days) work missed because of excused absences.
3. Students have the right to appeal a decision pertaining to an absence.

Responsibilities
1. Students have the responsibility to abide by the policies and rules on attendance.
2. Students have the responsibility to request make-up work from their teachers within a reasonable period of time after the absences.
3. Students have the responsibility to provide the school with an adequate explanation with appropriate documentation indicating the reasons for an absence within 72 hours.

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Free Speech and Student Publications
One of the basic purposes of education is to prepare students for responsible self-expression in a democratic society. Citizens in our democracy are permitted self-expression under the first and 14th Amendments of the U. S. Constitution. Full opportunity should be provided for students to inquire, to question and to exchange ideas. They should be encouraged to participate in discussions in which many points of view, including those which are controversial, are freely expressed.

Rights
1. Students have the right to express their opinions orally or in writing.
2. Students have the right to publish and distribute leaflets, newspapers and other printed material under the supervision of the Principal/designee.
3. Students have the right to form and express their own opinion on issues without jeopardizing their relations with their teachers or school.

Responsibilities
1. Students have the responsibility to express and publicize their opinions and ideas in such a manner so as not to offend, slander or libel other persons.
2. Students have the responsibility to be aware of all the rules and regulations governing student behavior that relate to publicizing information.
3. Students have the responsibility to become informed and knowledgeable about issues and express their opinions in a manner that is suitable for the forum in which the discussion is taking place.

Knowledge and Observation of Rules of Conduct
Schools must make available the rules of conduct to students and parents. Students have a responsibility for knowing and observing both school rules and those laws which govern their conduct.

Rights
1. Students have a right to expect clear and understandable rules of student conduct to be available to them.
2. Students have a right to expect the rules of conduct to be enforced without discrimination.

Responsibilities
1. Students have a responsibility to know the school rules which pertain to them and to seek the help of faculty or administrators when in doubt.
2. Students have a responsibility to observe the rules of conduct which pertain to them.

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Participation in School Programs and Activities
Students learn from each other. Positive association with each other may contribute greatly to the overall education of students. Schools have a responsibility to promote appropriate formal and informal programs and activities among students.

Rights
1. Students have the right to organize and participate in associations and extracurricular activities within the school which are organized for any proper and lawful purposes, providing that no such group denies membership to any student because of race, religion or nationality.
2. Students have the right to have an elected representative student council appropriate to the school level and to take an active part in student activities designed to help make rules that affect their lives in school.
3. Students have the right to privacy of their personal possessions unless there is reason to believe that the student is possessing or concealing materials prohibited by school rules.
4. Students have the right to expect professional and ethical treatment of personal information shared with school personnel.

Responsibilities
1. Students have the responsibility to seek prior and proper consent from administrators and any other designated school personnel before organizing student associations and to meet the approved criteria for membership in clubs, organizations and activities.
2. Student Council officers and representatives have the responsibility to be aware of school needs and concerns of the student body and to work toward the attainment of their needs. Students have the responsibility to participate regularly in their respective organizations and to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner and to operate according to the School Board policies and local school regulations.
3. Students have the responsibility not to carry, possess or conceal any materials that are prohibited by school rules.
4. Students have the responsibility of providing the school with accurate and current information.

Privacy
Schools have a responsibility to ensure the privacy rights of students.

Rights
1. Parents, guardians or eligible students (18 years of age or attending a postsecondary institution) have the right to review, update and challenge the information in the student’s permanent cumulative record.
2. Students have the right to be protected by legal provisions which prohibit the release of personally identifiable information to other than legally authorized persons without the consent of the parent, guardian or eligible student.

Responsibilities
1. Parents, guardians or eligible students have the responsibility of providing the school with accurate and current information.
2. Parents, guardians or eligible students have the responsibility to release information to legally authorized persons.

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Respect for Persons and Property
Students shall conduct themselves in a manner reflecting mutual respect and consideration for the personal and property rights and privileges of others. It should be understood that usage of school property and property of others is a privilege and therefore requires permission from appropriate persons.

Rights
1. Students have the right to expect a safe school environment in which to learn and live.
2. Students have the right to expect courtesy, fairness and respect from members of the school staff and other students.
3. All students have property rights.
4. Students have the right to a clearly understandable statement defining the personal property which may be brought to school.

Responsibilities
1. Students have the responsibility to assist and cooperate with the school staff in operating a safe school.
2. Students have the responsibility to extend courtesy, fairness and respect to members of the school staff and other students.
3. Students have the responsibility to respect the property rights of others. Students are responsible for their own property as well as school property entrusted to them.
4. Students have the responsibility to abide by school rules pertaining to personal property and to request clarification when in doubt.

Right to Learn
To satisfy a student’s right to learn is the primary reason for the existence of school programs and facilities. Gilchrist County School Board is obligated by law to provide an appropriate program of education to all.

Rights
1. Students have the right to an educational program which is appropriate to their needs and goals.
2. Students have the right to pursue their education under competent instructors.
3. Students have the right to voice their opinions in the development of their curriculum.
4. Students who are married, pregnant or parents have the right to remain in the regular school program or take advantage of specialized programs for them.
5. A student’s marks in each class should represent fairly and impartially his/her progress in that class. The student should have the opportunity of periodically reviewing his/her progress with the teacher.

Responsibilities
1. Students have the responsibility to take advantage of the educational experiences offered to them and to put forth their best efforts.
2. Students are responsible to meet the requirements of all classes.
3. Students have the responsibility to contribute to curriculum development in a responsible way.
4. Students have the responsibility for their own health and safety and for making up any work missed.
5. Students have the responsibility to achieve their progress through their own efforts. Students are responsible to periodically review their progress with teachers and seek additional help in problem areas.

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MEMORANDUM
To: District School Superintendent
From: Carey E. Ferrell
Subject: Enforcement of Immunization Law

The purpose of this memorandum is to bring to your attention a possible problem in enforcing Section 232.032(8), FS, which indicates that effective August 1, 1982, school districts would temporarily exclude from attendance any student who is not in compliance with the provisions of subsection (2) of the law. This subsection indicates that all students in school have proof of immunization. Section 232.032(3), FS, indicates that the two exemptions to subsection (2) would be for medical or religious reasons. The problem is specifically what does the school district do if a parent refuses to give permission to have his/her child immunized and does not present a medical or religious exemption and the child is within compulsory school attendance age?

Section 232.032(5), FS, indicates that parents or guardians are responsible for ensuring that the child is in compliance with the provisions of the immunization statute. Section 232.09, FS, indicates that each parent of a child within the compulsory attendance age shall be responsible for such child’s school attendance as required by law and that the absence of a child from school shall be prima facie evidence of a violation of this section.

In view of the statutes mentioned above, the school district should follow its existing procedures for taking parents to court for their children’s non-attendance if parents do not give permission for having their children immunized and do not present a medical or religious exemption.

It is recommended that such procedures be initiated only after an earnest effort has been made to obtain the parent’s permission to have their child immunized in compliance with Section 232.032, FS.

MEMORANDUM
To: Parents
From: Don Thomas, Superintendent
Subject: Consent for Health Screening

Based on Laws of Florida, Section 15, Chapter 79-268, the following health screenings are required to be offered at school: height, weight, nutritional survey, hearing, vision, dental, fluoride mouth rinse and Scoliosis.

A one-time permission form is required in your child’s permanent folder. If you wish to remove your child from these screenings, this must be done in writing and given to the school principal and this will be placed in his/her folder.

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