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Union Sixth/Seventh Grade Center

STUDENT HANDBOOK 2017-2018

Welcome to the Union 6th/7th Grade Center

It is the mission of the Union Sixth/Seventh Grade Center to provide our students with diverse quality educational opportunities in a safe environment, which maximizes individual potential and strengthens positive decision-making skills. The Sixth/Seventh Grade Center is designed to assist students in making a successful transition from a middle school to a high school setting. The staff at the Sixth/Seventh Grade Center will work toward academic excellence for all students and will maintain high expectations of the students. To accomplish our academic goals and to create an overall learning community, we must work cooperatively with the parents and students. This planner is designed to help you become a more efficient and organized student. Contained within this planner are the rules and regulations set forth by the Union Board of Education, State Department of Education and the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association. These regulations are written to provide a safe and disciplined environment where the emphasis is on learning. We ask each student and parent to read this handbook and become more familiar with the educational process and regulations at the Union Sixth/Seventh Grade Center. If there are any questions concerning the information within this handbook, please feel free to call the principals or assistant principals at 918-357-4326. We are looking forward to having a great school year. The faculty and staff are excellent, and there will be many opportunities for students to grow and develop. Your success this school year depends on your effort and involvement. RESPECT for yourself and others and assuming RESPONSIBILITY for your actions are keys to a successful year. UNION SIXTH/SEVENTH GRADE CENTER 10100 East 61st Street Tulsa, Oklahoma 74133-1507 (918) 357-4326 FAX (918) 357-8047 Revised June 2017

This Planner belongs to: Name

First Hour Teacher

I have read and discussed the material in this planner with my son/daughter Parent/Guardian Signature

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Mission Statement/Philosophy 3 Goals and Objectives 3 School Calendar (summary) 3 Basic Standards of Behavior 4 Important Phone Numbers 4 Union Pride 4 School Calendar 5 6th/7th Grade Daily Schedule 6 Maps 7-8 I. ATTENDANCE Arrivals and Departures 9 Absences 9 Truancy 9 Tardies 9 Hall Sweeps 9 Emergency School Closing 9 Homebound Program 9 II. COUNSELORS Schedule Changes 10 III. GRADING SYSTEM Grading 10 Report Cards 10 Grade Report Calendar 10 Grades Online (grade checks) 10 Homework Assignments When Absent 10 Requesting Assignments 10 Promotion 10 Change of Address 11 Withdrawals or Transfers 11 IV. CAFETERIA Lunch Prices 11 Cafeteria Behavior 11 V. GENERAL STUDENT INFORMATION

Identification Cards 12 Late Work Policy 12 Dress Code 12 Hall Passes 12 Restroom Use 12 Lost and Found 12 Telephone Use 12 Electronic Devices 12 Deliveries 12 Student Messages 12 Visitor Check In 13 Lockers 13 Money, Collectibles, Valuables 13 Cheating 13 Gum and/or Candies 13 Selling Items 13 Public Display of Affection 13

Fighting and Verbal Assaults 13 Disrespect Towards Staff Members 13 Arson/Fire/Alarms/Bomb Threats 14 Theft 14 Damage to School Property / Vandalism 14 Explosive / Flammable Devices 14 Gambling 14 Other Prohibited Items 14 School Activities 14 Library Media Center 14 Health Services 14-15 School Sponsored Organizations 15 Non-School Sponsored Organizations 15 Eligibility for Extracurricular Activities 15-16 Emergency Procedures 16

VI. RIGHTS Legal Custody 16 Special Services 16 Rights to Records 16-17 VII. STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

Preamble 17 Discipline Policy/Guidelines 17-18 Detentions 18

Student Assistance 18 Initial Offense 18 Terms of Suspension 18-19 Subsequent Offenses 19 Terms of Suspension 19 Sale/Distribution of Illegal/ Controlled Substances 19

VIII. TRANSPORTATION AND BUS RULES Student Responsibilities 19 Items Not Allowed on School Buses 19 Eligibility to Ride a School Bus 19-20 Disciplinary Guidelines 20 Severe Violations 20 Important Information 20 IX. BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICIES Student Policies 21-56 Internet & E-Mail Policy 56-57

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The Union Sixth and Seventh Grade Centers Mission Statement 100% personalization for all. Philosophy We believe a free, public education is an inherent right, a privilege and a duty of every individual. Our school is concerned with the social and physical development of each student. All students will be encouraged to explore, discover and appreciate their world and their own ability to change and contribute to it. Students will be learning new concepts and continuing the practice of basic skills through a core set of courses and an exploratory program. Administrators, counselors, teachers, parents and students must work together to create an atmosphere that promotes learning, and all must contribute to the learning community. We believe all students can learn and experience success at the Union Sixth and Seventh Grade Center. Goals and Objectives 1. Cultivate a sense of belonging and personal

investment in learning for all. 2. Ensure that students and families are supported

in all areas of academic, physical, and social/ emotional growth.

3. Nurture a safe and secure school-learning environment.

4. Develop literacy skills of thinking, reading, writing, speaking, and listening in all content areas.

5. Recognize and reinforce character development.

STUDENT – PARENT HANDBOOK All students are to be familiar with the information within this handbook and are subject to all the rules and regulations set forth by the Union Board of Education, State Department of Education and the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association. The information contained within this handbook is to further the link of communication among the school, the students, the teachers and the parents or guardians. We ask each student and parent or guardian to read the handbook to become more familiar with the educational process and the required conduct of the student while at the Union Sixth and Seventh Grade Center. If there is any question concerning the information within this handbook, please feel free to call the Sixth /Seventh Grade Center at 918-357-4326. School Calendar for 2017-2018 Professional Days August 17, 18, & 21, 2017 First Day of School August 22, 2017 Labor Day September 4, 2017 Parent Teacher Conferences October 18, 2017 End First Quarter October 18, 2017 Fall Vacation October 19 & 20, 2017 Professional Day October 30, 2017 Thanksgiving Holidays November 22, 23, & 24, 2017 End Second Quarter/1st Semester December 20, 2017 Winter Break Dec. 21, 2017-Jan. 3, 2018 Classes Resume January 4, 2018 Martin Luther King Day January 15, 2018 Professional Day January 16, 2018 Presidents’ Day February 19, 2018 End Third Quarter March 16, 2018 Spring Break March 19-23, 2018 Parent Teacher Conferences April 16, 2018 Memorial Day May 28, 2018 Last Day of Classes June 1*, 2018

(*Six (6) snow days have been built into the calendar.)

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BASIC STANDARDS OF BEHAVIOR Respect Above All – Students will exhibit respect for themselves by doing their best. They will show respect for other students and for staff members. Students will follow directions or instructions when given the first time from any staff member in the school. Students will do as asked without comment or disrespectful non-verbal communication. Non-Performance Is NOT an option – Students will be expected to complete all assignments and to return them to the teacher on time. A student who repeatedly fails to complete school work will be considered to have willfully disobeyed his/her teacher and will be dealt with appropriately. In addition, failure to do his or her best and failure to follow directions are in direct violation of the school’s RESPECT ABOVE ALL philosophy and corrective action will be taken. Bullying is NOT Allowed – Students who bully other students will be dealt with severely. Bullying happens when someone with more power repeatedly and intentionally hurts another person’s body, feelings or possessions over time. Bullying can be manifested in many different ways such as put downs; hitting, shoving or kicking; ignoring or leaving someone out on purpose; lying or spreading rumors; taking someone’s things; writing mean things; or doing other hurtful things.

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS Main Office 918-357-4326 7th Gr. Attendance 918-357-8077 7th Gr. Attendance 918-357-8177 6th Gr. Attendance 918-357-8029 6th Gr. Attendance 918-357-8090 Nurse Debbie Furgerson 918-357-8080 Nurse Patricia Easton 918-357-8080 Cafeteria Cathy Burke 918-357-8083

Students are Expected to Arrive to School Ready to Learn – Students are expected to be on time, dressed appropriately and with the necessary materials needed to be successful. This includes completed homework and outside assignments. Students are Expected to Contribute to the Learning Community – We will strive to minimize any interruptions to the educational process. Teachers, staff members and students will be expected to be prepared and to work for the betterment of our students. Parents and visitors will be expected to respect the classroom and support the need for the school to focus on instruction. In addition, students will be prohibited from taking items to class which do not enhance the learning environment. UNION PRIDE The UNION PRIDE program is designed to reward those students who have proven themselves to be model, responsible students focusing on academic excellence. The criteria for selection: No grade lower than an “A” or “B” No referrals, detentions or suspensions of any

kind. No more than five (5) absences per quarter as

recorded by the attendance office. Students will receive an identification card recognizing them for these achievements. They must carry the card at all times to receive the privileges associated with UNION PRIDE. Students may lose the privileges associated with UNION PRIDE for falling below the minimum criteria at any time.

S M T W T F S S M T W T F S1 1 2 3 4 5 6

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 7 8 9 10 11 12 139 10 11 12 13 14 15 14 15 ! 17 18 19 20

16 17 18 19 20 21 22 21 22 23 24 25 26 2723 24 25 26 27 28 29 28 29 30 3130 31

Professional Days Aug. 17, 18 & 21S M T W T F S First Day of School Aug. 22 S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5 Labor Day Sept. 4 1 2 36 7 8 9 10 11 12 End of First Quarter Oct. 18 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

13 14 15 16 ! ! 19 Parent/Teacher Conf. Oct. 18 11 12 13 14 15 16 1720 ! 22 23 24 25 26 Fall Vacation Oct. 19-20 18 19 20 21 22 23 2427 28 29 30 31 Professional Day Oct. 30 25 26 27 28

Thanksgiving Vacation Nov. 22-24 End of First Semester Dec. 20

S M T W T F S Winter Vacation Dec. 21-Jan. 3 S M T W T F S1 2 Start of Second Semester Jan. 4 1 2 3

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Martin Luther King Day Jan. 15 4 5 6 7 8 9 1010 11 12 13 14 15 16 Professional Day Jan. 16 11 12 13 14 15 16 1717 18 19 20 21 22 23 Presidents' Day Feb. 19 18 19 20 21 22 23 2424 25 26 27 28 29 30 End of Third Quarter Mar. 16 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Spring Break Mar. 19-23 Parent/Teacher Conf. Apr. 16

S M T W T F S Memorial Day May 28 S M T W T F S1 2 3 4 5 6 7 End of Fourth Quarter June 1* 1 2 3 4 5 6 78 9 10 11 12 13 14 Last Day of Classes June 1* 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

15 16 17 ▲ 19 20 21 15 ▲ 17 18 19 20 2122 23 24 25 26 27 28 22 23 24 25 26 27 2829 ! 31 29 30

! Professional Day (no school for students)Classes Begin / End

S M T W T F S " Holiday S M T W T F S1 2 3 4 ! End of Quarter 1 2 3 4 5

5 6 7 8 9 10 11 ▲ Conference Day (no school for students) 6 7 8 9 10 11 1212 13 14 15 16 17 18 S Snow Day 13 14 15 16 17 18 1919 20 21 22 23 24 25 20 21 22 23 24 25 2626 27 28 29 30 First Semester: 27 28 29 30 31

80 Instructional Days4 Professional Days

S M T W T F S 84 S M T W T F S1 2 1 2

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Second Semester: 3 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15 16 92 Instructional Days 10 11 12 13 14 15 1617 18 19 20 21 22 23 1 Professional Day 17 18 19 20 21 22 2324 25 26 27 28 29 30 93 24 25 26 27 28 29 3031

Approved by the Board of Education 2-13-17

January 2018

February 2018

2017-2018

July 2017

* calendar includes 6 snow days

UNIONPUBLIC

SCHOOLS

August 2017

September 2017

October 2017

SCHOOL CALENDAR

NOTE: Calendar is subject to revision

November 2017

December 2017

March 2018

April 2018

May 2018

June 2018

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7th GRADE CENTER Monday-Thursday Bell Schedule

9:05-9:30 First Period RAO* (25 min.) 9:30-9:34 Passing 9:34-10:28 Second Period (54 min.) 10:28-10:32 Passing 10:32-11:26 Third Period (54 min.) 11:26-11:30 Passing 11:30-12:24 Fourth Period (54 min.) 12:24-12:28 Passing 12:28-1:54 Fifth Period/Lunch (86 min.) 1:54- 1:58 Passing 1:58-2:52 Sixth Period (54 min.) 2:52-2:56 Passing 2:56-3:50 Seventh Period (54 min.)

Students will have lunch during fifth period.

6th GRADE CENTER Monday-Thursday Bell Schedule

7:50-8:15 First Period RAO* (25 min.) 8:15-8:19 Passing 8:19-9:04 Second Period (45 min.) 9:04-9:08 Passing 9:08-9:53 Third Period (45 min.) 9:53-9:57 Passing 9:57-10:42 Fourth Period (45 min.) 10:42-10:46 Passing 10:46-12:08 Fifth Period/Lunch (82 min.) 12:08-12:12 Passing 12:12-12:57 Sixth Period (45 min.) 12:57-1:01 Passing 1:01-1:46 Seventh Period (45 min.) 1:46-1:50 Passing 1:50-2:35 Eighth Period (45 min.)

• Redskin Academic Overtime

Students will have lunch during fifth period.

7th GRADE CENTER Friday Bell Schedule

9:30-9:50 First Period RAO* (20 min.) 9:50-9:54 Passing 9:54-10:45 Second Period (51 min.) 10:45-10:49 Passing 10:49-11:40 Third Period (51 min.) 11:40-11:44 Passing 11:44-12:35 Fourth Period (51 min.) 12:35-12:39 Passing 12:39-2:02 Fifth Period/Lunch (83 min.) 2:02-2:06 Passing 2:06-2:56 Sixth Period (51 min.) 2:56-3:00 Passing 3:00-3:50 Seventh Period (51 min.)

Students will have lunch during fifth period.

6th GRADE CENTER Friday Bell Schedule

8:15-8:35 First Period RAO* (20 min.) 8:35-8:39 Passing 8:39-9:21 Second Period (42 min.) 9:21-9:25 Passing 9:25-10:07 Third Period (42 min.) 10:07-10:11 Passing 10:11-10:53 Fourth Period (42 min.) 10:53-10:57 Passing 10:57-12:17 Fifth Period/Lunch (80 min.) 12:17-12:21 Passing 12:21-1:03 Sixth Period (42 min.) 1:03-1:07 Passing 1:07-1:49 Seventh Period (42 min.) 1:49-1:53 Passing 1:53-2:35 Eighth Period (42 min.)

• Redskin Academic Overtime

Students will have lunch during fifth period.

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ATTENDANCE Arrivals and Departures All students are restricted to the school campus from time of arrival in the morning until time of departure in the afternoon. No student is to leave the campus during the school day unless checked out through the attendance office by a parent / guardian or school nurse. Parents must check out students at the attendance desk and proper identification must be provided. Students leaving school without permission will be considered truant. Students should not arrive at school before:

6th Grade 7:25 a.m. Monday-Thursday 7:50 a.m. Friday 7th Grade 8:40 a.m. Monday-Thursday 9:05 a.m. Friday

Students should not be left at school after:

2:55 p.m. – 6th Grade

4:10 p.m. – 7th Grade

Repeated violations may result in administrative action.

Clearing Student Absences Please contact school before 10:00 a.m. any time a student will not be in attendance

7th Grade - Call 918-357-8077 or 918-357-8177 6th Grade - Call 918-357-8029 or 918-357-8090

Absences Please refer to Board Policy #5025 located in the back of this handbook on pages 27-29 for the definition of absences. An excused absence is not exempt from the minimum attendance requirement even though it is excused. Truancy Students are considered truant if the school and/or the parent are unaware of their absence. Students shall not receive credit for work missed due to truancy. A zero (0) will be given in each class missed. The student will be referred to an assistant principal for disciplinary action. Tardies A student is counted tardy if he/she is NOT in his/her assigned seat when the tardy bell rings per class period. Students are responsible to obtain an excused tardy slip when they are detained in the office or by a teacher. If a student does not have a tardy slip, the

student will be admitted to class and recorded as UNEXCUSED tardy by the teacher. All tardies without an excused pass are considered unexcused. Tardies are counted per class. 1st Offense: Verbal Warning 2nd Offense: Warning; Parent Contact 3rd Offense: 1 P.M. detention; Parent Contact 4th Offense: 2 P.M. detentions; Parent Contact 5th and Subsequent Offense: Referral to an assistant

principal - action to be determined by the administrator and may include suspension and/or IP placement.

Hall Sweeps In an effort to curb the number of tardies to class, the administration may institute a procedure referred to as a “Hall Sweep.” Students who are in the hall without a pass after the tardy bell rings during a hall sweep will automatically be given lunch detention, regardless of the incident number. It is the responsibility of the student to get a pass from a teacher if they are to be in the halls after the tardy bell rings. Emergency School Closing When it becomes necessary to close school because of severe weather conditions or other emergencies, announcements will be made through local radio and television stations, or parents may check the district website at www.unionps.org Homebound Program Union Public Schools offers a homebound program through the Special Services Department. The criteria are as follows: A. A student must have an acute or chronic

condition which prevents attendance in regular classes for a minimum period of two (2) weeks. This must be verified by a doctor’s statement.

B. Applications for this service are approved by the Director of Special Services.

C. The State Department of Education must approve the request. Homebound services will only begin after the proper forms have been successfully completed and placed on file in the Special Services Office.

COUNSELORS

A student needing to see his/her counselor should ‘sign-up’ in the office before school, at lunch or between classes. A student should not go to the counselor’s office during class without an excused pass from his/her teacher. The counselor will send

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for the students who have signed up for assistance. If a parent believes his child is in need of some special services on an ongoing basis, he may contact the counselor for information. Schedule Changes In order to obtain a schedule change, a student must first obtain a Schedule Change Request Form from the counseling office. This form should be filled out completely and returned to the counseling office promptly. Schedules will NOT be changed to allow a student to have class or lunch with a friend. Changes will not be made if the change overloads another class. Schedule changes will only be made in extreme situations. GRADING SYSTEM

The letter grades A, B, C, D, F, P and I shall be used to indicate the following degree of achievement:

A / 90-100 Superior quality of work B / 80-89 Above quality of work expected C / 70-79 Satisfactory quality of work D / 60-69 Below quality of work expected F / 0-59 Failing - Unsatisfactory work P Passing or satisfactory work I Incomplete grade

Report Cards Report cards will be issued at the end of each semester. Parents are encouraged to conference with the teacher and counselor regarding any grade problem. Progress reports will be sent home approximately every four and one-half weeks to all students. We urge parents to maintain contact with the school through the counselors concerning any problems a student may be experiencing at school. Grade Report Calendar 2017-2018 FIRST SEMESTER August 22 – December 20, 2017

Progress Reports September 22, 2017* Progress Reports October 27, 2017 Progress Reports November 21, 2017 Grade Cards January 12, 2018

SECOND SEMESTER January 4 – June 1, 2018

Progress Reports February 16, 2018 Progress Reports March 30, 2018 Progress Reports April 27, 2018 Grade Cards May 29, 2018* (*mailed to the home)

Grades Online Grade checks can be obtained by accessing Grades Online on the Union Public Schools website at www.unionps.org. To receive access to the student’s grades, parents should go to the child’s school with a valid photo ID to receive specific instructions. Grade checks can also be obtained from the student’s counselor.

Homework Assignments When Absent All school work missed during an excused absence may be made up. It is the student’s responsibility to procure missed assignments and/or makeup work, as well as returning it to the teacher within specified time limits. No penalty shall be assessed for makeup work as long as it is turned in or made up in the same number of days the student was absent plus one extra day. For example, a student who is absent four days will have homework due on the fifth day the student is back in class unless homework has been requested to be completed during the student’s absence.

Requesting Assignments During an Absence After the first day, parents may request work during a student’s illness only if three (3) or more consecutive days of absences are expected. If makeup work is requested during the student’s absence, the homework is due upon the student’s return to class. Homework should not be requested unless the student is capable of completing all assignments prior to his/her return. If homework is requested prior to a planned absence (i.e., vacation), all work is due when the student returns. It may not always be possible to get all work in advance of a planned absence.

If the request is made before 9:00 a.m., the assignments may be picked up the next school day. However, if the request is made after 9:00 a.m., the assignments may NOT be expected to be ready before 3:00 p.m. the following school day.

Sixth And Seventh Grade Promotions Promotion is a highlight of a school year and affects the teacher, pupil and parents. Therefore, serious consideration should be given to the following factors when determining a student’s promotion or retention:

A. Number of years retained B. Chronological age. C. Scholastic achievement. D. Cognitive ability. E. Developmental and social maturity.

A decision to recommend retention will be made by a full team of teachers, a counselor, a parent and an administrator. A parent/guardian, if dissatisfied with the recommendation, may appeal the decision by contacting the principal.

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CHANGE OF ADDRESS In-District: Notify the school of any address and/or telephone changes so parents can be notified in the event of an emergency. With an address change, the district will require two current proofs of residence in the form of gas, electric or water bill and/or lease Out-of-District: Notification of the school is necessary so the student can be withdrawn from the roll and his/her transcript can be forwarded to the new school (refer to “Rights and Records”). Should a student move out of the district, he/she may remain at the Sixth and/or Seventh Grade Center to complete the current school year if the parents supply transportation for the student. This provision does not apply if a student is on an Affidavit of Residency. Withdrawals or Transfers Any student wishing to withdraw or transfer from the Union 6th/7th Grade Center must take the following steps: A. Make an initial request to withdraw or transfer

through the registrar. This request should be made at least one day before the intended date of withdrawal. Contact from a parent/legal guardian of a minor student must be obtained in order for a student to withdraw.

B. Report to registrar or office before classes begin on last day of attendance to pick up a withdrawal form. The student will submit the form and books or materials issued to him/her to the teacher of each class. Each teacher will assign a cumulative grade to date and will indicate whether or not books or materials have been turned in and if any fees have not been paid. Students must be in attendance a minimum of two weeks in order to receive a withdrawal grade.

C. Obtain signed clearance from the library and cafeteria.

D. Upon completion of all parts of the withdrawal form, return the form to the registrar or office for final approval. Approval for withdrawal will not be granted until all requirements above are met.

E. Student records will not be released until all fees owed are paid.

CAFETERIA All students are expected to conduct themselves in a mannerly and orderly fashion while in the cafeteria and/or commons area. Please abide by the cafeteria rules during lunch time so everyone’s lunch will be pleasant, comfortable, relaxing and expedient.

Students who choose not to follow procedures and café expectations may receive a consequence such as, but not limited to, Community Service, assigned seating and/or office referral. Price of Lunches Regular School Lunch................................$2.50 Extra Milk ................................................... .40 Reduced Lunch ........................................... .40 A La Carte Items ................................cost varies Fast Foods ..........................................cost varies

Prices are subject to change.

No lunch charges are allowed at the secondary level.

Cafeteria Behavior • Students are expected to follow directions and do

as they are asked in the cafeteria at all times. • Students are to remain seated at all times until

given permission to get up or until dismissed. • No tossing or throwing of any items. • Students are expected to walk and remain in

single file and are not to break the lunch line or save places in the line.

• No gym bags, purses, books, etc., should be carried through the lunch line.

• Each student is to buy and select his/her own lunch.

• Food may not be ordered from outside vendors and/or delivered to school without prior permission. Parents must check in at the office first when delivering food items.

• Once students are seated at a table they are not to leave without permission from the teacher.

• Food and drinks are NOT to be taken out of the cafeteria.

• Food items are to be kept on the cafeteria trays. • Students are responsible for leaving the table

area clean when they are dismissed. Trays and trash should be returned to the appropriate area.

• All students should be in the cafeteria during their lunch period. No student is to be in the classroom or hall during lunch unless permitted and supervised by a teacher.

• Students are to use the restrooms in the cafeteria area.

• If students are taken out of the building for lunch, they must return by the end of the normal lunch period (30 minutes). Students will be counted tardy or absent if they return from lunch late.

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GENERAL STUDENT INFORMATION Identification Cards For the security of our students and staff, everyone attending Union 6th/7th Grade Center must have an identification card in their possession at all times. Failure to display an identification card may result in disciplinary action.

A. ID cards will be provided for each student at the

beginning of the school year at no charge. B. Students must wear and display IDs at all times.

IDs will be required to gain entrance to school-sponsored activities, including football games.

C. If an ID card is lost, stolen or damaged, it is the student’s responsibility to replace the card immediately. A fee of $5.00 will be charged for a replacement card.

Late Work Policy If a student does not have an assignment completed and turned in on the due date, the assignment is considered late. Late assignments may be turned in the next school day for reduced credit. Further information regarding late assignments may be obtained from the student’s teacher. If a problem with late or missing assignments persists, an intervention may be initiated through the student’s team. Dress Code (see Board Policy #5060) It is important that student dress contribute to and not detract from the educational environment. Any item of apparel that interferes with the educational process will not be permitted. Union Public School dress code is clearly stated within Board Policy #5060 and will be strictly enforced by all staff members. Students in violation of this policy will not be allowed to attend classes. 1st Offense: Verbal Warning 2nd Offense: Referral to an assistant principal; 1 P.M. detention 3rd Offense: Referral to an assistant principal; 2 P.M. detentions 4th Offense: Referral to an assistant principal -

action to be determined by the administrator and may include suspension and/or IP placement.

Hall Passes A hall pass should be open and visible to any teacher who may ask to see the pass. Hall passes are required for all students at all times that classes are in session. Hall passes must be presented and returned to the appropriate teachers.

Restroom Use Restrooms are to be used before or after school and during the lunch period. Students may also ask their classroom teacher for permission to use the restroom. Students are expected to help keep restrooms clean. If out of a classroom to use the restroom, please use the closest, appropriate (boys’ or girls’) restroom. Please do not litter or damage the school facilities in any way. Writing on the walls is considered vandalism and will result in disciplinary action including possible suspension. Lost and Found Lost articles should be reported to the front office. When an item has been lost, check in the front office with the receptionist and also in the cafeteria lost and found. Telephone Use The school phones are for school business purposes only. Students will NOT be called out of class to answer calls except in cases of an emergency. Students are NOT to use the telephone in the classroom or office without permission. Electronic Devices The use of electronic devices of any kind will not be allowed during the school day without the approval of a principal. Students are required to have their device off and away during the school day. Violations of electronic procedures will result in students turning in the device to the office. Parent/Guardian will be notified and will be responsible for picking up the device during school hours. Union Public Schools is not responsible for lost or stolen electronic devices.

1st Offense: Verbal Warning; Parent contact 2nd Offense: Parent contact; 1 P.M. detention 3rd Offense: Parent contact; 2 P.M. detentions 4th Offense: Referral to an assistant principal -

action to be determined by the administrator and may include suspension and/or IP placement.

Deliveries We do not allow deliveries for students during the school day which are not needed for academic reasons. Gifts for holidays, special occasions, etc., can not be delivered to the classroom without creating a disruption and will not be allowed.

Student Messages Parents should restrict calls to students during school hours. Students will be called to the office for emergency messages only. Please make calls before school dismisses.

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We ask that invitations to private parties not be distributed at school.

Visitor Check In Student safety is our highest priority. It is important we know who is on our campus at all times and can confirm that an individual has the authority to have access to a student. Thanks to new technology, the 6th/7th Grade Center has a consistent system to track visitors and volunteers while keeping away people who present a danger to students and staff members.

• All visitors must present a photo ID (i.e., driver’s license or state-issued ID) to the receptionist. Refusal may result in the denial of access.

• The receptionist will enter the ID into a software program that scans the visitor’s name, date of birth and photo for comparison with a national database of registered sex offenders. No additional visitor data will be gathered and no data will be shared with any outside company or organization.

• Once cleared, visitors are issued a visitor’s badge, which they should wear in a visible place throughout their stay.

• Badges should be returned to the office at the end of the visit when the visitor checks out.

Lockers Individual lockers are provided for all students. Locker assignments will be made by one of the student’s teachers or by the assistant principals’ secretary. Lockers must be locked and secured at all times. School personnel may open lockers at any time. Therefore, students have no expectation of locker privacy. • Students are NOT to share lockers. • Students should NOT share locker combinations. • Students are responsible for all items placed in

their lockers at any given time. • Students may not tamper with lockers or do

damage to the lockers (students will be responsible for all damages).

• Locker combinations are kept on file in the office.

• A “jammed locker” IS NOT an excuse for being tardy to class. Report to your class and teacher to get permission and a pass to go to the assistant principals’ secretary for locker assistance.

*Remember, Do Not share lockers and Do Not share your locker combination.

Money, Collectibles and Other Valuables Large quantities of money or objects of substantial value should not be brought to school. Students should not bring “Collectible” items to school. Students are not permitted to sell or trade items at school. The school assumes no responsibility to replace or pay for any item lost or taken by others. A student bringing to school any object of great value should check it in with the principal or assistant principal’s office. Cheating Cheating on examinations, tests, quizzes, etc., is considered an act or intent to gain or give information /knowledge for or during an assignment, test, quiz, examination, etc. The penalty for the act or intent of cheating will be a zero (0) for that assignment, test, quiz or examination. A parent will be contacted by the teacher, and other additional disciplinary action may be taken. Gum and/or Candies Gum chewing is not allowed. Candy will be restricted to the cafeteria areas or when provided by school personnel. Selling Items Students are not allowed to sell items at school without prior permission from the principal. Public Display of Affection No public display of affection, which includes holding hands, hugging or kissing, should occur during school. Students should conduct themselves at school and at school-sponsored activities in a manner that the attention of others will not be attracted to them. Fighting and Verbal Assaults Fighting and/or verbal confrontations or threats among students are NOT permitted at school. Students found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action according to Board Policy. Profanity/obscene gestures in either spoken language or written language are not permitted at the Sixth and Seventh Grade Center or any school activity at any time. Disrespect Towards Staff Members Profanity, derogatory language, threats, verbal assaults, obscene gestures or physical violence directed at a staff member will be subject to disciplinary action according to Board Policy. Charges may also be filed with the police department.

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Arson / Fires / Alarms / Bomb Threats The acts of arson, setting or lighting any fire, bomb threats, or setting of fake alarms will not be tolerated. If a student is found in violation of this policy, the parents and/or the fire department or police department will be notified. The student may be suspended up to one calendar year. Theft Theft of any item will be viewed very seriously and will be subject to disciplinary action according to Board Policy. Damage to School Property / Vandalism All school property belongs to the patrons of the Union Public School District and is to be used by and for the benefit of all the students. When students intentionally or carelessly destroy or damage school property by irresponsible actions, they are personally liable and will be disciplined and/or required to pay any costs which include labor. Explosive / Flammable Devices “Explosive” will be defined as any device that will explode, pop and/or anything that will create a disturbance. All explosives (examples include, but are not limited to, BULLETS, FIRE CRACKERS, SNAPPERS, SMOKE BOMBS, STINK BOMBS, AMMUNITION, LIGHTERS, MATCHES, ETC.) will be confiscated and not returned. The student may be suspended for a period of time not to exceed the current semester and succeeding semester. Gambling Gambling is not allowed at school or at school-sponsored activities at any time. Other Prohibited Items NO Sharpies, permanent markers of any kind, White-Out, rubber bands, laser pens or other toys on campus.

NO Bags, Purses, Backpacks or Gym Bags are to be taken into the classrooms.

NO Bicycles, Skateboards or Roller Blades on campus.

*Any other items in addition to those listed which the administration feels are disruptive or dangerous will be confiscated. Union Public Schools will not be responsible for lost or stolen items.

School Activities Various school activities and athletic events will be provided during the school year. School activities are considered an extension of the school day. All rules, regulations and policies will be enforced. It is

expected and suggested that prior arrangements be made concerning pick-up time and place. Only Union sixth and seventh grade students are admitted to respective school activities on campus. Students will be required to present some form of identification. Students under any type of suspension may not attend school activities. Promotion of any non-school related activity is not permitted without the permission of the principal. LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER Passes signed by a faculty member are required for individual students to enter the Media Center during school hours. Photocopies of material can be obtained at the circulation desk if an aide is on duty. Photocopies of objectionable materials will not be allowed. Books are checked out for two weeks and may be renewed for a two-week period if a hold has not been placed on that title. Reference materials may be checked out for overnight or weekend use only and are required to be returned no later than beginning of second hour the following school day. Lost or damaged books will be charged the replacement cost.

Each nine weeks, students must clear their library records of overdue or lost books. If a lost book cannot be found at this time, it must be paid for. If a paid-for book is found, the student will receive a refund less the amount of the fine due at the time the book was paid. HEALTH SERVICES House Bill 1550, 1984 Nurse A nurse will be on duty during the school day. Except for an emergency, a pass from a teacher will be required to go to the nurse. In all cases, the student must be cleared by the nurse and by the attendance office to leave the school premises. Parents must be notified before the student leaves school because of illness, and arrangements must be made with the parent and/or guardian to take the student home since the school does not have facilities to care for students who are ill for an extended period of time (greater than one hour).

LOCATION - Office Area

Normally, the nurse will not treat an injury or illness except for first aid. If the nurse is not in her office, the student should go to the main office for

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assistance. DO NOT GO TO THE RESTROOM OR STAY IN A RESTROOM IF YOU ARE ILL. Refer to Board Policies #5008, #5010, #5013, #5015 and #5016. SCHOOL ORGANIZATIONS Student activities and organizations are divided into two major categories – school-sponsored and non-school-sponsored. In order to meet on school property and/or have the privilege of publicizing meetings and events, the following guidelines must be followed. The following guidelines apply to all organizations: A. All organizations must have a faculty sponsor or

faculty monitor authorized by the principal. B. All organizations must annually complete a

required application for organizations which requires written by-laws or a constitution as well as a summary description of the purpose and anticipated actions of the organization.

C. All organizations must have approval from the administration for designated meeting place(s) on school property. Any organization using school facilities outside of the regular school hours must submit the proper facility usage form for approval (first through the principal, then to the Education Service Center) and pay any required rental fees. There will be rental fees for using the UMAC, UPAC and Union Tuttle Stadium.

D. All publicity pertaining to clubs and organizations must be signed by the sponsor/monitor and approved through the principal’s office. The school may prohibit publicity items that are defamatory, violent, obscene or disruptive to the educational environment and will regulate locations, times and types of publicity.

E. Use of district logos is regulated by the Union Board of Education policies, and all organizations must have administrative permission in order to use a Union logo.

School-sponsored Organizations School-sponsored organizations are those groups which have been initiated by the school district to promote and enrich the school curriculum and include those competitive sports and activities under the auspices of the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association (OSSAA). The following list includes, but is not limited to, the organizations sponsored by Union Public Schools at the 6th/7th Grade Center:

Athletics Academic Track & Field Academic Team

Wrestling Student Council Golf Drug-Free Youth Cross Country ARC Council Tennis

Fine Arts Choir Band Orchestra

Non-School-sponsored Organizations Non-school-sponsored organizations are those groups which are not under the direct control of the district and include athletics that are not under the auspices of the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activities Association. In order to meet on school property or advertise meetings, these organizations must be open to all interested students and obtain a faculty monitor who attends all meetings and activities on school grounds. Meetings must be approved in advance by the Facilities Use Committee.

Non-school-sponsored groups are allowed limited privileges such as monitored meeting space and posting of events but should not expect the same recognition as school-sponsored organizations. These groups will not be included in the school yearbook, will not be permitted to use district activities funds, and will not be recognized during spirit assemblies or in school publications. Additionally, they cannot use the school name, mascot or logos without permission. OKLAHOMA SECONDARY SCHOOLS ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION Union 6th/7th Grade Center adheres to OSSAA rules and regulations. Eligibility Based on Attendance A student who has not attended classes ninety percent of the time for the semester becomes ineligible. Exceptions may be made by the principal due to illness, injury, death in the immediate family, or valid reasons for late enrollment. Semester Grade A. Students must have received a passing grade in

any five subjects counted for graduation which they were enrolled in during the last semester they attended fifteen or more days.

B. If students do not meet the minimum scholastic standard, they will not be eligible to participate during the first six weeks of the next semester they attend.

C. Students who do not meet the above minimum scholastic standard may regain their eligibility by

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achieving passing grades in all subjects they are enrolled in at the end of a six-week period.

D. Students enrolled for the first time must comply with the same requirements of scholarship. The passing grades required for the preceding semester should be obtained from the records in the school last attended.

Special Education Students Special education students who are enrolled in special education classes, who have an Individual Educational Plan, and who have been certified by the principal as doing a satisfactory quality of work may be accepted as eligible under this rule, with the approval of the Board. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

Union Public Schools has emergency procedure guidelines that are approved by the Board of Education. The Emergency Procedures Manual outlines school procedures to be followed during emergency situations. RIGHTS Legal Custody A parent or guardian who has legal custody of a child and does not wish to have the other parent(s), relatives or other persons, to have access to the child MUST present the proper legal documents showing such restrictions to the principal. This should be done at the time of enrollment or at any time during the year that these conditions or changes occur. A parent or guardian who has gained custody of a student must present to the school Legal Guardianship documents from the Court before the student is permitted to enroll. Special Services The Union Public School District makes every effort to locate, evaluate and to educate, in the least restrictive environment, all special needs children ages three through 21, under the provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 1997, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This notice is a Child Find project to make patrons aware of the availability of special education and related services for students with disabilities. Programs and services are provided for eligible students in the areas of specific learning disability, deaf/hearing impairment, visual impairment, orthopedic impairment, other health impairment, multiple disabilities, mental retardation, speech or language impairment, emotional disturbance,

traumatic brain injury, and autism. If you have or know of a child who may have a significant disability which adversely affects educational performance, please contact the Special Services Office at the Education Service Center, 918-357-4321. Rights to Records The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. They are: 1. The right to inspect and review the student’s

education records within 45 days of the day the district receives a request for access.

Parents or eligible students should submit to the

school principal (or appropriate school official) a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate or misleading.

Parents or eligible students may ask the district to

amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading.

If the district decides not to amend the record as

requested by the parent or eligible student, the district will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally

identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

One exception which permits disclosure without

consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving

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on the School Board; a person or company with whom the district has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.

A school official has a legitimate educational

interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

Upon request, the district discloses education

records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. (NOTE: FERPA requires a school district to make a reasonable attempt to notify the student of records request unless it states in its annual notification that it intends to forward records on request.)

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S.

Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the district to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA are: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington DC 20202-4605

The office of the Superintendent of Schools shall

maintain the official FERPA policy. STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

Preamble A primary responsibility of schools in Oklahoma and their professional staffs is the development of an understanding and appreciation of our representative form of government, the rights and responsibilities of the individual, and the legal processes whereby necessary changes are brought about. The school is a community. Rules and regulations of a school are the laws of that community. All those enjoying the rights of citizenship in the school community must also accept the responsibilities of that citizenship. A basic responsibility of those who enjoy the rights of citizenship is to respect and live within the laws of the community. The Board of Education, administration, faculty, and staff of the Union School District recognize that the parents of Union students share a major responsibility

in the well-being of the students of the school. Cooperative supervision of the students by the school faculty and parents is the key factor in determining the level of success achieved by the student. Parents should be aware of school policies such as seeing that the child is in school regularly and on time, going through the proper channels when the child is absent, and in general, aiding the school in every way possible. School policies and procedures are formulated for the purpose of benefiting the child. Parents must realize the value of cooperative effort and that honesty is the best policy. If it is honestly felt that a policy is unfair or that a student has been treated unjustly, we request that parents contact the school and try to resolve the problem through discussion with all of those involved. Students also have a definite responsibility to the school, to their parents, and to themselves. There are several concepts which young people should acquire through their relationships with teachers and other authority figures. They must learn to be sensitive to the needs of others and be willing to accept responsibility for both social and household duties. Students should be developing mature, sensitive ways of dealing with people. With the proper guidance from the school and the home collectively, it is the responsibility of students to see that these mature concepts are developed. The Union School District has the responsibility to assist each individual in developing their capabilities so that students may become effective and productive citizens. Students can expect to be treated fairly and equally by school personnel. Students can expect a safe and productive environment that fosters learning. More importantly, students and parents alike can expect courteous and accountable behavior in their association with the Union School District. DISCIPLINE POLICY / GUIDELINES

Our school operates on a system of rights and responsibilities. Students who show a social maturity and desire to accept their responsibilities are permitted many personal freedoms. To a very large extent, students are treated the way their behavior dictates. School and class rules are few in number. These rules help create a better learning environment for all students. The rules will be enforced and must be followed by all students. At all times, students are under the authority of any teacher who is in their presence. Be sure that you as a parent or student

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understand the rules that have been established. As in society, ignorance of the rules is no excuse for non-compliance. We have been very proud of the student behavior in Union Public Schools. In most cases, teachers have the primary responsibility for dealing with student problems. When student problems become more serious, students will be sent to the principal’s or assistant principal’s office. You, as a parent, should read this paragraph carefully. Many educational studies have been made which can attest the following two points: A. You, the parents, are still the most influential

persons in your child’s life. The values and feelings you hold toward our school will most likely be the values and feelings your child holds.

B. Children will almost always be able to solve their own problems when they have parents who are willing to become positively involved in finding solutions to their child’s discipline problems. Most problems can be solved by a meeting held between the individual teacher, student, and parent; therefore, be sure the student is in attendance for at least part of every conference. Do not leave the child at home. School personnel and parents can come up with all kinds of solutions which will NOT work unless the child is willing to try the solutions. Incidentally, you may feel free to call the principal or assistant principal if you feel the need after talking with the teacher.

DETENTIONS

After-School Detention In order to be counted present, a student must be on time and bring appropriate materials such as homework, textbook, paper, pencils, etc. A. Detention assignments will be made by teacher

and/or administrator after consulting with the student’s parent/ guardian. After the time and date have been set, the student is expected to attend at that time.

B. Changes in assigned detention can only be made through parent/ guardian request made prior to the detention time or due to an excused absence on the day the detention is to be served.

C. If the student chooses not to serve the detention time assigned or is late for detention, then the detention time will be doubled.

D. If the student continues not to serve assigned detention, the problem becomes one of defiance to authority. This will result in a greater consequence (i.e., suspension) by the principal.

E. Times for detention are as follows: 6th Grade Detention 2:40-4:00 p.m.

7th Grade Detention 3:55-5:15 p.m. F. All students must be picked up promptly after

detention. STUDENT ASSISTANCE

The Union Public School District’s mission is to provide our community of learners with educational opportunities to acquire and develop the best possible academic, vocational, recreational, social, and participatory skills, enabling them to become valued, contributing members of a changing global society. It is not our intent that disciplinary actions ever become an obstacle to this process. For this reason, Union Public Schools will offer amnesty to any student who approaches the professional staff sincerely seeking help in overcoming any personal problem with controlled substance abuse. A student who does so is not guilty of an “offense” discussed in this policy. Controlled substances include, but are not limited to:

Alcohol Illegal Drugs Narcotics Hallucinogens Barbiturates Anabolic Steroids/Chorionic Gonadotrophin

(non-prescription) Designer Drugs Unauthorized Prescription Medications/Drugs Mood- /Behavior-altering Chemicals,

Substances, Drugs Counterfeit/Look-alike drugs Inhalants

Remember: All medications are to be checked in with the school nurse when student arrives at school. INITIAL OFFENSE Confiscation, parental notification, local police department notification, and immediate suspension. Terms of Suspension Suspension is for 45 days with the first three days at home and the remaining 42 days at the Intervention Program (IP). The 45-day suspension may be reduced by ten days (to a 35-day suspension) if the following criteria are met: Student and parent/guardian attend an initial drug and alcohol assessment or screening with a certified drug and alcohol counselor and provide the school with written verification of attendance. A list of agencies will be provided upon request. The cost of the assessment or screening and/or additional counseling or rehabilitation shall be the responsibility

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of the parent/guardian. The first three days of the suspension will be to the home with the remaining 32 days at the IP. The student will return to school under the terms of a behavior contract signed by a school representative, the student, and the parent/guardian. The suspension may be reduced by an additional 15 days (to a 20-day suspension) if the following criteria are met: Student and parent/guardian meet the criteria described above, and the parent/guardian participate with the student in the Parent Involvement Program. The principal or designee will require that the student and parent/guardian sign a contract to attend the program and complete it within a six-week cycle. A list of times and dates for the meetings will be provided to the parent/guardian and student. The student will return to school under terms of a behavior contract and will be informed about support groups and be encouraged to attend. Failure to comply with the following criteria will affect the reduction of suspension time: (1) student attend an initial drug and alcohol assessment or screening (ten-day reduction); (2) student attend with parent, the Parent Involvement Program (15 day reduction), will affect the reduction of that criteria only. The parent/guardian or student (if legally self-supporting) may choose to serve the suspension at home. SUBSEQUENT OFFENSES Confiscation, parental notification, local police department notification, and immediate suspension. Terms of Suspension The suspension may be for the remainder of the current semester and the succeeding semester. The student will be required to have a drug and alcohol reassessment completed (at parent/guardian expense). The first three days of suspension are to the home with the remaining days at the IP. The student will return to school under the terms of a behavior contract. The parent/guardian may choose to allow the student to serve the suspension at home. No school credit is received. Sale/Distribution of Illegal/Controlled Substances The sale and/or distribution of illegal substances is a serious offense which endangers the health and well-being of others. Students involved in the sale and/or distribution of illegal/controlled substances will be suspended to the home. The length of the suspension may be for the current and succeeding semester. The local police department may be notified. The student

and parent/guardian will be required to sign a behavior contract prior to returning to school.

Substance Abuse Resource Agencies Agency Telephone Number Creoks 918-592-1622 Palmer Drug Abuse Program 918-832-7763 TRANSPORTATION AND BUS RULES

Safety is the overriding concern in all transportation policies and procedures. The information outlined in this section is intended only as a guideline and may be amended or altered as needed to assure the safety of all students riding Union Public Schools buses. Student Responsibilities Students should: A. Arrive at bus stop five (5) minutes before the bus

is due. Dress appropriately for the weather. B. Wait in a safe place, ten (10) feet back from the

roadway. Wait for the bus to come to a complete stop.

C. Form a single line; enter in an orderly manner; always use the handrail; find a seat quickly.

D. Apply all classroom rules to the bus. E. Always be courteous and cooperate with the

driver and other school officials. F. Remain seated facing forward, feet out of the

aisle. Do not change seats. G. Assume sole responsibility for their own behavior. H. Refrain from destruction, vandalism, harmful items

(i.e., drugs, weapons), throwing of objects, etc. I. Help keep the bus clean. No food or beverages are

allowed. J. Always cross the street in front of the bus. Never

cross behind the bus. Items Not Allowed on School Buses Students are not permitted to bring large items onto the bus that cannot be safely held in the student’s lap or stored under the student’s bus seat. Any exception must be approved by the Transportation Department. Eligibility to Ride a School Bus A. Students who reside within the boundaries of the

Union Public School District and live more than 1 & 1/2 miles from the school are eligible for bus service.

B. Students who reside outside the district and attend Union Public Schools on an authorized transfer are eligible for district transportation as space is available, which includes service from existing stops within the district. (School Board Policy #5500, Section G)

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C. Students must ride the same bus every day and must get on and off at their assigned bus stop.

D. Bus passes must be obtained from the principal to ride any bus other than the assigned bus. Approval will be contingent on available space on the bus.

Disciplinary Guidelines

The same rules of conduct expected at school apply to students on the school bus. Every student’s behavior directly impacts the safety of all other passengers. Behavior on the bus is expected to be above reproach. Misbehavior on the bus which may distract the driver’s attention could result in a catastrophe. All offenses on the school bus will be dealt with very seriously. Generally, the bus driver will take the following approach in handling most bus discipline problems:

First Offense - Verbal warning by driver. Second Offense - Assigned seat for at least three

days (driver has the authority to assign seats to any or all students at any time, for any reason.)

Third Offense - Parent contacted by phone (or mail if parent cannot be reached).

Fourth Offense – An “Unsafe Conduct Report” will be submitted to the administrator in charge of bus discipline. The report submitted usually results in a loss of bus-riding privileges. Subsequent offenses will be dealt with more severely and may result in permanent loss of riding privileges.

The consumption of food and/or drinks is not permitted on school buses. Failure to comply may result in loss of bus riding privileges for three days or more. Severe Violations Students who severely misbehave, directly jeopardize the safe operation of the school bus, or directly challenge the authority of the driver or other school official will lose their riding privileges without receiving warnings. Furthermore, students may receive additional school consequences. Vandalism, fighting, failure to cooperate with the driver, abusive language or gestures directed toward school personnel, possession of use of drugs, alcohol or weapons, or any other violations that affect safety will be dealt with as severe violations. Important Information A. Emergencies - In the event of any emergency,

students must always fully cooperate with the

driver. Students should remain calm and quiet so they can hear the driver’s instructions.

B. Snow and Weather Conditions/ Emergencies - Inclement weather may hinder transportation services. Even rain may cause delays in bus schedules. Be ready for such delays. Dress appropriately.

C. School Closings/Delays/Ice Routes - All major media (television and radio stations) will be informed of any such school closings, delays or ice routes by 6:00 am. Parents may also check the Union website at www.unionps.org

D. Bus Stops - All bus stops within the Union District are generally placed in locations which would not require a student to walk more than four blocks (4/10ths of a mile). The student’s behavior at the bus stop prior to the arrival of the bus is the responsibility of the parent. Destruction of property and/or vandalism at a bus stop is a civil matter and will be handled by the police. Continued destruction or harassment of property owners at any bus stop may result in the elimination of the stop.

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BOARD POLICIES SECTION FIVE: STUDENTS

Non-discrimination ....................................................................5000 Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment.....................................5002 School Age ................................................................................5005 Wellness.....................................................................................5007 Medications ...............................................................................5008 Sports-Related Concussion Management ..................................5009 Immunizations ...........................................................................5010 AIDS/HIV and Other Communicable Diseases ........................5013 Contagious Conditions/Head Lice.............................................5015 Department of Human Services, Law Enforcement, or Mental Health Provider Interviews on School Premises.................5016 Dismissal of Students ................................................................5020 Lost/Damaged Textbooks, Library Materials, and

Computers/Electronic Devices............................................5022 Attendance .................................................................................5025 Promotion, Placement, and Retention of Students ....................5030 Graduation Requirements ..........................................................5031 Weighted Grade and Class Ranking Procedures .......................5032 Grading Policy for ELL Students ..............................................5033 Progress Reports/Report Cards..................................................5035 Including Students with Disabilities in State & Districtwide

Assessments ........................................................................5037 Drugs, Drug Paraphernalia, and Alcohol...................................5039 Gang Involvement .....................................................................5041 Tobacco/Tobacco Products Use ................................................5045 Discrimination/Harassment .......................................................5046 Formal Grievance Procedure for Filing, Processing, & Resolving Alleged Discrimination Complaints ..................5047 Student Behavior .......................................................................5050 Student Locker Search...............................................................5051 Cellular Phones/Wireless Telecommunications Devices ..........5052 Student Search and Seizure .......................................................5053 Anti-Violence ............................................................................5054 Possession of Dangerous Weapons ...........................................5055 Student Bullying Prevention and Intervention ..........................5056 Student Dress and Performing Groups .....................................5060 Sexual Harassment ....................................................................5065 Discipline Procedures for Students with Disabilities ................5070 Eligibility for Participation in Activities/Athletics....................5200 Field Trips..................................................................................5250 Class Parties...............................................................................5300 Parking and Driving Regulations ..............................................5400 Student Residency .....................................................................5450 Student Transfer ........................................................................5500 Students Entering From Another School District......................5501 Distribution of Flyers, Brochures, Posters/Signs, & Promotional Materials by Secondary Students ...................5502 Gifted/Talented Education.........................................................5503 Extended School Year/Special Education Services...................5504 Credit by Exam (CBE) and Proficiency-Based Promotion .......5505 Admission of Part-time Students ...............................................5506 Credit/Placement for Non-Accredited Programs.......................5507 Internet-Based Instruction .........................................................5508 Title I Parent and Family Engagement ......................................5509 Foreign Exchange Students .......................................................5510 Suicide/Crisis Intervention Plan ................................................5520 Materials Selection ....................................................................5550

Internet Acceptable Use ..........................................................1601

NON-DISCRIMINATION 5000

It is the policy of the Union Public School District to provide equal opportunities without regard to race, age, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender, gender expression or identity, sex, sexual orientation, qualified disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its educational programs and activities, in access to them, or in any aspect of their operations. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, educational services, financial aid, and employment.

This notice is provided as required by Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Questions, complaints or requests for additional information regarding the ADA, Section 504, Title VII/Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA), and/or Title IX may be forwarded to the designated ADA/GINA, Section 504, Title VII/ADEA and/or Title IX compliance coordinators, the site principal or other district administrator. Students and parents may also bring complaints to the assistant principal, counselor, nurse, or a teacher. The administrator or staff member notified shall immediately report the complaint to the site principal. The site principal shall notify the appropriate coordinator listed below during regular business hours:

ADA/GINA Coordinator Section 504 Coordinator Assoc. Dir. of Human Resources Director of Special Services Union Educ. Serv. Ctr. Union Educ. Serv. Ctr. 8506 E 61 Street 8506 E 61 Street Tulsa OK 74133 Tulsa OK 74133 918-357-4321 918-357-4321 Title VII/ADEA Coordinator Title IX Coordinator Sr. Exec. Dir. of Human Resources Director of Athletics Union Educ. Serv. Ctr. UMAC 8506 E 61 Street 6836 S. Mingo Rd. Tulsa OK 74133 Tulsa, Oklahoma 74133 918-357-4321 918-357-7481

This notice will be made available in large print, on audio tape, and in Braille upon request.

Revised 11/14/16

PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS AMENDMENT 5002

For purposes of this policy, the following definitions apply: A. Instructional material - Instructional content that is provided

to a student, regardless of its format, including printed or representational materials, audiovisual materials and materials in electronic or digital formats (such as materials accessible through the Internet). The term does not include academic tests or academic assessments.

B. Invasive physical examination - Any medical examination that involves the exposure of private body parts or any act during such examination that includes incision, insertion or injection into the body, but does not include a hearing, vision or scoliosis screening.

C. Parent - Includes a legal guardian or other person standing in loco parentis (such as a grandparent or stepparent with whom the child lives, or a person who is legally responsible for the welfare of the child). All rights provided to parents under this policy transfer to the student when the student turns 18 years old or is an emancipated minor at any age.

D. Personal information - Individually identifiable information including (a) a student or parent’s first and last name; (b) a home or other physical address (including street name and the name of the city or town); (c) a telephone number; or (d) a Social Security identification number.

E. Survey includes an evaluation.

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INSPECTION OF INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS All instructional materials, including teacher’s manuals, films, tapes or other supplementary instructional material that will be used in connection with any survey, analysis or evaluation as part of any applicable program shall be available for inspection by the parents of students in the school district. However, teacher lesson plans and tests are confidential records under the Oklahoma Open Records Act. After request by a parent, review of instructional materials shall be at a time mutually convenient to the teacher involved and the parent. Any complaint by a parent regarding the parent’s inability to inspect any instructional material shall initially be addressed to the principal of the school where the parent’s child attends. If the parent is dissatisfied with the principal’s decision, then the parent may request review by the Superintendent or designee who shall have final authority over the matter.

Establishing a curriculum and determining to include or remove particular materials within the curriculum are the legal responsibilities of the Board of Education subject to statutory and state board of education guidelines. Nothing in this policy is intended to grant or require prior parental approval or control of materials or parental control, approval or review of teaching techniques or methods.

SURVEYS No student shall be required to submit to a survey, analysis, written examination or evaluation that reveals information concerning: A. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s

family; B. Religious practices, affiliations or beliefs of the student or the

student’s parent; C. Sexual behavior or attitudes; D. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating or demeaning behavior; E. Mental or psychological problems of the student or the

student’s family; F. Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom the student

has a close family relationship; G. Legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships,

such as those of lawyers, physicians and ministers; and H. Income (other than that required by law to determine

eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such program)

without the parent’s prior consent.

Parents may inspect, upon request, a survey created by a third party before the survey is administered or distributed to students. Review of such surveys shall be at a time mutually convenient to the principal involved and the parent. Any complaint by a parent regarding the parent’s inability to inspect any such survey shall be addressed to the Superintendent or designee who shall have final authority over the matter.

The district will take appropriate steps in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) to protect student privacy in the event of the administration or distribution of a student survey containing one or more of the items mentioned above.

PSYCHIATRIC OR PSYCHOLOGICAL EXAMINATIONS Without the prior written consent of the parent or guardian, no student who is an unemancipated minor shall be required, as part of any applicable program, to submit to psychiatric or psychological examination, testing or treatment.

NOTIFICATION The school district will notify parents annually of the specific or approximate dates during the school year when the following activities are scheduled or expected to be scheduled: A. Activities involving the collection, disclosure or use of

personal information collected from students for the purpose of marketing or selling that information or providing that information to others for that purpose. These activities do

not include information for the exclusive purpose of developing, evaluating or providing educational products or services for or to students or educational institutions, such as: 1. College or other postsecondary education recruitment

and/or military recruitment; 2. Book clubs, magazines and programs providing access

to low-cost literary products; 3. Curriculum and instructional materials used by

elementary and secondary schools; 4. Tests and assessments used by elementary schools and

secondary schools to provide cognitive, evaluative, diagnostic clinical, aptitude or achievement information about students and the subsequent analysis and public release of the aggregate data from such tests and assessments;

5. The sale by students of products or services to raise funds for school-related or education-related activities; and

6. Student recognition programs. B. The administration of any survey containing one or more

items described above in the Surveys section of this policy; and

C. Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening that is (a) required as a condition of attendance; (b) administered by and scheduled by the school in advance; and (c) not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of the student or other students. This provision does not apply to any physical examination or screening that is permitted or required by state law, including physical examinations or screening that is permitted without parental notification.

INSPECTION OF DATA COLLECTION INSTRUMENTS The district will take appropriate steps in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act to protect student privacy in the event of such collection, disclosure or use of personal information collected from students for the purpose of marketing or selling that information or providing that information to others for that purpose. Parents and eligible students may inspect, upon request, any instrument used in the collection of such information before the instrument is administered or distributed to students. Review of such instruments shall be at a time mutually convenient to the principal involved and the parent. Any complaint by a parent regarding the parent’s inability to inspect any such survey shall be addressed to the Superintendent or designee who shall have final authority over the matter.

Revised 1/16/06

SCHOOL AGE 5005

All children who reside within the district boundaries and are between the ages of five years on or before September 1 and 21 years on or before September 1, shall be entitled to attend school free of charge in the Union Public School District.

Children who have reached the age of four years on or before September 1 of the school year may be admitted to the district’s pre-kindergarten program as space is available and the program is offered.

Children who have reached the age of five years on or before September 1 of the school year may be admitted to kindergarten classes. Except as otherwise provided by law, children shall not be enrolled in the first grade unless they will have reached the age of six years on or before September 1 of the school year. Children who are under five years of age will not be admitted to any Union kindergarten unless said child previously attended a kindergarten class as an underage child in a school approved/accredited by a State Board of Education or a Department of Defense School for military dependents.

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Students who are handicapped may receive special education services as determined by their Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).

Revised 11/8/10

WELLNESS 5007

Union Public Schools recognizes the relationship between academic achievement and student health and wellness. Union Public Schools is committed to providing a school environment that encourages nutritious eating habits, wellness, and appropriate physical activity as a means of promoting academic success, engaging students, and encouraging lifelong health.

HEALTH AND NUTRITION EDUCATION The aim of Union Public Schools’ pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade health and wellness education is to empower students to develop healthy behaviors, skills, and attitudes by providing a variety of fitness and health awareness opportunities, while establishing school and community partnerships that encourage healthy lifelong choices. The health and wellness educational environment will include the following components: Health Education; Physical Education; Health Services; Nutrition Services; Counseling, Psychological, and Social Services; Healthy and Safe School Environment; Health Promotion for Staff; and Family and Community Involvement.

SCHOOL PRACTICES Nutrition education occurs in the classroom, as well as in the larger school community. The district utilizes multiple channels (e.g., classroom, cafeteria, and parental communication) to promote healthy nutritional and physical behaviors. In support of the aim of the Union Public Schools’ wellness curriculum, the following guidelines, or recommendations, will be considered by the district: • Allow students adequate time to consume meals; • Utilize district personnel to provide training and support to

staff to meet nutrition standards for preparing healthy meals, engaging staff in wellness activities, creating partnerships in providing excellent food to our students; and utilizing smarter lunch room tools and strategies to increase intake of healthy food choices, decrease waste, and improve participation. All school nutrition program managers, staff, and directors will meet or exceed hiring and annual continuing education/training requirements in the USDA Professional Standards for Child Nutrition Professionals;

• District employees, students, or sanctioned school organizations will be required to adhere to district guidelines for fundraisers and encouraged to offer health-promoting activities such as non-food items, physical activity/related options, or healthy food and beverage options which follow USDA Nutrition Standards (see Regulation-Nutritional Guidelines, Nutrition Standards for All Foods Sold in Schools), unless exempted under state guidelines. Any fundraiser which does not meet the Smart Snack rules can only be conducted if the following criteria are met:

- Each school site shall designate a Smart Snacks in School Exempt Fundraiser contact person who shall be responsible for maintaining up-to-date documentation regarding each exempt fundraiser held at the school site;

- A limit of thirty (30) exempt fundraisers per semester may be held at each school site. (Vending machines, snack shops, and student stores are all considered fundraisers;

- Exempt fundraisers are prohibited from taking place while meals are being served to students under the NSLP (National School Lunch Program) or the SBP (School Breakfast Program) and while after-school snacks are being served to students under ASSP (After-School Snack Program);

- The maximum duration of any individual exempt fundraiser shall be fourteen (14) days;

- For each individual exempt fundraiser, documentation must be kept on file at the school site showing (1) the school organization, activity, class, or other group that benefits from the fundraiser, and (2) the date(s) the fundraiser is conducted, with the duration not to exceed fourteen (14) days.

• Only healthy food and beverage options that meet the standards and nutrition guidelines for all foods and beverages provided, but not sold, to students during the school day, such as classroom parties, classroom snacks brought by parents, or other foods given as incentives, will follow the standards and nutrition guidelines, with two exemptions allowed from these standards per year, per classroom;

• Promote marketing that emphasizes only foods and beverages that meet Smart Snacks in School nutrition standards;

• Support the health and well-being of every employee along with programs and agencies that promote healthy lifestyles;

• Provide nutrition education to families and the community through parental communication, educational workshops, screening services, and health-related exhibitions/fairs. Child Nutrition will offer hands-on nutrition education classes and activities for K-12 students.

SCHOOL MEAL SERVICE THROUGH THE USDA NATIONAL LUNCH AND BREAKFAST PROGRAM The district Child Nutrition Program will serve reimbursable meals that meet the USDA’s (United States Department of Agriculture) current meal pattern requirements as well as follow the principles of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Meal programs include lunch, breakfast, fresh fruits and vegetables grants, summer food program, breakfast in the classroom (in Title I schools) and after-school snack programs. All meals will: • Offer whole grains, fruits, and vegetables per USDA

standards; • Be accessible to all students, encouraging students to start

each day with a healthy breakfast; • Be appealing and attractive to students and staff of various

ages and diverse backgrounds; • Be served in clean and pleasant settings; • Be designed to feature fresh fruits and vegetables from local

sources to the greatest extent possible, and to pursue partnerships with local/regional farms to facilitate a Farm-to-School program;

• Include the provision of safe, unflavored, cool drinking water throughout the school day at no cost to students and only allow low-fat or non-fat varieties of milk and 100% juice with no added caloric sweeteners; and

• Include foods high in whole grains with ample fruits and vegetables, as well as foods that are free of added trans-fat, low in added fats, sugars, and sodium, have age-appropriate caloric levels, and are served in appropriate portion sizes consistent with USDA standards.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION The district recognizes the importance of physical activity and physical education in promoting health and academic achievement and student engagement. Physical activity is an important part of a student’s comprehensive, well-rounded education program that will positively impact lifelong health and well-being. The district supports quality physical activity throughout the school day. • Time spent participating in physical activities, per state law,

will meet the requirements for accreditation by the Oklahoma State Board of Education. Students in all grades will be offered a range of physical activity choices, which may include competitive and non-competitive options. In addition, teachers and other school personnel at all grade levels may provide other opportunities to students by integrating physical activity into the academic curriculum;

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• Students participating in physical education will be moderately to vigorously active for the majority of class time;

• The district provides proper and safe equipment and facilities to support physical education classes and other school-sponsored physical activities;

• Schools may choose to have a walk- or bike-to-school initiative, when appropriate. Parents will be encouraged to organize adult-supervised groups to facilitate safe walking and biking.

• Training for teachers on integrating physical activity into the curriculum may be provided as part of the professional development opportunities in the district.

MONITORING, POLICY REVIEW, AND EVALUATION An assessment of the district’s Wellness Policy will be completed at least once every three (3) years to help review policy compliance, assess progress, and determine areas of improvement. As part of that review, the district Wellness Policy Council, which includes teachers, administrators, students, parents, Child Nutrition personnel, and community members (such as medical professionals), will review nutrition and physical activity policies; review nutrition and physical education policies and program elements; and review environmental provisions that support healthy eating and physical activity. The School Policy and Practice Needs Assessment (PPT) will be a tool to assess the level of implementation of the policy and program elements. Results from this tool, as well as input from stakeholders, will be utilized to plan for future improvements. Results and information about the Wellness Policy and its implementation will be posted on the district web page to inform the public, and will also be communicated using other venues such as PTA meetings, Board of Education meetings, and Healthy and Fit School Advisory Committee meetings.

Oversight for the district Wellness Policy will be maintained by the Director of Child Nutrition and the District Wellness Policy Council.

HEALTHY AND FIT SCHOOL ADVISORY COMMITTEE Each school shall establish a Healthy and Fit School Advisory Committee to be composed of at least six members. The Advisory Committee may be composed of teachers, administrators, parents of students, health care professionals and business community representatives who have the authority and responsibility to ensure each school site complies with this policy.

The Healthy and Fit School Advisory Committee may be combined with the Safe School Committee as determined by the site principal.

Revised 11/14/16

MEDICATIONS 5008

Under Oklahoma law, a school nurse, an administrator or a designated school employee may administer prescription and nonprescription medications to students.

For purposes of the policy, “medicine” or “medications” includes prescription medications and over-the-counter medicines such as, but not limited to, aspirin, cough syrup and medicated ointments.

The term “legal custodian” means a parent, a court-appointed guardian or a person having legal custody.

Except as provided below, students may not retain possession of or self-administer any medicine. Violation of this rule will be reported to the student’s parents and may result in discipline including suspension.

Medicine shall not be administered to students by teachers or administrators except pursuant to the provisions of this policy.

Only designated employees who have successfully completed specific training in the administration of nonprescription and

prescription medications may administer such medications.

As further set out below, the district retains the discretion to reject requests for the administration of medication and to discontinue the administration of medication.

A student who has a legitimate health need for a medicine shall deliver the medicine to the school nurse or school administrator in its original container with the written authorization of the student’s parent or guardian for administration of the medicine. The parent’s authorization must identify the student, the medicine, and include or refer to the label for instructions on administration of the medicine. The medicine will be administered to the student only by the school nurse, an administrator or a designated employee pursuant to the parent’s instructions and the directions for use on the label or in the physician’s prescription. A new authorization form must be completed for each change of medication. Any medication requiring administration longer than two weeks must be accompanied by a physician’s written request. If there are no changes, the authorization must be renewed yearly. If a student brings medications to school without a properly completed authorization form, the school will inform the student’s legal custodian of district policy and the inability to give the medication. The student’s legal custodian may, however, come to the school and dispense the medication to the student. When medication is completed and/or at the end of the school year, the authorization form will be kept in the nurse’s office for a period of three (3) years. Forms for medication administration are available in the nurse’s office.

The school nurse shall keep a record of the students to whom medicine is administered, the date of administration, the person who administered the medicine, and the name or type of medicine administered.

Medications must be stored in a separate locked cabinet and not readily accessible to persons other than the persons who will administer the medication. Medications requiring refrigeration will be refrigerated in a secure area.

Any person administering medicine to a student will be trained annually by October 1 of each year by a school nurse to administer medication. Only those successfully completing the training will be authorized to give medication. A current list of those authorized to give medication will be kept at each school and by the school nurse. Training will include: A. Review of state statutes and school regulations (including

this policy) regarding administration of medication by school personnel.

B. Procedures for administration, documentation, handling and storage of medication.

C. Medication needs of specific students, desired effects, potential side effects, adverse reactions and other observations.

Students who are able to self-administer specific medications (inhalers) may do so provided such medication and special equipment are transported and maintained under the students’ control within all of the following guidelines: A. A licensed physician or dentist provides a written order that

the student has a particular medical condition (asthma, etc.), is capable of and has been instructed in the proper method of self-administration of medication. It is the student’s legal custodian’s responsibility to contact the physician and have the physician complete and sign the required order.

B. There is a written legal custodian authorization for self-administration of medication.

C. Parents and guardians who elect to have the student self-medicate are accepting that the district, its agents and employees shall incur no liability for any adverse reaction or injury suffered by the student as a result of the self-administration of medication and/or using the specialized equipment.

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D. The written authorization will terminate at the end of the school year and must be renewed annually.

E. If the legal custodian and physician authorize self-medication, the district is not responsible for safeguarding the student’s medications or specialized equipment such as asthma inhalers.

F. Students who self-medicate are prohibited from sharing or playing with their medication, special equipment, i.e., inhalers, etc. If a student engages in these activities, the legal custodian will be contacted and a conference will be scheduled with the legal custodian, student, nurse and other appropriate persons.

MEDICATION POLICY EXCEPTION Union Public Schools allows for an exception to the medication policy when a physician deems it essential and appropriate for a student with asthma to carry an inhaler or a student with a severe allergic reaction to carry an epinephrine injector with them at all times and self-administer the medication as prescribed.

The following policy outlines the procedures necessary for an exception to Board Policy #5008: A. A “School Asthma Management Plan” or an “Allergy Action

Plan” will be completed by the legal custodian and remain on file in the nurse’s office for the school year an exception is desired.

B. A copy of the Asthma Management Plan or Allergy Action Plan will be given to the student’s teacher and other appropriate school personnel. The legal custodian assumes responsibility for updating medical and emergency contact information on the plan.

C. All medication brought to school must have the pharmacy label attached with the name and address of the pharmacy of origin, date of filling, name of student, name of physician, name of prescribed medication, directions for administration and prescription number.

D. An authorization form must be signed by the prescribing physician, the student’s legal custodian and the student. Signing of the authorization indicates the student has been trained in proper use of the medication and is responsible for keeping the medication in a safe and responsible manner.

E. In the absence of either physician/legal custodian authorization form or a medication properly labeled from a pharmacy, the student will not be allowed to retain his medication or to self-medicate.

F. A properly labeled inhaler or epinephrine injector will also be stored in the nurse’s office to ensure medication is available.

G. The student will go to the nurse after each self-administered dose of medication for evaluation and documentation.

Students will not be allowed to self-administer: A. narcotics B. prescription pain killers C. controlled drugs D. other medication hereafter designated in writing by the

district.

Students may administer injectables only in the school office in the presence of authorized school personnel.

The district strongly recommends that students who must self-medicate should wear Medic Alert bracelets or necklaces.

Nonprescription medication will only be administered by school staff with written authorization of the legal custodian. The nonprescription medication will be administered according to label directions or written instructions from the student’s physician. The medication must be in the original container that indicates: A. Student name (affixed to the container) B. Ingredients C. Expiration date D. Dosage and frequency E. Administration route, i.e., oral, drops, etc.

F. Other directions as appropriate.

Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) and products containing salicylic acid will only be administered with written instructions of the student’s physician. It is the responsibility of the legal custodian to maintain the supply.

Prescription medication will only be administered by school staff with written authorization and instructions.

Prescription medication must be in the original container that indicates: A. Student name B. Name and strength of medication and expiration date C. Dosage and directions for administration D. Name of the licensed physician or dentist E. Date, name, address and phone number of the pharmacy.

It is the responsibility of the legal custodian to maintain the supply.

Any medication that is not reclaimed by the legal custodian by the last official day of the school year or reclaimed within seven days of being discontinued by the prescribing physician will be destroyed by the designated employee or the school nurse in the presence of a witness according to the following procedures: A. Medication will be destroyed in a non-recoverable fashion:

1. Pour liquid medication into a sealable plastic bag. Add kitty litter, seal the bag, and put it in the trash.

2. Pills or tablets should be crushed and placed in a sealable plastic bag. Add kitty litter, seal the bag, and put it in the trash.

B. The following information will be charted on the student’s medication log and signed by the school nurse and a witness. This form will be maintained in the nurse’s office for a period of three (3) years: 1. date of destruction 2. time of destruction 3. name and quantity of medication destroyed 4. manner of destruction of medication

Any and all controlled substances will be destroyed according to state law.

The school nurse will advise the principal if discontinuance of medication is appropriate and assist in informing the legal custodian before mailing a discontinuance letter. Legitimate reasons for discontinuing administration of medication would include, but not be limited to: A. A legitimate lack of space or facility to adequately store

specific medication; B. Lack of cooperation by the student, parent or guardian and/or

prescribing doctor and the district; C. An unexpected and/or adverse medical reaction to the

medication at school, i.e., mood change, allergic reaction, etc., considered to be deleterious to the health and well-being of the student;

D. Any apparent change in the medication’s appearance, odor or other characteristics that question the quality of the medication; and

E. The medication expiration date has passed. Revised 12/12/11

SPORTS-RELATED CONCUSSION MANAGEMENT 5009

In accordance with Oklahoma Statutes, Union Public Schools has a Concussion Management Policy that is maintained and administered by the Union Athletic Department, Athletic Trainer, and Team Physician.

Adopted 11/8/10

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IMMUNIZATIONS 5010

In order to comply with the Oklahoma School Immunization Law, no student may attend Union Public Schools unless the parent/guardian presents to the appropriate school authorities certification from a licensed physician, or the appropriate public health authorities that such student has received or is in the process of receiving the immunizations required by the Oklahoma State Health Department. The immunizations required and the frequency of their administration will be prescribed by the State Board of Health.

Exemptions from the immunization requirements are authorized in the law for medical, religious, and personal reasons. Medical: A parent/guardian may submit to the health authority

a certificate signed by a licensed physician stating that the physical condition of the student is such that the immunization would endanger the life or health of the student and thus be exempted from the immunization requirements.

Religious: The parent/guardian must present a signed written statement briefly summarizing his/her objections.

Personal: The parent/guardian must present a Certificate of Exemption complete with a brief statement summarizing his/her objections to immunizations on philosophical grounds. Lost or unobtainable immunization records are not grounds for personal exemptions.

Unimmunized students attending school on the basis of an exemption due to medical contraindications, religious, or personal objections to immunizations are at high risk for disease infection if exposed. For their protection and for the protection of the community, these students may be excluded from school for the duration of any outbreak of vaccine-preventable disease. Students may be given credit for make-up work.

Revised 12/8/97 AIDS/HIV AND OTHER COMMUNICABLE DISEASES 5013

Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is one of a number of communicable diseases which require special precautions to prevent transmission in the school environment. Because there is no cure for AIDS and because it is a life-threatening disease, it is imperative that specialized procedures be followed in the management of a student who is diagnosed as a carrier of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). This policy addresses admission and management of students with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS).

NATURE OF THE VIRUS AIDS is a disease which disables the body from fighting infection. The cause of the disease is infection by HIV. Two categories of outcomes result from infection by HIV. AIDS is the more severe form of the infection. The second, and most common, form of infection by HIV causes the affected person to be an Asymptomatic Carrier, having no symptoms but still believed capable of transmitting the virus to others. Based upon the medical evidence presently available, it appears that both of the two levels or stages of HIV infection are contagious under certain conditions.

TRANSMISSION OF HIV HIV (unlike many other communicable diseases) is not believed by most medical authorities to be transmissible through casual contact in the normal school environment. Present medical knowledge indicates that HIV is transmitted by the introduction of the virus into the blood stream through sexual contact, sharing of hypodermic needles among intravenous drug users, receiving blood transfusions from infected individuals, or at birth. Pending further research, however, any spill of body fluid (blood, tears, semen, saliva, vomitus, urine, or excrement) by an HIV-infected individual should be considered as a possible source of infection.

CLEANUP OF BODY FLUIDS Since it is not always known whether a student is infected with HIV, the district will follow the requirements of the Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Control Plan in all situations requiring the cleanup of body fluids.

REFERRAL OF STUDENTS DIAGNOSED WITH HIV/AIDS When school administrators learn that a student may have HIV or AIDS, the Superintendent may refer the matter to the Oklahoma State Health Department and request that it convene a multi-disciplinary team for evaluation and recommendation to the school for placement of the student. The student’s parents or legal guardian, legal representative or legal custodian, the student’s physician, a representative of the Superintendent, a representative of the Oklahoma State Health Department, and a representative of the State Department of Education may be included in the multi-disciplinary team.

If the case is verified by medical authorities as HIV or AIDS and if there is a possibility that other students or employees might become infected from the student, the Superintendent is authorized to arrange a safe, temporary placement for the student until permanent arrangements can be made.

If an alternative educational program is required, the program will be established in the least restrictive environment possible.

The principal is to establish a separate file on that student to which only he/she and those identified employees are to have access. No entry regarding the HIV or AIDS condition is to be made on the student’s cumulative record, health card, the computerized student database, or any other record.

Revised 12/9/13

CONTAGIOUS CONDITIONS/HEAD LICE 5015

The following policy has been set forth to safeguard students and school personnel from contagious diseases or from an outbreak of pediculosis (head lice).

CONTAGIOUS CONDITIONS Any student with a contagious condition may be excluded from school.

Before returning to school, the student may be required to present a certificate from a health professional or an authorized representative of the Oklahoma State Health Department verifying that the student is no longer contagious.

After readmittance, the school nurse may periodically check the student. Should a reinfection occur, the student may again be excluded from school.

PEDICULOSIS (HEAD LICE) Any student with head lice will be excluded from school.

Before returning to school, the student must be treated and all lice must be removed from the hair. The student will only be readmitted to the classroom after the school nurse determines there are no live lice present in the student’s hair.

After readmittance, the school nurse may periodically check the student for head lice. Should a reinfestation occur, the student will again be excluded from school.

Students missing more than two (2) consecutive days of school for head lice may be considered truant.

Revised 11/8/10

DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES, LAW 5016 ENFORCEMENT, MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDER INTERVIEWS ON SCHOOL PREMISES

In accordance with Oklahoma law, teachers and other district employees are required to report to the Department of Human

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Services suspected cases of physical abuse or neglect involving students. The Board of Education fully supports that requirement and has established this policy to facilitate such reporting.

The following reporting procedures are to be implemented by all Union Public School personnel:

Notification to the Department of Human Services of child abuse should be made by telephone, in writing, or in person. The following provisions are stipulated: A. Any report must be made in good faith. B. No privilege or contract shall relieve any person from the

requirement of reporting. C. No employer, supervisor, or administrator shall impede or

inhibit the reporting obligations. D. No employer, supervisor, or administrator shall retaliate

against a person who, in good faith, provides child abuse reports or information, or who testifies in a proceeding regarding child abuse.

Requirements: A. DHS may conduct an interview and examination of the child

at any reasonable time and at any place including, but not limited to, the child’s school. School personnel will obtain documentation of the name and identification of DHS personnel conducting the interview. If requested by a DHS representative, an administrator may be present during an interview.

B. Any DHS records must be kept in a confidential file in the principal’s office and transmitted in the same manner as special education records and are subject to FERPA policy.

C. Access to such records may be made available by the principal to a person designated to assist in the treatment of, or with services provided to, the child.

D. These records must be destroyed when the child reaches eighteen years of age.

E. Whenever a child transfers from one school district to another, the building principal must forward to the receiving school all reports of sexual abuse and severe physical abuse received from DHS.

F. The building principal must also notify DHS of the child’s new school and address, if known.

State statutes on child abuse reporting require all of the following to report promptly to the county office of the Department of Human Services in the county in which the suspected injury occurred: A. Physician or surgeon, including doctors of medicine and

dentistry, licensed osteopathic physician, residents and interns, examining, attending, or treating a child under the age of eighteen;

B. Registered nurse examining, attending, or treating such a child in absence of a physician or surgeon;

C. Teacher of any child under the age of eighteen; D. Other person having reason to believe that a child under the

age of eighteen years has had physical injury or injuries inflicted upon him/her by other than accidental means where the injury appears to have been caused as a result of physical abuse, sexual abuse, or neglect.

It is a misdemeanor for any person to knowingly and willfully fail to promptly report any incident of suspected abuse. The person who has direct information about the abuse, or the person in whom the child has confided, is responsible for filing the report within 48 hours. The report must contain the following information: A. Child’s name, birth date, school, grade. B. List of sibling(s). C. Name of adult(s) with whom child resides. D. Parent/guardian’s name, address, phone number, place of

employment, and work phone number. E. Nature and extent of child’s injury, including any evidence of

previous injuries. F. Description of circumstances.

G. Documentation of the school nurse’s examination of the injuries.

H. Documentation of the name of the DHS personnel contacted, date, and time of contact.

I. Documentation of the name and badge number of the police officer, if the child requires transportation to shelter or a physician.

J. Signatures of school personnel filing report. K. All Child Abuse Reporting forms will be kept in a

confidential file by the school nurse, building principal, and counselor.

The Child Abuse Reporting form is available at each site. Any person participating in good faith and exercising due care in the making of a report, or any person allowing access to a child by a person authorized to investigate a report concerning the child, shall have immunity from any liability, civil or criminal, that might otherwise be incurred or imposed. Any such participant shall have the same immunity with respect to participation in any judicial proceeding resulting from such report.

Any person who knowingly and willfully makes a false report, or makes a report that the person knows lacks factual foundation, may be reported by the Department of Human Services to local law enforcement for criminal investigation and, upon conviction thereof, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

LAW ENFORCEMENT Should it become necessary for a properly identified member of a law enforcement agency to talk to a student and/or school personnel during the school day, the following procedures should be observed to assist law enforcement officers and to protect the rights of pupils and parents: A. All properly identified law enforcement personnel will

coordinate all business through the principal’s office or the security director’s office.

B. If requested by a law enforcement officer an administrator or designee may be present during an interview.

C. School personnel will obtain documentation of the name and badge number of law enforcement officers at the time of the interview.

MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDERS A. Except with prior permission of the Superintendent, third

party mental health providers may not conduct student interviews or provide therapy to a student during school hours or on school property unless specified on a student’s Individual Education Plan (IEP) program.

Revised 12/14/15 DISMISSAL OF STUDENTS 5020

Teachers shall not dismiss pupils before the regular dismissal bell or permit them to leave the building or school grounds during school hours without permission of the building principal or designee. It is recommended that parents not check out students during the last 30 minutes of the school day.

If it becomes necessary that a pupil be sent from a room because of behavioral problems, it is the teacher’s responsibility to see that the pupil goes directly to the principal and that the principal or designee is notified of the offense immediately. Teachers should never leave their classes unattended. No teacher may permanently dismiss or suspend a student from a class or school.

Revised 1/18/10 LOST/DAMAGED TEXTBOOKS, LIBRARY MATERIALS, AND COMPUTERS/ ELECTRONIC DEVICES 5022

Students who are issued or checked out a textbook or computer/electronic device or who check out a library book and subsequently fail to return that same item shall reimburse the

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district for full replacement cost. Textbooks are expected to last six years, computers/electronic devices are expected to last five years, and students are expected to assume responsibility for their care. Charges for damaged, non-reissuable books and items can be imposed by the building principal. Books/items damaged to the point that they cannot be reissued are treated as lost books/items with full replacement cost being assessed.

Parents or students will be given a refund if the book/item is found and returned in reissuable condition before June 30.

Revised 12/8/14 ATTENDANCE 5025

Educational programs are built on the foundation of continuity of instruction and participation in the classroom setting. Consistent classroom attendance can lead to the development of strong work habits, responsibility, and self-discipline. Because attendance also has a definite correlation to academic performance, the quality of a student’s education suffers when he/she is absent from class. Students are encouraged to maintain regular attendance and to schedule non-academic activities during times which will not conflict with classroom instruction.

Students will be recorded as “absent” when they are late to their assigned class or do not attend in accordance with each building’s administrative regulations. This will apply to both the regular schedule and to a modified schedule.

CATEGORIES OF ABSENCES Excused Absence: A. An absence, as defined by Oklahoma Statute, is classified as

excused only if one of the following conditions exists. 1. The student is excused from attending school by reason

of mental or physical disability as determined by the district upon receipt of written recommendation by a duly licensed and practicing physician.

2. The student is excused from attendance at school during observance of a religious holiday.

3. The student is excused from attendance at school if the absence is deemed by the principal and parent/guardian to be an emergency.

4. A student who has attained his/her 16th birthday is excused from attending school by written, joint agreement between (a) the school administrator of the district where the student attends school, and (b) the parent/guardian. It must be determined that such action is in the best interest of the student and/or the community and the student will be under the supervision of the parent/guardian until the student has reached the age of 18 years.

B. An excused absence as outlined above will not count against the number of allowable absences.

C. A student is excused from attendance if the parent/legal guardian has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or has immediately returned from deployment to a combat zone or combat support posting and may be granted excused absences at the discretion of the Superintendent or designee.

Unexcused Absence: A. When a student misses one or more classes during a school

day with or without the knowledge or permission of a parent/guardian and school authorities provided the absence does not qualify as an excused absence.

B. Unexcused absences are limited to ten per semester for each class. Students who exceed ten absences in a semester may receive an “F” grade for that class.

C. If a student exceeds ten unexcused absences, a doctor’s statement that confirms the dates of the illness may be turned in to the attendance office upon the student’s return to school resulting in the absence(s) being changed to an excused absence(s).

D. Students who fail based only on their attendance exceeding the ten-day limit may submit an appeal to a site committee composed of an administrator, the school nurse, a teacher and a counselor.

ATTENDANCE PROVISIONS A. If a student is absent, a parent or guardian must notify the

school office, give reason for the absence, and approximate date of return.

B. Students who are unaccounted for and/or truant may receive additional disciplinary action in accordance with Board Policy #5050.

C. Students must be in attendance at least two of the first three hours or two of the last three hours to be recorded present one-half day, each for the morning and afternoon.

D. Students are encouraged to make up any work missed due to an absence. In order to receive credit, the student is responsible for obtaining, completing and returning to the teacher the assignments missed during the absence. In general, students will be granted one school day for each school day missed due to an absence. More time may be allowed at the discretion of the teacher, depending on the nature of the assignment(s) and length of the absence.

E. It shall be unlawful for a parent, guardian, custodian, or other persons having control of a child who is over the age of five years and under the age of 18 years, and who has not finished four years of high school work, to neglect or refuse to cause or compel such child to attend and comply with the rules of some public, private, or other school, unless other means of education are provided for the full term the schools of the district are in session; and it shall be unlawful for any child who is over the age of 12 years and under the age of 18 years, and who has not finished four years of high school work, to neglect or refuse to attend and comply with the rules of some public, private, or other school, or receive an education by other means for the full term the schools of the district are in session.

F. If a child is absent without valid excuse four or more days or parts of days within a four-week period, the principal or designee shall notify the parent, guardian or custodian of the child with an attendance warning letter. If within five (5) days after the warning letter is received, the parent, guardian, or custodian of the child does not comply with the compulsory attendance laws and additional days are recorded, the principal or designee shall immediately report such absences to the district residency/truancy officer in the Enrollment Center. The residency/truancy officer will then report to the Tulsa County District Attorney pursuant to Okla. Stat. Tit. 70, Article X, Section 232.

G. All students attending Union schools, unless they are legally emancipated or meet the requirements to qualify for “self-support,” shall be required to have absences excused by their parent/guardian. Students who are legally emancipated or meet the requirements of “self-support” may assume responsibility for all absences.

H. The maximum number of absences for activities, whether sponsored by the school or outside agency/ organization, which removes any student from the classroom shall be ten (10) for any one class period of each school year. Excluded from this number are state and national levels of school-sponsored contests. State and national contests are those for which a student must earn the right to compete. The criteria for earning the right to represent the school in any activity or contest must be submitted in writing by local school sponsors and approved by the Board of Education.

I. The Internal Activities Review Committee includes the Executive Director of Secondary Education, Director of Fine Arts, Director of Athletics, and Activity Coordinator. This committee shall be responsible for reviewing and recommending any deviation of the activities policy to the Board of Education. Any deviation from the ten days absence

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rule shall not exceed five days. J. College visitations may be counted as a school activity and

will not count as an absence provided the following criteria are met: 1. limited to two per year, 2. parent notifies attendance office, 3. documentation confirming the visit is provided by the

college or university and turned in to the attendance office upon return to school.

Semester exam exemption (High School and 9th Grade Center): To encourage students to attend class regularly, the following incentive is available: A. Students who have no more than three absences in the

semester may, with parent approval, waive one semester exam in a course in which they have an “A” average.

B. Students who have no more than two absences for the semester may, with parent approval, waive one semester exam in a course in which they have a “B” or better average.

C. Students who have no more than one absence for the semester may, with parent approval, waive one semester exam in a course in which they have a “C” or better average.

D. Seniors who meet the above criteria may, with parent approval, exempt all semester exams during the spring semester.

Revised 12/8/14

PROMOTION, PLACEMENT, AND RETENTION 5030 OF STUDENTS

Promotion is the expected culmination of a school year and affects the teacher, pupil, and parents. Therefore, serious consideration should be given to the following factors: A. Number of years retained. B. Chronological age. C. Scholastic achievement. D. Cognitive ability. E. Developmental and social maturity.

Whenever a teacher or teachers recommend that a student be retained at the present grade level or not be passed in a course, the parent/guardian of elementary students should be notified of the recommendation by the end of the third quarter. If dissatisfied with the recommendation, the parent/guardian may appeal the decision by complying with the district’s appeal process. The decision of the Board of Education shall be final. The parent/guardian may prepare a written statement to be placed in the file and become a part of the permanent record of the student stating the reason(s) for disagreeing with the decision of the Board of Education.

Because enrollment in the primary multiage program may be for two or three years, parents/guardians and teachers are encouraged to communicate regularly about the child’s progress. The district reserves the right to determine placement for students in any class/program exclusive of the provisions of an Individual Education Plan (IEP).

APPEALS PROCEDURE FOR RETENTION OF STUDENTS (with the exception of third grade) A. An appeal may be requested by letter to the principal. This

request should be made within ten calendar days after the parent/guardian is aware of the student’s grade or promotion status.

B. The principal or designee shall hold a conference with the teacher and the parent/guardian as soon as possible after receipt of the appeal. The conference will be held during regular school hours, Monday through Friday, with consideration given to the hours of working parents whenever possible.

C. At the conference, the principal will read Board Policy #5030 and ask the teacher to explain the rationale for the teacher’s

decision. The parent/guardian will be given the opportunity to respond and present evidence that supports the parent/guardian position.

D. At the conclusion of the conference, the principal will state, in writing, whether he/she will uphold, rescind, or modify the teacher’s decision. In all cases, the parent/guardian will be advised of the right to have the decision reviewed by the Superintendent or designee.

E. If the parent/guardian desires a further appeal, he/she should request in writing an additional appeal to the Superintendent or designee within five calendar days.

F. The Superintendent or designee shall hold a conference with the principal and the parent/guardian as soon as possible after receipt of the appeal. The conference will be held during regular school hours, Monday through Friday, with consideration given to the hours of working parents whenever possible.

G. At the conference, the Superintendent or designee will read Board Policy #5030 and ask the principal/designee to explain the rationale for the principal/designee’s decision. The parent/guardian will be given the opportunity to respond and present evidence that supports the parent/guardian position.

H. At the conclusion of the conference, the Superintendent or designee will state in writing whether he/she will uphold, rescind, or modify the principal’s decision. In all cases, the parent/guardian will be advised of the right to have the decision reviewed by the Board of Education.

I. The parent/guardian must notify the Board of Education in writing if further appeal is desired. The parent/guardian should specify whether they desire an open or closed hearing with the Board of Education.

J. The Board of Education will conduct a hearing with all relevant parties present. The Board will advise in writing the parent/guardian, Superintendent, principal, and teacher of its decision. The decision of the Board of Education is final.

THIRD GRADE RETENTION/MID-YEAR PROMOTION FOR THIRD GRADE STUDENTS Oklahoma State law, the Reading Sufficiency Act (RSA), provides specific requirements for third grade students to advance to fourth grade. In order to be promoted to fourth grade automatically, a student must: • Demonstrate proficiency in reading at the third-grade level

through a screening instrument approved by the State of Oklahoma, or

• Score advanced or proficient on the reading comprehension and vocabulary portion of the Oklahoma School Testing Program (OSTP).

If the student does not demonstrate proficiency in reading at the third-grade level or scores unsatisfactory or limited knowledge on the reading portion of the OSTP, then the student may be promoted if he/she qualifies through one of the “Good Cause Exemptions” or Probationary Promotion.

“Good Cause Exemptions” A. Limited-English proficient students who have had less than

two (2) years of instruction in an English language learner program;

B. Students with disabilities whose individualized education program (IEP), consistent with state law, indicates that the student is to be assessed with alternate achievement standards through the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program;

C. Students who demonstrate an acceptable level of performance on an alternative standardized reading assessment approved by the State Board of Education;

D. Students who demonstrate, through a student portfolio, that the student is reading on grade level as evidenced by demonstration of mastery of the state standards beyond the retention level;

E. Students with disabilities who participate in the statewide criterion-referenced tests and who have an individualized

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education program that reflects that the student has received intensive remediation in reading for more than two (2) years but still demonstrates a deficiency in reading and was previously retained in pre-kindergarten for academic reasons, kindergarten, first grade, second grade, or third grade;

F. Students who have received intensive remediation in reading through a program of reading instruction for two (2) or more years but still demonstrate a deficiency in reading and who were previously retained in pre-kindergarten for academic reasons, kindergarten, first grade, second grade, or third grade for a total of two (2) years; and

G. Students who have been granted an exemption for medical emergencies by the State Department of Education.

Probationary Promotion A third grade student who scores at the unsatisfactory level on the reading portion of the third grade statewide criterion-referenced test may be evaluated for a probationary promotion by the Student Reading Proficiency Team. The student shall be promoted to the fourth grade if the team members unanimously recommend probationary promotion to the school principal and the Superintendent, and the principal and Superintendent approve the recommendation that promotion is the best option for the student. If a student is allowed a probationary promotion, the team shall continue to review the reading performance of the student and repeat the requirements of this paragraph each academic year until the student demonstrates grade-level reading proficiency, as identified through a screening instrument which meets the acquisition of reading skills for the corresponding grade level in which the student is enrolled or transitions to the requirements set forth by the Achieving Classroom Excellence Act. The Student Reading Proficiency Team shall be composed of: A. Parent(s) and/or guardian(s) of the student, B. Teacher assigned to the student who had responsibility for

reading instruction in that academic year, C. Teacher in reading who teaches in the subsequent grade

level, and D. Certified reading specialist.

Mid-Year Promotion Students retained in third grade may only be promoted to fourth grade mid-year prior to November 1 and only upon demonstrating a level of proficiency required to score at the proficient level on the statewide third grade criterion-referenced test, or upon demonstrating proficiency in reading at the third-grade level through a State Board of Education approved screening instrument, and upon showing progress sufficient to master appropriate fourth-grade-level skills, as determined by the school. A mid-year promotion shall be made only upon agreement of the parent or guardian of the student and the school principal.

Revised 11/14/16 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS 5031

All courses taken for high school credit will be included on the student transcript. Courses taken in grades 9-12 will be considered when calculating the grade point average (GPA).

Courses taken for high school credit in grades 7-8 will be listed on the student transcript as a letter grade but will not be considered when calculating the grade point average (GPA).

Students must also meet all graduation testing requirements as defined by Oklahoma State Law and the Oklahoma State Department of Education.

Minimum Graduation Requirements:

CORE COURSEWORK: 14 UNITS • Language Arts/English: 4 units or competencies which

include Grammar and Composition, American Literature, World Literature and English Literature or their equivalent

• Math: 3 units or competencies including Algebra I

(three units in mathematics must be completed in the ninth through twelfth grades)

• Science: 3 units or competencies including Biology I • History: 3 units including 1/2 (unit or competency) OK

History, 1/2 US Government, 1 US History, and 1 selected from the subjects of History, Government, Geography, Economics, Civics, or non-Western culture and approved to meet college admission requirements.

• One unit or set of competencies from any of the subjects listed above.

ELECTIVE COURSEWORK: 9 UNITS To include: • Fine Arts: 1 unit or set of competencies • Foreign Language or Computer Technology: 2 units or

sets of competencies • Elective Courses: 6 units (to be selected by student)

Total ........................................................................ 23 units

OTHER LEGISLATED MANDATES (required for graduation) • Personal Financial Literacy Requirement • CPR/AED Requirement

Revised 11/14/16 WEIGHTED GRADE AND CLASS RANKING PROCEDURES 5032

It is the philosophy of the Union Public School District, and the policy of the Board of Education to encourage students to enroll in those courses that challenge even the most academically able student. Students who enroll in these challenging courses are to be compensated by awarding grades that are weighted more than the grades awarded in less academically demanding courses. The basic purpose of the “weighted grade” is to provide an incentive for students to enroll in a program of advanced studies.

A. All courses taken for high school credit will be included on the student transcript. Courses taken in grades 9-12 will be considered when calculating the grade point average (GPA).

B. For purposes of determining class rank, the following weight systems will be used:

Weight Grades A B C D F

AP courses: 2.0 6.0 5.0 4.0 1.0 0 Pre-AP 1.0 5.0 4.0 3.0 1.0 0 All others: 0 4.0 3.0 2.0 1.0 0

C. Students may receive an AP-weighted grade for certain college courses taken by concurrent enrollment. In order for this to occur: • The student must exhaust all AP-level courses offered

in a subject area and must pass the AP exam(s) with a score (or scores) sufficient to earn college credit for all AP courses taken in the subject area.

• The course taken concurrently at a higher education institution must be a course that exceeds the rigor of the AP courses that the student has already received AP credit for in that subject area.

D. The following designations and/or programs exist to recognize outstanding achievement in the district: • Students who rank in the top ten percent of the class

ranking will be known as “Honor Graduates.” • “Union Distinguished Graduates” and “Honor

Graduates” will have special seals affixed to their diplomas and the special status will be designated on the transcript.

The designation of “Union Distinguished Graduate” will be made for the students who meet the following requirements: • No grade lower than a “C” • 4.0 GPA on a 6.0 scale • Minimum of 12 units of Pre-AP and/or AP classes,

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Tulsa Technology Engineering, Biomedical, or Computer Science classes (limit two) or dual credit/concurrent. Three of the 12 units must be AP classes.

• 100 hours of school or community service • Formal application in first semester of senior year • Specific course requirements as listed:

• math (4 credits including one credit of higher math - Pre-Calculus Trig or AP Statistics)

• four years of English; • four years of social studies; • four years of science; and • two years of foreign language or computer

science; • a total of two credits from any of the following

areas with no restrictions on the number of credits from any given area: fine arts, athletics, business, leadership, computer science, foreign language and other electives offered in Core Curriculum subjects.

The valedictorians will be determined by selecting those students who rank in the upper 1% of the class as determined by their weighted grade point average. The salutatorians will be determined by selecting those students who rank in the upper 2% of the class as determined by their weighted grade point average. Two students from the valedictorians will give the commencement address. The two students will be chosen by a graduation program committee appointed by the administration.

Revised 11/14/16 GRADING POLICY FOR ELL STUDENTS 5033

Students who qualify for an English Language Learner (ELL) program may be graded on a P/F (Pass/Fail) basis for all subjects unless they perform well enough in a particular subject to receive a regular grade - C or above. This includes students who are being served within the regular classroom or those attending ELL classes. The ELL instructor or related specialist will communicate with the regular classroom teacher regarding the implementation of this policy for specific students.

Revised 11/8/10 PROGRESS REPORTS/REPORT CARDS 5035

The teacher shall notify parents whenever the student is failing, and an appointment with the parent may be scheduled. No student shall receive a failing grade for any grading period unless the progress report procedure has been followed.

All parents are encouraged to use the district’s online gradebook access as a way to monitor their child’s progress on a continuing basis.

Students shall be provided the opportunity to see their grades in order to monitor progress.

ELEMENTARY (grades pre-kindergarten through five) After the end of the first quarter, progress reports are to be issued every 4 1/2 weeks for students in grades K-5. A progress report will also be issued whenever there is evidence of the student’s possible failure or significant decline in performance.

The signature of the parent/guardian is required on the progress report. The progress report will be distributed to the student. Students will have three days to return properly signed progress reports. If the progress report is not returned within three days, the teacher will contact the parent/guardian.

Based on the performance of each student, mastery levels/grades shall be averaged at the close of each nine-week period.

SECONDARY (grades six-twelve) Progress reports will be issued every 4 1/2 weeks. The first progress report of the school year and the final report card of the school year will be mailed.

Grades are to be calculated cumulatively during each semester. The teacher shall notify parents whenever there is evidence of the student’s possible failure or significant decline in performance, and an appointment with the parent may be scheduled.

Revised 12/8/14 INCLUDING STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES IN 5037 STATE AND DISTRICTWIDE ASSESSMENTS

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires school districts to include students with disabilities in state and districtwide assessments with appropriate accommodations where necessary (34CFR 300.18). This would include all state and district criterion-referenced (CRT) and norm-referenced (NRT) tests. When students with disabilities cannot participate in the state and districtwide assessments even with appropriate accommodations, these students will participate in alternate assessments as defined by the state or district.

The Individual Education Plan (IEP) team will be responsible for identifying the extent of participation in the assessment process and in specifying the testing accommodations. These determinations will be documented in the IEP. All students with disabilities who actively participate in the general education curriculum will be expected to participate in the state and districtwide assessment program with or without appropriate accommodations.

Options for participation include: A. Participation without accommodations; B. Participation in all subtests (content areas) or specific

subtests of the assessment instrument with appropriate accommodations, as needed;

C. Participation in specific subtests of the CRT/NRT with appropriate accommodations and alternate assessment for the remaining content area;

D. Participation in the alternate assessment for all content areas as allowed by state law.

The district’s alternate assessment procedures will include, but not be limited by, the utilization of standardized developmental checklists, off-grade standardized testing in specific content areas, and the Union Public School Adaptive/Functional Curriculum Checklist.

The State Department of Education’s alternate assessment, the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP) is an out-of-level standardized test or portfolio format. Students with disabilities who do not participate in the general education curriculum are assessed by an alternate assessment as documented in the student’s IEP. The assessment is designed to measure progress toward IEP goals at the student’s instructional level in the same academic areas as students in the general education curriculum.

When the IEP team determines that a student with disabilities will not participate in the state and districtwide assessment process, it will document why participation is not appropriate and identify the alternate assessment procedure and instrument that will be utilized to measure student progress. The only appropriate justification for a student to not participate in the state and districtwide assessment program is when the IEP team determines that, even with accommodations, the student would be unable to demonstrate at least some of the knowledge and skills tested through the state and districtwide assessment.

TESTING ACCOMMODATIONS Testing accommodations are changes in the way a test is administered. Testing accommodations are intended to offset

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distortions in test scores caused by a disability without invalidating or changing what the test measures. The IEP team will determine the appropriate testing accommodations for each student with a disability. Testing accommodations are not permitted unless specified on the student’s IEP and allowable by state law. Only accommodations that do not invalidate the test results may be utilized. Appropriate testing accommodations should not change or replace the skills that the test targets or is designed to measure. Classroom accommodations that have been identified on the IEP will be permissible as testing accommodations as long as these accommodations do not invalidate the testing instrument.

Types of testing accommodations which are acceptable include: A. Presentation format (large print or Braille; read or sign

questions for subtests not measuring reading; use of magnifier or hearing aides; translation of directions and test into native language; bilingual version of test; templates to reduce visual field; key words highlighted in directions);

B. Response format (use of scribe, computer, communication board or tape recorder to record responses; pencil grip; slant board; dark, heavy or raised lines; mark responses in booklet);

C. Timing/scheduling (shorter, multiple sessions; more time for test completion; flexible schedule; time of day);

D. Setting (small group or individual sessions, different location, special lighting, adaptive furniture).

Invalidation of a test score means that changes in the test presentation, content or response format have resulted in changes in what the test measures. Therefore, the inference made from a given test score is inaccurate.

Accommodations that have the potential to invalidate a test score include: A. Reading a reading test to the student; B. Using a calculator on a mathematics test that is designed to

measure mental computation; C. Using spelling tools on writing or language arts tests that

score the correctness of spelling; D. Paraphrasing that changes the meaning of the text or

consistently makes the material easier to read or comprehend; E. Requesting additional time to test beyond the timelines

specified by the Oklahoma State Department of Education. Revised 1/16/06

DRUGS, DRUG PARAPHERNALIA, AND ALCOHOL 5039

ILLEGAL AND ILLICIT DRUGS AND ALCOHOL A. Unlawful possession and use of illicit drugs and/or alcohol is

wrong and harmful. B. Students are prohibited from using, being under the influence

of, possessing, furnishing, distributing, selling, conspiring to sell or possess, or being in the chain of sale or distribution of alcoholic beverages, low-point beer, illegal or illicit drugs, drug paraphernalia, or other mood-altering substances while at school, on school vehicles, or at any school-sponsored event.

C. Illicit drugs include steroids, prescription, and over-the-counter medications being used for an abusive purpose (e.g., when they are not used in compliance with the prescription or directions for use and are not being used to treat a current health condition of the student). Mood-altering substances include paint, glue, aerosol sprays, and similar substances.

D. Violation of this rule will result in imposition of disciplinary measures which may include suspension for the remainder of the current semester and the following semester.

E. Student violation of this rule, which also constitutes illegal conduct, may be reported to law enforcement authorities.

F. Anyone who reasonably suspects that a student is under the influence of, or has in his/her possession, low-point beer, alcoholic beverages, or a controlled dangerous substance, should report such information to an administrator.

G. The district may conduct random safety sweeps utilizing canine contraband detection services on district property.

NECESSARY MEDICATIONS A. Students may not retain possession of nor self-administer any

medication at school without the authorization of a school health official.

B. Students who have a legitimate health need for over-the-counter or prescription medication at school shall deliver such medications to the school nurse or principal with a parental authorization, in compliance with Oklahoma law and district policy and procedures regarding administering medicine to students.

C. Violations of this rule will be reported to the student’s parents by the principal and may result in discipline which can include suspension.

DISTRIBUTION OF INFORMATION A. Information for students and their parents about drug and

alcohol counseling, rehabilitation, and re-entry programs in the geographic area is available from the principal (counselor) at each student’s school.

B. Copies of these rules shall be provided to all students and their parents at the beginning of each school year.

BOARD OF EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS FOR DRUG-FREE AND ALCOHOL-FREE SCHOOLS The Board of Education of the Union Public School District adopts the following requirements addressing drug and alcohol use by students and employees in order to comply with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989. A. The district shall maintain as part of its curriculum, age-

appropriate, developmentally based drug and alcohol education and prevention programs which address the legal, social, and health consequences of drug and alcohol use and which provide information about effective techniques for resisting peer pressure to use illicit drugs or alcohol for all students in all grades offered by the district.

B. The drug and alcohol education and prevention programs shall clearly convey to students that the use of illicit drugs and the unlawful possession and use of alcohol is wrong and harmful.

C. The district has adopted and shall maintain, as part of its student conduct and discipline policies, mandatory standards of conduct and disciplinary sanctions applicable to all students regarding the use of drugs and alcohol. The standards and sanctions shall be included in the student handbook which is distributed to all students, and copies of these provisions shall be provided to students’ parents at the beginning of each school year.

D. Information for students about drug and alcohol counseling, rehabilitation, and re-entry programs available to them in the geographical area shall be maintained in each school within the district. Administrators in each school shall develop age-appropriate measures for making students and/or their parents aware of the availability of the information and for making it easily and freely accessible to them.

E. At least every two years, the administration shall conduct a review and evaluation of all the programs and practices implementing these requirements and recommend any needed changes.

Revised 12/10/12 GANG INVOLVEMENT 5041

To enhance a safe, secure learning environment and to help foster an attitude of respect for the rights of others, Union Public Schools prohibits any gang-related involvement and activities at school-related functions or on any district property.

The district identifies gang activity and/or involvement as: A. Wearing, possessing, using, distributing, displaying, or

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selling any clothing, jewelry, emblems, badges, symbols, signs, graffiti, or other items that are evidence of membership in or affiliation with a gang or other secret society.

B. Committing any act or using any speech, either verbal or non-verbal (gestures, handshakes, stares, etc.), showing membership in or affiliation with a gang or other secret society.

C. Using speech or committing an act which furthers interest of any kind in any gang activity, including, but not limited to: 1. Soliciting and/or initiating others for membership in a

gang or other secret society. 2. Requesting a person pay for protection or otherwise

intimidating or threatening a person. 3. Committing an illegal act or violation of district

policies. 4. Inciting other students to act with physical violence

upon another person. 5. Engaging in concert with others in intimidating,

fighting, assaulting, or threatening to assault others. Revised 6/10/96

TOBACCO/TOBACCO PRODUCTS USE 5045

The Board of Education understands the concern expressed by parents, educators, students, and other community members regarding the adverse effects of tobacco, tobacco products, vapor products, and electronic cigarettes on the individual. Further, the Board is aware of Oklahoma law that prohibits the possession of tobacco by minors. Therefore, the Board of Education establishes the following policy:

In accordance with Oklahoma law and the wishes of parents, educators, and students, tobacco and/or tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco and vapor products/e-cigarettes (as defined in Board Policy #1500), in any form may not be used or possessed by students while on school premises, at school-related events outside school premises, or while in transit to or from school or a school-related event in school-authorized vehicles.

Revised 12/14/15 DISCRIMINATION/HARASSMENT 5046

Discrimination and harassment based on race, age, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender, gender expression or identity, sex, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, or veteran status are prohibited. Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to, derogatory remarks and acts, including slurs, epithets and other verbal, written, graphic or physical conduct of a hostile, intimidating, abusive, degrading, threatening or violent nature. This prohibition shall include harassment perpetrated by or against a student, employee, patron, vendor or any other person on district property or at district-sponsored functions.

REPORTING PROCEDURE A student or the student’s parent may report a complaint for any of these forms of discrimination or harassment to the principal at the school site where the student attends or to the applicable coordinator referenced in Board Policy #5000. The student or the student’s parent may also report a complaint to the assistant principal, counselor, nurse or a teacher. The coordinator, assistant principal or other staff member shall immediately notify the principal of the complaint.

If the complaint involves an employee, the principal must immediately report the complaint to the Senior Executive Director of Human Resources. Where complaints involve an employee, the principal and the Senior Executive Director of Human Resources shall investigate the complaint and shall, at the end of the investigation, recommend disciplinary action against the harasser if the complaint is substantiated. Both parties shall be notified of the results of the investigation.

If the complaint does not involve an employee, the principal shall investigate the complaint and shall, at the end of the investigation, recommend disciplinary action against the harasser if the complaint is substantiated. Both parties shall be notified of the outcome of the investigation.

Any formal grievance investigated under this policy shall be handled pursuant to Board Policy #5047.

ACTION TO BE TAKEN Students found in violation of this policy may be subjected to any and all disciplinary action that may be imposed by the district’s policy regarding student behavior (Board Policy #5050).

The Senior Executive Director of Human Resources may recommend disciplinary action to be taken against the employee harasser up to and including suspension, demotion, non-reemployment or dismissal, subject to applicable procedural and due process requirements.

If the source of prohibited harassment is a member of the public, the district response may include barring the person(s) from district property and/or termination of business relationships with the individual(s).

RETALIATION Retaliation shall not be permitted against an individual who complains of these forms of harassment, nor against anyone who testifies on behalf of the complainant, nor anyone who assists or participates in an investigation or proceeding under this policy.

Revised 12/14/15 FORMAL GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE FOR FILING, PROCESSING, AND RESOLVING ALLEGED DISCRIMINATION COMPLAINTS 5047

A. DEFINITIONS 1. Discrimination Grievance - A formal written complaint

alleging any policy, procedure or practice which discriminates on the basis of race, age, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender (including sexual harassment), gender expression or identity, sex, sexual orientation, qualified disability, genetic information, or veteran status. Grievance forms are available from the office of the district’s Title I, Title IX, ADA, Title VII/ADEA and 504 coordinators and will be available in the district Human Resource office.

2. Grievant - A student of the district who submits a grievance alleging discrimination based on race, age, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender (including sexual harassment), gender expression or identity, sex, sexual orientation, qualified disability, genetic information or veteran status. A parent’s grievance shall be treated in the same manner as a student’s grievance.

3. Title I, Title IX, ADA, Title VII/ADEA and 504 Coordinator(s) - The person(s) designated to coordinate efforts to comply with and carry out responsibilities under Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; the Americans with Disabilities Act; Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; the Age Discrimination in Employment Act; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and any other state and federal laws addressing equal educational opportunity. The coordinator under Title I, Title IX, ADA, Title VII/ADEA and 504 may be included in procedures and hearings conducted pursuant to this policy. The coordinator of each statutory scheme may be the same person or different persons.

4. Respondent - The person alleged to be responsible for the violation contained in the grievance. The term may

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be used to designate persons with responsibility for a particular action or those persons with supervisory responsibility for procedures and policies in those areas covered in the grievance.

5. Day - A working day when the district’s main administrative offices are open. The calculation of days in complaint processing shall exclude Saturdays, Sundays and legal holidays.

B. RESOLUTION PRIOR TO FILING FORMAL GRIEVANCE

Prior to the filing of a formal grievance, the student is encouraged to visit with the building principal or the district’s Title I, Title IX, ADA, Title VII/ADEA or 504 coordinator, as applicable, and reasonable effort should be made to resolve the problem or complaint. The student may also visit with the assistant principal, counselor, nurse or a teacher about the problem or complaint pursuant to Board Policies #5046 and #5065. The assistant principal or other staff member will immediately contact the principal, and reasonable effort will be made to resolve the problem or complaint pursuant to Board Policies #5046 and #5065.

C. FILING AND PROCESSING FORMAL DISCRIMINATION GRIEVANCES 1. Grievant: Submits grievance to the principal,

coordinator, assistant principal, counselor, nurse or teacher stating name, nature and date of alleged violation; names of persons responsible (where known) and requested action. Whenever possible, it is encouraged that grievances be filed within 30 days of alleged violation. Grievance forms are available from the office of the district’s Title I, Title IX, ADA, Title VII/ADEA and 504 coordinator(s) and in the district’s Human Resources office. A coordinator, assistant principal, counselor, nurse or teacher receiving a complaint under this policy shall immediately notify the building principal. The principal may designate a coordinator to coordinate procedures outlined in this policy except that grievance procedures involving an employee must be coordinated with the Senior Executive Director of Human Resources. Any coordinator or principal who is notified of a grievance under this policy that involves an employee will immediately notify the Senior Executive Director of Human Resources. In cases of employee involvement, the Senior Executive Director of Human Resources shall be included in all procedures, notifications and hearings outlined in #6 through #13 below and shall issue the written decision pursuant to #6 where employee misconduct is alleged.

2. Principal: Notifies respondent within ten days and asks respondent to: a. Confirm or deny facts; b. Indicate acceptance or rejection of grievant’s

requested action; or c. Outline alternatives.

3. Respondent: Submits written answer within ten days to the principal.

4. Principal: Within ten days after receiving respondent’s answer, principal notifies the grievant and respondent of the date of a hearing with the grievant, the respondent and the principal.

5. Principal, grievant, and respondent: Hearing is conducted. Testimony of grievant and respondent may be scheduled separately, if deemed appropriate by the principal.

6. Principal: Issues a written decision to the student or employee and respondent within ten days after the hearing.

7. Grievant or respondent: If the grievant or respondent is

not satisfied with the decision, he/she must notify the principal within ten days and request, in writing, a hearing with the Superintendent.

8. Principal: Schedules a hearing with the grievant, respondent and Superintendent and notifies the grievant and respondent of the date of the hearing within ten days of the receipt of the request for the hearing.

9. Superintendent, grievant, respondent and principal: Hearing is conducted.

10. Superintendent: Issues a written decision within ten days following the hearing.

11. Grievant: If the grievant or respondent is not satisfied with the decision, he/she must notify the principal, in writing, within ten days and request a hearing with the Board of Education.

12. Principal: Notifies the Board of Education, in writing, within ten days after receiving request. Principal schedules hearing with the Board of Education. Hearing is to be conducted within 30 days from the date of notification to the Board of Education.

13. Hearing held by the Board of Education, grievant, respondent and principal and the Board of Education issues a final decision at the hearing regarding the validity of the grievance and any action to be taken.

D. GENERAL PROVISIONS 1. Extension of time: Any time limits set by these

procedures may be extended by mutual consent of the parties involved. The total number of days from date that complaint is filed until complaint is resolved shall be no more than 180 days.

2. Access to Regulations: Upon request, the district shall provide copies of any district regulations prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, age, color, national origin, genetic information, religion, pregnancy, gender, gender expression or identity, sex, sexual orientation, qualified handicap or veteran status.

3. Confidentiality during investigation: Confidentiality will be maintained to the extent possible, but during the course of the investigation, interviewing of witnesses and the explanation of allegations to respondent, some information regarding the grievance may necessarily be disclosed.

4. Confidentiality of Documents: Complaint documents will remain confidential, to the extent allowed by law, unless permission is given by the parties involved to release such information. All complaint documents will be kept separate from any other records of the district. No complaint document shall be entered in any personnel file unless adverse employment action is taken against an employee. Complaint documents shall be maintained on file for three years after complaint resolution.

Revised 12/14/15 STUDENT BEHAVIOR 5050

The Board of Education recognizes that students do not surrender any rights of citizenship while in attendance at Union schools. The school is a community with rules and regulations. Those who enjoy the rights and privileges provided must also accept the responsibilities that membership demands, including respect for and obedience to school rules.

VIOLATION OF SCHOOL RULES The following behaviors while in school, at school bus stops, in school vehicles, on school grounds, going to or from school, off campus during lunch, attending school events or while attending school-sponsored events whether at Union Public Schools or elsewhere will result in disciplinary action which may include in-school placement options or out-of-school suspension. This list

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includes, but is not limited to: A. Conduct which jeopardizes the safety of others including, but

not limited to: 1. Possession, threat or use of dangerous weapons. 2. Possession of ammunition, explosives or flammable

material. 3. Arson, abuse of fire alarms or safety equipment, or

bomb threats. 4. Fighting. 5. Membership or involvement in gangs or gang-related

activities, in secret clubs, fraternities, sororities or other secret organizations.

6. Hazing. 7. Harassment:

a. racial b. sexual c. student to student d. student to staff e. threat to students or staff f. any other harassment based on national origin,

color, age, religion, gender, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation pregnancy, genetic information, veteran status, or disability

B. Possession, use, or being under the influence of alcoholic beverages, low-point beer, inhalants or any drug or medication not administered by the school nurse with parental authorization.

C. Use or possession of tobacco, tobacco products, vapor products/e-cigarettes, or other smoking paraphernalia.

D. Theft. E. Vandalism. F. Possession/distribution of pornographic material (written,

audio, technological or visual). G. Extortion. H. Willful disobedience of a request of any school official. I. Use of profanity or vulgar/profane gestures. J. Cheating. K. Violation of the dress code. L. Forgery. M. Gambling. N. Failure to attend assigned Detention Halls/discipline

programs. O. Inappropriate public behavior. P. Truancy. Q. Immorality. R. Inappropriate use of technology. S. Unauthorized use of an electronic paging device, cellular

phone, wireless telecommunications device and/or potentially harmful laser pointer.

T. Failure to comply with state immunization requirements. U. Any behavior that disrupts the education process. V. Violation of school rules and regulations. W. Conduct occurring outside of the normal school day or off

school property that has a direct and immediate negative effect on the discipline, educational process or effectiveness of the school.

X. Bullying: “Harassment, intimidation and bullying” means any gesture, written or verbal expression, graphic, or physical act (including electronically transmitted acts; i.e., Internet, telephone, cell phone, computer, personal digital assistant (PDA) or wireless handheld device) that is reasonably perceived as being motivated either by any actual or perceived characteristic such as race, color, religion, ancestry, genetic information, national origin, pregnancy, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression; veteran status, or a mental, physical or sensory disability or impairment; or by any other distinguishing characteristic. It includes behavior that a reasonable person should know will harm another student, damage another student’s property, place another student in reasonable fear of harm to the

student’s person or damage to the student’s property, or insult or demean any student or group of students in such a way as to disrupt or interfere with the school’s education mission or the education of any students. Such behavior is considered bullying whether it takes place on or off school property, at any school-sponsored function or in a school vehicle.

Bullying constitutes unethical and unacceptable conduct that will not be tolerated at any level. All persons are strictly prohibited from engaging in any form of bullying of any student. Anyone engaging in any form of bullying is subject to disciplinary action in accordance with district policy.

When allegations of bullying are filed, a thorough investigation will be conducted by the Superintendent or designee. The investigation will include interviews with relevant persons including, but not limited to, the complainant, the accused, student(s) and other potential witnesses.

Students found in violation of this policy may be subject to any and all disciplinary action that may be imposed by Board Policy #5050.

Prevention and education about bullying behavior will be provided at all schools as a part of the overall discipline and behavior program. The district will establish a procedure whereby a school may recommend that available community mental health care options be provided to the student, if appropriate, and whereby a school may request the disclosure of any information concerning students who have received mental health care that indicates an explicit threat to the safety of students or school personnel. Any disclosure of student information shall not violate any applicable federal or state privacy law.

The following behaviors, while riding on a Union school bus, will result in disciplinary action which may include discipline, school suspension or restriction of bus riding privileges: A. Throwing any objects. B. Placing any part of the body outside of the window (bus

moving or stationary). C. Eating, drinking, and/or possession of food or drink while on

a bus. Lunches taken to school are excluded, provided they are packed in a container and the container is not opened on the bus.

D. Failure to remain seated (feet on floor, facing front). E. Disrespectful words, comments, or actions toward the driver. F. Blocking aisle. G. Pushing while loading/unloading or while bus is

approaching. H. Transporting unauthorized items. I. Harassment, including sexual harassment. J. Excessive noise. K. Improper street crossing during loading or unloading.

FORMS OF DISCIPLINE Union Public Schools believes parental involvement is necessary in successful discipline. These disciplines or a combination thereof are intended to alter and improve student behavior. Discipline shall be consistent with the nature and severity of the offense, and shall take into account whether it is a first or repeat offense and the student’s general disciplinary record. Discipline shall also be consistent from student to student under similar circumstances considering the exceptions dictated by federal law. Discipline of students with disabilities will be administered pursuant to federal and state laws. A. Detention: Detention shall be an isolated supervised study

time, meeting each day before or after regular class hours.

Types of detention that might be provided: 1. Before school. 2. Recess.

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3. Lunch. 4. After school.

B. Service: Providing a service for the improvement of the community and school campus under proper supervision.

Examples of service: 1. Cleaning cafeteria area (wiping tables or picking up

litter). 2. Grounds beautification. 3. Other services considered appropriate by the building

principal. C. Dismissal from individual class: A student may be dismissed

from an individual class to an area designated by a principal for disruptive behavior in that class. It is the student’s responsibility to make up all work missed in a timely fashion. Failure to make up work will result in loss of credit for work missed. Repeated discipline from the same class may result in other disciplinary action.

D. Guidance and counseling: This service may be made available during any stage of a disciplinary action. Confidentiality of the counseling/health service shall preclude any disciplinary action if deemed appropriate for the benefit of the student.

E. Other disciplinary actions: 1. Conferences:

a. Individual student. b. Parent/student/teacher. c. Parent/student/teacher/principal. d. Student/teacher. e. Parent/student/bus driver/principal. f. Parent/student/bus driver/transportation director.

2. Parental shadowing allows the parent to attend classes with the student. Parental shadowing also allows the parent to ride the bus with the student with special permission of the Director of Transportation.

3. Written assignments. 4. Development of a behavior modification plan. 5. Fines (library, lost books, vandalism, etc.). 6. Bus suspension: Misconduct on a school bus may

result in loss of the bus riding privilege. Actions by the student that directly threaten the safety of a student(s), and/or cumulative minor offenses will result in removal of the bus riding privilege. Any form of discipline which applies to classroom conduct may be applied to misconduct on a bus. Transportation of the student while under bus suspension will be the sole responsibility of the parent.

F. Students may be disciplined and removed from the normal class setting for offenses of a serious or continuous nature or any of the behaviors set forth above.

Students will not be permitted to come to school for classes or activities, nor will they be permitted to participate in any extracurricular activities associated with the district while involved in other disciplinary or corrective actions.

Students may be suspended for a specific number of days, not to exceed a calendar year.

In accordance with state statutes regarding suspension, students suspended out-of-school shall be provided with a home-based work assignment plan, and/or the opportunity to complete ongoing assignments at home, and the opportunity to make up assignments missed as a result of their suspension.

G. INTERVENTION PROGRAM (IP) Intervention Program (in-school placement) is a

disciplinary/correctional measure that may be used by the school when deemed appropriate. It involves assignment to a school site and a specific Intervention Program designated by the school for a prescribed course of education as determined by the school. Before a principal recommends out-of-school

suspension, the principal shall consider alternative in-school placements, including but not limited to, placement in the Intervention Program, reassignment to another classroom, placement in detention, or other available disciplinary or correctional options. Intervention Program placement, detention, and similar disciplinary options or correctional measures are not out-of-school suspensions.

H. ADULT LEARNERS Adult Basic Education students who are enrolled in the Adult

Basic Education Learning Center must follow the behavior contract approved by the State Department of Education for adult learners.

DISCIPLINE PROCEDURE STEPS: Student Discipline Conference A. When a student violates Board of Education policy, a school

rule, or regulation, the principal or assistant principal will conduct an informal conference with the student. At the conference with the student, the principal or assistant principal will read the policy, rule or regulation which the student is charged with violating and will discuss the conduct of the student which violated the policy, rule or regulation.

B. The student will be asked whether he/she understands the policy, rule or regulation and be given a full opportunity to explain and discuss his/her conduct.

C. If it is concluded that an out-of-school suspension and/or Intervention Program placement is appropriate, the student will be advised of the length of the discipline.

D. The principal or assistant principal will immediately notify the parent/guardian by phone and in writing that the student is being suspended out of school or placed in the Intervention Program and other available options have been considered and rejected. Students will not be dismissed before the end of the school day without advance notice to the parent/guardian.

Immediate Suspension Without a Student Discipline Conference A. A student may be suspended without the above student

discipline conference with the student only in situations where the conduct of the student reasonably indicates to the principal that the continued presence of the student in the building will constitute a danger to the health or safety of other students, to school property, or a continued substantial disruption of the educational process.

B. In such cases, a student discipline conference with the student and the parent/guardian will be scheduled as soon as possible after the student has been removed from the building.

STUDENT PRIVILEGES WHILE UNDER EITHER OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION OR INTERVENTION PROGRAM PLACEMENT Participation in the extracurricular activities of the school is a privilege and not a right. Accordingly, when a student’s behavior results in an out-of-school suspension and/or Intervention Program placement, the student immediately, regardless of filing of any appeal, forfeits the privilege of participating in all extracurricular activities of the school throughout the disciplinary period. In the sole judgment of the principal, students may be allowed to practice and go through tryouts, but may not in any way represent the school in performances.

“Extracurricular activities” include, but are not limited to, all school-sponsored teams, clubs, organizations, events, ceremonies, student government, band, athletics and all other school-sponsored activities and organizations. APPEAL PROCEDURES The judicial extension of the 14th Amendment, Protection to Students in the Public School, emphasizes the need for school administrators to protect the procedural due process rights of students in discipline cases. The policy of the district must be consistent with the due process rights of students and must provide

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proper machinery for fair and consistent treatment of students. FIRST LEVEL OF APPEAL: Principal Conference: A. A parent/guardian may initiate an appeal to the principal by

requesting it within 24 hours (excluding weekends and holidays). The conference will be held during the regular school hours, Monday through Friday, with consideration given to the hours of working parents whenever possible.

B. At the conference, the principal will read the policy, rule, or regulation which the student is charged with violating and will briefly outline the conduct on the part of the student. The parent/guardian will be asked by the principal if he/she understands the rule and the charges against the student.

C. The principal will inform the parent/guardian whether he/she will uphold, modify or rescind the out-of-school suspension and/or Intervention Program placement. The Principal’s decision will be final and non-appealable for all appeals pertaining to out-of-school suspensions of 10 days or less and all Intervention Program placements. The parent/guardian will be advised of the opportunity to have out-of-school suspensions of 11 days or more reviewed by the Building-Level Review Committee.

SECOND LEVEL OF APPEAL: Building-Level Review Committee A. A parent/guardian may initiate a hearing by the Building-

Level Review Committee by requesting that the building principal schedule such a hearing.

B. The Building-Level Review Committee will meet with the parent/guardian and student to review the discipline after the conference is held with the building principal.

C. The request must come within 24 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) after the principal conference. The hearing shall be held within 48 hours (excluding holidays and weekends) of the time the request is made, if at all possible.

D. The committee will be composed of the following members: 1. An administrator not involved in the discipline will

conduct the hearing. 2. A teacher of the student’s choice. 3. A teacher appointed by the principal.

E. The appeals hearing is based on these questions: 1. Is the student guilty of the infraction? 2. Has the policy been applied in accordance with the

student handbook? F. The committee will decide one of the following:

1. To uphold the suspension. 2. To rescind the suspension. 3. To modify the suspension.

G. The committee will inform the parent/guardian of its decision and advise the parent/guardian of the opportunity to have the discipline reviewed by the Superintendent or designee.

THIRD LEVEL OF APPEAL: Appeal to the Superintendent A. An appeal may be requested by letter to the Superintendent. B. If no appeal is received within 24 hours after the Building-

Level Review Committee’s decision is received by the parent or student, the committee’s decision will be final.

C. The Superintendent or designee will hold a conference with the student and the parent/guardian as quickly as possible after receipt of an appeal. The conference will be held during regular school hours, Monday through Friday, with consideration given to the hours of working parents whenever possible.

D. At the conference, the Superintendent or designee will read the policy, rule, or regulation which the student is charged with violating and will briefly outline the conduct on the part of the student. The parent/guardian should be asked if the rule and the charges against the student are understood.

E. The Superintendent or designee will inform the parent/guardian whether he/she will uphold, rescind, or

modify the suspension. The student and the parent/guardian will be advised of the opportunity to appeal the ruling to have out-of-school suspensions of 11 or more school days reviewed by the Board of Education.

FOURTH LEVEL OF APPEAL: Appeal to the Board Of Education A. An appeal for out-of-school suspensions of 11 or more school

days may be requested by letter to the Superintendent or to the clerk of the Board. The Board of Education’s decision is final and non-appealable.

B. If no appeal is received within 24 hours after the Superintendent’s or designee’s decision is received by the parent/guardian or student, the decision will be final.

C. The Board of Education will hear the appeal as soon as possible. Reasonable efforts will be made to accommodate the work schedule of parents and members of the Board of Education.

D. The parent/guardian and student will be notified in writing of the date, time, and place of the hearing and will be provided a copy of this policy.

E. The parent/guardian and student will have the right to an open or closed hearing, at their option.

BOARD APPEAL PROCEDURE A. The Board of Education president should:

1. Announce that the next agenda item is an out-of-school suspension and/or Intervention Program placement review hearing for the student, stating his/her name.

2. Ask whether the parent/student wish the hearing to be open to the public or in executive session. The offer of an open hearing and their response are to be made a part of the minutes of the meeting. If the parent/student requests a closed hearing, a motion to go into executive session, per their request, should be made and voted on.

B. The Board of Education president should advise the parent/student: 1. That they are entitled to legal counsel, if they desire it. 2. That the administration will present witnesses first and

that after each witness, the parents or their legal counsel will be given an opportunity to cross-examine.

3. That the parent/student will be given an opportunity to call any witnesses and present evidence, subject to cross-examination by an appropriate administrator or legal counsel.

4. The Board of Education will consider the evidence and documents and reach a decision which will be recorded by vote in open session.

5. The parent/student may ask any questions about the procedure.

C. Following the presentation of A and B, all administration witnesses and documents should be presented, subject to cross-examination.

D. Parent/student may call witnesses and present documents subject to cross-examination.

E. After each witness is presented, Board of Education members may ask the witness questions.

F. Administration’s closing statement. G. Closing statement by parent/student. H. Deliberate in private (if the hearing is not in executive

session, the Board of Education may deliberate in executive session only with permission of the parent/student).

I. Return to open session and vote. After adopting a motion and making certain findings of facts, the Board of Education must make a motion to: (1) uphold discipline, (2) modify discipline (increase or decrease severity of discipline), or (3) rescind discipline.

ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL PENDING APPEAL HEARING Pending the outcome of the appeal process for an out-of-school suspension, the student will have the right to attend school in the Intervention Program under such restrictions as the principal

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deems necessary and proper, except that at the discretion of the principal, the student may be prohibited from attending school pending the appeal hearing if in the judgment of the principal: A. The conduct for which the student was suspended reasonably

indicates that continued attendance by the student, pending the appeal hearing, would be dangerous to other students or school property.

B. The conduct for which the student was suspended reasonably indicates that the continued attendance of the student at the school, pending the appeal hearing, would substantially interfere with the educational process at the school.

Pending the outcome of the appeal process, the student will attend the Intervention Program rather than the regular classroom. RECORDS AND REPORTS The principal will keep written records for two years containing the date of the conference, the names of the persons present, and the time duration of each discipline assigned.

Revised 12/14/15 STUDENT LOCKER SEARCH 5051

Students will have no privacy in school lockers, desks, or other school property from school administrators, teachers, or security personnel. Student lockers will be assigned subject to this policy. Student lockers may be inspected and/or searched at any time without reasonable suspicion of a violation of a school rule, prior notice, the student’s presence, or the student’s consent to such a search. By acceptance of the assignment or use of a school locker or gym locker, students consent to any and all inspections and searches and acknowledge that they have no privacy in such locker. Students should use only the locker specifically assigned to them. The use of a locker not assigned to a student may result in disciplinary action against both the student to whom the locker is assigned and the student who is not authorized to use that locker. However, the student to whom the locker is assigned shall be presumed to be the owner of the items in the assigned locker. Students who feel for any reason that they cannot abide by this policy should decline to accept assignment of a school locker.

Revised 6/10/96

CELLULAR PHONES/WIRELESS 5052 TELECOMMUNICATION DEVICES

Allowances and restrictions for the use of cellular phones and/or wireless telecommunications devices by students while in school buildings during school hours or while the student is in transit to or from school on a school vehicle will be determined by school site. Unless otherwise noted in the student handbook or through written communication to the parents from the principal, the use of such devices is prohibited except with the prior written consent of both the parent/guardian of the student and the school principal.

To obtain the administration’s consent, the parent/guardian must present a written request that the student be allowed to use a cellular phone and/or wireless telecommunications device due to safety or medical necessity. A medical necessity must be verified by a practicing physician. The written consent for use of a cellular phone and/or wireless telecommunications device shall be maintained in the student’s file. Teachers shall be notified of those students who are authorized to use a cellular phone and/or wireless telecommunications device.

A student found to be in violation of this policy may be disciplined according to Board Policy #5050.

Revised 12/14/15

STUDENT SEARCH AND SEIZURE 5053

The building principal or designee is authorized to detain and search any student, any vehicle, and any property in the student’s possession while on school premises, at school activities, or in transit under authority of the school, for any item possession of which by the student is illegal or prohibited by school rules, or for property believed to have been stolen from another student, an employee, or the school. The search shall be conducted according to the following guidelines: A. Reasonableness:

1. The decision to search must be based upon a reasonable suspicion that: a. A violation of the law or school rules has occurred

or is occurring. b. The student to be searched has committed the

violation. c. Particular evidence of the violation will be

discovered in the search. 2. In deciding whether a suspicion is reasonable, all the

circumstances surrounding the case will be considered, including: a. The student’s age, history, and record in school. b. The prevalence and seriousness of the suspected

violation. c. The school official’s prior experience in detecting

the problem or recognizing suspicious behavior. d. The need to make a search without delay and

further investigation. e. The indication of the presence of contraband by

district-contracted canine detection services. f. The specificity and source of the information used

as justification for the search. g. The particular teacher or school official’s

experience with the student. B. Scope:

1. The scope and extent of the search shall be reasonably related to the kind of objects being searched for and not excessively intrusive in light of the student’s age, gender, or the nature of the suspected violation.

2. A search commenced to discover a particular kind of item may be expanded or continued for additional items if circumstances warrant.

C. Conducting a search of the student’s person: 1. The search shall be conducted by a person of the same

gender as the person being searched. 2. Another authorized person of the same gender will be

present as a witness, if practicable. 3. No student’s clothing, except cold-weather outerwear,

may be removed prior to or during the search. Students may be required to empty their pockets. Strip searches are prohibited.

D. Discovered items: 1. Illegal items or possessions or substances reasonably

determined to be a threat to the safety or security of others may be seized by school authorities. Principals may turn seized items over to law enforcement officials for disposition.

2. Items which are used to disrupt or interfere with the educational process may be temporarily removed from a student’s possession.

E. Refusal to submit to search: A student who refuses to peaceably submit to a search based on

reasonable suspicion, or who refuses to turn over items discovered as a result of a search, may be suspended for such refusals.

F. Reports: The person conducting the search shall prepare a report to be

maintained by the principal for one year which includes the date, time, place, names of witnesses, purpose, basis, and result of the search.

Revised 12/10/12

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ANTI-VIOLENCE 5054

The Union Public School District considers the safety and security of its employees, students, patrons and other third-party visitors of the district to be a priority. Therefore, threats, threatening behavior, acts of violence and any related conduct including, but not limited to, physical violence, verbal or written threats or intimidation, intimidating gestures or actions, and violence against property will not be tolerated. Any person who makes threats, exhibits threatening behavior, or engages in violent acts on district property may be removed from the premises pending the outcome of an investigation. Threats, threatening behaviors, or other acts of violence executed off district property but directed at students, employees or other persons on district property or during district-sponsored activities are also in violation of this policy. Off-site threats include, but are not limited to, threats made via the telephone, fax, electronic or conventional mail, or any other communication medium. Students found in violation of this policy may be subjected to any and all disciplinary action that may be imposed by the district’s policy regarding student behavior (Board Policy #5050). If the source of such inappropriate behavior is a member of the public, the response may include barring the person(s) from district property, termination of business relationships with individual(s) and/or prosecution of the person(s). Students are responsible for notifying their principal(s) or counselor(s) or the Senior Executive Director of Human Resources of any threats or violence they have witnessed or that have been made or perpetrated against them or others on district property or while at district-sponsored events.

Revised 12/13/04 POSSESSION OF DANGEROUS WEAPONS 5055

A. In order to provide a safe environment for the students and staff of the Union Public School District, the Board of Education adopts this policy prohibiting the possession of dangerous weapons, replicas or facsimiles of dangerous weapons and items or instrumentalities which are used to threaten harm or are used to harm any person.

B. Dangerous weapons including, but not limited to, firearms are a threat to the safety of the students and staff of the district. In addition, possession of dangerous weapons, or replicas or facsimiles of dangerous weapons, disrupts the educational process and interferes with the normal operation of the district.

C. For the foregoing reasons and except as specifically provided in paragraphs F and P below, possession of a dangerous weapon (concealed or not concealed), as defined in this policy, or a replica or facsimile thereof, by any student, employee, patron, activity sponsor, or other third-party visitor on district property, at a district-sponsored activity, or on a school bus or vehicle is prohibited, except that individuals with a valid handgun license pursuant to the Oklahoma Self Defense Act may possess a handgun in the school parking lot but that weapon must be stored and hidden from view in a locked motor vehicle when the motor vehicle is left unattended on school property. Further, use of any item or instrumentality by a student, employee, patron, activity sponsor or other third-party visitor to threaten harm to any person or which is used to harm any person, while on district property, at a district-sponsored activity, or on a school bus or vehicle is prohibited.

D. For purposes of this policy, “possession of a dangerous weapon” includes, but is not limited to, any person having a dangerous weapon: 1. On his/her person. 2. In his/her locker, desk, file drawer, briefcase, purse,

luggage, backpack, bag or other container owned by or

used by the individual. 3. In his/her vehicle. 4. Held by another person for his/her benefit. 5. At any place on district property, a school bus or

vehicle, or at a district-sponsored activity with such person’s knowledge of the weapon’s location.

E. A dangerous weapon includes, but is not limited to, a pistol, revolver, rifle, shotgun, air gun or spring gun, B-B gun, stun gun, taser, hand grenade, fireworks, slingshot, bludgeon, blackjack, brass knuckles or artificial knuckles of any kind, nunchucks, dagger, bowie knife, dirk knife, butterfly knife, any knife the blade of which can be opened by a flick of a button or pressure on the handle, any pocketknife with a blade of more than 2 1/2 inches in length, pen knife, “credit card” knife, razor, dart, ice pick, explosive smoke bomb, any other explosive device, incendiary device, sword cane, hand chains, firearm shells or bullets, garrotes, choking devices, mace, pepper spray, and any item whose principal purpose is for use as a weapon, whether offensive or defensive, and any replica or facsimiles of any of the foregoing items, or any item or instrumentality which is used to threaten harm or is used to harm any person or any chemical, material or substance which can cause an irritation to or reacts with human tissue, or any chemical material or substance used, given, applied to or administered to another person without that person’s consent. THE FOREGOING LIST OF “DANGEROUS WEAPONS” IS DESCRIPTIVE AND BY WAY OF EXAMPLE ONLY AND IS NOT TO BE CONSIDERED AN EXCLUSIVE OR LIMITING LIST OF DANGEROUS WEAPONS. IT WILL NOT BE A DEFENSE TO ANY DISCIPLINARY ACTION UNDER THIS POLICY THAT THE STUDENT OR EMPLOYEE POSSESSING THE DANGEROUS WEAPON DID NOT KNOW THAT IT IS A DANGEROUS WEAPON, BUT SUCH CLAIM OF A LACK OF KNOWLEDGE MAY BE CONSIDERED IN MITIGATION OF ANY DISCIPLINARY PENALTY.

F. This policy does not apply to employees who are authorized security guards or to law enforcement authorities who may be on district property or at district-sponsored functions in official capacity as a law enforcement agent for the city, county, state or federal government.

G. Any student in possession of a dangerous weapon, or replica or facsimile of a dangerous weapon, in violation of this policy, or who uses any item or instrumentality to threaten harm to any person or is used to harm any person may be placed under emergency suspension from school pending an investigation of the incident by the appropriate school or legal authorities. Students who violate this policy may be suspended from school and all activities for any period of time up to the maximum period authorized by law. Additionally, school administrative staff members may seek to file criminal charges against the student.

H. If the person in possession of the dangerous weapon, or replica or facsimile of a dangerous weapon, is a member of the public, the district response may include barring the person(s) from district property, termination of business relationships with the individual(s) and/or prosecution of the person(s).

I. If a teacher or other district employee has a reasonable suspicion to believe that a student is in possession of a dangerous weapon, or replica or facsimile of a dangerous weapon, the teacher or employee shall immediately investigate the matter, shall confiscate any such weapon found if this can be accomplished without placing any students or staff in jeopardy, and shall immediately notify the principal or designee. If the teacher or employee does not believe the weapon can be confiscated safely, the teacher or employee shall immediately notify the principal or designee of the situation.

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J. If a teacher or other district employee has a reasonable suspicion to believe that any employee or other person is in possession of a dangerous weapon, or replica or facsimile of a dangerous weapon, in violation of this policy, he/she shall immediately report the matter to his/her immediate supervisor.

K. If a student or other person has a reasonable suspicion to believe that any employee, student or other person is in possession of a dangerous weapon, or replica or facsimile of a dangerous weapon, in violation of this policy, he/she shall immediately report the matter to the principal or designee.

L. If an administrator or designee learns that a student, or employee or any other person is believed to be in possession of a dangerous weapon, or replica or facsimile of a dangerous weapon, the administrator or designee shall: 1. Immediately investigate the matter and contact the

police, if appropriate. 2. If not already confiscated by an employee of the district

and if it can be accomplished without the risk of injury, the administrator should take possession of the dangerous weapon, replica or facsimile.

3. Notify the Superintendent or designee. 4. In the case of a student, notify the parents. 5. Cooperate fully with the police. 6. Transfer confiscated weapon to the police department.

M. Except as may be required by law for students with disabilities, any student in possession of a dangerous weapon, or replica or facsimile of a dangerous weapon, shall not be eligible for placement in any alternative education or intervention program or be eligible to transfer to another district school site in lieu of suspension, except on a case-by-case basis as determined by the Superintendent.

N. A student’s inadvertent or unintentional possession of a dangerous weapon or replica or facsimile thereof on district property, a school bus or vehicle, or at a district-sponsored activity is no defense or excuse to compliance with this policy, but may be considered in determining the length or severity of any punishment for violation of this policy.

O. A student who has been suspended from another school district because of the possession of a dangerous weapon, or replica or facsimile of a dangerous weapon, shall not be accepted as a transfer student into the district until the period of suspension has passed.

P. An exception to this policy may be granted for students, employees or other persons participating in an authorized curricular or extracurricular activity or team involving the use or demonstration of a dangerous weapon, or replica or facsimile of a dangerous weapon. For this exception, written prior approval by the administrator, in consultation with the Superintendent, is required. Students who participate in JROTC and veterans may also be granted an exception to bring an inoperable weapon onto campus for the limited purpose of participating in a school program. The principal must approve this exception in advance, the weapon must remain inoperable at all times while on campus, and the weapon must not be used in a manner which is inconsistent with the permission granted.

Q. Any firearms found on the premises shall be reported to law enforcement and will immediately be turned over to local law enforcement as per state law requirements.

R. Notwithstanding any of the foregoing provisions, right of due process for all students and rights of disabled students must be observed in accordance with applicable law and Board of Education policies.

GUN-FREE SCHOOLS STUDENT SUSPENSION It is the policy of the Union Public School District that any student who is determined to have brought a weapon to a school under the jurisdiction of the district shall be suspended from school for a period of not less than one calendar year.

Any suspension imposed under this policy may be modified for any student on a case-by-case basis by the chief administering officer of the district. For the purposes of this policy, the following definitions shall control: A. The term “weapon” means a firearm as such term is defined

in Section 921 of Title 18 of the United States Code. B. The term “chief administering officer” means the

Superintendent or the Board of Education of the district. C. The term “determined to have brought a weapon to a school

under the jurisdiction of the district” means any student being in possession or control of a weapon on property owned, leased, or rented by the district including, but not limited to, school buildings, parking lots, and motor vehicles; and any student who is in possession or control of a weapon at any district-sponsored function regardless of whether such function is conducted on district property.

Enforcement of this policy shall be consistent with state and federal laws dealing with discipline of students with disabilities. Students who violate this policy will be referred to the appropriate criminal justice or juvenile delinquency system. Any firearm seized from a student by any school employee shall immediately be delivered to a law enforcement authority for disposition pursuant to applicable law. Any suspension initiated pursuant to this policy shall be subject to the procedural safeguards set forth in the district’s policy for the suspension of students.

Revised 12/14/15

STUDENT BULLYING PREVENTION 5056 AND INTERVENTION

DEFINITIONS A. “Bullying” means any pattern of harassment, intimidation,

threatening behavior, physical acts, verbal or electronic communication directed toward a student or group of students that results in or is reasonably perceived as being done with intent to cause negative educational or physical results for the targeted individual or group and is communicated in such a way as to disrupt or interfere with the school’s education mission or the education of any student.

According to experts in the field, bullying in general is the exploitation of a less powerful person by an individual taking unfair advantage of that person, which is repeated over time, and which inflicts a negative effect on the victim. The seriousness of a bullying act depends on the harm inflicted upon the victim and the frequency of the offensive acts. Power may be, but is not limited to, physical strength, social skill, verbal ability, or other characteristics. Bullying acts by students have been described in several different categories: 1. “Physical Bullying” may include a pattern of behavior

that could harm or threaten harm to another’s body or property, including but not limited to what would reasonably be foreseen as a serious expression of intent to inflict physical harm or property damage through verbal or written speech or gestures directed at the student-victim, when considering the factual circumstances in which the threat was made and the reaction of the intended victim. Common acts include tripping, hitting, pushing, pinching, pulling hair, kicking, biting, starting fights, daring others to fight, stealing or destroying property, extortion, assaults with a weapon, other violent acts, and homicide.

2. “Emotional bullying” may include a pattern of behavior that could intentionally inflict harm to another’s self-esteem, including but not limited to insulting or profane remarks, insulting or profane gestures, or harassing and frightening statements, when such events are

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considered in light of the surrounding facts, the history of the students involved, and age, maturity, and special characteristics of the students. Individual occurrences of these behaviors may be a discipline offense, but may not be defined as bullying.

3. “Social bullying” may include a pattern of behavior that could harm another’s group acceptance, including but not limited to harm resulting from intentionally gossiping about another student or intentionally spreading negative rumors about another student that results in the victim being excluded from a school activity or student group; the intentional planning and/or implementation of acts or statements that inflict public humiliation upon a student; the intentional undermining of current relationships of the victim-student through the spreading of untrue gossip or rumors designed to humiliate or embarrass the student; the use of gossip, rumors, or humiliating acts designed to deprive the student of awards, recognition, or involvement in school activities; the false or malicious spreading of an untrue statement or statements about another student that exposes the victim to contempt or ridicule or deprives the victim of the confidence and respect of student peers; or the making of false statements to others that the student has committed a crime, or has an infectious, contagious, or loathsome disease, or similar egregious representations. Individual occurrences of these behaviors may be a discipline offense, but may not be defined as bullying.

4. “Sexual bullying” may include a pattern of behavior that could harm another resulting from, but not limited to making unwelcome sexual comments about the student; making vulgar, profane, or lewd comments or drawings or graffiti about the victim; directing vulgar, profane, or lewd gestures toward the victim; committing physical acts of a sexual nature at school, including the fondling or touching of private parts of the victim’s body; participation in gossiping or the spreading of false rumors about the student’s sexual life; written or verbal statements directed at the victim that would reasonably be interpreted as a serious threat to force the victim to commit sexual acts or to sexually assault the victim when considering the factual circumstances in which the threat was made and the reaction of the intended victim; off-campus dating violence by a student that adversely affects the victim’s school performance or behavior, attendance, participation in school functions or extracurricular activities, or makes the victim fearful at school of the assaulting bully; or the commission of sexual assault, rape, or homicide. Such conduct may also constitute sexual harassment — also prohibited by the district. Individual occurrences of these behaviors may be a discipline offense, but may not be defined as bullying.

5. “Cyberbullying” or “Electronic communication” means the communication of any written, verbal, pictorial information or video content by means of an electronic device, including but not limited to a telephone, a mobile or cellular telephone or other wireless telecommunication device, or a computer. This definition also includes any bullying as defined above, including emotional, social, and/or sexual bullying via an electronic device. Electronic communications include, but are not limited to communications made through weblogs and social media forums. Bullying by electronic communication is prohibited whether or not such communication originated at school, or with school equipment, if the communication is specifically directed at students or school personnel and concerns bullying at school.

B. “Threatening behavior” means any pattern of behavior or isolated action, whether or not it is directed at another person, that a reasonable person would believe indicates potential for future harm to students, school personnel, or school property. Individual occurrences of these behaviors may be a discipline offense, but may not be defined as bullying.

C. The term “at school” means on school grounds, in school vehicles, at school-sponsored activities, or at school-sanctioned events.

D. In determining what a “reasonable person” should recognize as bullying, staff will consider the point of view of the intended target, including any characteristics unique to the intended target. Staff may also consider the disciplinary history and physical characteristics of the alleged bully.

E. “Good faith” is a state of mind consisting of honesty in belief or purpose or faithfulness to one’s duty or obligation.

F. The term “discriminatory harassment, intimidation, and bullying” is defined by the district pursuant to Board Policy #5046 as harassment, intimidation, and bullying targeted toward an individual because of race, age, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender expression or identity, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital status, veteran status, disability or genetic information.

PURPOSE To address student bullying behavior effectively through a multi-faceted approach that includes education and the promotion of a positive school atmosphere. The Board of Education expressly prohibits any form of bullying behavior by students at school as well as active or passive support for acts of bullying. In addition, the Board prohibits bullying behavior by students outside of the regular school day if it causes a substantial and material disruption at school or an interference with rights of students and personnel to be secure. This includes, but is not limited to, bullying through electronic communication, whether or not such communication originated at school or with school equipment, if the communication is specifically directed at students or school personnel and concerns bullying at school.

Students who engage in bullying behavior shall be subject to school discipline, up to and including suspension out of school in accordance with the policies, rules and regulations of the district’s Board of Education.

Student and Staff Education and Training The district is committed to providing appropriate and relevant training annually to students and staff regarding preventing, identifying, responding to, and reporting incidents of bullying. A full copy of this policy will be posted on the district’s website and included in all district handbooks. Parents, guardians, community members, and volunteers will be notified of the availability of this policy through the district’s annual written notice of the availability of the district’s anti-bullying policy. Written notice of the policy will also be posted at various places in all district school sites.

Students and staff will be periodically reminded throughout the year of the availability of this policy, the district’s commitment to preventing bullying, and help available for those affected by bullying. Anti-bullying programs will be incorporated into the district’s other violence-prevention efforts.

All staff will receive annual training regarding preventing, identifying, reporting, and managing bullying. The district’s bullying coordinator and individuals designated as school site investigators will receive additional training regarding appropriate consequences and remedial action for bullies, helping targets of bullies, and the district’s strategy for counseling and referral for those affected by bullying.

Students will receive annual education regarding behavioral expectations, understanding bullying and its negative effects, disciplinary consequences for infractions, reporting methods, and

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consequences for those who knowingly make false reports. Any person who knowingly makes false accusations against another person will be appropriately disciplined pursuant to district policy. Any accusations confirmed to be false will be removed from the falsely-accused student’s file. Parents and guardians may participate in a parent-education component.

Student Reporting Students are encouraged to inform school personnel if they are the target of or a witness to bullying. To make a report, students should notify a teacher, counselor, or principal. The student will complete an official student report form. Reports can also be made by any student, parent, or patron through the district’s SafeSchools Alert found on the district’s website or by telephone at 918-505-9802.

Students may make an anonymous report of bullying, and such report will be investigated as thoroughly as possible. However, it is often difficult to fully investigate claims which are made anonymously, and disciplinary action cannot be taken against an alleged bully solely on the basis of an anonymous report.

Staff Reporting Staff members will encourage students to report bullying. All employees are required to report acts of bullying to the principal or designee on an official report form. Any staff member who witnesses, hears about, or has reliable information that would lead a reasonable person to suspect that a student is a target of bullying is required to submit a report.

Bullying Investigators The principal and/or designee(s) at each school site will investigate bullying reports. These individuals will be identified in the site’s student and staff handbooks, on the district’s website, and in the bullying prevention education provided annually to students and staff. The district’s anti-bullying program is coordinated at the district level by the district’s Director of Student Life. The investigator or designee will determine the severity of the bullying incident and, in accordance with Board Policy #5050, will determine student consequences.

Investigating Bullying Reports For any alleged incidents of bullying reported to school officials, the designated school official will investigate the alleged incident(s) and determine (i) whether the bullying conduct occurred, (ii) the severity of the incident(s), and (iii) the potential for future violence.

In conducting an investigation, the designated official shall interview relevant students and staff and review any documentation of the alleged incident(s). School officials may also work with outside professionals, such as local law enforcement, as deemed appropriate by the investigating official. In the event the investigator believes a criminal act may have been committed or there is a likelihood of violence, the investigator will immediately call local law enforcement and the Superintendent or designee.

At the conclusion of the investigation, the designated employee will document the steps taken to review the matter, the conclusions reached, and any additional action taken, if applicable. Further, the investigator will notify the Director of Student Life and Executive Directors of Elementary and Secondary Education that an investigation has occurred and the results of the investigation.

Upon completion of an investigation, the school may recommend that available community mental health care or substance abuse options be provided to a student, if appropriate. The school may provide a student with information about the types of support services available to the student bully, the target, and any other students affected by the prohibited behavior. These resources will be provided to any individual who requests such assistance or will be provided if a school official believes the resource might be of assistance to the student/family. No school employee is expected

to evaluate the appropriateness or the quality of the resource provided, nor is any employee required to provide an exhaustive list of resources available. All school employees will act in good faith.

The school may request the disclosure of information concerning students who have received substance abuse or mental health care (pursuant to the previous paragraph) if that information indicates an explicit threat to the safety of students or school personnel, provided the disclosure of the information does not violate the requirements and provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, OKLA. STAT. tit. 12 § 1376, OKLA. STAT. tit. 59 §1376 of the Oklahoma Statues, or any other state or federal laws regarding the disclosure of confidential information. The school may request the disclosure of information when it is believed that the student may have posed a danger to him/herself and having such information will allow school officials to determine if it is safe for the student to return to the regular classroom or if alternative education arrangements are needed.

Parental Notification The assigned investigator will notify the parents of a target within two (2) school days that a bullying report has been received. Within two (2) school days of the conclusion of the investigation, the investigator will provide the parents of a target with the results of the investigation and any community resources deemed appropriate to the situation.

If the report of bullying is substantiated, within two (2) school days of the conclusion of the investigation, the investigator will contact the parents of the bully to discuss disciplinary action and any community resources deemed appropriate to the situation.

Parental Responsibilities All parents/guardians will be informed in writing of the district’s program to stop bullying and will be given a copy of this policy upon request. An administrative response to a reported act of bullying may involve certain actions to be taken by parents. Parents will be informed of the program and the means for students to report bullying acts toward them or other students. They will also be told that to help prevent bullying at school they should encourage their children to: • Report bullying when it occurs; • Take advantage of opportunities to talk to their children

about bullying; • Inform the school immediately if they think their child is

being bullied or is bullying other students; • Watch for symptoms that their child may be a target of

bullying and report those symptoms; and • Cooperate fully with school personnel in identifying and

resolving incidents.

Monitoring and Compliance In order to assist the State Department of Education with compliance efforts pursuant to the School Safety and Bullying Prevention Act, 70 OKLA. STAT. § 24-100.2 et seq., the Director of Student Life will serve as the district contact responsible for providing information to the State Board of Education. The Director of Student Life shall maintain updated contact information on file with the State Department of Education and the district will notify the State Department of Education within fifteen (15) days of the appointment of a new Director of Student Life.

A copy of this policy will be submitted to the State Department of Education by December 10th of each school year as part of the district’s Annual Performance Report. The Administration recognizes that there are many motivations behind the act of bullying, one of which may be for a discriminatory purpose. If the bullying behavior constitutes discriminatory harassment, intimidation, or bullying (i.e., it is targeted toward an individual because of race, color, religion, gender, gender expression or identity, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, pregnancy,

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marital status, veteran status, disability or genetic information), the misconduct is prohibited pursuant to Board Policy #5046 regarding Discriminatory Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying and is subject to the procedure and protections specified in Policy #5046 in addition to this policy. Retaliation is expressly prohibited against any person who participates in reporting, investigating, or addressing any incident of bullying behavior.

STUDENT BULLYING PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION In furtherance of the Board of Education’s policy regarding student bullying prevention and intervention, the district shall require Prevention and Intervention Strategies, as described below, based on building data, for school staff to address bullying behaviors. These interventions will be on a continuum, ranging from those aimed at prevention to those interventions that address more serious bullying behavior on a case-by-case basis.

The district’s “Prevention and Intervention Strategies” referenced above include, but are not limited to: A. Including prohibitions and guidance concerning bullying in

the district’s Behavior Response Plan; B. Implementation of a behavioral intervention and support

process or another evidence-based model approach for safe school climate or for the prevention of bullying, including any such programs identified by the State Department of Education;

C. Establishment of a Safe & Healthy Schools Committee for each school site (PreK-12) as mandated by the School Safety and Bullying Prevention Act. The Safe & Healthy Schools Committee will consist of at least ten (10) members and shall be composed of teachers, parents of enrolled students, students, and a school official who participates in the investigation of reports of bullying. Each Safe & Healthy Schools Committee has the responsibility of studying and making recommendations regarding unsafe conditions, strategies for students to avoid harm at school, student victimization, crime prevention, school violence, and other issues which interfere with and adversely affect school safety. With respect to student bullying, each Committee shall assist the Board of Education in promoting a positive school climate. The Committee will study the district’s policy and currently accepted bullying prevention programs (available on the State Department of Education website) to make recommendations regarding bullying. These recommendations must be submitted to the principal and cover: (i) needed staff development, including how to recognize and avoid bullying; (ii) increasing student and community involvement in addressing bullying; (iii) improving individual student-staff communication; (iv) implementing problem-solving teams which include counselors and/or school psychologists; and (v) utilizing behavioral health resources;

D. The development, posting, and enforcement of rules at each school site that prohibit bullying and establish appropriate consequences for those who engage in such acts, as defined by Board Policy #5050;

E. The consistent provision of adult supervision at each school site of outdoor areas, hallways, the lunchroom, and other specific areas where bullying is likely to occur;

F. Inclusion of grade-appropriate, research-based bullying prevention curricula in pre-kindergarten through high school grades, as compiled by the State Department of Education and which is reported annually using a fidelity checklist to submit to Safe & Healthy Schools Committee members;

G. Training school personnel to be sensitive to the interpersonal dynamics of bullying behavior so that they recognize the need to protect all students from reprisal, retaliation, and false accusations;

H. The participation of all employees directly involved with student services in annual bullying awareness/intervention training and suicide prevention training;

I. Individual interventions for students who engaged in confirmed bullying behavior and against whom bullying behavior has been confirmed, the parents or guardians of those students, and involved school staff members;

J. Schoolwide training related to the provision of a safe school climate;

K. The promotion of parent involvement in bullying prevention through individual or team participation in meetings, trainings, and individual interventions which may include discussion panels, Safe & Healthy Schools Committee, PTA/PTSA, parent involvement facilitators and the like.

Revised 12/14/15 STUDENT DRESS AND PERFORMING GROUPS 5060

While the mission of Union Public Schools is to educate its students, there is a close relationship between high standards of dignity and pride and proper grooming. It is important that dress contribute to the atmosphere of a good educational environment. It is hoped that a minimum amount of time and effort is spent on enforcement; however, it is the responsibility of the student and the parent to adhere to these guidelines. Exceptions to this policy are at the discretion of the building principal. There may be clothing, hairstyles, and/or accessories not specifically addressed herein that might be so disruptive to the educational process that the building principal may need to take immediate corrective action. In those cases requiring such action, the building principal may act immediately.

General Guidelines: A. Modesty will be the dominant feature in all clothing. B. Clothing must be clean and safe. C. Clothing, hairstyles and/or accessories must not be revealing,

disruptive, or distract from the educational process in any way.

D. Clothing must not be derogatory to any individual, group, or institution, including hate-group messages.

E. All students are required to wear clothing including shoes which are safe and appropriate for school activities.

F. Hair is to be well-groomed and clean. G. Coats and/or outerwear may not be worn during the school

day except at the discretion of the classroom teacher (dependent on classroom conditions) or the administration. Coats should be kept in lockers except when arriving to or exiting from the building.

H. One-piece swimsuits must be worn while using the pool. I. Shorts, dresses or skirts must be longer than two inches

beyond the tip of the longest finger with arms fully extended against the leg (no tears, cuts or holes in garments above this point are acceptable).

J. Tattoos which violate Board policy must be covered so they are not visible.

Unacceptable Clothing and Accessories: A. Dresses, shirts or blouses that only partially cover the

shoulders (no tank tops and no halter tops). B. Low-cut shirts or blouses; shirts which expose the midriff or

full back; and pants, skirts or other clothing which expose the midriff.

C. Any clothing which reveals undergarments. D. Slacks, pants or shorts worn below the hip. E. Caps, hats, hoods or other head covering in the building. F. Clothing and or accessories which carry messages either

written or suggesting the promotion of illegal substances including, but not limited to, drugs, alcohol, tobacco products; vulgar language, sex, violence, gang-related affiliation or other symbols that detract from the learning environment.

G. Gang-related attire (colors, bandannas, shoelaces, symbols, belts/buckles, jewelry, etc.)

H. Bedroom attire (pajamas, lounge pants, slippers, etc.)

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I. Jewelry with spikes, electronic jewelry, or items worn as jewelry which are not intended to be worn as jewelry.

J. Collars intended for use on animals. K. Chains, including wallet chains or collars. L. Excessive or distinctive makeup. M. Sheer shirts covering unacceptable clothing. N. Cleated or steel-toed shoes or boots. O. Sunglasses.

PERFORMING GROUP UNIFORM GUIDELINES Uniforms used by parent- or school-sponsored groups will be selected by the sponsor with approval by the principal or director responsible, after consultation with the Superintendent or designee. Uniforms should be tasteful and appropriate for the activity. Some approved uniforms may be appropriate for performances or competitions, but not for school attire. Uniforms worn on campus during the school day must meet the dress code guidelines.

Revised 2/12/07 SEXUAL HARASSMENT 5065

Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination that violates the law. The Board of Education believes that each student and employee should be able to attend school and work in an environment which provides for fair and equitable treatment and is free of discriminatory intimidation based on sex and unwelcome sexual advances. A. Definition: Sexual Harassment - Any unwelcome sexual advances,

requests for sexual favors, or verbal, physical or other sexually offensive conduct made by anyone on district property or during any district-sponsored event when: 1. Submission to the conduct is either explicitly or

implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s education or employment;

2. Submission to or the rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as a basis for educational or employment decisions affecting that individual; and/or

3. Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s educational or work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational or work environment.

Examples of acts of sexual harassment which shall not be tolerated include, but are not limited to: 1. Written: Sexually suggestive or obscene letters, notes,

invitations, graffiti. 2. Verbal: Sexually derogatory comments, epithets, slurs,

degrading jokes, “teasing,” “kidding,” double meanings, demeaning comments about a person of a particular sex, solicitation of sexual favors or attention.

3. Physical: Unwelcome touching of an individual, such as pinching, hugging, patting, repeated brushing against an individual’s body, pulling at clothing, blocking one’s passage.

4. Visual: Sexually oriented gestures, displaying sexually suggestive or derogatory objects, pictures, magazines, cartoons, or posters.

5. Any other action which emphasizes the vulnerability of the victim specifically because of gender, gender expression or identity, sex, or sexual orientation.

B. Prohibition: Sexual harassment will not be permitted or tolerated. This

policy is applicable to all students, employees, non-employees, and volunteers on district property or serving as trip sponsors.

C. Action to be taken: Students who sexually harass shall be subject to any and all

disciplinary action that may be imposed by the district’s policy regarding student behavior (Board Policy #5050).

If a member of the public is in violation of this policy, the

response may include barring the person(s) from district property, termination of business relationships with individual(s) and/or prosecution of the person(s).

D. Procedures: 1. A student who feels comfortable doing so should

directly inform the harasser that such conduct is unwelcome and must stop.

2. A student or parent of the student may bring a complaint to the principal of the student’s school or a coordinator designated in Board Policy #5000. A student or the parent of the student may also bring a complaint to the assistant principal, counselor, nurse or a teacher. The coordinator, assistant principal or other staff member shall immediately notify the principal of the complaint.

3. The principal will be responsible for notifying the Senior Executive Director of Human Resources of the complaint if the complaint involves an employee.

4. If the complaint involves an employee, the Senior Executive Director of Human Resources and principal shall immediately investigate the complaint and shall, at the end of the investigation, recommend disciplinary action against the harasser if the complaint is substantiated. Both parties shall be notified of the results of the investigation.

5. If the complaint does not involve an employee, the principal shall immediately investigate the complaint and, at the end of the investigation, recommend disciplinary action to be taken against the harasser if the complaint is substantiated. Both parties shall be notified of the results of the investigation.

6. Any formal grievance investigated under this policy shall be handled pursuant to Board Policy #5047.

E. Retaliation: Retaliation shall not be permitted against an individual who

complains of sexual harassment, anyone who testifies on behalf of the complainant, or anyone who assists or participates in an investigation or proceeding conducted under this policy.

Revised 12/14/15 DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES FOR STUDENTS 5070 WITH DISABILITIES

This policy applies to the suspension or other disciplinary removal of a student with a disability from a current educational program. Disciplinary removal refers to reassignment of a student with a disability to an interim alternative education setting not specified in the student’s IEP or IAP. A student with a disability is defined as any student who has been determined disabled under IDEA or Section 504, Rehabilitation Act and has a current Individual Education Plan (IEP) or Individual Accommodation Plan (IAP).

These procedural safeguards also apply to a student if the district ‘has knowledge’ that the student may have a disability. For these protections to apply, the district must have knowledge of the suspected disability before the behavior that precipitates the disciplinary action occurs. The district is determined to have knowledge if: • A parent has expressed concern in writing to an

administrative personnel or the student’s teacher that the student is in need of special education and/or related services;

• A parent has requested an evaluation for their child; • The student’s teacher has expressed specific concerns about a

pattern of behavior directly to the Director of Special Education or school administrator.

The district is not deemed to have knowledge if: • A parent has not allowed an evaluation of the student; • A parent has refused to give consent to provide services to

the student;

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• A student has been evaluated and determined ineligible for Part B services.

A. Disciplinary Removal for Less Than Ten Days: School personnel may unilaterally remove a student with a

disability from the current educational placement for not more than ten school days within a school year without providing educational services for any conduct that would warrant disciplinary removal of a student without disabilities. The principal may remove a student for up to ten consecutive school days per offense, as long as the additional removals do not constitute a change in placement. The district will follow its policy and procedures for the suspension/ disciplinary removal of students without disabilities.

Change in placement occurs if a series of removals constitute a pattern. A pattern is determined by the length of each removal, the total amount of time the student is removed, the proximity of the removals to one another, and the nature of the offense.

B. Disciplinary Removal for More Than Ten School Days: Prior to any change in placement resulting in a school

removal of more than ten consecutive days per offense or ten cumulative days that constitute a change in placement, the student’s IEP team, including the parents, must meet to determine if the misbehavior is a manifestation of the disability. The following procedural safeguards shall be implemented not later than the tenth day after taking disciplinary action involving suspension or placement in an interim alternative education setting: 1. The principal will notify the student’s parent/guardian

in writing of the proposed disciplinary action and all procedural safeguards accorded under the law;

2. An IEP Review and Manifestation Determination meeting, to include the student’s parents/guardians, shall be scheduled within ten school days after the date on which the decision to take disciplinary action was made;

3. The IEP team must either: a. Develop a plan to conduct a functional behavior

assessment and develop a behavior intervention plan or;

b. Review and modify an existing behavior intervention plan to address the misbehavior.

For removals of more than ten school days cumulative in a school year that do not constitute a change in placement, the principal must consult with the student’s special education teacher to determine what services are required to provide free appropriate public education (FAPE) during the school removal. For removals of more than ten school days cumulative in a school year that do constitute a change in placement, the student’s IEP team must determine what services are required to provide FAPE.

The alternative educational setting shall be determined by the IEP team and must be selected to: 1. Enable the student to continue to participate in the

general curriculum, although in another setting; and 2. Enable the student to progress toward meeting the goals

set out in the IEP.

School personnel may order a change in placement of a student with a disability to an appropriate interim alternative educational setting for 45 calendar days, even if a student’s conduct is determined to be a manifestation of the student’s disability, if: 1. The student carries a weapon to school or to a school

function under the jurisdiction of the district (a device, instrument, materials or substance - animate or inanimate - that is used for or is readily capable of causing death or serious bodily injury, except that such term does not include a pocket knife with a blade of

less than 2 1/2 inches in length; 2. The student knowingly possesses or uses illegal drugs

or sells or solicits the sale of a controlled substance while at school or at a school function under the jurisdiction of the district (controlled substance as defined in the Controlled Substances Act and that the level of intent is “knowing”).

3. The student has inflicted serious bodily injury on another person (a cut, abrasion, bruise, burn or disfigurement, physical pain, illness, impairment of the function of a bodily member, organ or mental faculty, or any other injury, no matter how temporary).

C. Manifest Determination: If school personnel wish to apply disciplinary procedures

which are applicable to all students, the IEP team of a student with a disability must first determine whether the misconduct was a manifestation of the disability. In making a Manifestation Determination decision, an IEP team must review information in the student’s file, relevant information supplied by the parents, observations of the student and the student’s IEP and placement. The team should analyze the student’s behavior as demonstrated across all settings and all time when determining whether the conduct in question is a direct result of the disability. The team must determine:

• Whether the conduct in question was caused by, or had a direct and substantial relationship to, the student’s disability; or

• Was the behavior the direct result of the district’s failure to implement the IEP.

1. If the team determines a direct and substantial relationship between a student’s behavior and the disability and/or the school’s failure to provide or implement an IEP or placement, it must conclude that the behavior was a manifestation of the student’s disability. The IEP team must meet the following requirements: a. conduct a functional behavior assessment and

implement a behavior intervention plan for the student, unless the district conducted one prior to the manifestation determination;

b. if the IEP team had previously developed a behavior intervention plan, it must review and modify the plan as necessary to address the behavior; and

c. return the student to the previous educational placement, unless the parent and the district agree to a change of placement or the 45-day rule exception applies (i.e., the three automatic 45-day removal violations).

Parents shall receive prior written notice of proposed disciplinary action and a copy of all procedural safeguards accorded under the law. If the school initiates disciplinary procedures, the team shall ensure that the special education and disciplinary records of the student are transmitted for consideration by the person making the final determination regarding the disciplinary action.

2. If the team finds that the behavior is not a manifestation of the student’s disability, the school may discipline the student using the relevant disciplinary procedures applicable to all students in the same manner and for the same duration, but must ensure that FAPE services are provided.

D. Procedural Safeguards and Stay-put Rules: Parents may challenge a Manifestation Determination or any

decision regarding placement with a right to have an expedited due process hearing. Expedited hearing shall occur within twenty days of the hearing request, and the hearing officer must make a determination within ten school days after the hearing.

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If parents request a hearing regarding disciplinary action or to challenge the interim alternative education setting (IAES) of the Manifestation Determination, the student shall remain in the interim alternative education setting pending the decision of the hearing officer or until the expiration of the time period set of the disciplinary action, whichever occurs first, unless the parent and district agree otherwise.

The district may request a hearing to change a student’s placement if the district believes that maintaining the student’s current placement is substantially likely to result in injury to the student or others. The hearing officer may order a change in placement to an interim alternative educational setting for a period of up to 45 days, if the hearing officer concurs with the district’s assessment of the student.

E. Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE): FAPE means that the student must have the opportunity to

make appropriate progress in the same curriculum as that offered to nondisabled students and make appropriate advancement toward the goals identified in the student’s IEP. The student must receive FAPE during any periods of removal over ten school days in a school year, regardless of the relationship of the misbehavior to the disability. The district will provide appropriate educational and related services for students identified as disabled under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act only if it has been determined that the misconduct was related to the disability. Otherwise, educational services during removals shall be governed by district and state policy and procedures for suspension of nondisabled students.

F. Suspension From Transportation: Suspension from transportation for more than ten school days

within a school year is considered a change of placement if the bus suspension prevents the student from attending school, only if transportation is identified as a related service on the IEP. Such a transportation suspension will trigger an IEP Review and a Manifestation Determination meeting to consider whether the misconduct is related to the disability and to review or design a Behavior Intervention Plan to address the misconduct. The IEP team may consider a more restricted means of transportation by utilizing special transportation or the need to reimburse the student’s parent for the reasonable cost of transporting the student to and from school at the district’s rate for the duration of the suspension.

G. Referral to Law Enforcement/Judicial Authorities: Nothing in IDEA prohibits a school from reporting a crime

committed by a student with a disability to appropriate authorities or prevents state law enforcement and judicial authorities from exercising their responsibilities under federal or state law. The school district reporting the crime committed by a student with a disability shall ensure that copies of the special education and disciplinary records of the student are transmitted for consideration by the appropriate authorities subject to FERPA guidelines.

Revised 12/10/07

ELIGIBILITY FOR PARTICIPATION IN 5200 ACTIVITIES/ATHLETICS

SCHOLARSHIP Activity participants in grades 7-12 must have maintained, up to the end of the preceding week in which the activity occurs, a passing grade in all subjects. If students fail to meet the minimum scholastic standard at the end of the week, they will be placed on probation for the next one-week period. During probation, students may continue to participate in activities. If students are failing to meet the minimum scholastic standard at the end of a probationary one-week period, they will be ineligible to participate during the next one-week period. The ineligibility period will begin on Monday

and end on Sunday.

Students who have lost eligibility under this provision must achieve minimum scholastic standards in order to regain eligibility. Students regain eligibility with the first class of a new one-week period. ORGANIZATIONS AND EVENTS AFFECTED BY POLICY The student eligibility policy will affect all student activities which are competitive in nature, involving two or more schools, and where recognition, ratings, or awards are given and winners determined. EXCEPTIONS Individual organizations may adopt higher standards for participation at the discretion of the instructor, with approval from the principal and director. These standards will be communicated in advance to the students and their parents. Documentation of this communication will be retained by the individual instructor. DOCUMENTATION AND ADMINISTRATION OF THE POLICY The principal or designee will develop a weekly grade check procedure in accordance with OSSAA regulations. The principal or designee will be responsible for collecting the data and informing the Director of Athletics, Director of Fine Arts, instructors, students and parents/guardians affected by this policy. Students who participate in extracurricular activities must also maintain their eligibility in accordance with OSSAA regulations and the Department of Education of the State of Oklahoma.

Revised 12/10/07 FIELD TRIPS 5250

The Union Public School District recognizes that there are occasions when it would be greatly beneficial to the students to make a trip outside their home school. In view of the large number of classes throughout the district, it is also recognized that it would be a major expense for each of them to take field trips during the school year. Therefore, budget permitting, the following guidelines will apply: A. All trips must be approved and arranged through building

principals and the Transportation Department subject to bus availability and an adequate funding source.

B. District-sponsored trips are intended to be extensions of the classroom and enhancements to the curriculum. Since funding is limited, field trips may be limited.

C. No trip will be approved by the principal which is not directly related to career education or the specific classroom subject.

D. Trips are subject to the availability of funding, buses and drivers.

E. Students may not leave the school without a permission slip signed by their parent/guardian.

F. Non-district-funded trips by a chartered bus are not affected by budget constraints and bus availability. However, transportation arrangements must be approved by the principal or director.

Revised 12/10/12 CLASS PARTIES 5300

All parties are scheduled and sponsored by the administration, teachers or parent group. Pre-kindergarten through fifth grade may have two parties each year: Winter and Valentine’s Day. Pre-kindergarten and kindergarten have the option of two additional parties, those being Fall Fun and Spring Fun. Birthday parties are not allowed. School parties grades 6-12 must be held after school hours and approved in advance by the building principal.

Revised 1/18/10

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PARKING AND DRIVING REGULATIONS 5400

A student who drives a vehicle to school must have it registered in the school office and purchase a school parking permit to display in a designated area on the vehicle. Parking permits can be obtained in the principal’s office. Each vehicle a student drives to school must have a parking permit unless temporary arrangements are made with the principal ahead of time to park the vehicle on the lot.

Any student who drives or parks a vehicle on school property is deemed to consent to a search of that vehicle at any time and is required to open the vehicle for such a search. Refusal by the student to open the vehicle while on school property may be grounds for discipline, including suspension and/or loss of parking privileges.

Each student must have a valid driver’s license and evidence of insurance before a parking permit will be issued. Parking is a privilege, and any unsafe operation or violations may result in revocation of parking privileges.

Revised 12/10/12 STUDENT RESIDENCY 5450

The Union Public School District is established for the purpose of serving the educational interests of resident students. DEFINITIONS A. Residency: As used in this policy, the terms “residence,”

“residency,” and “legal residence” shall mean the student’s present place of abode, provided that it is a place where important family activities (such as sleeping, eating, working, relaxing and playing) take place during a significant part of each day. Mere presence alone is not sufficient to establish residency. Documentary evidence that may be submitted to establish residency is identified in paragraphs A and C under Procedure for Resolving Residency Disputes (below).

B. Person having legal custody: As used in this policy, the phrase “person having legal custody” means a person who is legally responsible for the care of the child pursuant to the order of a court, governmental agency, or state law responsible for making custody determinations and/or placements.

C. The address established as primary residence will be the only address used in the student management system.

D. Homeless children and youth. As used in this policy, the phrase “homeless children and youth” means students who lack fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence and includes: 1. Children and youths who are sharing the housing of

other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship or a similar reason; are living in motels, hotels, trailer parks or camping grounds due to the lack of alternative adequate accommodations; are living in emergency or transitional shelters; are abandoned in hospitals; or are awaiting foster care placement;

2. Children and youths who have a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designed for or ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings;

3. Children and youths who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations or similar settings, and

4. Migratory children (as such term is defined in Section 1309 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965) who qualify as homeless for the purposes of this subtitle because the children are living in circumstances described in clauses 1 through 4.

POLICY STATEMENT A. State law provides that a child’s residence for school

purposes is the school district in which the (1) parents, (2)

guardian, or (3) person having legal custody holds legal residence.

B. State law also grants school districts the discretion to permit a child to establish residency by residing with an adult who is a legal resident of the school district and does not fit into any of the categories listed above if such adult has assumed permanent care and custody of the child.

C. The Board of Education of the Union Public School District has determined that it is in the best interest of the district not to allow a child to establish residency in the district by residing with an adult who is a legal resident of the district and has assumed permanent care and custody of the child but does not fit into any of the categories listed in section A (parent, guardian or person having legal custody). Students may attend school temporarily (30 days) with proof that guardians are completing the legal guardianship/custody process. The residency officer must be notified when legal status is obtained. If a divorce has been granted, the decree will state which parent has legal custody. If the decree awards joint custody, then the residence in which the child resides on a regular basis determines the legal residency of the child for school attendance.

D. The Residency Officer will determine whether a student is a homeless child or youth for purposes of establishing residency and promptly advise the parent, guardian or person having legal custody of the child of the decision, both orally and in writing, if possible. If there is no such person, the Residency Officer will advise the student. The district will enroll each homeless student and permit his or her full participation in all school programs, whether or not the student is accompanied by a parent, guardian or person having custody of the child, and without proof of residence, current immunizations and traditional enrollment documentation, such as school records and medical/immunization records. The district’s homeless liaison may assist the student and school in obtaining those items. A parent, guardian or person having legal custody of the child who disagrees with the Residency Officer’s determination may appeal the decision to the Superintendent or designee under the procedure identified in paragraph D, item 4, under Procedure for Resolving Residency Disputes (below). If there is no parent, guardian or person having legal custody of the child available, the student may appeal the decision.

E. Per SB 1951, children of military families will be afforded a timely enrollment process ensuring they are not placed at a disadvantage due to the deployment of a military parent. This removes barriers imposed on children of military families because of frequent moves.

F. Per HB 2069, foster care students may now be enrolled in any of the following districts:

• the district where the child resided prior to being in foster care,

• the district of the current foster family, • the district of the prior foster family, • the district where another student in the foster home is

being educated pursuant to a transfer.

PROCEDURE FOR RESOLVING RESIDENCY DISPUTE A. The Union Public School District recognizes that there may

be occasions when there is a dispute regarding residency. Upon enrollment in the school system, the district will verify that the student is a resident of the district or is otherwise entitled to attend school in the district for any reason authorized by law. As a part of this verification process, the district will obtain an address from each student or the student’s parent/guardian or person having legal custody of the child. In providing an address to the district that is within the district’s boundaries, the student and the student’s parent/guardian or person having legal custody of the child represent that this address is the student’s residence. The

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district may also require, in order to verify residency, certified copies of court orders, guardianship documents, written agreements, and affidavits relating to the care, custody and control of the student, and any other information deemed relevant by the district.

B. If at any time an administrator of the district has a reasonable belief that the reported residence may not be the residence of the child for purposes of school attendance, the administrator will complete an investigation form. The Residency Officer shall notify the student’s parent/guardian or person having legal custody of the child that there is a question regarding the legal residency of the student. The student’s parent/guardian or person having legal custody of the child shall be given an opportunity to submit information regarding the student’s residency to the district’s Residency Officer. All notices required by this policy shall be in writing. If residency is still in question, a home visit may be required. Additionally, reasonable alternative arrangements for documenting communications will be made for those persons who are visually impaired or otherwise unable to communicate in writing.

C. Information or documentation to prove student residency in the district shall include, but not be limited to, proof of provisions of utilities (telephone and cable bills are not acceptable) in the name of the care provider for the address, payments of ad valorem taxes, local agreements or contracts for purchasing/leasing housing, income tax returns, notes, mortgages, contracts and any other source of proof which is not in conflict with statutory provisions relating to the residence of students. Two verifiable proofs of residency will be required at enrollment or at any time verification of residence is requested.

Address changes reported to schools must be sent immediately to the Enrollment Center for validation and official change in the student management system with two proofs of address as listed in section C.

D. Any question or dispute as to the residence of a student shall be determined by the Residency Officer, and the Board of Education, pursuant to the following procedures: 1. The student’s parent/guardian or person having legal

custody of the child must notify the Residency Officer in writing or by email of the review request within three (3) school days from the date of written denial of admittance or from the date of written notification that the student is considered not to be a resident of the district. Upon receipt of a request for review, the Residency Officer shall allow the parent/guardian or person having legal custody to provide additional pertinent information in accordance with the district’s criteria and the statutory provisions regarding residency. This information must be submitted with the request for review.

2. The Residency Officer must render a decision and notify the student’s parent/guardian or person having legal custody of the child of the decision and reasoning thereof in writing within five (5) school days of the receipt of the request for review.

3. In the event the student’s parent/guardian or person having legal custody of the child disagrees with the Residency Officer’s decision, such person shall notify the Residency Officer in writing within three (3) school days of his/her receipt of the Residency Officer’s decision. The Residency Officer will submit his/her findings and all documents reviewed to the Superintendent or designee. The Superintendent or designee will review the decision and the documents submitted on behalf of the district and the student and will render a decision. The decision of the Superintendent will be final.

4. In an effort to place students in school as quickly as

possible, timelines shall be followed unless, due to emergency circumstances, both parties agree to an extension of timelines.

MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS A. Hearings involving more than one student where students are

related or residing in the same household may, at the discretion of the Residency Officer and the Superintendent or designee, be consolidated.

B. In the event the residency dispute involves an 18-year-old student, all notices will be delivered to the student because, at 18, the student ceases to be a minor.

C. If already enrolled and attending school in the district, a student or students involved in a dispute related to the student’s residency may remain in school until available appeals are exhausted when the student or the student’s parent/guardian or person having legal custody of the child has filed an appeal in the manner and within the time permitted by this policy.

D. The Residency Officer shall be in charge of maintaining the files related to a residency dispute, ensuring that the principals or others directly involved in such a dispute forward their records of the dispute following their involvement, and otherwise keeping all communications involving the dispute intact.

E. The Residency Officer of the district is the Director of Enrollment.

F. The Board of Education understands that there may be some instances where residency may be established on a date other than the date the student was enrolled in the district. For any period during which a student is enrolled in the district but is not a resident of the district, the district may charge tuition if it is established that the student’s parent/guardian or person having legal custody of the child knew or should have known that the child or children who are the subject of the residency dispute were not residents of the district. The tuition shall be based on a per capita cost of educating a student in the district during the preceding year. This issue may be raised along with other issues related to the residency dispute and shall be heard in the same manner.

G. The district shall provide for educational services for homeless children to the extent required by Public Law 100-77, Title VII, Subsection B.

H. The district reserves the right to require reverification of student residency at any time which may include a home visit.

I. A copy of this policy shall be given to the student’s parent/guardian or person having legal custody of the child as soon as possible following the inception of any residency dispute.

J. Legal residents who move from the district during a school year shall be entitled to continue for the remainder of that school year only but will be responsible for their own transportation; no district transportation will be provided. The student must withdraw from Union Public Schools and enroll in a new district of residence for the next school year if legal residency in Union is not reestablished.

K. False information regarding residency, falsification of documents, omission of reporting a move outside of the district, false statements regarding guardianship or custody, will result in immediate cancellation of enrollment in the district.

L. In order to document permanent residency in the district, the district can require evidence that the previous address is completely vacated and all furniture, appliances, clothing, food, vehicles, etc., are moved from a previous address to the address within the district.

M. It is the parent’s/guardian’s or person having legal custody’s responsibility to immediately inform the district Enrollment Center if the child’s legal address changes.

N. A child will not be enrolled until all necessary documentation

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has been provided and verified. O. Parents who cannot provide the necessary information to

verify their address because they are residing with a friend or relative on a temporary basis will be required to complete an affidavit of residence which must be notarized by personnel in the district’s Enrollment Center. The affidavit of residence, once verified by school officials, will allow the student to attend school for thirty (30) calendar days at which time the parent/legal guardian must provide additional verifiable documentation that a permanent residence has been established. Both the resident homeowner and the parent of the student are to present themselves in person to complete the affidavit. Each must provide a valid driver’s license or picture ID. The resident homeowner must provide two proofs of residence as required for all new students. The student’s parent will be expected to provide a final utility statement from their previous residence and documentation that the residence has been sold or that the lease has expired.

Revised 12/14/15 STUDENT TRANSFER 5500

A request for a transfer into the Union Public School District initiated by or on behalf of a nonresident student will be approved or refused in accordance with this policy.

Criteria For Approval Or Denial Of Open Transfers: The fact that the district has adopted an open transfer policy does not mean that every transfer application will be accepted. A transfer will be denied if the administration determines the transfer would detract from the educational experience of currently enrolled students or place additional financial or space burdens upon the district. A transfer application will NOT be approved if this district does not: A. Provide the courses/educational program(s) in which the

applicant desires to enroll or in which this district deems the student is required to enroll in order to comply with state and federal laws and regulations;

B. Have adequate facilities to provide the courses/educational program(s) in which the applicant desires to enroll or in which this district deems the student is required to enroll in order to comply with state and federal laws and regulations;

C. Have adequate space for the student in the courses/educational program(s) in which the applicant desires to enroll or in which the district deems the student is required to enroll in order to comply with state and federal laws and regulations. The administration may reserve preferred space for resident students or new resident students reasonably anticipated to move into the district during the school year. Thus, the district may deny a transfer or rescind a transfer if approval would result in: 1. Placing a financial or education burden on the district,

district facilities, or staff in the courses/educational programs the student would attend;

2. Exceeding class size limitations set by state law or district guidelines in such courses; or,

3. Exceeding a percentage of such class size limitations as set by the Superintendent or designee. The administration may determine that a percentage of class size mandates should be reserved for later resident enrollment to prevent the exceeding of class size limits later in the school year due to additional enrollment of reasonably anticipated new resident students.

D. Have current personnel needed to provide the grade/courses/programs in which the applicant desires to enroll.

A transfer will NOT be approved if the student: E. Has a disciplinary record which provides a reasonable basis

to determine the applicant would present a discipline problem if enrolled. Such a reasonable basis will exist if school

discipline or court records of the student, from any public or private school within or without the State of Oklahoma or any court within or without the State of Oklahoma, show the student at any time: 1. Has violated school regulations; 2. Has committed an act commonly regarded as being

immoral; 3. Has been adjudicated as a delinquent for an offense that

is not a violent offense under relevant Oklahoma law; 4. Has been adjudicated as a delinquent for an offense that

is a violent offense under relevant Oklahoma law; 5. Has been convicted as an adult for an offense defined in

relevant Oklahoma law as an exception to a nonviolent offense;

6. Has been convicted as an adult for an offense defined in relevant Oklahoma law as a violent offense;

7. Has committed on school property, in school transportation, or at a school event a violent act or an act showing deliberate or reckless disregard for the health or safety of faculty or others;

8. Has possessed on school property, in school transportation, or at a school event an alcoholic beverage, low-point beer as defined by relevant Oklahoma law, a wireless telecommunication device, or missing or stolen property found to have been taken from a student, school employee, or the school during school activities; or,

9. Has possessed on school property, while in school transportation, or at a school event a dangerous weapon or a controlled dangerous substance as defined by relevant Oklahoma law.

A transfer will NOT be approved if the applicant: F. Fails to complete the Application Form, provide the district

with sufficient educational records, or inform the district in detail of the grades/courses/programs in which the student desires to enroll or participate if the application is accepted so that the criteria above can be applied within the time deadlines set by law for the approval or rejection of a transfer. All such records must be supplied to the district in time for district personnel to make a reasonable review of such records in applying the approval/denial criteria set by this policy. This is particularly important for students with disabilities because all documentation of the resident district will need to be reviewed to make a preliminary determination as to whether the district has the appropriate programs, staff, and services to provide the applicant with the education and services set forth in the student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP), and, if a preliminary approval determination is made, to prepare for and conduct a joint IEP conference with the resident district prior to any final approval or rejection of the transfer application. All applicants must consent in writing to the release of educational records from previous schools attended, and applicants for students with disabilities must consent in writing to forward to this district whatever confidential records this district deems is necessary to review in applying the approval/denial criteria of this policy. The Superintendent or designee has authority to amend the Application Form by regulation to include additional information needed to review an application request.

G. Fails to timely submit a completed application; or, H. Provides incorrect information on the application request. Students who reside outside the district and attend Union Public Schools on an authorized transfer are eligible for district transportation as space is available which includes service from existing stops within the district.

Union Public Schools will not accept tuition fees for the purpose of attending school other than those required by law, special tuition-based programs, and cooperative programs for exceptional children.

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Delegation Of Approval Authority To Superintendent Or Designee: The Board of Education delegates to the Superintendent or designee the authority to approve or deny a transfer application pursuant to the criteria listed in this policy or to cancel a transfer during the school year for violation of any items listed in E. Priority for transfers first will be given to applications for the enrollment of nonresident students who are children of full-time district employees or Union Schools Education Foundation employees. Students who reside in the subdivision Cedar Ridge East, also known as The Trails at Cedar Ridge, or Berwick and whose home resides on land claimed by Union Public Schools and another district may be granted a transfer into Union Public Schools.

Time Of Receipt Of Applications Determines Order Of Review: Transfer requests will be numbered, dated, and time-stamped as received, and the district shall consider requests on a first-come, first-served basis. Any currently enrolled district student for whom an open transfer has been approved in the past and any sibling of such student will be given priority if an application is filed before April 1, and the first-come, first-served list will be compiled only after such current students and their siblings have been placed on the list.

Nondiscrimination: The district shall not accept or deny an open or emergency transfer application based upon the student’s ethnicity, national origin, race, color, religion, gender, gender expression or identity, sex, sexual orientation, income level, pregnancy, genetic information, disabling condition, proficiency in the English language, measure of achievement, aptitude, or athletic ability. Failure to meet the criteria in this policy for approval will not be deemed to be rejection for a discriminatory reason.

Students With Disabilities: If a student with a disability applies for a transfer, the student must supply all documentation of the resident district relating to the student’s previous and current IEPs so that this district may: A. Determine whether the district currently has appropriate

programs, staff, services and placement needed to fulfill the current or anticipated IEP of the student; and,

B. If a preliminary determination is made that the district has the appropriate programs, staff, services and placement needed to fulfill the current IEP of the student if the transfer application is approved, conduct the statutorily-required joint IEP conference with the district of residence before a final determination of approval or denial is made.

C. If an IEP student has been accepted into the district on a transfer of any kind for three consecutive years, the transfer will be automatically renewed each year.

Notwithstanding the provisions of this policy, students with disabilities may be educated in this district pursuant to special education cooperative agreements between this district and other school districts. Such transfers will not be deemed to be parent- or student-initiated transfer applications governed by this policy.

Students of Deployed Parents: A student may apply for a transfer if he/she is the dependent child of a member of the active uniformed military services of the United States on full-time active duty status and for whom Oklahoma is the home of record, and students who are the dependent children of a member of the military reserve on active duty orders and for whom Oklahoma is the home of record. A. At least one parent has a Department of Defense-issued

identification card. B. At least one parent can provide evidence that he/she will be

on active duty status or active duty orders, meaning the parent will be temporarily transferred in compliance with official orders to another location in support of combat, contingency operation, or a natural disaster requiring the use of orders for more than thirty (30) consecutive days.

C. The student will be residing with a relative of the student who lives in the receiving school district or who will be living in the receiving school district within six (6) months of the filing of the application for transfer.

Time Deadlines For Open Transfers: A. No later than May 31 of the school year preceding the year

the transfer is desired, parent/guardian may file an open transfer application to the receiving district.

B. No later than May 31 of the same year, the receiving district must notify the resident district that a transfer application has been filed, and notification is via the receiving district entering applications in the Wave online no later than May 31.

C. No later than July 15, the receiving district’s Board of Education shall approve or deny open transfer applications, verified by entering the decision in the Wave online, and must notify the parent/guardian of their transfer decision.

D. No later than August 1, a parent/guardian who was notified of an approved open transfer shall provide written notice to the receiving district that their child/student will be enrolling in the receiving district [70 O.S. § 8-103] [OAC 210:10-1-18 (d)(4)]

Athletic And Other Competition: A transfer student, other than a student granted an emergency transfer, will not be eligible to participate in school-related interscholastic competition governed by the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association (“Association”) for a period of one year from the first day of attendance at this district, unless the transfer is from a school district not offering the grade the student is entitled to pursue. Whether a student granted a transfer will be eligible to participate in school-related interscholastic competition shall be determined by the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association (OSSAA) and school residency determined by the district Residency Officer.

Emergency Transfers: Students may be granted a transfer on an emergency basis. The parent or person with custody must submit a completed application on a form approved by the State Board of Education. On an adequate showing of an emergency, the Superintendent or designee may approve a transfer, subject to approval of the State Board of Education. An emergency shall include proof provided by the parent of: A. The inability of the resident district to provide an education

to the transfer applicant due to the destruction or partial destruction of a school building attended by the student;

B. The inability of the resident district to offer the subject the pupil desires to pursue, provided the pupil became a legal resident of the school district after February 1 of the school year immediately prior to the school year for which the pupil is seeking the transfer;

C. A catastrophic medical problem of the student, which means an acute or chronic serious illness, disease, disorder or injury which has a permanent detrimental effect on the body’s system or makes the risk of harm unusually hazardous, such that removal from the resident district is medically needed;

D. The total failure of the resident district to provide transportation to and from school;

E. The concurrence of both the resident school district and this receiving district, and the signature of the sending (resident) school district Superintendent or designee is required.

With the concurrence of the resident school, a student classified as a junior or senior may receive a transfer provided said student was legally enrolled as a sophomore or junior by September 15 in the Union Public Schools and has not broken tenure with the district during that school year. A senior is defined as a student who has attained a minimum of 16 units of credit by the beginning of the school year, and a junior is defined as a student who has attained a minimum of

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10 units of credit or six core credits and is enrolled in a course of study which would complete requirements for graduation.

F. The unavailability of a specialized deaf education program for a student who is deaf or hearing impaired.

G. Special needs student services not offered. H. Unavailability of remote on-site or Internet-based instruction

by course title in the district of residence for a student identified as in need of drop-out recovery or alternative education services, provided such student was enrolled at any time in a public school in this state during the previous three (3) years, or,

I. When a student has been the victim of harassment, intimidation, and bullying as defined by law, upon verification by the receiving school district that the student has been the victim of harassment, intimidation, or bullying and the sending school district was notified of the incident or incidents prior to the filing of the application for transfer.

Applications for approval of a transfer will not be considered unless the parent has signed the Consent to Cancellation of Transfer Form which will cancel the transfer if the conditions stated in the form occur. This district shall have complete discretion as to whether to approve or not to approve an emergency transfer which is based upon prior approval of the resident district.

Approval Of A Transfer Requires Agreement For Cancellation Of Transfer: Approval by this district of any transfer is contingent upon the applicant agreeing in writing to cancellation of this transfer by the district during the school year if the student does not comply with the rules and regulations of this district for student behavior. The Board of Education hereby delegates to the Superintendent or designee the authority to cancel any transfer previously granted by the Board of Education upon a determination that cancellation is appropriate.

Students Seeking A Transfer From A Non-Accredited School Or A Home School Only Will Be Granted Provisional Approval Pending Review Of Test Results And Application Of Policy Criteria To The Placement Deemed Appropriate: Students currently enrolled in a private school not accredited by a state agency or in a home school are not guaranteed enrollment in the grade/programs/courses in which the applicant desires to enroll. Students desiring to transfer from private schools not accredited by a state agency or from a home school will be required to take all placement tests required of resident students enrolling in the district after attendance in private schools not accredited by a state agency or home schools, and the administration will decide the appropriate placement primarily upon placement test results as per district policy. Accordingly, students applying for a transfer from such schools will be granted a provisional transfer until: (a) test results are reviewed to determine the appropriate grade/courses/programs for the applicant and (b) the criteria of this policy is then applied to determine if the applicant is eligible for transfer approval.

Acceptance Of Assignment Required; Subsequent Change Needs Administrative Approval: Because approval of transfers is based upon criteria of sufficient programs, staffing, and space needs for the particular applicant, a transfer student must accept the school site, courses, and programs to which the student is assigned by the administration. A TRANSFER STUDENT WILL NOT BE ALLOWED AT THE TIME OF, OR AFTER, ENROLLMENT TO CHANGE THE GRADE/COURSES/PROGRAMS IN WHICH THE STUDENT STATED HE OR SHE DESIRED TO ENROLL ON THE TRANSFER APPLICATION WITHOUT SPECIFIC WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT OR DESIGNEE. It will be the responsibility of the transfer student or parent to inform the school official from whom approval for a new

assignment is requested that the student is a transfer student, and failure to do so will result in cancellation of the transfer unless excused by the Superintendent or designee.

Revised 11/14/16 STUDENTS ENTERING FROM ANOTHER 5501 SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Board of Education of the Union Public School District, in the interest of maintaining a suitable educational environment, student discipline and the safety and well-being of all students and employees, adopts the following policy prohibiting the attendance of or the approval of a transfer of any student who has been moved to an alternative placement due to attendance or discipline issues.

The Union Public School District may prohibit any student who is under suspension from another school district (public or private) at the time he/she enrolls in the Union Public School District from attending classes or participating in school activities (hereafter the “prohibition term”) within the district. This prohibition includes students who establish or attempt to establish a bona fide residency within the district either before or after their suspension from another school district.

Any student subjected to a prohibition term pursuant to this policy may appeal that decision to the Superintendent or designee by requesting such an appeal within 48 hours of the student’s notice of the decision. Student appeal requests to the Superintendent or designee must be made in writing. Failure to appeal a decision imposing a prohibition term in a timely manner waives all rights to further challenge such decision.

If upon receipt of official records from the sending school, the Union Public School District discovers the student has been suspended and has failed to report this information when he/she enrolled, the district may require the student to complete the terms of the suspension that occurred at the sending school.

On appeal, the Superintendent or designee will consider: A. Whether the student is under suspension or reassigned to

alternative placement from another school district. B. The reason for the suspension. C. Whether the length of the suspension and any conditions

imposed pursuant to the suspension are consistent with the Union Public School District’s suspension policy for the same or similar offenses.

If the answers to A and C are in the affirmative, the prohibition term will be upheld. If the student is found not to be under suspension or reassigned to alternative placement from another school district, the student will be immediately eligible to attend classes and to participate in school activities. If the suspension or reassignment to alternative placement imposed upon the student is found to be inconsistent with the district’s student suspension policy or practices for similar offenses, then the Superintendent or designee may consider modifications to the prohibition term in order to make the prohibition term consistent with the district’s suspension policy or practices.

A student will be eligible to attend classes and participate in school activities following the expiration of the prohibition term.

Revised 1/18/10 DISTRIBUTION OF FLYERS, BROCHURES, POSTERS/ SIGNS, AND PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS BY SECONDARY STUDENTS 5502

Judicial decisions hold that secondary students have a constitutional right to distribute materials in school facilities, subject to reasonable regulation by school authorities of the time, place and manner of distribution and subject to certain restrictions concerning the content of the material.

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The purpose of this policy is to provide for the exercise of this right by Union students in grades 6-12, and at the same time to inform them of the conditions which the Board of Education deems essential to prevent interference with the mission of the district to provide educational services for all district students. A. Time and place of distribution: Students may distribute

materials at any entrance or exit to a school building for a period not to exceed 30 minutes prior to the commencement of the earliest class and/or not to exceed 30 minutes after the end of the last instructional class. Students may distribute materials at an entrance or exit to a school cafeteria when lunch is being served in the cafeteria. Students may distribute materials before and after regular school hours at the entrances and exits to school gymnasiums, school stadiums, school auditoriums or other school facilities when those facilities are being used. Students will not distribute materials in schools or on school grounds or facilities except as stated above.

B. Manner of distribution: Students shall not distribute materials in a manner which disrupts a school activity or which impedes the flow of traffic within hallways or entranceways to the school. No person will be compelled to accept any material. A person who declines to accept material must not be threatened, treated with disrespect (verbally or by gesture) or impeded in any manner.

C. Clean-up: Students who distribute materials will be responsible for removing discarded and leftover materials from the school facility and grounds before they leave the school premises.

D. Content: The distribution of material shall not be restricted or denied solely because of the political, religious or philosophical content of the material. However, students must realize that rights go hand-in-hand with responsibilities and that students have a responsibility to refrain from the distribution of material which is: 1. Obscene to minors, e.g., material which, taken as a

whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political or scientific value for minors and, which an average person, applying contemporary community standards, would find appeals to an obsessive interest in sex by minors to whom distribution is directed.

2. Libelous, e.g., material which is a false and unprivileged statement about a specific individual and tends to be harmful to the individual’s reputation.

3. Vulgar, lewd or indecent, e.g., material which an average person would deem improper for presentation to minors because of sexual connotations or profane language.

4. A display or promotion of unlawful products or services, e.g., material which advertises or advocates the use of products or services prohibited by law to minors.

5. Group defamation, e.g., material which disparages a group or a member of a group on the basis of race, color, religious affiliation, ethnic or national origin, gender, gender expression, identity or preference; or handicapping condition. This includes racial and religious epithets, “slurs,” insults and abuse.

6. Disruptive of school operations, e.g., material which, on the basis of past experience or based on specific instances of actual or threatened disruptions, is likely to cause a material and substantial disruption of the proper and orderly operation of school activities or school discipline.

Students are asked to submit materials to the building principal in advance of distribution. If the building principal concludes that the submitted material falls within one or more of the categories of prohibited materials described above, the principal shall notify the students, in writing, within 24 hours (excluding non-school days). Students may elect to distribute material disapproved by the principal, but

students should understand that such distribution may subject them to disciplinary action as provided herein, and that the principal may elect to take action to halt distribution of the material.

Principals should consult with the Senior Executive Director of Communications and/or their immediate supervisor.

E. Violation of policy: Students who violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, including suspension. Rights to future distribution may be denied.

F. Definitions as used in this policy: 1. Distribution: The circulation of material by distributing

copies, selling or offering copies for sale, and accepting donations for copies.

2. Material: Includes but is not limited to leaflets, magazines, books, brochures, flyers, petitions, newspapers, buttons, badges or other insignia.

3. Minors: Persons under the age of 18. G. If a student is suspended for violation of this policy or if

distribution of the material is halted by a principal, the student may appeal the decision in accordance with district student suspension procedures.

H. Miscellaneous: This policy does not apply to official school publications such as yearbooks or student newspapers published as a part of the school curricula. All schools within the district shall provide a notice to students and parents stating that by permitting the on-campus distribution of materials by students under this policy, the school, the district and the Board of Education are not approving any material distributed by students or endorsing, supporting or advocating the content of the material.

(For information about distribution of flyers, etc., by district-affiliated groups and outside organizations, see Board Policy #1050.)

Revised 12/14/15 GIFTED/TALENTED EDUCATION 5503

In accordance with requirements of state statutes, the Union Public School District provides a qualitatively differentiated program with an emphasis on individual learning styles and special abilities. The program features activities designed to advance the understanding of district curriculum, creative expression and critical thinking and to enhance the lifelong learning process. The district’s comprehensive plan for gifted/talented education is described in the Union Public Schools District Plan for Gifted/Talented Education, which is approved by the Board of Education and is on file at the Education Service Center and posted on the district’s website.

Revised 1/16/06 EXTENDED SCHOOL YEAR/SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES 5504

Extended School Year (ESY) services may be defined as special education and/or related services which are provided to eligible children (aged 3-21) with disabilities beyond the traditional school year, as necessary for a free appropriate public education (FAPE), in accordance with state standards and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), as amended by Public Law 105-17. GUIDELINES A. ESY shall be developed and documented through the

Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process. B. Students qualifying for ESY services shall be provided an

appropriate program at no cost to the parents. C. Eligibility for ESY shall be made on an individual basis, not

a student’s categorical label. D. All special education students are eligible for consideration

for ESY.

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ELIGIBILITY FACTORS A. Degree of disability; B. Degree of regression suffered; C. Recovery time from this regression; D. Ability of parents to provide educational structure at home; E. Child’s rate of progress; F. Child’s behavioral problems; G. Child’s physical problems; H. Availability of alternative resources; I. Ability of the child to interact with non-disabled children; J. Area(s) in curriculum which need continuous attention; K. Child’s vocational needs; L. Whether the requested service is extraordinary for the child’s

disability, as opposed to an integral part of a program for those with the child’s disability;

M. Other relevant factors as determined by the IEP team.

PROCEDURES A. When the IEP team undertakes a determination of eligibility

for ESY services, it shall collect and analyze all pertinent data regarding the student’s physical and/or mental impairment, educational history and present educational functioning.

B. Eligibility for ESY services shall be determined on an individual basis by the IEP team.

C. When an IEP team determines that a special education student qualifies for ESY services in order to receive FAPE, the IEP team shall specify the instructional goals and services to be provided through ESY services. Parents shall receive prior written notice of ESY eligibility and services.

D. Parents of a special education student who disagree with ESY eligibility and/or services may request mediation, as defined in Parents Rights in Special Education: Notice of Procedural Safeguards.

Revised 1/13/03 CREDIT BY EXAM (CBE) AND PROFICIENCY-BASED PROMOTION 5505

Credit by Exam (CBE) and Proficiency-Based Promotion (PBP), provides the opportunity for students to move forward in their educational endeavors by subject, course and/or grade level based upon mastery of the Oklahoma State Standards, not upon time spent in classes, completion of assignments or prerequisites. Parental involvement is integral in the CBE process as is consideration of the student’s social, emotional and intellectual needs. CBE is intended to serve those unique students enrolled in Union Public Schools whose needs cannot be met by following a traditional timetable and sequence but who require promotion beyond current placement.

Students who request CBE will complete an application process and take a criterion-referenced test to measure the skills and knowledge relevant to each core course or subject. Applicants may also be required to complete a performance component. Upon successful completion of all components, and after appropriate consultation with parents, students may be promoted and will receive appropriate credit. Credit earned in high-school-level courses will count toward meeting graduation requirements and a grade of ‘A’ will be assigned. However, the grade will not be included in calculating the student’s GPA. No record of unsuccessful attempts will be maintained in the student’s permanent school records.

Options for accommodating student needs for advancement after having demonstrated proficiency may include, but are not limited to, the following: individualized instruction, correspondence courses, independent study, concurrent enrollment, cross-grade grouping or grade/course advancement. The district does not assume financial responsibility for these options.

As with other promotion/retention issues, a parent may request a

promotion against the recommendation of the school. At this point, school personnel may promote the child or re-affirm their position. The parent has the right of appeal to the Board of Education, whose decision is final.

In accordance with state statutes, Credit by Exam assessments are offered twice per year, prior to the beginning of the school year to affect upcoming grade placement and at the end of the school year to affect the following year’s grade placement. Dates for CBE assessments are published on the district website or by other public means. Students requesting CBE assessments must complete the application process and take the criterion-referenced test(s) within one of the two assessment periods per year designated by the district.

Revised 12/9/13 ADMISSION OF PART-TIME STUDENTS 5506

It is the policy of the Union Public School District that all students enrolling in the district must do so on a full-time basis. Full-time basis is defined as attending classes each day of the week for the full instructional day within the public school system or in conjunction with another state-accredited institution such as a vocational-technical school or concurrently enrolled in a college or university or Union’s Virtual Learning Academy. The only exceptions to this policy shall be students who meet the requirements of homebound or homebased education or students with disabilities whose Individual Education Plans require alternative class schedules.

Revised 12/10/12 CREDIT/PLACEMENT FOR NON-ACCREDITED PROGRAMS 5507

Secondary students enrolling in Union Public Schools from a non-accredited program will be required to perform satisfactorily on criterion-referenced test(s) as set by the district to enroll in a grade or to receive credit for courses.

Elementary students enrolling in Union Public Schools from home school will be required to perform satisfactorily on an assessment as set by the district to determine appropriate grade placement.

Students entering Union Public Schools who previously attended a school not accredited by the Oklahoma State Department of Education and who desire credit and/or placement in the district will need to be tested and meet district requirements.

Adopted 12/13/99 INTERNET-BASED INSTRUCTION 5508

Internet-based instructional courses provide flexibility not available with traditional classroom methods. Students may benefit from being able to proceed through course work at an individual pace and by having access to information and course materials at convenient times and places. Consistent with sound educational principles, it is the intention of the Board of Education to make full use of the Internet for the delivery of educational materials. Internet-based instructional courses approved by the Board of Education for use in the district are not viewed as a substitute for direct, face-to-face student and teacher interactions, but as a means of expanding course offerings, access to instructional resources, and the ability of the district to bring the world of knowledge to its students.

GUIDELINES A. Only students who are enrolled full time in Union Public

Schools shall be allowed to enroll in an Internet-based course for credit. Course fees and equipment may be the responsibility of the student/parent.

B. Students must make application to enroll in Internet-based courses through their school counselor or by applying

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through Union’s Virtual Learning Academy. Students will be provided with an ILP (Individual Learning Plan) to ensure they stay on pace with the course in which they are enrolled.

C. The principal or designee shall evaluate and approve/disapprove all students’ requests to enroll in courses delivered by means of Internet-based instruction. Only those pre-approved enrollments shall be eligible for credit granted by the district.

D. Students earning credit by means of Internet-based instruction shall participate in all assessments required by the Oklahoma School Testing Program. No student shall be allowed to participate in these assessments at a place other than the school site at which the student is enrolled.

E. Exams relevant to the Internet-based course must be proctored by the certified staff member assigned as the contact person.

F. Courses offered for credit by means of Internet-based instruction shall be aligned with the Priority Academic Student Skills (PASS).

G. To qualify for credit, Internet-based courses must be accredited by the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (NCA-CASI) or the Commission on International and Trans-regional Accreditation (CITA).

H. Instructors of Internet-based courses must be: (a) certified in Oklahoma, or (b) if the course originates out of state, must be certified in the state of origin to teach in the content area of the course offered, or (c) must be a faculty member at an accredited institution of higher education, possessing the specific content expertise necessary to teach the course. Instructors of web-based courses shall be provided in-service training pertaining to the methodology of instructional delivery and the technical aspects of distance learning.

Revised 12/14/15 TITLE I PARENT AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT 5509

The Board of Education believes that positive parental involvement is essential to student achievement, and thus encourages such involvement in school educational planning and operations.

The district will put into operation programs, activities, and procedures for the involvement of parents in all of its schools with Title I, Part A programs [ESSA, Section 1112 (b)(7).

A. Involve parents and family members in jointly developing the local educational agency plan under section 1112, and the development of support and improvement plans under paragraphs (1) and (2) of section 1111(d);

B. Provide the coordination, technical assistance, and other support necessary to assist and build the capacity of all participating schools within the local educational agency in planning and implementing effective parent and family involvement activities to improve student academic achievement and school performance, which may include meaningful consultation with employers, business leaders, and philanthropic organizations, or individuals with expertise in effectively engaging parents and family members in education;

C. Coordinate and integrate parent and family engagement strategies under this part with parent and family engagement strategies, to the extent feasible and appropriate, with other relevant federal, state, and local laws and programs;

D. Conduct, with the meaningful involvement of parents and family members, an annual evaluation of the content and effectiveness of the parent and family engagement policy in improving the academic quality of all schools served under this part, including identifying: 1. Barriers to greater participation by parents in activities

authorized by this section (with particular attention to

parents who are economically disadvantaged, are disabled, have limited English proficiency, have limited literacy, or are of any racial or ethnic minority background);

2. The needs of parents and family members to assist with the learning of their children, including engaging with school personnel and teachers; and

3. Strategies to support successful school and family interactions;

E. Use the findings of such evaluation in subparagraph (d) to design evidence-based strategies for more effective parental involvement, and to revise, if necessary, the parent and family engagement policies described in this section; and

F. Involve parents in the activities of the schools served under this part, which may include establishing a parent advisory board comprised of a sufficient number and representative group of parents or family members served by the local educational agency to adequately represent the needs of the population served by such agency for the purposes of developing, revising, and reviewing the parent and family engagement policy [ESSA, 1116 (a)(2)].

11/14/16

FOREIGN EXCHANGE STUDENTS 5510

Foreign exchange programs are a source of enrichment for local families, the participating students and Union Public Schools. Union High School welcomes these participants every year and desires for them to have a successful and meaningful year of learning the culture and language. The following admission policies apply to all foreign exchange students seeking to enroll in Union Public Schools: A. No more than (8) eight students from foreign exchange

programs will be enrolled in Union Public Schools during a school year.

B. No Union High School diplomas will be awarded to foreign exchange program students since state requirements encompass a four-year educational program.

C. Student must be in excellent academic standings and be classified as a senior, or completing his/her last year of high school.

D. Student must have adequate English skills to handle all academic work at the high school level without special assistance.

E. Only those students who have J-1 visas, issued pursuant to paragraph (a) (15) (J) of Section 1101 of Title 8 of the United States Code, which hold the sponsoring organization responsible will be considered for enrollment. In addition, all health, academic and discipline records must be valid, up to date and in good standing.

F. The application to request enrollment into Union Public Schools as a foreign exchange student must be completed by June 1 and submitted to the Union High School principal. Applications are available on the district website.

Revised 12/10/07

SUICIDE/CRISIS INTERVENTION PLAN 5520

Oklahoma Mental Health Laws require school personnel to notify parents/guardians of incidences of suicidal intent of a child. Union Public Schools supports this legislation and has identified the following reporting procedures to ensure the safety of children and to maintain compliance. These procedures are supplemental to the district’s Emergency Procedures Manual and specify the required documentation. Each school site will identify a Crisis Intervention Team. A. Any school personnel who has reason to believe, by direct or

indirect knowledge, that a student is at-risk for suicide must immediately refer the student to the school counselor for

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intervention. The counselor may elicit assistance from another member of the building crisis intervention team to complete the suicide assessment scale.

B. After the team has conferred and made their judgment on the lethality of the situation, the counselor must notify the parent/guardian. 1. If the situation is judged to be of moderate or high

lethality, the student may not leave the school grounds until a conference is held with the parent/guardian.

2. The parents will be apprised of the seriousness of the situation and be referred for a free assessment to a mental health provider.

3. The parents will be requested to sign a statement that they have been notified of the situation and of the school’s recommendations.

C. In serious cases, if the parent refuses to seek an emergency evaluation, the school shall contact the police and notify the Department of Human Services of parent neglect.

D. If the parent seeks an emergency assessment from one of the mental health providers, the agency will return to the school a document confirming their assessment and recommendations.

Revised 12/14/15 MATERIALS SELECTION 5550

Materials selected for the Union Public School District will implement, enrich, and support the educational program of the school. This policy will govern the selection criteria and procedures for textbooks and resource materials.

RESPONSIBILITY FOR SELECTION The Board of Education is legally responsible for the selection of materials. The authority to select is delegated to the professional personnel in the district. A. Textbooks:

1. The Superintendent shall appoint an official local textbook committee consisting of not fewer than three members. Each committee shall have at least one lay member, with the remainder of the members being teachers employed in the district, a majority of whom shall be classroom teachers. The Superintendent or designee, who shall be a principal or curriculum specialist, shall serve as chairman of such local textbook committee.

2. Those texts used uniformly throughout the district are referred to as system-adopted texts and are selected for the subject areas by consensus of the teachers of those subjects. The majority are selected from the list approved by the State Board of Education.

B. Resource materials: 1. Materials for the library resource centers are selected by

the library media specialists with the cooperation of faculty, administration, parents, and students.

2. Such selections are subject to approval by the building principal and the appropriate administrative officials prior to order and placement in the library media centers.

3. Other resources will be selected by the instructional staff in accordance with curriculum objectives.

CRITERIA FOR SELECTION A. Principles of selection are:

1. To provide materials which are of interest and have learning value.

2. To provide materials which realistically represent our pluralistic society and reflect the contributions made to our American heritage by these groups.

3. To provide instructional resource materials for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all students the school serves. Various points of view on current and historical issues should be included in district

collections without regard to the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.

4. Personal opinion and bias will not enter into the selection process.

B. Factors considered in selection are: 1. Appropriateness for the maturity level of the student. 2. Accordance with system curriculum goals. 3. Appearance of the title in standard review tools and the

state textbook list. 4. Overall purpose of the materials. 5. Reputation of the author or publisher. 6. Accuracy of material. 7. Readability and reader appeal. 8. Quality of writing and illustrations. 9. Fairness of ethnic and gender role representation. 10. Format and price.

C. Procedures in specific areas: 1. Gifts: Gift materials may be accepted with the

understanding that these materials must meet the same selection criteria as materials purchased with district funds and that the school will use the gift materials in accordance with the decisions of the appropriate personnel. Gift materials, once accepted, become the property of Union Public Schools.

2. Periodicals: Periodicals are purchased because of their overall reputation and are not rejected because of an occasional article which may be offensive. Subscriptions are reviewed annually and are subject to the selection process each year.

3. Non-print: All non-print materials will be subject to the same criteria as print material prior to purchase or use.

RECONSIDERATION PROCEDURES A. Students or parents have the right to object to the use of

materials which seem incompatible with their values and beliefs. The person requesting the review may register the objection in writing on a Request for Reconsideration form. This form may be obtained from any Union Public School office.

B. No administrator, library media specialist, or teacher may withdraw an item without referring it to the Review Committee which determines whether the material should be withdrawn from any or all schools.

C. The reconsideration procedures shall be as follows: 1. The Request for Reconsideration form will be

submitted to the principal, who will review the request and schedule a conference to discuss the matter with the student or parent. The principal may choose to invite a teacher or the library media specialist to contribute to this discussion.

2. If the complaint is not resolved during the conference, the matter will be referred to a district-level Review Committee, which shall be appointed by the Superintendent or designee. The Superintendent shall also appoint a chairperson who will be responsible for all procedures. The committee shall be composed of the following: a. Two parents or patrons of the district. b. Two appropriate-level library media specialists. c. Two appropriate-level teachers. d. An administrator from the Teaching and Learning

Department. e. Two appropriate-level students (if secondary: 6-

12 grades). f. Complainant (who shall be non-voting).

The committee shall be persons not involved in the earlier conference. 3. The Review Committee will take the following steps as

preparation for the review meeting. a. Read, view, or listen to the material in its entirety.

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b. Check general acceptance of the material by reading reviews and consulting recommended lists.

c. Determine the extent to which the material supports the curriculum, obtaining documentation from the teacher or library media specialist who selected the materials in question.

d. Complete the appropriate Checklist for School Media Advisory Committee’s Reconsideration of Instructional Material, judging the material for its strengths and value as a whole and not in part.

4. During the meeting, the complainant will have the opportunity to present views or may present views in writing. a. The committee will discuss concerns as a group

and vote by secret ballot. The decision will be reached by simple majority.

b. The complainant will receive notification of the committee’s decision in writing.

5. The decision of the committee will be given to the appropriate director who will see that the implementation of the decision takes place. Documentation associated with this meeting will be on file at the Education Service Center.

6. A written appeal of the decision of the committee may be made within ten working days to the Board of Education through the Superintendent. The final decision rests with the Board of Education.

7. Material which has undergone a challenge may not be rechallenged for the same objection until one calendar year after the recommendation of the Review Committee has been made.

Revised 12/14/15 INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE 1601

Union Public Schools provides its students and employees with access to the district’s computer network system, including Internet access, in an effort to expand the informational and communication resources in furtherance of the district’s goal of promoting educational excellence. It is hoped that the expanded use of these resources will enhance students’ research capabilities, increase faculty and staff productivity and result in better communication between the district and its patrons.

With access to such vast storehouses of information and instant communication with millions of people from all over the world, material will be available that may not be considered to be of educational value by the district or which is inappropriate for distribution to children. The district will take available precautions to restrict access to inappropriate material. However, on a global network, it is impossible to control all materials, and an industrious user may obtain access to inappropriate information or material. The district firmly believes that the value of the information and interaction available on the Internet far outweighs the possibility that students and employees may procure material which is not consistent with our educational goals.

Internet access is coordinated through a complex association of government agencies, regional and state networks. The smooth operation of these networks relies upon the proper conduct of the end users and the users’ adherence to generally accepted guidelines. The guidelines provided in this policy are designed to promote the efficient, ethical and legal utilization of network resources. If a district user violates any of these provisions, his or her account will be terminated and future access could be denied. Students’ use of the district’s system will also be governed by a student code of conduct.

INTERNET ACCESS - TERMS AND CONDITION A. Acceptable Use - The use of the district system, whether by

students, faculty or staff, must be in support of education and

consistent with the educational objectives of the district. The use of any other organizations’ network or computing resources must comply with the rules and regulations appropriate for that network. The transmission or receipt of any material in violation of any United States or state law or regulation and the transmission or receipt of any material inconsistent with the education objectives of the district is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, copyrighted material; threatening, indecent, lewd or obscene material; or material protected by trade secret. Use of the district system for personal commercial activities is not acceptable. Use for product advertisement or political lobbying is also prohibited.

B. Privilege of Use - The district system and its Internet access is a privilege afforded to students, staff and employees of the district. Use of these resources is not a right, and inappropriate use will result in a cancellation of those privileges. Inappropriate use is any use prohibited by the terms of this policy or use determined by the district’s system administrators to be inappropriate under particular facts and circumstances.

C. Internet Filtering 1. The district implements various technologies that block

and filter Internet access to visual depictions that are obscene, pornographic, or harmful to minors. The district defines “harmful to minors” as any picture, image, graphic image file, or other visual depiction that appeals to a prurient interest in nudity or sex or, taken as a whole, lacks serious literacy, artistic, political or scientific value as to minors.

2. As no Internet filter can ensure all inappropriate sites are blocked, the district implements various technologies to block websites categorized as adult, pornographic, promoting illegal activities, hate, gambling, weapons, violence, and other categories determined to negatively impact the classroom.

3. All Internet activity may be tracked, monitored, and recorded by the unique individual user name.

D. Inappropriate Use - Each system user is expected to comply with all district policies governing Internet access and to abide by generally accepted rules of network etiquette. These general rules include, but are not limited to, the following: 1. Appropriate language - Do not use abusive language,

including acronyms or abbreviations, in messages to others. Be polite and respect the feelings and ideas of others. Do not use obscene, indecent, lewd or profane language, vulgarities, rude, threatening, harassing, insulting, teasing, or disrespectful language.

2. Safety - Do not reveal personal contact information about yourself or any other person. This information includes age, telephone numbers, and addresses. Users will promptly disclose to the teacher or district administrator any message they consider to be inappropriate or which makes them feel uncomfortable.

3. Electronic Communication - Users should be aware that electronic communication may not be assumed to be a private communication. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities will be reported to the authorities. System users should not post any message which is intended to be private. Users should not upload, post, or share pictures or videos that would not be appropriate to share in the classroom.

4. Network resources - System users should not use the network in a way that will disrupt the use of the network by other users. The network should be used for educational, professional and career development activities only. System users should refrain from downloading large files unless absolutely necessary to conduct district business.

5. Intellectual property - Do not plagiarize works obtained

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from the Internet. Users must respect the rights of copyright owners and comply with all limitations imposed upon use of copyrighted material.

6. Unique Login credentials - Do not share login information with anyone.

E. Limitation of Liability - The district makes no warranties of any kind, whether express or implied, for the services provided and will not be responsible for any damages which users may suffer through use of the district system or the Internet, including, but not limited to, the loss of information or files or the interruption of service. The district is not responsible for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through use of the district system or the Internet. The district is not responsible for any personal financial obligations which may be incurred through use of the district system.

F. Security - Security on any computer system is a high priority, especially when the system involves multiple users. Users are responsible for their individual account and should take precautions to prevent others from accessing that account. Under no conditions should a user provide his/her personal password to another person. If you identify a potential security problem on the district system or the Internet, you must notify the system administrator immediately. You should not demonstrate the problem to others, nor should you intentionally attempt to identify potential security problems. In either instance, your actions may be misinterpreted as an illegal attempt to gain unauthorized access. Any attempt to log on to the Internet as a system administrator will result in cancellation of user privileges. Any user identified as a security risk or having a history of abusive problems with the district system or any other computer system may be denied further access.

G. Vandalism - Vandalism of district hardware, software or the system itself will result in cancellation of privileges. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy the property or data of the district, of another user or of any other network connected to the Internet or all or any portion of the district’s computer network system or any other network or system connected to the Internet. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses or any actions that disrupt, “crash” or “bomb” all or any portion of the district’s computer system. All system users shall avoid the accidental spread of computer viruses by strict adherence to district policies governing the downloading of software. No system user may use the system to “hack” or attempt to gain unauthorized access to any other computer system, network or site or any unauthorized portion of the district’s system.

H. Inappropriate Material - Access to information shall not be restricted or denied solely because of the political, religious or philosophical content of the material. However, system users must realize that rights go hand-in-hand with

responsibilities and agree not to use the district system to access information or to distribute information or material which is: 1. Obscene, meaning (a) material which, taken as a whole,

lacks serious literary, artistic, political or scientific value and, (b) when an average person, applying contemporary community standards, would find that the written material, taken as a whole, appeals to an obsessive interest in sex.

2. Libelous, meaning a false and unprivileged statement about a specific individual which tends to harm the individual’s reputation.

3. Vulgar, lewd or indecent, meaning material which, taken as a whole, an average person would deem improper for access by or distribution to minors because of sexual connotations or profane language.

4. Display or promotion of unlawful products or services, meaning material which advertises or advocates the use of products or services prohibited by law from being sold or provided to minors.

5. Group defamation or hate literature, meaning material which disparages a group or a member of a group on the basis of race, age, color, religion or religious affiliation, ethnic or national origin, gender, gender identity or preference, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, disability or handicapped condition or which advocates illegal conduct or violence or discrimination toward any particular group of people.

6. Disruptive to school operations, meaning material which, on the basis of past experience or based upon specific instances of actual or threatened disruptions relating to the information or material in question, is likely to cause a material and substantial disruption of the proper and orderly operation of school activities or school discipline.

I. CIPA Compliance - As Internet safety is of utmost importance for all students, the district provides annual education to minors to demonstrate appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other individuals on social networking websites and in chat rooms as well as cyberbullying awareness and response.

HOME PAGE AND WEB SITES The Communications Department is responsible for the style, content and presentation of the district’s Internet home pages and websites.

Individual sites, staff and departments may have their own home pages/web pages. All must adhere to this policy and the guidelines set out by Teaching and Learning and the Communications Department which have the authority to review and edit content. (Board Policy #1102).

Revised 11/14/16