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SPRING VALLEY
MIDDLE-HIGH SCHOOL S1450 Cty. Rd. CC
Spring Valley, WI 54767
2019-20
Student Name : ____________________________________
Students of Spring Valley Middle & High School:
On behalf of the faculty and staff of Spring Valley Middle & High School, we
welcome you to another exciting school year. A great deal of work has been
done to build toward a successful school year for all members of our school-
community. Our school is filled with a strong tradition of excellence. We
expect this year to be no different.
You will find many opportunities for participation in both curricular and co-
curricular activities at our school. While planning your year, keep in mind the
power of lifelong learning is limited mainly by the choices made as described in
the following quote attributed to Harold McAlindon:
“You do make a difference by the contributions you make or do not make,
by the quality of work you choose to produce, when you choose to produce,
when you choose to help or not help other people. You always make a
difference. It’s your choice as to whether the difference will be positive or
negative, active or passive, helping or hindering. The difference that you
make will be the result of your own efforts and your own choosing.”
Remember, it’s not the number or size of the obstacles in our paths toward our
goals that matter. Individually, it is our honesty of purpose and intensity of
effort that ultimately matters. The inscription of Horace Mann's words on the
pillar as you enter this building best summarizes the opportunities available to
our students. It states, "Education, then, beyond all other devices of human
origin, is the great equalizer of the conditions of man." We wish each of you the
best as you set goals, strive to achieve those goals, and stretch to reach beyond
your potential in the coming year.
The Mission Statement of the Spring Valley Schools
Our mission is to provide a caring, respectful, challenging and
equitable environment, in partnership with the community that will
enable all of our students to become responsible citizens.
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The Spring Valley Middle & Senior High School
2019-20 Student Handbook (updated 6/30/19)
The contents of this handbook have been adopted by the Board of
Education and, while not all inclusive, is presented as a matter of
information. Material included in this handbook is considered an
extension of school board policy. The district reserves the right to
modify, revoke, suspend, or terminate any or all such plans, policies
and procedures in whole or part, at any time with or without notice.
The most current version of the Student Handbook will be posted on
the school website: www.springvalley.k12.wi.us
Pupils are expected to acquaint themselves with the policies and
regulations effective in our school. If policies and expectations
remain unclear, students are expected to ask instructors, guidance
staff, and/or building administration for needed clarification.
STUDENT RIGHTS
We believe it is the right of every student to:
1. Expect an opportunity for a quality education.
2. Be treated with dignity, respected as an individual whether coming to,
attending or leaving school.
3. Expect consistent and fair treatment in relation to school policies and
expectations.
4. Attend a school that has a safe and healthy environment.
5. Receive due process when school policies are enforced.
6. Expect freedom from discrimination. (See below.)
NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY
The School District of Spring Valley does not discriminate on the basis
of sex, race, color, national origin, ancestry, creed, religion, pregnancy,
marital or parental status, sexual orientation, or physical, mental,
emotional, or learning disability or handicap.
GRADUATE GOALS – Our graduates must be able to:
- Read, speak, write and problem-solve well and use technology to
function effectively as they move into adulthood;
- Find and use information to help them solve problems at home,
school and work;
- Set goals, by working independently as well as collaboratively,
and make appropriate decisions;
- Understand the necessity to maintain physical, mental and
emotional health and how these contribute to positive self-esteem.
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STAFF LISTING:
BUS DRIVERS Mr. Jeff Brooke Mr. Robert Egger
Mr. Jack Hannack Mr. Jeff Hintz
Ms. Becky Jo DeLong Mr. Sean Laffin
Mr. Raymond Timm Mr. Eric Turner
Substitutes: Mr. Gary Gilbertson
Supervisor: Mr. Jeremy Donath
MAINTENANCE STAFF Mr. Joe Coakley Mr. Dennis DeCosta
Mr. Douglas Faber Mr. Derek Huebel
Mr. Jeffrey Johnson Mr. John Larson
Supervisor: Mr. Lynn Johnson
FOOD SERVICE STAFF
Mrs. Tasha Brunner Mrs. Mary Christensen
Mrs. Jenny Pelzel Mrs. Barbara Smith
Supervisor: Ms. Amy Fisher
MIDDLE & SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL STAFF DIRECTORY
Ms. Lillie Anderson – Teacher Aide N105A
Mrs. Jalissa Bankston – 6th Grade Art N123
Mrs. Sharla Bauer – School Counselor S102B
Mrs. Marge Bednarek - Social Studies S101
Mrs. Judy Benzel - School Psychologist; Spec. Educ. Director S102C
Mrs. Jenny Boche – Technology/Teacher Aide S100F
Mr. Robert Bosshart - Business Education S104
Ms. Debbie Bowman - Vocal Music E105
Mr. Travis Carlson – Science N122
Mrs. Kelsey Carr – Middle School; Mathematics S132
Ms. Catelynn Clark – Spanish Intern N114
Mr. Greg Dieckman – Mathematics; Computer Science S112
Mr. Cory Ducklow – Middle School S131
Mr. Matt Ducklow – PE/Health; Athletics; Dean of Students E102
Mrs. Katie Early – English S109
Mrs. Karen Fesenmaier – Middle School S133
Mrs. Joan Ford - Special Education S106
Mrs. Sharon Fox - Special Education S105A
Mrs. Deb Franzen – Teacher Aide S105A
Mr. Jeff Furrer - Social Studies S113
Dr. Donald Haack - District Superintendent N112F
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Ms. Missy Hague – Teacher Aide S105A
Mrs. Brittany Hoolihan - 6th Grade School Counselor S102
Mr. Sean Hoolihan – 6th Grade Physical Education E104
Mrs. Melanie Horner – School Secretary N100
Mr. Patrick Houlton – English S111
Mr. Ned Hilleren – Chemistry; Physical Science N124
Mr. Derek Huebel – Teacher Aide / Custodian S105A
Mrs. Diann Johnson –District Administrative Assistant N112
Mr. Ryan Kapping – Biology; Life Science; Physical Educ. N126
COMMUNITY ED DIRECTOR (new) - Community Education N112E
Mrs. Sandy Langer-Wood – District Accountant N112G
Mrs. Becky Leland – Art & Design N123
Mr. Brad Linse - Mathematics S114
Mrs. Brenda Ninneman – Middle School / Intervention S103
NURSE (new) – School Nurse N102
Mrs. Amy O’Keefe – District Office Assistant N100B
Mrs. Ruth Peterson - MS/HS Office Aide N100
Mrs. Jenny Sauve - Nursing Supervisor N102
Mr. Ryan Schneider - Technology Education N121
Mrs. Tiffany Schultz – English S116
Mrs. Donna Schwartz – Instrumental Music E107
Mr. Chris Segerstrom – MS/HS Principal N100A
Mrs. Jessica Shafer – Social Studies 6; Teacher Aide S107
Mr. Conner Simon – Tech Assistant S100B
Mrs. Rachel Traynor – Special Education S107
Mr. Bruce Turner – Technology Director S100B
Ms. Carrie Urbanek - Agriculture N128
Mr. Brandon Walczak – Physical Education; Health E118
SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS
Mr. Peter Coyne, President
Mrs. Bobbie Jaeger, Vice President
Mr. Guy Leach, Treasurer
Mr. Brian Wang, Clerk
Mr. Andy Johansen
Mrs. April Robelia
Mr. Matthew Schreiber
Middle - High School Office Hours:
7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
(715) 778-5554 (715) 778-5556 (Fax)
(715) 778-6675 (School Closing Hotline)
www.springvalley.k12.wi.us
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TABLE OF CONTENTS Nondiscrimination Policy --- 02
School Calendar --- 06
I. ATTENDANCE --- 08 Excused-Unexcused Absences --- 08-09
Truancy-Return Procedure, Make Up Work --- 10
Tardies – Leaving During the School Day - Hall Passes --- 11
In-School Illness – Medication - Immunization Law --- 12
Field Trips --- 12-13
School Closings --- 13
II. ACADEMIC RECOGNITION PROGRAM --- 13
Honor Roll - Cardinal Honor Cards --- 13-14
Academic Letter - Annual Honors Banquet Awards --- 14
III. GENERAL INFORMATION --- 15 Graduation Requirements – Academic Standards - Grading --- 15, 17-18
Graduation Ceremony Participation --- 16
Intervention - Progress Reports – After-School Tutoring --- 19
Remediation & Retention – Student Testing --- 20-21
Guidance and Counseling - Library – WIN Study Time - Technology --- 21-24
Lockers - Year-End Checkout --- 24-25
Student Apparel - Visitors - Publications --- 25-26
Telephones - Fundraisers - Motor Vehicles --- 27
Noon Hour Rules - Fire/Tornado Drills - Season Passes --- 27-28
Scholarships - Student Schedules --- 21
School Dances - Security Cameras – Student Council --- 28-29
Withdrawal from Directory Data --- 29
Work Permits – Water Bottles --- 30-31
Age of Majority --- 31
IV. BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS --- 31 Academic Integrity --- 24
Code of Classroom Conduct --- 33
Buses – School & Spectator --- 34-35
Detention Procedure --- 33
Public Display of Affection - Inappropriate Items --- 35
Bullying/Harassment - Sexual Harassment --- 35-36
Thefts - Complicity Policy --- 36
Electronic Communication Devices / Cell Phones / BYOD --- 36-37
Tobacco Related Use/Possession --- 37
Controlled Substance Possession --- 37-38
Weapons Policy --- 38-40
V. GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE --- 40
Student Handbook Appeal --- 40-41
VI. CO-CURRICULARS --- 42
Co-Curricular Code --- 42-50
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SCHOOL CALENDAR – 2019-20 August 27, 28, 29 Teacher Inservice / No School for Students
September 2 Labor Day / No School
September 3 First day for students in 4K – 9th Grade
September 4 First day for students in 10th - 12th Grade
October 7 No School for Students
8:00 a.m. - noon MSHS Teacher Inservice
12:30 – 3:30 p.m. MSHS Parent-Teacher Conferences (Elem. Schedule – Full Day Inservice)
October 24 & 29 3:30-7:30 p.m. Middle School Student-Led Conferences
Pre-arranged schedule – Grades 6 & 7 only
November 1 1st Quarter Ends
November 4 Teacher Inservice / No School for Students
November 27-29 Thanksgiving Break / No School
Dec. 23-Jan. 1 Winter Break / No School (Classes resume Thurs., Jan. 2)
January 16 & 17 First Semester Exams
January 17 2nd Quarter Ends; 1st Semester Ends
January 20 Teacher Inservice / No School for Students
February 17 Teacher Inservice / No School for Students
March 19 3rd Quarter Ends
March 20 No School
April 9-13 No School / Spring Break
May 23 Graduation – 2:00 p.m.
May 25 Memorial Day / No School
June 1 & 2 Earliest Possible Days for Second Semester Exams
June 4 Last Day of School for Students
June 5 Teacher Inservice (all day)
NOTE: Second Semester Exams will be the last two or three days of school.
Consult the complete District Calendar for details regarding inclement weather
and the end of the school year.
Oct. 4, Dec. 6, Feb. 7, April 3
Early Release dates for teacher team planning.
Dismissal at 1:15 p.m. (elementary) and 1:35 p.m. (middle-high
school)
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Progress Reports will be distributed for every class monthly throughout
the school year. Progress reports will be distributed by email but
available as printed copies upon request for those families without
regular email access or for those families who prefer printed copies.
Questions regarding grades or progress reports should be made directly
to individual teachers by email, phone, or written note.
Week of September 23 *
Week of October 14
Tuesday, November 12 - Report Cards distributed to students
Week of December 9 *
Tuesday, January 28 - Report Cards distributed to students
Week of February 17 *
Week of March 16
Tuesday, March 31 – Report Cards distributed to students
Week of May 4*
Tuesday, June 16 - Report Cards available for pick up
* The first progress report in each quarter will be used for
updates to high school students’ What I Need (WIN) time
privilege levels.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The Pledge of Allegiance is a statement of loyalty and support for the
ideals of this nation of which we are all a part. It says that we believe
in liberty, justice and equality for everyone, regardless of race, color or
creed. These ideals are our nation's foundation.
State law directs every public school in the state to offer the Pledge of
Allegiance or play the National Anthem each school day. Students are
requested to stand, remain attentive, and show respect during the
pledge as a way to honor those who had the foresight to provide these
freedoms for us.
SCHOOL SONG
On Spring Valley, On Spring Valley,
Fight on for your fame.
Cardinal power keeps us scoring,
A victory sure this time.
On Spring Valley, On Spring Valley,
Fight on for your fame.
Fight Cardinals! Fight! Fight! Fight!
To win this game.
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I. ATTENDANCE (778-5554)
Regular attendance, punctuality and responsibility are essentials of
good performance on any job. Absence from school is the greatest
single cause of poor student achievement in school. Since state law
118.15 requires attendance, students, parents and school should view
attendance at school as the student's primary job as students build work
readiness skills.
NOTIFICATION OF A STUDENT’S ABSENCE
When a student in grades 6-12 is absent from school without the
absence being pre-arranged, the parent/guardian should call the school
at 778-5554 Ext. 5200 by 9:00 a.m. or otherwise notify the school by
9:00 a.m. Parents may also email Attendance Clerk Mrs. Ruth Peterson
at [email protected]. If calls are not received when a
student is absent, parents may be contacted using the telephone
numbers listed on the ‘District Information and Emergency Form’.
Parents may request a print-out of their child's attendance by simply
calling the office. These attendance records are also available to parents
online using Family Access. (See also Intervention – Family Access, p.
18)
EXCUSED ABSENCES
As required by Wisconsin Statute 118.15 and by School Board Policy
431, written parental or guardian explanation of a student’s absence is
required for an absence to be excused. Emails to the Attendance Clerk
([email protected]) will be regarded as written
explanation.
A parent/guardian may request that their student be excused for any
reason, provided such absence has been cleared before the absence
occurs by direct written communication from the parent to the school.
Such absences shall be for no more than 10 days in a school year.
A parent/guardian may request that their student be excused from
school for the following reasons: (1) illness; (2) emergency family
matters; (3) observance of religious holidays; or (4) required presence
in court. The parent/guardian request shall be in writing and shall
include the reason for the student’s absence and the specific time period
for which it is effective. This parent/guardian request shall be signed by
the parent/guardian. This request may be made before or after the
student’s absence. If the request is made after the student’s absence, it
must be made within two school days of re-admittance to classes.
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All absences will initially be categorized by the school as either
“verified” or “not verified,” depending on the communication received
from the parent/guardian. Absences which remain “not verified”
beyond the second school day following re-admittance to classes may
be considered unexcused and may require the time missed to be made
up as assigned per 118.16(4)(c).
In extreme extenuating circumstances, the Principal or designee may
grant additional excused absences after considering the student's overall
attendance pattern, truancy, school achievement, or academic
disabilities.
PRE-ARRANGEMENT OF ABSENCES
All absences which can be reasonably foreseen should be pre-arranged.
The "pre-arranged absence form" should be obtained from the office one
to five school days prior to the expected absence when practical. Students
should contact each of the teachers of classes from which they will be
absent requesting written confirmation of the appropriate class
assignments as verified with the teachers' signatures. When the form is
complete, it should be returned to the principal’s office. Students should
retain a copy of the form until the end of the grading period indicating
assigned work, the pre-arranged due date and the student's notes of the
date completed and submitted for grading.
UNEXCUSED ABSENCES
An absence is unexcused when a student misses school for reasons not
approved by law and District policy, which may occur with or without
parental knowledge, or when the school has not received timely parent
notification for a student's absence.
Other examples of explanations for an absence that would be
unexcused include but are not limited to: missing the bus,
over-sleeping, car problems when bus transportation is available,
unexplained personal reasons, non-emergency appointments and family
trips when not approved in advance.
Students remain responsible for information covered during all
absences. The time missed for unexcused absences must be made up
outside the school day as assigned. The Principal has the final discretion
as to whether an absence is unexcused.
Please be aware that "not hearing the
alarm clock, sleeping in, staying up
too late, preparing for another
class, etc." are excuses that we will
be unable to honor.
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TRUANCY
A student is “truant” when s/he is absent from school without an
acceptable excuse for all or part of any day on which school is held.
Flagrant or repeated cases of truancy will be grounds for suspension,
further restriction, and/or police or court referral. A “Habitual truant”
is a student who is absent from school without an acceptable excuse part
or all of 5 days or more on which school is held in a semester. (S.
948.45, 118.15, 118.16)
In April 2008, the Village of Spring Valley passed a truancy ordinance
(S. 30-187) to help curb habitual truancy. Any student who is a habitual
truant may be subject to penalties such as a citation, fines or fees,
suspension of the driver’s license, etc., as described in the village statute.
Anyone 18 years of age or older who contributes to a student’s truancy
may also be subject to penalties.
RETURN PROCEDURE AFTER AN ABSENCE AT THE MS/HS
1) If the absence was not pre-arranged, report to the MS/HS office and
present a written explanation from a parent/guardian. The office
will issue a make-up slip.
2) Present the make-up slip to each teacher every class period as a re-
admit to class. It is recommended that the student retain the
completed make-up slip as a record of make-up work assigned. It
remains the student's responsibility to contact the teacher(s) to
make arrangements for making up work missed during an absence
from school. (Note: The pre-arranged absence form serves this
purpose when absences are pre-arranged, so students will complete
one form or the other.)
3) Students will be given the opportunity to make up work they missed.
4) Unless otherwise specified and authorized, a student shall have two
(2) days of make-up time for each day of absence.
5) Tests and quizzes missed during an absence will be scheduled to be
taken at a time mutually agreed upon by the student and the
teacher.
6) Absences during MS/HS semester exams must be approved by the
Principal. If approved, the semester exams will be taken at a
mutually agreed upon time.
7) For unexcused absences / truancy, time missed must be made up
outside the school day. (See Unexcused Absences, p. 9.)
EXCESSIVE ABSENCES
Student absences for the school year totaling all or parts of 7, 11 and 15
days, whether excused or unexcused, will prompt parent notification
per county truancy committee recommendations. Cumulative absences
in a school year beyond the 15th absence (120 cumulative class periods
11
of an eight period schedule) will be scrutinized by the Principal,
attendance officer, or designee as part of the student’s overall
attendance/academic progress review. The review and excusing of
future absences may require parent/guardian participation in
development of an individualized monitoring and academic progress
plan.
After the 15th absence in a school year, a student absence due to illness
not verified by a doctor or the school nurse may not be excused and
therefore time must be made up outside the school day.
TARDINESS
Almost all tardiness is unnecessary. Students who enter the classroom
late disrupt instruction. One of our tasks is to help students develop
habits of punctuality and responsibility when arriving at school and to
each class. Each student who is late for a class must report directly to
the class. S/he should see the teacher after class to be sure attendance
is recorded correctly. No tardy passes will be issued by the office. All
tardies to class are unexcused unless a specific, authorized pass is
written by the staff member who initiated the tardiness. Tardy passes
should be extremely rare; staff members should use discretion in
determining the need to cause a student to be late for class. Students
who are not prepared for class and therefore sent back to their locker to
get needed materials will be considered tardy for class. The third
unexcused tardy in a quarter will result in one detention assigned.
Each subsequent unexcused tardy in the quarter will result in an
additional detention assigned. Excessive tardies (totaling more than six
in a quarter) will result in additional consequences assigned. A student
will be considered unexcused for a class period any time they are
absent 10 minutes or more for an unexcused reason.
LEAVING THE MS/HS DURING THE SCHOOL DAY
A student may not leave school property during the school day unless
he/she has been excused through the high school office and received the
appropriate blue pass. If a student becomes ill, he/she must see the nurse
or office staff, then after contacting parents, check out in the middle-high
school office. Students leaving school for medical or dental appointments
must sign out and back in with the office.
HALL PASSES Whenever it is necessary for students to be out of class during a class
period, they must have a properly prepared hall pass in their possession.
Students should also sign out on a classroom log kept by the instructor.
Hall passes for use during a study hall must be obtained prior to that
study hall. Hall passes are just that. They are not "Leave School
Permits".
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STUDENT MEDICAL CONCERNS
In-School Illness: If a student becomes ill during the school day, he/she
should report to the nurse's office so his/her parents or guardian can be
notified and arrangements can be made for additional medical attention
or transportation home. Nursing facilities are available for all students in
the office from 8:00 a.m. until 3:20 p.m. In case of severe injury
occurring at school, the instructor/supervisor should be alerted and the
office should be contacted immediately. With the rare exception of
extreme emergency, failure to follow the check-out procedure will result
in the absence recorded as unexcused.
Medication: Office personnel and the school nurse should be notified of
students taking either over-the-counter or medications prescribed by their
medical doctor. Students are not to carry medications with them or
keep medications in their assigned lockers unless given specific
authorization by building administration. For the protection of students,
medications at school or school functions MUST remain in the original
fully labeled pharmacy container and are to be registered with the school
nurse and kept in the nurse's office where they will be logged and
dispensed.
Medical Excuses: These written explanations and requests should be
brought to the attendance office. Students having medical conditions
that limit participation in any class, including Physical Education, may
require modifications and possibly alternative assignments to take the
place of full class participation. Specific long-term or chronic medical
concerns which interfere with a student’s ability to fully participate in
class activities require a physician’s statement (see also statute
118.15(3)(a)).
IMMUNIZATION LAW
By law, any student admitted to any school shall, within 30 school days,
present written evidence to the school of having completed the first
immunization for each vaccine required for the student's grade and being
on schedule for the remainder of the basic and recall (booster)
immunization series. (S.252.04, 252.21)
FIELD TRIPS School sponsored field trips and co-curricular activities will occasionally
cause students to miss a class. These activities are known in advance and
students, upon their return to class, remain responsible for classwork
missed. A permission slip containing current emergency information
must be filled out and signed by a parent/guardian for each field trip
outside the school district and returned to the teacher organizing the trip.
These absences will not be considered as missing school.
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The guidance office will grant a junior or senior student ONE exempt
absence per year to visit a college, university, technical school, interview
for a job or visit an Armed Forces representative off campus, provided
arrangements are made in advance with timely confirmation from the
institution. The absence is expected to be fully pre-arranged with all work
completed and turned in where practical.
SCHOOL CLOSINGS In the event of school closing due to weather or other emergency, a
message will be sent out via the district’s Skylert system. An
announcement will also be broadcast on several regional television and
radio stations. Information can be accessed via the school’s website
(www.springvalley.k12.wi.us) or by calling the school closing hotline
at 778-6675. WCCO 830 AM WMNE 1360 AM or 92 FM
KARE11-TV Channel 11 WIXK 1590 AM or 107.1 FM
WCCO-TV Channel 4 WQOW TV Channel 18
With regard to inclement weather resulting in hazardous driving
conditions, the parents or guardians make the ultimate decision regarding
whether a student will attend school that day. Under these conditions, the
day's absence will be excused.
II. ACADEMIC RECOGNITION PROGRAM
In order to be eligible for academic recognition, individuals must be
full-time students, enrolled in at least 7 classes per day for the entire
school year. State and federal law regarding special education
supersedes this for those students.
These honors include: Honor Roll, Honor Cards, Academic Letters,
Honors Banquet and Awards, National Honor Society, and Graduating
with Honors.
Students participating in the Early Graduation option are still eligible
for all honors for the period in which they were enrolled full-time.
HONOR ROLL The Honor Roll will consist of all 6-12 students who earned a quarter
grade point average of 3.0 or above. The Honor Roll will be published in
the Pierce County Herald and Spring Valley Sun quarterly. In addition,
the students on the Honor Roll shall be identified by grade within the
following classifications:
1) Students who earned a 4.00 grade point average
2) Students who earned a grade point average between 3.60 and 3.99
3) Students who earned a grade point average between 3.00 and 3.59
Please note: Students who earned a grade below a "C" are ineligible for
that Honor Roll.
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CARDINAL HONOR CARDS To help motivate and reward Spring Valley Middle-High School students
for good citizenship and commendable academic achievement, students
may apply for a Cardinal Honor Card. These will be issued and
endorsed to students who appropriately complete the application process
and demonstrate the basic qualifications. Students may pick up honor
card applications along with report cards each quarter. Honor Cards and
the associated privileges may be revoked at any time if the student does
not maintain the academic and citizenship standards for which the card
was awarded.
SVHS ACADEMIC LETTER
A Spring Valley High School Academic Letter would be awarded when
a Semester Grade Point of 3.6 or above is achieved for the student’s
third semester in high school. These semesters need not be
consecutive.
ANNUAL HONORS BANQUET AWARDS A procedure and program will be used to recognize academic honor
students each spring. Students achieving 3.60 to 4.0 GPA during any of
the first three grading periods (nine week quarters) of the school year or
the fourth quarter of the previous year will be eligible to attend an honors
luncheon to be held in May.
Recognition is as follows:
1) Students attaining a GPA of 3.60 to 3.99 will receive recognition in
the form of:
- A bronze pin for one quarter noting their achievement of a GPA
between 3.60 and 3.99.
- A bronze medal engraved with the school year for two quarters.
- A silver medal engraved with the school year for three or four
quarters.
2) Students attaining a 4.0 GPA will receive the following recognition:
- A gold medal engraved with the school year.
- The student's name will be placed on an Academic Honors Plaque
displayed in the high school commons area for those who achieve a
4.0 GPA for all four quarters and both semesters of a school year.
Students will receive only the highest award for which they qualify.
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III. GENERAL INFORMATION
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS & ACADEMIC STANDARDS
As outlined by Wis. State Statute 118.33 and current School Board
Policy (345.6), Spring Valley High School requires students to carry a
minimum of seven courses per semester and earn a minimum of 26.0
total credits to graduate. (See below and pp. 17-18 for details.) In
addition, beginning with the Class of 2017, students must successfully
complete a state-mandated, district-administered civics test.
All obligations must be fully satisfied prior to being issued a signed
diploma. Courses taken by students outside of Spring Valley High
School’s curriculum offerings require prior approval or must be shown to
be comparable to be credited toward a diploma.
Students are encouraged to make normal progress toward graduation. A
high school student's grade level classification is determined in part by
the number of semester credits earned. Yearly determination is made
after summer school and prior to the opening of school based on the
following number of credits accumulated: 18.0+ and enrolled in at least
their seventh semester are Seniors, 13.0+ are Juniors, and 6.5+ are
Sophomores, unless otherwise specifically exempted. If a student is
found to be credit deficient, the student and his/her parent will participate
in discussions with the school counselor and high school principal to
establish a remediation plan designed to help the student get back on
track to graduate with his/her class. Remediation plans may allow for the
student to advance in grade level classification or may require grade level
retention. More information on requirements, retention, registration and
course offerings can be found in the separate "SVHS Course Description
Booklet".
The School District of Spring Valley utilizes the Wisconsin Model
Academic Standards. These standards can be found at
http://dpi.wi.gov/standards It is important to remember that these
standards are goals for teaching and learning. They are not the
curriculum, which is determined locally. The curriculum is how we
choose to help our students meet the standards. The Wisconsin Model
Academic Standards have standards for many academic areas and
include the common core standards in mathematics and English
language arts.
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GRADUATION CEREMONY PARTICIPATION
Those students who have earned a cumulative G.P.A. of 3.6 and above
will be recognized as “Graduating with Honors” and will enter and be
seated by G.P.A. rank. Graduating with Honors is determined after the
first semester of the senior year, based on the first seven semesters of
high school. See School Board Policy 460 for details.
Appropriate dress and behavior will be demanded so that the
commencement ceremony continues to be a source of community pride
and fond remembrances. Graduation ceremony participation may be
denied to students who have not met the necessary requirements to obtain
a high school diploma or as discipline for misconduct or unmet
obligations/requirements.
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SVHS GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS Students must carry a minimum of 3.5 credits per semester and attend 4
years. Students must earn 26.0 or more credits.
Spring Valley High School graduation requirements specify that
students must earn a minimum of the following REQUIRED COURSE
CREDITS:
4 credits of English:
English 9 1 credit
English 10 1 credit
English 11 1 credit
English 12 -or- A.P. English 1 credit
3 credits of Social Studies:
World Geography (9) 1 credit
American History (10) 1 credit
Civics (11) ½ credit (and at least one of the following ½ credit courses: Social Issues, Law &
You, Sociology, Psychology, Social Problems, History of Thought,
WWII History, Science & Society A, WI History, AP History, AP Psych)
3 credits of Science:
Physical Science (9) 1 credit
Biology (10) 1 credit
Applied Physics* (11) ½ credit
Senior Science** (12) ½ credit *Applied Physics requirement can be replaced by passing ½ credit of either
Chemistry or Physics
**Contemporary Issues in Science, Science Theory, Advanced Biology, Advanced
Chemistry, Water Science, Geology, Anatomy & Physiology, Astronomy,
Biotechnology & Genetics, Ecology, Organic Chemistry, Oceanography, Electricity
& Magnetism, Marine Biology, Science & Society B, Meteorology, Ichthyology,
Zoology
**Students who have completed 4 or more credits of science prior to their senior
year may be eligible for a waiver of the Senior Science requirement. See the
principal for details.
3 credits of Math (taken in grades 9-12) - Program I, Program II,
and Program III options listed below:
Algebra IA (9)... 1 cr.
Algebra IB (10)...1 cr.
Geometry (11)… 1 cr.
optional:
Algebra II (12)…1 cr.
---------------------------
Note: In Program I,
Algebra IA is
taken as a 9th grader
by recommendation
of instructor.
Algebra I (9).....1 cr.
Geometry (10). 1 cr.
Algebra II (11)..1 cr.
optional:
Algebra III (12).1 cr.
or
Pre-Calculus (12) 1 cr. ----------------------------------------------------------------
Note: Program II
is the traditional
mathematics
program.
Algebra I (8)……..0
math credit (elective
credit granted)
Geometry (9)……. 1 cr.
Algebra II (10)…...1 cr.
Pre-Calculus (11)...1 cr.
Calculus(12)……...1cr.
Note: In Program III,
Algebra I is taken as an
8th grader by
recommendation of
instructor.
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1 ½ credits of Physical Education:
Physical Education (9) ½ credit
Physical Education (10) ½ credit
PE 11 or 12, Wellness, Physical Fitness,
or Sports Officiating ½ credit
1 ½ credits of other required subjects:
Document Processing (9) ½ credit
Health (9) ½ credit
Financial Literacy (11) ½ credit
A minimum of 10 elective credits: In addition to the 16 credits listed
above, students must also earn the necessary elective credits to meet the
total credit minimum as specified for their graduating class and in
Board Policy 345.6.
GRADING Each teacher is responsible to outline his/her grading procedure at the
beginning of a course. Report cards are prepared and distributed after the
conclusion of each nine week quarter. Semester exams are to be given in
each class and may count up to 20% of the semester grade. High School
credit toward a diploma is earned in eighteen-week semesters. Semester
grades are calculated based on the two quarter grades along with the
semester exam grade earned. Grade point values and 6-12 grading scale
for report card letter grades are described as follows:
A 4.00 92% +
A- 3.67 90-91%
B+ 3.33 88-89%
B 3.00 82-87%
B- 2.67 80-81%
C+ 2.33 78-79%
C 2.00 72-77%
C- 1.67 70-71%
D+ 1.33 68-69%
D 1.00 62-67%
D- .67 60-61%
F 0.00 Below 60%
I Incomplete (0.00) *
W Withdraw (0.00)
PAS Pass (0.00)
FAL Fail (0.00)
* Incompletes must be completed within two weeks of the end of the
grading term or the grade reverts to the current grade in the gradebook.
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INTERVENTION
Family Access: In order to keep parents and guardians up-to-date on
their student’s academic progress, Spring Valley Middle-High School
utilizes Skyward Family Access, an internet-based program allowing
parents/guardians to check their student’s grades from any computer
with internet access. Family Access accounts can be viewed by going
to the school webpage at www.springvalley.k12.wi.us. The
parents/guardians should contact the principal’s office to receive their
log-in and password as well as an instruction sheet.
Progress Reports: Formal Progress Reports are intended to describe
with a degree of detail the academic productivity of individual students.
They will be emailed to parents each month throughout the school year
when report cards are not issued, as noted under the School Calendar
section on page 5 of this handbook. Printed copies will be available
upon parental request. Questions regarding grades or progress reports
should be made directly to individual teachers by email, phone, or
written note. Periodically, full progress reports may be printed or
emailed for students at risk of failing or at times when the quality of the
student's work is considerably below the level of expectation. In
addition, parents can review students’ grades anytime by using our
internet-based Family Access system. For more information on this
system, please contact the high school office for directions and
passwords.
After School Tutoring: After school tutoring staffed by teachers is
available on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 3:30-4:15 p.m.
The usual schedule includes: Math on Mondays, Science on Tuesdays,
and English/Social Studies/General on Thursdays. Any student who is
experiencing academic difficulties is encouraged to attend. If a student
fails a core class for a quarter, a letter may be sent to his/her parent or
guardian strongly recommending that the parent/guardian require the
student to attend after school tutoring on a regular basis.
Individualized Intervention Plans: If a student is struggling
academically in more than one class or may fail a class for the
semester, individualized intervention plans may be implemented. The
student, parent/guardian, or teacher should contact the guidance
counselor to arrange a team meeting. The student, parent/guardian, the
student’s teachers, the guidance counselor or principal, and other staff
as appropriate will meet to create a plan to best support the student in
achieving academic success.
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REMEDIATION & RETENTION
Summer school is typically offered to remediate one or more Spring
Valley Middle and Senior High School core classes failed. During
summer school, all school rules apply.
Middle School students (grades 6-8) who fail any semester of a “core”
course (Language Arts/Reading, Math, Social Studies, or Science) have
two options for remediation:
1. Attend and pass summer school for the full
session (if offered).
2. Parents purchase a pre-approved, semester
length, grade level appropriate online or
correspondence course to be satisfactorily
completed and submitted prior to being fully
promoted to the next grade level.
If the course is not successfully remediated by the start of the next
school year, the student will repeat the core course for the semester(s)
during which s/he failed.
High School students (grades 9-12) who fail any semester of a required
course have two options for remediation:
1. Attend and pass summer school for the full
session (if offered).
2. Parents purchase a pre-approved, semester
length, grade level appropriate online or
correspondence course to be satisfactorily
completed and submitted prior to being fully
promoted to the next grade level.
If the course is not successfully remediated by the start of the next
school year, the student will repeat the required course for the
semester(s) during which s/he failed. If class sizes allow and the
student shows a strong desire to succeed, students may choose to repeat
elective classes which they have previously failed.
STUDENT TESTING
The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction requires the use of
several types of standardized testing. In the high school, 9th & 10th
grade students take ACT Aspire, while all 11th graders complete the
ACT and ACT WorkKeys. The state-mandated testing for lower
grades has changed each of the last three years. Here is last year’s
information as a guideline: The Forward Exam was given to grades 3,
5, 6, & 7 in English and math; 4 & 8 in English, math, science and
social studies; and grade 10 in social studies. These were computerized
tests administered in the spring. Results can be used to understand
students’ academic strengths as well as determine areas that may need
additional attention to increase proficiency. Students can use test
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scores along with interest inventories to explore career possibilities.
Results can also provide valuable curricular information for teachers.
Students and parents will be provided information on their individual
results, as well as information on Spring Valley’s group results.
Individual results will be included in permanent record cards and
transcripts. Students are encouraged to look at this as an opportunity to
show how they have progressed academically.
SCHEDULING & CLASS CHANGE REQUESTS
Individual student class schedules are based on the student's needs, goals
and available class space. A student's schedule should be finalized not
later than after the first two days of each semester unless otherwise
exempted. Dropping or withdrawing from a course beyond that time
without proving extreme hardship may result in a failing grade of “F”
recorded for the semester. Additional information on course offerings, as
well as information regarding Youth Options and ITV courses can be
found in the current “SVHS Course Description Booklet.” To show
evidence of probable success, it is strongly recommended that a student’s
academic average be at a B- or above in order to participate in Youth
Options or ITV courses.
GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING
Tests taken and progress achieved at the elementary and middle levels
form the basis for academic counseling at the high school level.
Guidance services are available to all students when they need help
regarding social, educational, scholarship, vocational and career
concerns, or with personal development. Students who wish to meet
with the guidance counselor may make a request for an appointment
through the principal’s office. However, any time a student has an urgent
problem, he/she may come to the principal’s office and a member of the
guidance staff will attempt to meet with the student as soon as practical.
Please note: Schools cannot provide ongoing mental health counseling.
Contact the guidance counselor or your family doctor for a resource list
of outside services available in our area for this purpose.
SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Literature concerning available financial scholarship opportunities,
requirements and application deadlines are posted and available through
the guidance office with a general list also posted on the school web site
at www.springvalley.k12.wi.us . Local scholarships (as designated in the
SVHS Local Scholarship Booklet) are open to full-time Spring Valley
High School seniors and those students who have participated in the
SVHS Early Graduation option. Please be aware that scholarship
applications are scrutinized by committees based on their specific
criteria. As with job applications, well-written scholarship applications
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supported by solid documentation describing academic, co-curricular,
volunteerism and employment histories present the greatest opportunity
in the selection process. While support from concerned adults is valuable
in proofreading the applications before submission, it is important that
students complete applications themselves.
LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER SERVICES The school library provides a variety of educational materials for reading,
listening, viewing and individual learning. Most materials are loaned for
a period of two weeks. Fines are assessed for overdue materials.
Interlibrary loan services are available to access additional materials.
The LMC is available for use by individual students and staff between
the hours of 7:45 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. on most scheduled school days,
depending on staffing. Students using the LMC for research will be
given priority. When full classes are scheduled in the LMC, other
students should accomplish their LMC tasks quickly and quietly.
Students may remain as long as time is used appropriately and
productively. If not, they will be directed to return to class or study hall.
Students not using their time wisely may face restrictions.
What I Need (WIN) STUDY TIME
WIN Time is meant to be a productive period of time each day. The
students and the WIN homebase teacher need to work together to
establish an atmosphere most conducive for the completion of
schoolwork and building academic skills. The following expectations
encourage consistency to exist in all WIN homebase locations:
1. Students are expected to remain in their assigned seats and
work quietly and independently. Should the need arise to
speak to another student about an assignment, permission
must first be requested from the WIN teacher.
2. WIN homebase teachers will support and assist with
homework. Helping students get in the habit of checking
grades and missing assignments daily on Skyward Student
Access is encouraged.
3. WIN needs to be quiet and free from distracting sounds and
gestures. No game playing of any kind is allowed.
4. Any activities outside of studying, reading, student
collaboration on homework, etc. needs administrative
approval.
5. It is the responsibility of the student to make advance
arrangements with their classroom teachers to go to locations
other than their assigned WIN homebase. They will use the
WIN Travel Pass to visit a teacher for academic assistance.
WIN homebase teachers will not write out passes for students
to go to other classrooms. WIN teachers can only issue
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passes for students to go to the restroom, office, their locker,
or the computer labs (for under 10 minutes). These should be
kept to an absolute minimum. Students wishing to visit the
School Counselor should get their travel passes signed by
Mrs. Bauer ahead of time or ask their WIN homebase teacher
to call ext. 4143 to determine Mrs. Bauer’s availability.
6. WIN Time is designed to provide academic support and
assistance. Students whose grades and behavior demonstrate
that they do not need such a structured environment may be
granted the opportunity to participate in other, less structured,
school activities during this time. Student privilege levels
will be updated by the principal at the start and mid-point of
each quarter. Privileges may be revoked at any time.
7. Middle school advisories during 8th hour will run the same as
WIN homebases; however, middle school students are only
permitted to travel for academic assistance, LMC or
computer lab use. Middle school advisory periods will
typically include a 20 minute advisory lesson and 20 minutes
of study time.
TECHNOLOGY USE REGULATIONS
The technology provided for student use is a privilege designed to give
students access to the tools and instruction to meet established standards
of educational merit. Students who use school technology must adhere to
the following guidelines:
- All use of technology must be in support of education and research,
consistent with the purpose of the Spring Valley School District.
- Unauthorized or malicious attempts to physically alter hardware or to
access, modify, harm or destroy data of other users is prohibited.
- Protect your password. Never allow another person to know or use
your password.
- Only approved software may be used. Access only approved
programs and applications. Copyright laws limit installation of most
software.
- Refer to Board Policy 363.2 for further explanation. Misuse of
technology may result in restrictions ranging from two weeks to
permanent suspension of privileges and additional disciplinary
action.
In addition, students are able to “Bring Your Own Device” including
iPads, iPods, smartphones, e-readers, laptops, etc. Personal technology
devices are to be used for academic work, not social purposes.
Teachers will determine when technology is needed in the classroom.
Students are permitted to use their own technology for non-academic
purposes only before school, after school, and at lunchtime. High
school students are permitted to carry their personal technology with
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them, unless classroom rules prohibit this. Middle school students must
keep their personal technology in their lockers, except at lunchtime. At
no time will electronic (“cyber”) bullying or harassment be permitted.
Refer to the “BYOD Guidelines” and school board policies for more
details.
Student email accounts and other log-ins will be deleted two weeks
after withdrawal from school or by October 1st following graduation.
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
Honesty is a value that holds each person to the truth, to tell the full
truth, and to defend the truth. Honesty results in fairness for each
member of our school-community. Integrity is firm adherence to our
values with and without the presence of others. Respect is treating
others as we would like to be treated. In an environment of respect,
work we turn in as our own is our own. Responsibility is the quality of
being accountable for our actions and accepting the consequences of
our actions.
Our standards include the expectation that no student will engage in the
following unacceptable behaviors:
A. Cheating - to deliberately & dishonestly violate rules or
expectations in an attempt to gain some perceived advantage
B. Plagiarism - misrepresenting other's intellectual or creative
work as your own
C. Deliberate deception - written or spoken fraudulent acts
D. Obtaining an Unfair Advantage
E. Aiding and Abetting Dishonesty
F. Unauthorized Access to or Falsification of Records or Official
Documents
How should a student know if something is 'academically dishonest'?
- If it gives you or others an unfair advantage.
- If it is something your teacher would not be likely to approve and
your
school would not encourage as a proper, valid or acceptable method of
learning.
- If it is not how most students would accomplish the same task.
Depending on the severity of the offense, the number of offenses, the
impact on other students and teachers, and/or on the curriculum,
students may lose credit for a project or test, lose class or course credit,
be suspended pending a parent conference, or be recommended for
expulsion.
LOCKERS
Locker ownership is maintained by the school district. Each student is
assigned a locker for his/her school use. School authorities have the right
and responsibility to search lockers and their contents with or without the
25
student's knowledge and/or presence using any means appropriate if
authorities suspect that the lockers are being used for improper or illegal
purposes or to assure their proper use. Students are granted locker space
based on proper use and care but are prohibited from placing private
locks on lockers without specific authorization. If a student does not use
lockers in a responsible manner, the privilege may be taken away. See
School Board Policy 446.1 for more details.
Since the school cannot accept responsibility for articles lost or stolen
from lockers we recommend that students:
1. Do not bring valuable articles to school.
2. Do not reveal your combination to ANYONE.
3. Do not disable the lock, leave the locker ajar or unlocked.
3. Do not share a locker.
4. Report locker problems immediately to the office.
Materials displayed in lockers shall be in good taste and all material
removed at the end of the school year. Materials posted on the outside of
lockers are subject to office approval, the same as all other postings.
Students are financially responsible for any damage to their assigned
locker not previously reported to the office.
YEAR-END CHECKOUT
Students will be responsible for turning in a completed checkout form at
the end of the school year, signed by each of their classroom teachers, the
library, food service and athletic director, verifying that all books and
materials have been returned, and all fines and hot lunch monies have
been paid. The estimated amount to satisfy textbook replacement if the
form is not returned is $245, and will be assessed. If an individual
textbook is lost or destroyed, the student will be responsible for the
amount of the textbook replacement.
STUDENT APPAREL We take pride in the appearance of our students. In order to enhance
high standards and promote the teaching and learning process in our
schools, we must encourage neatness, cleanliness, and decency in
personal dress and appearance of all students and school personnel.
Remember, school is your workplace; come dressed appropriately for
the job. Recreational attire is rarely appropriate.
Any type of attire which may cause a physical hazard or attracts undue
attention to the wearer, and thus creates an unnecessary distraction or
tends to disrupt order in the school, is in bad taste and not acceptable. All
students should at all times be reasonably neat, clean, and appropriately
dressed for school activities in a manner which will not disrupt the
educational process, constitute a health or safety hazard, or violate civil
law. State health requirements dictate that shoes be worn at all times.
26
Coats, jackets, nonprescription sunglasses, and other forms of outside
wearing apparel, including hats, caps and other forms of head coverings
are restricted in the building during the school day, with the exception of
heating emergencies or assigned use as defined by the administration.
Bare midriffs or pants worn in such a way as to interfere with the normal
walking gait are not appropriate for school. Clothing with any word(s),
picture, logo or representation classified by the administration as vulgar,
obscene, racially divisive, disruptive, or otherwise socially unacceptable
in a school setting (example - advertising depicting substances illegal for
juveniles, etc.) will not be allowed. In interpreting this standard, the
principal will consider the advice of attorneys and court decisions in
balancing the students’ rights to freedom of speech and expression with
the school’s right to restrict speech that causes or may cause a substantial
or material interference with school activities or that undermines the
school’s basic educational mission.
VISITORS TO SPRING VALLEY MIDDLE-HIGH SCHOOL Parents are urged to take an interest in school functions and are always
welcome to visit school; please check in at the office when you arrive
during school hours.
Students may request, but are not encouraged, to bring a student friend
to school. Permission should be obtained at least one full day prior to
the desired visit with a letter on school letterhead from the visitor's school
administrator confirming that the student is enrolled in good standing at a
middle-senior high school and is legally absent from the school they
regularly attend. A visitor's pass will be extended as long as a visitor
remains with the host student and the visit remains conducive to
maintaining a learning environment. A SV student will be allowed to
bring no more than one visitor on any given day, and no student visitors
will be allowed during the two weeks or last month of a semester or dates
designated by the administration.
School policy is to welcome only those visitors who have legitimate
business at the school. Visitors are expected to leave promptly once
their business has been completed. All students and visitors must
accurately identify themselves upon request of school personnel or be
subject to appropriate disciplinary measures or legal referrals.
PUBLICATIONS, QUESTIONNAIRES, AND SOLICITATION Individuals who have materials they wish to post, distribute or sell on
school grounds during school hours or at school functions must have
specific prior authorization from the principal. Failure to fulfill this
advance approval requirement will result in appropriate disciplinary
action.
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TELEPHONES AND MESSAGES
The office telephone is a business phone and may be used by students
only after receiving permission from office staff to arrange 'leave school
permits' or in emergency situations. Students will be called from class to
receive emergency messages only. Every effort will be made to deliver
non-emergency messages to students, but parents and students should
remember this is not always possible. Students should remind their
out-of-school employers that work schedules, etc., should be arranged
outside of the school day. The pay phone has been removed from the
commons area. It has been replaced by an “emergencies only” phone;
only calls to 9-1-1 can be placed from this phone. With permission,
students may use the designated telephone located in the principal’s
office if it is essential that they contact someone during the school day.
(See pp. 35-36 for Cell Phones.)
FUNDRAISERS
The planning of school sponsored student fund-raising activities shall
take place during the meeting time of the student group, not during
regular class time. All fund-raising activity must be approved by the
principal prior to starting the activity or entering into any agreements,
contracts, or publicity. Participation on the part of the pupil is to be
voluntary. All fundraising accounting should be satisfied within 30
days of the end of the pre-scheduled fundraiser. Students should
always identify the club sponsoring the fund-raiser and the purpose of
the fund-raiser to any potential buyer.
MOTOR VEHICLES Cars or any form of transportation are not to be used during the school
day without office permission. This includes the noon hour. Vehicles are
to be parked in an appropriate manner in the front (west) parking lot.
Students are not allowed to be in the student parking lot during the noon
hour or at any other time during the school day without permission from
the office. School parking registrations forms are required to be on
file in the principal’s office for all student vehicles. Students are
expected to keep registration forms up-to-date. Vehicles must properly
display SVHS parking stickers or be registered in the office. Driving is a
privilege and driving on school grounds is a privilege that can and may
be restricted or revoked. Vehicles parked on school property are subject
to search if there is a reasonable suspicion that the search will result in
evidence that the student has violated or is violating school policies or
state laws.
NOON HOUR The MS/HS has a closed campus. Due to the staggered lunch periods,
student traffic in the classroom hallways must be limited. Students are
not to be in unsupervised areas in or around the school at any time.
During inclement weather the gym will be opened and supervised,
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restricting outside availability. Student vehicles shall remain parked
throughout the school day. Students should not be in the parking lots
during noon hour. Inappropriate behavior will result in restricted
freedom.
NOON HOUR RULES (GYM OR OUTDOOR USE) 1. The main responsibility is safety for all. No rough play can be
accepted.
2. In the gym, use correct shoes. No food or drink of any kind is to be
brought into the gym. Pencils, pens, or personal music players are
not allowed on the court. Gym bleachers are not to be out or opened.
3. No full court basketball - maximum of 6 to 8 players per basket.
4. While on campus, students are to remain in supervised areas.
5. Gym/field privileges may be restricted for students not utilizing
Physical Education time wisely.
6. A supervisor may, at his/her discretion, restrict a student from noon
use of the gym or field from 1 day to 9 weeks for inappropriate
behaviors.
FIRE DRILLS / TORNADO DRILLS Drills will be conducted periodically during the school year. Students
should acquaint themselves with procedures to be used in leaving the
building when a fire alarm sounds and the procedures for seeking cover
in case of severe weather. Be aware that any student who triggers a false
fire alarm or misuses fire extinguishers placed throughout the building
may be prosecuted in accordance with the state law. (S. 118.07, 941.12, 941.13)
SEASON PASSES Student season passes for home (non-tournament) athletic activities may
be purchased in the administrative office at any time during the first
semester. The cost for a student season pass is $20.00. Adult season
passes may be purchased for $40.00. School district residents age 65 or
older are encouraged to contact the high school office to request
complimentary senior citizen passes.
SCHOOL DANCES All middle school dances are open only to Spring Valley Middle School
students and end no later than 9:00 p.m.
High school students in good standing may invite a guest to high school
dances. These names must be registered in the office before the day of
the dance, following timelines announced by the advisor of the student
organization sponsoring the dance. Guests must complete an emergency
information/medical release form to be submitted before the day of the
dance, also following the announced timelines. The student is expected
to introduce the guest to the chaperones. High School dances or parties
must end by 10:00 p.m. on school nights, or 12:00 a.m. on non-school
nights. Students who leave dances will not be re-admitted.
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SECURITY CAMERAS
Security cameras have been installed to assist in ensuring student safety
and to protect students from crimes such as theft. There are also cameras
on the school buses. All persons entering the Spring Valley Middle-High
School or riding the school buses may be videotaped. To assist with
investigations, students and staff are asked to note the precise time and
location of incidents. Incidents which violate the behavioral guidelines
and expectations outlined in this Student Handbook should be reported to
the administration as soon as practical. Bus riders should still report all
incidents to their drivers. Intentionally causing damage to the security
cameras is a crime and will be investigated as such.
STUDENT COUNCIL - MIDDLE SCHOOL and HIGH SCHOOL
Purpose: To provide an opportunity for student contribution and opinion;
To provide orderly direction for student activities; To promote positive
school spirit; To develop leadership and group decision-making skills; To
provide an advocacy and organizational base for students in the school
community.
Structure: Separate Councils for Middle School (Grades 6-8) and High
School (Grades 9-12). Open council format, allowing for participation of
all students who meet the established membership standards. Each grade
level will have the opportunity for representation.
Membership: Each Council will consist of students who are interested in
and then active on the Student Council. To apply for the Council, see the
advisor for the paperwork explaining the selection process. To continue
on the Council, members must meet the established standards for
responsibility, citizenship, academics, and engagement in Council
activities. (See Student Council membership materials for details.) There
is no minimum or maximum number of students permitted on the
Council.
Duties: Attend and actively participate in meetings and activities
sponsored by the Student Council.
WITHDRAWAL FROM "DIRECTORY DATA" The Spring Valley Public Schools shall keep directory data for students
enrolled in the schools. "Directory Data" means those pupil records that
include the pupil's name, address, telephone listing, and photographs,
video images, degrees and awards received and participation in officially
recognized clubs or teams. This "Directory Data" may be released by
school administration to outside parties upon written request, unless the
parent or guardian of minor child or a student 18 years of age or older
notifies the school in writing that such "Directory Data" shall not be
released. Requests to withhold "Directory Data" shall be addressed to the
Middle/High School Principal within the first 2 weeks of each school
year or date of new student enrollment. Please note: Directory data may
be used in press releases or on school social media.
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WORK PERMITS Please note: 2017 Wisconsin Act 11 was effective on June 23, 2017.
Please see the text of Act 11 for the most accurate information.
As of June 23, 2017, people age 16 and 17 no longer need to obtain work
permits. State law still prohibits the use of minors to perform hazardous
work. All youth under age 16 who wish to work outside the home in a
paid position must first obtain a work permit specific to the job they have
been offered. To maintain compliance of appropriate Employment of
Minor Laws (formerly Child Labor Laws) Wisconsin Statute 103.70(1)
requires the following information to obtain a work permit for those who
are under age 16:
1) Proof of age - Birth Record, Baptismal Record, Wisconsin driver’s
license, or Wisconsin photo ID.
2) Letter from the employer with the employer’s address and phone
number stating the intent to employ the minor along with the job
duties, hours of work and time of day the minor will be working.
3) Letter from the minor's parent; guardian; or court-ordered foster
parent while the minor is under their care, supervision and custody;
consenting to the employment. As an alternative, the parent,
guardian or foster parent may countersign the employer's letter.
4) The minor's social security card or letter direct from the social
security office giving the social security number and stating that the
minor is getting a new card.
5) Statutory permit fee is $10.00. The employer is required to pay the
permit fee. If the minor advances the fee, the employer shall
reimburse the minor not later than the minor's first paycheck.
Drop off the required information at the District Office before school.
Make an appointment with District Office staff to complete the on-line
application.
WATER BOTTLES Drinking plain water is one way to promote good health. Students are
permitted to have water bottles in class. They must be clear (not
translucent colored) water bottles containing only non-flavored, non-
carbonated (PLAIN) water. Bottles may be refillable or disposable as
long as they are clear plastic. Teachers may need to regulate use of water
bottles in their classrooms if there are disruptions. If a spill occurs, the
student is responsible for clean up, Bottle filler spigots will be available
at each set of drinking fountains. Students must keep water bottles away
from computers and other technology.
AGE OF MAJORITY Spring Valley High School recognizes that when a student reaches the
age of majority (S.990.01) they are afforded the rights, privileges and
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responsibilities of adulthood. However, students who are eighteen years
old or older remain subject to the same rules as other students. Written
parental consent is required prior to a change in status, except as
described below:
1. Students, 18 and older may, after filing the appropriate form, request
that an absence be excused from school without parental consent. They
must, however, follow the same guidelines as those set up for parents by
board policy and state law (S.118.15).
2. Individuals who have attained the age of 18, if suspended may
negotiate their own readmission.
3. Eighteen-year-olds have the right to examine their own records given
proper procedure.
IV. BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS
The general conduct of our students reflects upon our school. Students
should show respect in attitude, behavior and language toward fellow
students, staff members and school district property.
Examples of severe infractions of the behavioral expectations include,
but are not limited to:
A. Causing or attempting to cause a disruption that interferes with any
school function, activity or purpose.
B. Insubordination; Misconduct; Disregard of reasonable requests,
direction or commands made by school personnel; Making false or
misleading statements, dishonesty or active attempts of deception
including plagiarism.
C. Fighting, harassment, threats, causing or attempting to cause
physical injury, enticing others to violence or disruption. (S.947.013,
940.19, 940.225)
D. Vandalism, theft or attempts; knowingly receiving stolen property.
(S.943)
E. Using or possessing disruptive or explosive devices, weapons
(including look-alikes) or any associated paraphernalia. (S.948.605)
F. Gang Activity. Disruption or potential for disruption or intimidation
caused by gang symbols, signs or projecting gang affiliation or
recruitment.
G. Involvement in a crime or activity that could threaten the health
and/or safety of others. (S.941, 947)
H. Substance Abuse: Tobacco, alcohol or other controlled or
uncontrolled substance abuse, possession; representation;
manufacture; use; under the influence (zero tolerance); possession
with intent to sell or deliver; attempted possession; delivery or sale
on school premises or at school sponsored events is prohibited. This
includes look-alike substances. (S.120.12, 125.09, 125.07, 118.41,
161.41, etc.)
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I. Actions included or defined by local or state crimes against the
public peace, order, health, or safety. (Example - S.947.01
Disorderly Conduct: Whoever, in a public or private place,
engages in violent, abusive, indecent, profane, boisterous,
unreasonably loud or otherwise disorderly conduct under
circumstances in which the conduct tends to cause or provoke a
disturbance is guilty of a Class B misdemeanor.)
J. Gross misconduct not consistent with community expectations or
behaviors determined to be detrimental to the educational
environment.
Updated Wisconsin State Statutes can be researched at the following web
address:
http://www.legis.state.wi.us/rsb/stats.html
The following is a partial list of disciplinary steps that may result due to
infractions:
1. Verbal correction and warning by staff member
2. Call home by staff member
3. Parent/student/teacher conference
4. Discipline report and recommendation filed with the principal
5. Removal from class activities (unexcused, time to be made up)
6. Restriction of noon hour, hall pass, or study hall privileges or loss of
Honor card (social and/or scholastic probation)
7. Detention served outside the scheduled academic day
8. Referral to school guidance staff
9. Referral to police/agency(s)
10. Removal from co-curricular activities
11. In-school suspension
12. Out-of-school suspension (Students who have been suspended may
not attend or participate in any school activities during the
suspension.)
13. Other administrative action
14. Expulsion (Board action prohibiting a student from further attendance
for a designated time)
CODE OF CLASSROOM CONDUCT
(Excerpts of Spring Valley Board Policy 443)
The District is committed to providing an effective learning
environment for students and staff that is safe and respects the rights of
all individuals in the school community. School personnel are
responsible for maintaining a positive learning environment and for
enforcing proper order. Students are responsible for their behavior and
are expected to abide by this Code of Classroom Conduct and other
school and classroom rules that are established to maintain a productive
academic atmosphere in the school.
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Student conduct that violates this Code of Classroom Conduct, that is
dangerous, disruptive, unruly, or interferes with the teacher’s ability to
teach effectively cannot be tolerated. Any student who engages in such
conduct may be subject to disciplinary actions, possible referral to
authorities, removal from class, and/or placement in an alternative
educational setting. Conduct that is dangerous, disruptive, unruly, or
interferes with the teacher’s ability to teach effectively includes, but is
not limited to, the following:
Inappropriate physical conduct, repeated or extreme, intended to or
likely to harm, annoy, upset, threaten, or disrupt;
Inappropriate verbal conduct, repeated or extreme, intended to or
likely to annoy, upset, threaten, or disrupt;
Behavior that may constitute harassment;
Conduct which tends to cause, provoke, or attempt to incite a
disruption to the educational environment;
Possession or use of a weapon or other items that may cause injury
to others;
Possession of, use of, or being under the influence of alcohol or
other controlled substances (zero tolerance);
Destruction, vandalism, or theft of the property of the school
district or others;
Disregard for or defiance of teachers’ directives or classroom rules.
DETENTION PROCEDURE
Detentions are a part of the hierarchy of discipline used in the school.
The intent of this program is to promote and maintain a positive and
productive school environment. Detention time is designed to allow
students to focus on correcting behavior that is unacceptable in a
positive school environment. The goal of detentions is to improve
student behavior; the detention is not the end in itself but rather the
means to the end of improved behavior.
It is also the intent that serving detention take priority over any and all
co-curricular activities. This is to complement an academic
environment during school hours that promotes education to all
students regardless of their participation in activities outside the
academic setting. Every student deserves equal access to supportive
education.
SCHOOL BUSES Buses leave the school by 3:25 p.m. Students are to conduct themselves
in a safe and orderly manner on buses. For safe and efficient
transportation to and from school these regulations must be followed:
1. The school day begins when the student enters the bus in the morning
and ends when the student exits the bus in the afternoon.
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2. It is the student's responsibility to follow the instructions given by the
school bus driver.
3. All students must maintain responsible behavior on the bus for their
safety and the safety of others.
4. Students should respect each other and their property as well as the
driver.
(Refer to School Board Bus Behavior Policy 443.2 for specific
regulations.)
Bus drivers are responsible for student conduct while transporting
students to and from school. Security cameras have been installed on the
buses to assist in ensuring student safety and to help protect students
from crimes such as theft.. All persons riding the school buses may be
videotaped. To assist with investigations, students and staff are asked to
note the precise time and location of incidents. Incidents which violate
the behavioral guidelines and expectations outlined in this Student
Handbook should be reported to the bus driver or bus supervisor as soon
as practical. Intentionally causing damage to the security cameras is a
crime and will be investigated as such.
Bus drivers will report serious or persistent offenses to parents and to the
office. Students may be assigned a seat. Additional violations may result
in suspension from school or suspension from riding the bus if the parent
agrees to arrange transportation for the student. Only students assigned
to a bus route should ride that bus. Guests are not encouraged. If a
student wishes to have another Spring Valley student accompany him/her
on the bus as a guest, the guest’s parent must write a note giving
permission. The note should be brought to the office in the morning for
approval of the principal or designee. Notes must be picked up at the end
of the day and given to the bus driver.
Students who choose to arrange for their own transportation to school
also assume responsibility for their arrival time.
SPECTATOR AND PARTICIPANT BUSES Due to liability issues, students must use school transportation when
provided and then may not ride home from events with anyone but their
own parent/guardian without appropriate clearance. If a parent or
guardian wishes to take their own son or daughter home, to avoid
supervision complications, they must personally contact the coach,
advisor, bus driver or chaperone. The only exception to bus or parent
transportation options are where the parent/guardian has completed,
signed, and returned the ‘Transportation Release Agreement’. The
agreement requires identification of a responsible adult who is at least 21
years of age. An agreement needs to be completed each time a parent or
guardian wishes to have their child transported from away athletic, co-
curricular or other school sponsored event or related activity where
school transportation is provided. This ‘Transportation Release
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Agreement’ can be obtained from the school offices. It should be
completed, signed by the principal or athletic director and given to the
coach or adviser.
PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION The school atmosphere has limits as to how much public affection
students can display. Students who continue to display affection beyond
holding hands will be subject to disciplinary action.
INAPPROPRIATE ITEMS IN SCHOOL Any item a student brings to school which the administration classifies as
out-of-place in the school or inconsistent with the educational mission
will be confiscated and risk being destroyed. Items such as skateboards,
rollerblades, scooters, cigarette lighters, laser pointers, etc. are not
permitted inside the building. Additionally, students should not bring
expensive or fragile items to school. (See also Cell Phones on the
following page.)
BULLYING / HARASSMENT Bullying or harassment of others is not permitted within the Spring
Valley school system. Students and staff are to exist in an environment
free of bullying and harassment. Should bullying or harassing behaviors
occur, the harasser or bully should be immediately told that the advances
or behaviors are unwelcome and to STOP the offensive action. Students
who are knowledgeable of bullying or harassment or are being bullied or
harassed should report the problem to a staff member immediately.
Harassment is unwanted behaviors such as: annoying, badgering,
embarrassing, threatening to cause harm to another or enticing others to
do the same. (S.947.013) Bullying is deliberate or intentional behavior
using words or actions, intended to cause fear, intimidation, or harm.
Bullying is often repeated behavior and always involves an imbalance of
power. (Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction) Written statements
will be required as a part of the complaint process. The complaint forms
are available in the office. (See School Board Policy 411.1)
SEXUAL HARASSMENT Sexual harassment will not be tolerated within the Spring Valley school
system. Sexual harassment refers to unwelcome sexual advances which
are clearly unwanted and personally offensive or requests for favors and
other verbal, physical and/or visual contact of a sexual nature which
interferes with the working or learning effectiveness of its victims or
peers. Should sexual harassment occur, the harasser should be
immediately told that the advances or behaviors are unwelcome and to
STOP the offensive action. If such harassment occurs, a staff member or
administrator should be notified immediately. Wisconsin State Statute
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111.32(13) defines sexual harassment: Behaviors, whether or not
repeated, that are sufficiently severe to interfere substantially with an
individual's work performance or to create an intimidating, hostile or
offensive work environment.
Appropriate corrective disciplinary action and/or referrals will result
against those who retaliate against any person who in good faith reports
harassment or violence.
If anyone is unsure how to most appropriately respond to offensive
behavior please contact a guidance staff member or the principal as soon
as practical. Written statements will be required as a part of the complaint
process. The complaint forms are available in the office. (See School
Board Policy 411.1)
COMPLICITY POLICY Any student judged to be helping, aiding, enticing, or provoking other
students to violate school rules and regulations are subject to disciplinary
measures up to a level equal that issued to the violator.
THEFTS Suspected thefts should be reported to the principal with a written police
statement submitted accurately describing all pertinent information.
ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICES / CELL PHONES Because of the increased availability of internet-capable, personal
electronic devices (laptops, smart phones, iPads, iPods, e-readers, etc.),
beginning in the fall of 2012 the Middle-High School implemented new
“Bring Your Own Device” (BYOD) policies and procedures. After
experience with implementation of the BYOD policies and procedures
and due to the expanded availability of classroom technology for
students, middle school students must keep their personal technology in
their lockers during the school day, except for at lunchtime. High
school students must follow teacher directives in regard to specific
classroom guidelines for BYOD. Personal technology in the classroom
is to be used for educational purposes only. Recreational use should be
limited to lunchtime, before and after school. Cyber-bullying and other
types of harassment are strictly prohibited.
Due to concern for loss, damage, or theft, students are reminded to be
careful about how they handle their personal technology, including how
they secure it when it is not in use. It is strongly suggested that
personal technology be kept in locked lockers when it is not in use.
Radios, CD players, i-Pods, mp3 players, headsets, boom boxes, tape
recorders, video recorders, cameras and electronic games are not to be
brought into classes or study halls without specific authorization and may
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only be allowed during the student's lunch period. Due to the possibility
of theft and disturbances, it is recommended these items not be brought
to school.
TOBACCO RELATED USE AND/OR POSSESSION Students may not have in their possession, use, smoke or distribute any
tobacco product or look-alike, or electronic cigarette and/or
paraphernalia, including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes,
vaping cartridges/e-juice, other vaping liquids, pipes, chew or snuff on
school premises or at school sponsored events. (S.120.12(20), 134.66(3),
254, etc.) This also includes all types of e-cigarettes, liquids, and
paraphernalia, regardless of whether or not the product contains nicotine.
1st offense: One (1) day suspension, conference for re-admission
including student, parent, and principal. Referral to police/juvenile
authorities.
2nd offense: 1-3 day suspension, conference for re-admission including
student, parent, and principal. Referral to police/juvenile authorities. May
be required to submit a plan to deal with tobacco cessation during school
hours.
CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE POSSESSION AND
DISTRIBUTION Student alcohol and other controlled substance or drug abuse, the
possession; manufacture; use; attending under the influence (zero
tolerance); possession with intent to sell, deliver, or manufacture;
attempted possession; delivery; or sale of alcoholic beverages or
controlled substances (including look-alike substances) by students on
school premises or at school-sponsored functions or events is prohibited.
(S.125, 169.490, 169.495) No student may use; possess; possess with the
sole intent to use; deliver; possess with the intent to deliver; or
manufacture drug paraphernalia (or look-alike items) on school premises
or at school-sponsored events (S.161.41, S.169.49, S.169.571, S. 961, S. 938).
Vaping liquids containing THC or other controlled substances are
included under this category.
Any student in violation of the above will be suspended with referral
made to the appropriate authorities along with a recommendation to the
Superintendent regarding expulsion from the Spring Valley Schools.
Misuse of legal substances may result in a student being “under the
influence.” Discipline for such a situation will follow the same
guidelines as use of illegal substances. Wisconsin Laws shall control
when determining intent.
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WEAPONS POLICY
A. Policy It is the policy of the school district to maintain a positive, safe, secure
learning and working environment. In striving to attain such an
environment, the district takes the position of no tolerance for weapons in
our schools, except as specifically stated below. All weapons or
instruments that have the appearance of a weapon are prohibited within
all school environments and the school zone, except for educational
purposes as authorized in advance by the building principal or designee.
School environments include, but are not limited to, district-owned
buildings; leased or rented facilities; school-sponsored activities; field
trips; school vehicles and school buses, rented or owned; and school bus
stops. Anyone found to be in possession of a weapon in any area defined
in this policy, before, during, or after school hours is subject to
administrative and/or legal action (S.948.60, S.948.605, S.948.61,
S.941.235, S.941.296, S.947.01)
B. Possession Students and non-students, including employees and other adults, are
forbidden to knowingly or voluntarily possess, store in any area subject
to one's control, handle, transmit, or use any instrument that is considered
a weapon or a "look-alike" weapon in any of the school environments
listed above.
C. Reporting of Weapons Any person having knowledge of a weapon in school as defined within
this policy shall immediately notify the nearest school employee and/or
office staff as appropriate. Students who see or become aware of a
weapon at school shall not remain in the presence of the person or
group if a weapon is present. Students must notify an appropriate
adult immediately for the safety of all concerned.
D. Weapons Definitions "Weapons" means any firearm whether loaded or unloaded; any
chemical, substance, device, or instrument designed as a weapon or
through its use capable of threatening or producing bodily harm or death;
or any device or instrument that is used to threaten, intimidate, frighten,
or cause bodily harm or death.
1. Category 1 Weapons The district takes a position of "Zero Tolerance" on the following objects
or their look-alikes:
a. All firearms, whether loaded or unloaded, ammunition, etc.
b. Other guns of all types including pellet, B-B, stun, look-alike, and
non-functioning guns that could be used to threaten others, etc.
c. Knives, switchblades or automatically opening blades, daggers,
swords, razors, etc.
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d. Artificial knuckles or other objects designed to be worn over the fist
or knuckles, etc.
e. Blackjacks, clubs, numchucks, throwing stars, etc.
f. Explosives
g. Poisons, chemicals, or substances capable of causing bodily harm
h. Bows and arrows, etc.
j. Any other device or instrument used to intimidate, threaten or inflict
harm.
2. Category II Weapons - Possession of Objects That May or May
Not Be Considered Weapons Such potentially dangerous objects may include, but are not limited to:
a. Small pocket knives.
b. Fireworks, fire crackers, and smoke bombs.
c. Throwing darts, sling shots, etc.
d. Nuisance items, toys or items capable of causing significant
disruptions or harm.
e. Unauthorized tools.
f. Mace or pepper spray, etc. (S.941.26)
E. Violations
1. Category 1 Violation by Students The procedure for offenses includes confiscation of the weapon(s),
notification of the Superintendent, holding an administrative hearing with
the student to confront them with the evidence when possible,
notification of parent/guardian, suspension from school, involvement of
police with recommendation to charge, and recommendation to the
superintendent regarding expulsion.
F. Administrative Discretion Regarding Possession of Category I and
II Weapons 1. A person who finds a weapon on the way to school, on school
property, or in the school building and takes the weapon immediately to
the principal's office shall not be considered in possession of a weapon.
Students must notify an adult immediately for the safety of all
concerned.
2. There could be a very rare occasion when a weapon is inadvertently
brought onto school property or is in one's possession that upon
discovery must immediately notify the principal. If such an occasion is
clearly the case, the principal, after a thorough investigation, may use
discretion in determining the appropriateness of applying consequences
for a violation.
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G. Authorized Instructional and Work-Related Equipment and
Tools While this policy represents a "no tolerance" position on weapons and/or
look-alike weapons, it is not meant to interfere with instruction or use of
appropriate equipment (e.g. archery instruction in physical education
classes) and tools by employees and students. Such equipment, when
properly used and stored, shall not be considered a weapon for purposes
of this policy. However, when authorized instructional and work
equipment and tools are used in a potentially dangerous or threatening
manner, the guidelines and consequences of this policy will take effect.
H. Exceptions This policy, pursuant to Wisconsin Statutes 941.235 or any other related
chapter, provides for exceptions.
I. Students with Disabilities If the alleged violator is "a student with a disability" pursuant to
Wisconsin and federal law, special due process procedures are required.
V. STUDENT HANDBOOK GRIEVANCE
PROCEDURE
Please note: This ‘Grievance Procedure’ applies only to the Student
Handbook, not to the Co-Curricular Code. The specific Co-Curricular
Appeal Procedure is described within that code and applies to all co-
curricular matters.
Any complaint regarding the interpretation or application of student
related policy shall be processed in accordance with the following
procedures:
1) Any student, parent, or resident of the district complaining shall
report the complaint in writing to the principal.
2) The Principal, upon receiving such a written complaint, shall
undertake an investigation of the concern. The Principal will review with
the appropriate persons, the facts comprising the complaint. The
Principal shall decide the merits of the case, then determine the action to
be taken, if any.
3) If the complainant does not feel satisfied with the decision of the
Principal, he/she will contact the Superintendent.
4) If the complainant still does not feel that s/he has received an answer
or resolution to their complaint or concern, the superintendent (or
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designee) will provide them with the Formal Complaint or Concern Form
(School Board Policy 870 EXHIBIT). The initial written complaint
submitted to the principal should be attached to this form. Upon receipt
of the completed form, the school board executive committee will
consider the complaint and will determine the appropriate course of
action (i.e. meeting with the complainant and the full board, or declining
to further consider the issue). The decision of the appropriate level of the
board shall be final.
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VI. CO-CURRICULARS
SPRING VALLEY MIDDLE & SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
CO-CURRICULAR CODE FOR GRADES 6-12
Spring Valley’s co-curricular program is an integral and vital part of the
total educational program. It is specifically designed toward voluntary
participation to provide opportunities to develop skills, positive attitudes,
and experiences beyond those found in the curriculum. Students’
physical, emotional, recreational, social, and vocational interests and
needs are addressed by the program. It is designed to create learning
experiences which will be carried over to out-of-school life and
post-school experiences.
As a performer/participant representing the school and community, it is
anticipated that the student will display appropriate conduct at all times
and under all circumstances. Having assumed these responsibilities,
students are expected to:
Graciously accept decisions of coaches/advisors as well as
officials/judges.
Be familiar with the organization/sports rules and requirements.
Practice self-control reflecting positive sportsmanship and character.
Perform/compete and accept the outcome graciously.
Treat all competitors and fans with courtesy.
Remember that actions reflect on the students as well as school and
community, year-round.
I. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS & EXPECTATIONS: Eligibility applies specifically to school-sponsored events where a
student is representing this school. A student/participant is required to
follow the school’s code of conduct on a year-round (12 month) basis.
A team, club or other organization may choose to set higher standards
than what is stated in this code.
Middle and High School students are charged a participation fee for
each school-sponsored athletic co-curricular in which they participate
in each school year. Homeschooled student participants pay the same
participation fees as full-time students. The participation fee for high
school athletics is $75.00. The participation fee for middle school
athletics is $35.00. The participation fee for athletics must be paid at
the office prior to participation in the first contest of each athletic
season. Students are charged a participation fee of $25.00 for each
academic co-curricular (club or organization) they choose to participate
in each school year. A family cap of $500.00 per year for all co-
curricular activities (athletic and academic) is in effect. Inquiries
regarding payment of a participation fee should be referred to the
building principal.
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A. ACADEMIC CRITERIA: Participating students must pass all classes each quarter and
semester and maintain a minimum 1.335 grade point average
(GPA) each quarter and semester with no ‘Incompletes’. This
same standard will be applied to homeschooled participants by
requiring completion of the Homeschool Grade Report Form.
1. A failing quarter or semester grade will result in the student’s
removal from any co-curricular activity for fifteen (15) school
days and nights beginning with the last day of the grade-
reporting period.
2. A student may regain academic eligibility following a period
of fifteen (15) scheduled school days and nights of
ineligibility. To reinstate eligibility the student must have the
“Eligibility Reinstatement Form” signed by all of the student’s
teachers attesting that the student is doing satisfactory work in
all classes.
3. A student may not erase ineligibility status following the last
grade-reporting period through summer school courses
(including correspondence courses).
4. A student participating in co-curriculars for the first time at
Spring Valley shall be allowed one (1) probationary quarter to
attain the 1.335 GPA minimum, provided a failing grade was
not received the previous grading period. (Transfer students
will be treated as first-time participants). Sixth grade students
will be eligible for participation immediately upon entering
the sixth grade for the first quarter.
5. The IEP will be used to help determine eligibility of EEN
students.
6. Students must participate in practices during the suspension
for any performing co-curricular group. Unexcused absences
from practices will result in a one (1) day extension of the
suspension for each day missed.
7. Because fall sports often have contests before the school year
starts, there is a fall re-eligibility option that speeds up the
process if the student agrees to create an academic plan with
all of his/her teachers and to participate in structured study
sessions three mornings per week. See the Athletic Director
for the details of this option.
8. Senior academic honors and awards are determined after the
first semester of the senior year, based on the first seven
semesters of high school. This applies to all school and co-
curricular academic honors and recognition. See School Board
Policy 460 for details.
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B. ATTENDANCE CRITERIA: Absences other than excused pre-arranged absences will disqualify
students from participation on that day. In order to be eligible to
participate in co-curricular activities on a given day, students should
complete the usual attendance paperwork and procedures for
excused pre-arranged absences and receive approval from the
Athletic Director (athletics only) and/or principal before the absence
occurs. Participants must be enrolled as full-time students and must
attend the entire school day in order to participate in activities unless
there are unusual circumstances as determined by the principal.
Homeschooled students must have participated in their home-
based education program on that weekday in order to participate in
that day’s co-curricular activities. The Homeschool Attendance
Form will be used to verify attendance. Students who are too ill to
participate in their academic programs of study should not
participate in co-curriculars on that day.
C. CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE USE / ABUSE: To participate in co-curricular activities, the student may not:
possess alcoholic beverages,
consume alcoholic beverages,
be in the presence of alcoholic beverages when possession or
use is illegal.
(NOTE: “Being in the presence of alcoholic beverages” does
not apply to religious activities or their family’s event,
including weddings. See further explanation below.)
The student may not:
possess or consume controlled substances, except drugs as
prescribed by his/her doctor.
possess or consume tobacco products or vaping
products/paraphernalia.
If a student finds himself/herself in the presence of alcohol or
controlled substances as described above, the student must leave
immediately. Immediately means at once—not five or ten minutes
later. Violations occurring during summer vacation will be dealt
with at the start of the next school year.
Chemical Free Rules:
There will be no use or possession of any tobacco products
or e-cigarettes or similar products.
There will be no use or possession of alcoholic beverages.
There will be no use or possession of drugs (except by
doctor's prescription).
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Students in the presence of controlled substances when
possession or use is illegal are in violation of the code.
If a student finds himself/herself in the presence of alcohol
or controlled substances as described above, the student
must leave immediately. Immediately means at once - not
five or ten minutes later. To maintain full eligibility,
students are to avoid situations or circumstances which cast
doubt as to their commitment to honor the intent of the co-
curricular code.
The only exception our code allows with “in the presence of
alcoholic beverages being used illegally” is regarding
student involvement in a religious activity or their family’s
event, including weddings. Simply put, if a student is at a
public event such as a wedding their family was invited to,
they should not be processed for an “in the presence of”
violation. It would be in the student’s best interest to
distance themselves from use inconsistent with the high
standards of our code, but the expectation is not that their
family’s event should be avoided due merely to the fear of
an “in the presence of” violation by a “guilt by association”
finding.
1. First Violation:
a. Student will be suspended from participation:
1) Athletics - one-fourth of the scheduled events in the season.
If the suspension is not completed during the current athletic
season it will carry over to the next athletic season.
2) Activities - twenty (20) school days and nights. If the
student is not currently in an activity, the suspension will
begin when participation in an activity commences.
b. Students must participate in practices during the suspension
for any performing co-curricular group. Unexcused absences
from practices will result in one (1) day extension of the
suspension for each day missed.
c. Student must complete at least one in-house drug-alcohol
counseling session or decision-making session with the
guidance counselor with a written report filed with the
principal and parents.
2. Second Violation (during the probationary period):
a. Student will be suspended from participation:
1) Athletics - one-half (1/2) of the scheduled events in the
season. If the suspension is not completed during the current
athletic season it will carry over to the next athletic season.
2) Activities - forty (40) school days and nights. If the student
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is not currently in any activity, the suspension will begin when
participation in an activity commences.
b. Student must participate in practices during the suspension
for any performing co-curricular group. Unexcused absences
from practices will result in a one (1) day extension of the
suspension for each day missed.
c. Student must complete an out-of-school counseling drug/
alcohol assessment (if the violation was drug/alcohol related)
or a decision-making session with a written report filed with
the principal and parent. In addition, the student must
successfully complete a unit in decision-making offered
through the school guidance department.
3. Third Violation (during the probationary period):
a. Student will be suspended from participation:
1) Athletics - one (1) full season scheduled events in the
season. If the suspension is not complete during the
current athletic season it will carry over to the next
athletic season.
2) Activities - eighty (80) school days. If the student is
not currently in any activity, the suspension will
begin when participation in an activity commences.
b. Student must participate in practices during the suspension for
any performing co-curricular group. Unexcused absences
from practices will result in a one (1) day extension of the
suspension for each day missed.
c. Student must complete an individualized drug/alcohol or
decision making program, which will be pre-approved and
monitored by the principal. A written report must be filed
with the principal and parents.
4. All Subsequent Substance Abuse Violations:
a. All penalties will double from the preceding violation. To
reinstate eligibility, the student must also enter an individualized
drug/alcohol or decision making program, which will be
pre-approved and monitored by the principal. A written report
must be filed with the principal and parents. This program is
at no cost to the school district.
D. OTHER VIOLATIONS: 1. A student shall not violate State Criminal Statutes referencing
the 'Criminal Code'; 'Crimes against Life and Bodily Security';
'Crimes against Property'; 'Crimes against Sexual Morality'; or
any other criminal or civil statutes not mentioned which is
punishable by imprisonment.
Please note: Sexting (sending or soliciting naked
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photos/videos or sending or exchanging sexually explicit
messages) may fall under one of these categories of illegal
behavior.
2. Students convicted under the above statutes may not
participate in any activities until a period of one (1) year
following the date of conviction. Students must participate in
practices during the suspension for any performing co-
curricular group. Unexcused practices will result in a one (1)
day extension of the suspension for each day missed.
3. A student who is on in-school suspension or suspended from
school in any manner may not participate in co-curricular
activities while the suspension is in effect.
4. Additionally, suspension from co-curricular activities may
result from conduct not consistent with community
expectations. 5. Habitual truancy referral will result in loss of eligibility.
Reinstatement can be made by the principal based on
improved attendance.
E. ADDITIONAL CONSEQUENCES: 1. Probationary Period: Once a student has been found to be in
violation, the student will be placed on probation for one (1)
calendar year.
2. If a second or more violation(s) occurs while on probation, the
above penalties as listed will be enforced and the probationary
period shall extend for two (2) calendar years from most recent
violation.
3. A student in violation may not begin a new sport already in
progress.
4. A student in violation must successfully complete the sport in
which the penalty is served.
5. If a trip begins during a suspension, the student is excluded from
the entire trip.
6. A student who is on a two (2) year probation may not participate
in an extended (overnight) field trip. Examples are the FFA
National Convention, band tour, etc. Any money paid would
be forfeited.
7. A student must complete all items listed under the appropriate
violation section in order to return to participation in athletics
or activities. Failure to comply with ALL items will result
in continuation of the suspension until all items are
completed.
8. WIAA rules prohibit participation in the upcoming playoff or
tournament series if a student is serving a suspension when the
regular season ends.
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F. OTHER: 1. If the student completes the probationary period without another
violation, he/she will have a clean slate and the next violation will
be treated as a first violation.
2. In situations where rules of a sanctioning body are found to
be more stringent than this code (i.e. WIAA, DPI, etc.), the
application of those rules shall supersede this code. Any
specific situation not covered above will be handled on a case-
by-case basis by the principal.
3. State Tournament Attendance (athletics):
Juniors may attend the state tournament of each sport in which
they participate if the following conditions are met.
a. The student is not on a two (2) year probation at the time of
the tournament.
b. The student must follow any specific school or coach's rule(s)
pertaining to attendance at the tournament.
c. The student must have participated in the sport for at least
two (2) years (including the junior year). If this condition
cannot be met because of unusual circumstances, the principal
may waive this requirement.
d. For those attending the tournament, the school will: 1) Arrange for WIAA approved housing if available.
Housing is to be paid for by the student.
2) Arrange for the purchase of tickets to be paid for by the
student.
3) Provide transportation to and from the tournament.
4) Provide supervision during the tournament.
II. ADMINISTRATION OF CODE: A. An investigation shall commence if a notice is received by the
school from an adult (who is not a student) who witnessed the
violation or a police/court report or if a school employee has
reasonable suspicion that a violation occurred.
B. Alleged code violations will be investigated by the principal and/or
athletic director. If necessary, coaches and/or club advisors may
also participate in the investigation at the request of the principal.
C. If the student admits to the violation or the investigating team
determines that a violation occurred, the investigating team can
determine and implement the penalty according to the stated
guidelines. (See parts C, D, E, F on the previous pages.) The
penalty shall be reviewed by the principal and/or athletic director
for accuracy and consistency.
Once the penalty has been reviewed, the investigating team can
apply the penalty by notifying the student and parent immediately
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and with a follow-up letter copied to the athletic director (athletics
only), Guidance Staff, and the principal.
D. If a student admits to a violation before any notice is received by the
school or any investigation has begun, the penalty listed earlier
shall be reduced by 50% (fractions are rounded down).
E. CO-CURRICULAR APPEAL PROCESS:
1. If the investigating team’s decision is unacceptable to the
student, he/she shall have the right to appeal this decision.
The written appeal must be submitted within two school days.
2. The co-curricular appeal will be heard by an appeal board of
five people. They shall be representatives of the following
groups: One parent, one student and three school employees
as appointed by the principal. The principal may serve on the
co-curricular appeal board.
3. The Co-Curricular Appeal Board will review the facts and
circumstances of the violation that is being appealed. If it
appears that additional information was not considered by the
investigating team, the Co-Curricular Appeal Board may
consider that additional information.
4. The facts and circumstances of a violation as determined by
the Co-Curricular Appeal Board will be presumed to be
correct. The Co-Curricular Appeal Board may consider
alternate penalties, reaffirm or reverse the investigating team’s
decision.
5. The Co-Curricular Appeal Board should meet as soon as
possible but within three (3) weeks of the written appeal.
6. The Co-Curricular Appeal Board will enforce the Co-Curricular
Code adopted by the School Board.
7. The decision of the Co-Curricular Appeal Board shall be final
except as to procedural matters.
8. The Board of Education may review the Co-Curricular Appeal
Board’s decision for procedural errors only (ex. Student
appealed within correct timeframe, Co-Curricular Appeal Board
did not hear appeal, etc.).
9. In order to protect the interests and eligibility of all
team/club/activity members, if a student appeals a suspension,
according to the school’s appeal procedure, the student is
ineligible during the appeal process. (WIAA rules of
eligibility also require this [Article VII, Sect. 2C].)
10. This Co-Curricular Appeal Process (outlined above) applies
only to issues of co-curricular eligibility. The overall ‘Student
Handbook Grievance Procedure’ is addressed in ‘Section V.’
of this handbook and applies to all other (non Co-Curricular)
Student Handbook issues.
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ACTIVITIES COVERED BY THE
CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITY CODE (and other school-sponsored non-curricular activities as approved)
PUBLIC PERFORMING GROUPS NONPERFORMING
GROUPS
ATHLETICS ACTIVITIES
Cross Country Flag Corps-Color Guard FFA
Volleyball Pep Band Art Club
Football Solo/Ensemble-Band Tech Ed Club
Basketball Band Tour Spanish Club
Wrestling Dunn/St. Croix Honors Band Science Club
Softball Indianhead Honors Band MS Student Council
Baseball Jazz Band HS Student Council
Track Dunn-St. Croix Honors Chorus Class Officers
Golf Solo/Ensemble-Chorus Yearbook Staff
Vocal Jazz Geography Bee
Women’s Vocal Jazz Spelling Bee
Vallettes National Honor Society
Forensics Homecoming Court
Drama-School Play Prom Court
Equestrian Field Trips
Board approved: August 8, 2000. List reviewed June 30, 2019.
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Copies of this document are available upon request and
can be obtained in the Middle-High School Office or
online at: www.springvalley.k12.wi.us