HALLETTSVILLE ELEMENTARY

STUDENT/PARENT HANDBOOK

2016 – 2017

HALLETTSVILLE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

GENERAL INFORMATION _________________________________________________________________________________________ Board of Education Todd Schindler – President Robert Lundy – Vice President Marna Klimitchek – Secretary Paul Cook – Member Matthew Felchman– Member William Gerke – Member Chris Ranly ­ Member Central Administration Dr. JoAnn Bludau – Superintendent Dr. Mandy Bucek – Curriculum Director Todd Armstrong – Technology Director Tommy Psencik – Athletic Director Sheryl Mikeska – Superintendent’s Secretary _________________________________________________________________________________________ Hallettsville Elementary School 308 N. Ridge Jason Harris – Principal Hallettsville, Texas 77964 Ginny Janak – Assistant Principal (361) 798­2242, ext. 100 Trina Patek – Counselor (361) 798­4349 – fax Misty Targac – Secretary _________________________________________________________________________________________ Hallettsville Junior High School 410 S. Russell Sophie Teltschik – Principal Hallettsville, Texas 77964 Aaron Etzler – Counselor (361) 798­2242, ext. 200 Gail Tesch – Secretary (361) 798­3573 – fax _________________________________________________________________________________________ Hallettsville High School 200 N. Ridge Darrin Bickham – Principal Hallettsville, Texas 77964 Scott Cottenoir – Assistant Principal (361) 798­2242, ext. 300 Dena Strauss – Counselor (361) 798­9297 – fax Darlene Barcak – Secretary

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Hallettsville Independent School District

Mission Statement

HISD exists to educate and empower healthy, self­sufficient citizans who promote intergrity, creativity, and continual learning.

Hallettsville Elementary School

Campus Philosophy

It is our mission to utilize the best teaching strategies and strive to develop individual capacities to the highest degree possible while teaching students to be productive and

responsible citizens. We are committed and dedicated to our children and belief that each student can learn and experience success.

School Motto Brahma P.R.I.D.E.

P ractice self­control R espect myself, others and property I dentify safe choices D emonstrate responsibility and E xcel in all we do!!

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INTRODUCTION The Hallettsville Student Handbook provides important information regarding the operation of our campus. This publication includes a campus directory, along with policies, practices and procedures of general interest to students and parents. This booklet is intended to serve as a helpful resource to students, parents, school staff, and the Board of Trustees. Information in the 2016­2017 Student Handbook is subject to change without notice. Please contact a school administrator, counselor, or visit the HISD website (www.hisdbrahmas.org) for updated information or links to school district policies and procedures. Disclaimer This handbook is neither a contract nor a substitute for the official district policy manual. Rather, it is a guide to and a brief explanation of district policies and procedures related to student services, along with campus procedures. These policies and procedures can change at any time; these changes shall supersede any handbook provisions that are not compatible with the change. For more information, confer with the campus principal. District policies/procedures can be accessed on line at www.hisdbrahmas.org and can be found in the district student handbook. It is important that each student is aware of the policies and procedures related to his/her status. The rights and obligations of all students are governed by the laws of the State of Texas, rules of the State Board of Education and policies of the Hallettsville ISD Board of Trustees. Our primary business is the education of our youth, and everything we do should be directed toward providing students with the best possible learning environment. In meeting our primary objective, all of us must comply with reasonable rules and regulations established by the Board of Trustees. Thus, everyone is expected to do his/her share to create and maintain a pleasant and safe environment conducive to our educational goals. Hopefully, these policies and regulations will assist us in reaching our objective. These policies and regulations are subject to change at the discretion of the Superintendent or his/her designee. Any adoptions, deletions, or revisions of board or administrative policy take precedence over those printed in this handbook. This handbook will be revised annually. Suggestions for additions and improvements to this handbook are welcome and may be sent to the campus principal.

Student Handbook Revised August 2016

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STUDENT HANDBOOK TABLE OF CONTENTS PREFACE Welcome PLEDGES OF ALLEGIANCE AND A MOMENT OF SILENCE PRAYER Required Notices for Parents: SECTION I: PARENTAL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT Other Important Information for Parents Parents of Students with Disabilities Services for Title I Participants Directory Information Requesting Notices of Certain Student Misconduct Prohibiting the Use of Corporal Punishment School Safety Transfers SECTION II: OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS ABSENCES/ATTENDANCE Parent’s Note after an Absence Doctor’s Note after an Absence for Illness Attendance for Credit School Hours Tardiness Release of Students from School ACADEMICS Grading Guidelines PROMOTION AND RETENTION Homework Makeup Work AWARDS AND HONORS BULLYING COMPLAINTS AND CONCERNS Computer Resources CONDUCT Applicability of School Rules

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Dress and Grooming Conduct Before and After School Use of Hallways During Class Time Disciplinary Program Rationale Objectives Accountability: Conferences Counseling Academic Counseling Personal Counseling Psychological Exams, Tests, or Treatment Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation Reporting Procedures Investigation of Report Distribution of Published Materials or Documents School Materials Nonschool Materials...from students ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES Telecommunications Devices, Including Mobile Telephones Other Electronic Devices Responsible Use Policies for Technology Resources Unacceptable and Inappropriate Use of Technology Resources Extracurricular Activities Fundraising Health­Related Matters Contagious Diseases / Conditions Food Allergies Medical Exclusion from School Policy MEDICINE AT SCHOOL SUBSTANCE ABUSE PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION Homeless Students Prayer Safety vii

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Emergency Procedures Emergency School­Closing Information School Facilities Use by Students Before and After School Cafeteria Services Lunch Detention Meetings of Non­curriculum Related Groups Social Events SEARCHES Students’ Desks Trained Dogs Students Taken Into Custody Notification of Law Violations STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) TEXTBOOKS, ELECTRONIC TEXTBOOKS, AND TECHNOLOGICAL EQUIPMENT TRANSPORTATION School­Sponsored Trips Buses and Other School Vehicles Glossary Acknowledgement of Receipt ANTI-BULLYING CONTRACT

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PREFACE Welcome To Parents and Students: Welcome to Hallettsville Elementary School! The faculty and staff are excited to begin another school year. We are looking forward to working with you and your child to make this school year productive and rewarding. The Elementary Student Handbook is an important key to our success for the school year. Please review the Elementary Student Handbook together. Print and return the signed Acknowledgment Form (last pages of handbook) to the school. If you would like to receive a hard copy of this handbook please contact the Elementary office. If you have questions regarding any policy or procedure discussed in the Elementary Student Handbook , please do not hesitate to contact the campus office. We will be more than happy to answer your questions and provide additional information. We look forward to working together to make this school year positive and productive. The Elementary Student Handbook is designed as an accent to the Student Code of Conduct and District Student Handbook . The Elementary Student Handbook is a resource that is specific to the Elementary School. Please reference all of these resources in order to review the basic information that you and your child will need during the school year. In an effort to make it easier to use, the handbook is divided into sections. Below is what to expect in: I. Preface ­ Introduction to the handbook and campus. II. Required Notices and Information for Parents — With notices that the district must provide to all parents, as well as other information to assist you in responding to school­related issues. We encourage you to take some time to closely review this section of the handbook. III. Information for Students and Parents — Organized alphabetically by topic for quick access when searching for information on a specific issue. IV. Glossary – Reference section for educational terms and acronyms. Please be aware that the term “the student’s parent” is used to refer to the parent, legal guardian, or any other person who has agreed to assume school­related responsibility for a student. Both students and parents should become familiar with the Student Code of Conduct and District Student Handbook , both documents adopted by the board and intended to promote school safety and an atmosphere for learning. These documents may be found as separate documents online or available in the campus front office.

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The Elementary Student Handbook is designed to be in harmony with board policy and the Student Code of Conduct and District Student Handbook . Please be aware that the handbook is updated yearly, while policy adoption and revision may occur throughout the year. Changes in policy or other rules that affect Student Handbook provisions will be made available to students and parents through newsletters or other communications. In case of conflict between board policy, the Student Code of Conduct, or District Student Handbook and any provisions of the Elementary Student Handbook , the current provisions of board policy, the Student Code of Conduct, or District Student Handbook are to be followed. After reading through the entire handbook with your child, keep it as a reference during this school year. If you or your child has questions about any of the material in this handbook, please contact a teacher, the counselor, or the campus administration.

Please complete and return to your child’s campus the following required forms: Anti­Bullying Contract form

Title I Compact form Parent­Student Acknowledgment form Student Directory Information Form

Consent/Opt­Out Forms The above mentioned forms are found in the registration packet and/or the handbook. Please note that references to policy codes are included so that parents can refer to current board policy. A copy of the district’s policy manual is available for review in the school office or online at www.hisdbrahmas.com. Sincerely, Jason E. Harris Hallettsville Elementary Principal

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Pledges, Mission, and Vision School Pledge I pledge to make my school a better place with Brahma pride; Practice self control, Respect myself, others, and property, Identify safe choices, Demonstrate responsibility, and Excel in all we do!!! Mission The mission of Hallettsville Elementary School is to create quality instruction within a positive, safe, nurturing environment where staff, students, families, and the community work cooperatively to learn to the best of their abilities, accept responsibility for their own learning, and become productive members of society. Vision Our vision is to ensure that all children in the Hallettsville Independent School District have access to a quality education in a safe environment that enables them to achieve their potential now and in the future in the social, economic, and educational opportunities of our state and nation. PLEDGES OF ALLEGIANCE AND A MOMENT OF SILENCE Each school day, students will recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Texas flag. Parents may submit a written request to the principal to excuse their child from reciting a pledge. A moment of silence will follow recitation of the pledges. Each student may choose to reflect, pray, meditate, or engage in any other silent activity during that minute so long as the silent activity does not interfere with or distract others PRAYER Each student has a right to individually, voluntarily, and silently pray or meditate in school in a manner that does not disrupt instructional or other activities of the school. The school will not encourage, require, or coerce a student to engage in or to refrain from such prayer or meditation during any school activity.

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Required Notices for Parents: It is the policy of Hallettsvile ISD not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, or handicap in its educational programs, services or activities as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. The following district staff members have been designated to coordinate compliance with these legal requirements: Title IX Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of gender, contact the Superintendent. Section 504 Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of disability, contact the district 504 coordinator. All other concerns regarding discrimination: Contact the Superintendent. SECTION I: PARENTAL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES This section of the Elementary Student Handbook includes information on topics of particular interest to you as a parent. PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT Working Together Both experience and research tell us that a child’s education succeeds best when there is good communication and a strong partnership between home and school. Your involvement in this partnership may include: Encouraging your child to put a high priority on education and working with your child on a daily basis to make the most of the educational opportunities the school provides. Ensuring that your child completes all homework assignments and special projects and comes to school each day prepared, rested, and ready to learn. Becoming familiar with all of your child’s school activities and with the academic programs, including special programs, offered in the district. Discussing with the counselor or principal any questions you may have about the options and opportunities available to your child. Reviewing the requirements of the graduation programs with your child once your child begins enrolling in courses that earn high school credit. Monitoring your child’s academic progress and contacting teachers as needed. [See Academic Counseling and Academic Programs] Attending scheduled conferences and requesting additional conferences as needed. To schedule a telephone or in­person conference with a teacher, counselor, or principal, please call the school office at your child’s school for an appointment. The teacher will usually return your call or meet with you during his or her conference period or before or after school. [See Report Cards/Progress Reports and Conferences ]

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Becoming a school volunteer. [For further information, see policies at GKG and contact volunteer liaison at the administration office or your child’s campus.] Participating in campus parent organizations. (See individual campus handbooks) Serving as a parent representative on the district­level or campus­level planning committees, assisting in the development of educational goals and plans to improve student achievement. For further information, see policies at BQA and BQB, and contact central administration. Serving on the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC), assisting the district in ensuring local community values are reflected in health education instruction and other wellness issues. [See policies at BDF, EHAA, FFA, and information in this handbook at School Health Advisory Council.] Being aware of the school’s ongoing bullying and harassment prevention efforts. Contacting the school officials if you are concerned with your child’s emotional or mental wellbeing. Attending board meetings to learn more about district operations. Parents are strongly encouraged to visit our campus. Parents are welcome to eat lunch with their children, attend field trips and special events, and visit the classroom. Please check with the front office for visitor access to the school. We ask that you give 24 hours notice if you wish to sit in on a class with your child. These campus visits are at the campus principal’s discretion. Information will be sent home throughout the school year. Parents are encouraged to check the school’s website for updated information on special events. Attending board meetings to learn more about district operations is also encouraged. [See policies BE and BED for more information.] Other Important Information for Parents Parents of Students with Disabilities Parents of students with learning difficulties or who may need special education services may request an evaluation for special education at any time. The designated person to contact regarding options for a child experiencing learning difficulties or a referral for evaluation for special education services is the Elementary principal or counselor at (361) 798­2242 X100. Services for Title I Participants The Parent Involvement Coordinator, who works with parents of students participating in Title I may be contacted at the elementary office (361) 798­2242 X100. Directory Information The district often needs to use student information for school­sponsored purposes:

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For these specific school­sponsored purposes, the district would like to use your child’s name, address, telephone listing, electronic mail address, photograph, date and place of birth, major field of study, degrees, honors, and awards received, dates of attendance, grade level, most recent educational institution attended, participation in officially recognized activities in sports, and weight and height of members of athletic teams. This information will not be used for other purposes without the consent of the parent or eligible student. Unless you object to the use of your child’s information for these limited purposes, the school will not need to ask your permission each time the district wishes to use this information for the school­sponsored purposes listed above. Please see the Directory Information Waiver at the end of this handbook to select how limited student information can be released. Return the form to the campus office as directed. Requesting Notices of Certain Student Misconduct A noncustodial parent may request in writing that he or she be provided, for the remainder of the school year, a copy of any written notice usually provided to a parent related to his or her child’s misconduct that may involve placement in a disciplinary alternative education program (DAEP) or expulsion. [See policy FO (LEGAL) and the Student Code of Conduct] Prohibiting the Use of Corporal Punishment Corporal punishment—paddling the student—may be used as a discipline management technique in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct and policy FO (LOCAL) in the district’s policy manual. If you do not want corporal punishment to be administered to your child as a method of student discipline, please return the form included in the student enrollment packet or district student handbook (Appendix I). Approval will be obtained by a parent before corporal punishment is administered to any student. A signed statement must be provided each year. School Safety Transfers As a parent, you may: Request the transfer of your child to another classroom if your child has been determined by the district to have been a victim of bullying as the term is defined by Education Code 37.0832. Transportation is not provided for a transfer to another campus. See the superintendent’s office for information. [See policy FDB.] Consult with district administrators if your child has been determined by the district to have engaged in bullying and the district decides to transfer your child to another classroom. [See Bullying on page 9, policy FDB, and policy FFI.]

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SECTION II: OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS Topics in this section of the handbook contain important information on academics, school activities, and school operations and requirements. Take a moment with your child to become familiar with the various issues addressed in this section. It is organized in alphabetical order to serve as a quick­reference when you or your child has a question about a specific school­related issue. If you are unable to find the information on a particular topic, please contact your campus principal’s office. ABSENCES/ATTENDANCE Students must attend school in accordance with the law, TEA, local school district policy, and the District Student Handbook. School officials and officers will follow all policies when checking and enforcing the students’ attendance. Two state laws—one dealing with compulsory attendance, the other with attendance for course credit—are of special interest to students and parents. They are discussed below. Compulsory Attendance State law requires that a student between the ages of 6 and 18 attend school, as well as any applicable accelerated instruction program, extended year program, or tutorial session, unless the student is otherwise excused from attendance or legally exempt. State law requires attendance in an accelerated reading instruction program when students are assigned to such a program. Parents will be notified in writing if their child is assigned to an accelerated instruction program. A student will be required to attend any assigned accelerated instruction program, which may occur before or after school or during the summer, if the student does not meet the passing standards on the state assessment for his or her grade level and applicable subject area. Exemptions to Compulsory Attendance State law allows exemptions to the compulsory attendance requirements for several types of absences if the student makes up all work. These include the following activities and events: Religious holy days; Required court appearances; Activities related to obtaining United States citizenship; Service as an election clerk; and Documented health­care appointments, including absences for recognized services for students diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders. A note from the health­care provider must be submitted upon the student’s return to campus. For students in the conservatorship (custody) of the state, Mental health or therapy appointments; or Court­ordered family visitations or any other court­ordered activity, provided it is not practicable to schedule the student’s participation in the activity outside of school hours.

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Accommodations for Children of Military Families, absences of up to five days will be excused for a student to visit with a parent, stepparent, or legal guardian who has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or immediately returned from certain deployments. When a student must be absent from school, the student must bring a note signed by the parent or doctor that describes the reason for absence. Parent’s Note after an Absence When a student must be absent from school, the student—upon arrival or return to school—must bring a note signed by the parent within three days that describes the reason for the absence. A note signed by the student, even with the parent’s permission, will not be accepted unless the student is 18 or older or is an emancipated minor under state law. A parent note will only be accepted for five absences per semester. A phone call from the parent may be accepted, but the district reserves the right to require a written not. Doctor’s Note after an Absence for Illness Upon return to school, a student absent for more than 2 consecutive days because of a personal illness must bring a statement from a doctor or health clinic verifying the illness or condition that caused the student’s extended absence from school. Otherwise, the student’s absence may be considered unexcused and, if so, would be considered to be in violation of compulsory attendance laws. Should the student develop a questionable pattern of absences, the principal or attendance committee may require a statement from a doctor or health clinic verifying the illness or condition that caused the student’s absence from school in order to determine whether the absence or absences will be excused or unexcused. Attendance for Credit To receive credit in a class, a student in Kindergarten – grade 12 must attend at least 90 percent of the days the class is offered. A student who attends at least 75 percent but fewer than 90 percent of the days the class is offered may receive credit or a final grade for the class if he or she completes a plan, approved by the principal that allows the student to fulfill the instructional requirements for the class. If a student is involved in a criminal or juvenile court proceeding, the approval of the judge presiding over the case will also be required before the student receives credit or a final grade for the class. If a student attends less than 75 percent of the days a class is offered or has not completed the plan approved by the principal, then the student will be referred to the attendance review committee to determine whether there are extenuating circumstances for the absences and how the student can regain credit, if appropriate. [See policy FEC.] School Hours School begins at 7:55 a.m. each day and ends at 3:25 p.m. for all students. Students should not arrive earlier than 7:30 a.m. Students are not to remain on campus after 3:40 p.m. unless they have the permission of a teacher/sponsor or the campus principal. Students report to the cafeteria/gym each morning upon arrival. Classes begin at 7:55 a.m., and attendance is mandatory. Students who arrive after 8:00 am are considered tardy.

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Before and After School Supervision Students arriving on campus before 7:30 am will not be admitted to the building. Adult supervision is not guaranteed before 7:30 am or after 3:40 pm. Arrival and Pick Up Students being dropped off at school in the morning must enter from the designated drop­off area located beside the pre­kindergarten area. Parents picking up students after school will do so at the same location as the drop­off. Information concerning the location and specific procedures can be found on our website or in the front office. **If a student arrives after 7:55 am then they are to report to the front office to be signed in and receive a pass to enter the classroom. Tardiness Students who are tardy, must report to the office and obtain a tardy slip/pass to class. Students with excessive tardies may be required to attend after school tutorial to make up lost academic time. The following consequences apply by 6 weeks: Tardies Consequence Contact 1st tardy verbal warning N/A 2nd tardy verbal warning parent contact from teacher 3rd tardy final warning parent contact from teacher 4th tardy conduct mark Monday folder 5th tardy conduct mark Monday folder 6th tardy conduct mark Monday folder 7th tardy recess detention assigned by teacher 8th tardy(+) lunch detention assigned by administrator 12th tardy after school detention assigned by administrator Release of Students from School Please remember that student attendance is crucial to learning. We ask that appointments be scheduled outside of school hours as much as reasonably possible. Also note that picking up a child early on a regular basis results in missed opportunities for learning. Unless the principal has granted approval because of extenuating circumstances, a student will not regularly be released before the end of the school day. Students taken out of class excessively may be required to attend after school tutorial to make up lost academic time. State rules require that parental consent be obtained before any student is allowed to leave campus for any part of the school day. The district has put the following procedures in place in order to document parental consent: For students in elementary school, a parent or otherwise authorized adult must come to the office and sign the student out. Please be prepared to show identification.

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Once an identity is verified, a campus representative will then call for the student or collect the student and bring him or her to the office. For safety purposes and stability of the learning environment, we cannot allow you to go to the classroom or other area unescorted to pick up the student. If the student returns to campus the same day, the parent or authorized adult must sign the student back in through the main office upon the student’s return. Documentation regarding the reason for the absence will also be required. Students will be released only to parents with whom they reside, to their legal guardian, or to another party that the parents or legal guardians have designated (in writing) such as: day care centers, baby sitters, car pools, and other friends/relatives. Any exception will have to be approved by the principal or assistant principal. Photo ID is required to check out a student. If a student becomes ill during the school day, the student should receive permission from the teacher before reporting to the school nurse. The nurse will determine whether or not the student should be sent home and will notify the parent. Any changes in how a student normally gets home must be done in the form of a note from the parent. The note from the parent must include the date, explanation, phone number, and a parent signature. No changes in afternoon transportation will be accepted by phone (except in the case of emergencies). We ask that changes be made prior to 1:00 pm when possible. Parents are strongly encouraged to develop and follow a consistent school arrival and departure plan for their child. If there is a change in the normal plan a written note will help the child with this change of routine. Students will be more at ease with the change and the note will serve as a reminder of what is going on and why. ACADEMICS Class Schedules Class schedules will be made available to parents and students at the beginning of school. Schedule changes must be submitted in writing and are subject to administrative approval. All requests are reviewed on a case by case basis. The review will take into account the student, the overall campus environment, and classroom impact the change will make. All students are expected to attend school for the entire school day (7:55­3:25). Grading Guidelines In grades Pre­K – 4th, achievement is reported to parents in the form of Monday folders/binders, daily work that is sent home, report cards, and the district’s internet based grade portal. [See policy EIA.] All report cards must be signed by the parent and returned to the school within three school days. Guidelines for each grade level or course will be communicated and distributed to students and parents by the classroom teacher. These guidelines have been reviewed by the applicable curriculum department and approved by the campus principal. Grading guidelines also outline in what circumstances a student will be allowed to redo/make­up an assignment. Any communication requiring parent signatures should be returned the next school day.

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PROMOTION AND RETENTION In grades 1st­4th, students will be promoted only on the basis of academic achievement or demonstrated proficiency in the subject matter of the course or grade level, the recommendation of the student’s teacher, the score received on any criterion­referenced or state­mandated assessment, and any other necessary academic information as determined by the district. To earn credit in a course, a student must receive a grade of at least 70 based on course­level or grade­level standards. In order to be promoted to the next grade, students must have an overall average of 70 on a scale of 100 based on course­level, grade­level standards (essential knowledge and skills) for all subject areas and a grade of 70 or above in language arts/reading and mathematics. Homework Homework is assigned as reinforcement (extra practice) of regular classroom instruction and is only assigned after concepts and skills have been taught. Since teaching of a new concept or skill can occur on any day of the week (and the days may vary), homework may be assigned on any day(s) Monday through Friday. Parents of students who consistently fail to complete homework will be notified and asked to help ensure that homework is done as assigned. Grading of homework is covered in the grading guidelines. Makeup Work Students that are absent must complete their work in a timely fashion. Teachers will allow appropriate time to make up the assignments in accordance with the campus procedure, District Student Handbook and local board policy. ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ AWARDS AND HONORS Student Success and Achievement Ceremony A ceremony will be held for the students to honor their success and achievements at the end of the year. The campus reserves the right to decide on which honors we will recognize. Star Student and Campus Recognition At the end of each 6 weeks, students from each grade level will be recognized. The principal will receive nominations of students who have excelled in all of the following areas: academic effort, citizenship, and conduct. The students receiving these awards will be recognized on campus. Honor Roll Third and fourth grade students can earn Honor Roll every six weeks based on the following principles: Honor Roll ­ All grades (academic and conduct) above 90. Honorable Mention­ All academics grades above 90 with no more than two 80’s. All conduct grades above 80. ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­

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BULLYING Bullying occurs when a student or group of students directs written or verbal expressions, expression through electronic methods, or physical conduct against another student on school property, at a school­sponsored or –related activity or in a district operated vehicle, and the behavior: Results in harm to the student or the student’s property. Places a student in reasonable fear of physical harm or of damage to the student’s property, or Is so severe, persistent, and pervasive that it creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment. This conduct is considered bullying if it exploits an imbalance of power between the student perpetrator(s) and the student victim and if it interferes with a student’s education or substantially disrupts the operation of the school. Bullying is prohibited by the district and could include hazing, threats, taunting, teasing, confinement, assault, demands for money, destruction of property, theft of valued possessions, name­calling, rumor­spreading, or ostracism. In some cases, bullying can occur through electronic methods, called “cyber bullying.” If a student believes that he or she has experienced bullying, it is important for the student or parent to notify a teacher, counselor, principal, or another district employee as soon as possible to obtain assistance and intervention. Reporting can be done using campus and district forms or by using the bully hotline. Certain information must be provided in order for the district to proceed with an investigation. If the results of an investigation indicate that bullying has occurred, the administration will take appropriate disciplinary action. Disciplinary or other action may be taken even if the conduct did not rise to the level of bullying. The district will also contact the parents of the victim and of the student who was found to have engaged in the bullying. Available counseling options will be provided to these individuals, as well as to any students who have been identified as witnesses to the bullying. Any retaliation against a student who reports an incident of bullying is prohibited. The principal may, in response to an identified case of bullying, decide to transfer a student found to have engaged in bullying to another classroom at the campus. The parent of a student who has been determined by the district to be a victim of bullying may request that his or her child be transferred to another classroom. A copy of the district’s policy is available on the district’s website (FFI, FFH, FDB) or in the campus principal’s or superintendent’s office. A student or parent who is dissatisfied with the outcome of an investigation may appeal through policy FNG (Local)

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[Also see Dating Violence, Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation, School Safety Transfers, Hazing, and policy FFI (LOCAL).] COMPLAINTS AND CONCERNS Usually student or parent complaints or concerns can be addressed by a phone call or a conference with the teacher or principal. For those complaints and concerns that cannot be handled so easily, the district has adopted a standard complaint policy at FNG (LOCAL) in the district’s policy manual. A copy of this policy may be obtained in the principal’s or superintendent’s office or on the district’s Web site at www.hallettsvilleisd.com. In general, the student or parent should submit a written complaint and request a conference with the campus principal (level 1 grievance form). If the concern is not resolved, a written request for a conference should be sent to the superintendent (level 2 grievance forms). If still unresolved, the district provides for the complaint to be presented to the board of trustees (level 3 grievance form). [Grievance forms are available at the administration office or any campus] ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­

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Computer Resources To prepare students for an increasingly technological society, the district has made an investment in computer technology for instructional purposes. Use of these computer resources is restricted to students working under a teacher’s supervision and for approved purposes only. Students and parents will be asked to sign a user agreement (separate from this handbook) regarding use of these resources; violations of this agreement may result in withdrawal of privileges and other disciplinary action. Students and their parents should be aware that an e­mail using district computer is not private and will be monitored by district staff. [For additional information, see policies at CQ.] ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ CONDUCT Applicability of School Rules As required by law, the board has adopted a Student Code of Conduct that prohibits certain behaviors and defines standards of acceptable behavior—both on and off campus—and consequences for violation of these standards. The district has disciplinary authority over a student in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. Students and parents should be familiar with the standards set out in the Student Code of Conduct, as well as campus and classroom rules. Dress and Grooming The administration will reserve the right to judge on all matters concerning appearance/dress code. If the administrative staff determines that a student’s grooming or dress violates the District’s dress code, correction of the dress code violation will occur by providing appropriate clothing and/or grooming accessories; furthermore, disciplinary action may be taken. If the principal determines that a student’s grooming or clothing violates the school’s dress code, the student will be given an opportunity to correct the problem at school. If not corrected, the student may be assigned to in­school suspension for the remainder of the day, until the problem is corrected, or until a parent or designee brings an acceptable change of clothing to the school. Loss of instructional time due to a dress code violation will be minimized. Therefore, the student or parents should, if in doubt as to the appropriateness of the article of clothing or other aspect of the dress and grooming regulations, contact the principal in advance for an interpretation to avoid corrective action. The administration reserves the right to adjust the dress code as needed at any time with prior notification. The dress code is established to teach grooming and hygiene, prevent disruption of the instructional environment, and minimize safety hazards. Students and parents may determine a student’s personal dress and grooming standards, provided that they comply with the following: Students must wear their ID in a visible location at all times. The picture, barcode, and number should not be written on or defaced in any manner. Vulgar, obscene, or suggestive lettering, insignia, or language of organizational products referring to tobacco, alcohol, drugs, sex, weapons, death (skull, grim reaper, etc.) are not permitted. Gang related paraphernalia, gang colors or like dress are not permitted. 1. Shirts and tops must be long enough to cover the top of jeans, shorts, or skirt being worn. Tube tops, halter­tops, open back, and off the shoulder tops are not acceptable. 2. Extremely short or tight garments (including “YOGA” or similarly styled pants/jeans) are not permitted. Final discretion remains with the campus principal. 3. Over­sized baggy clothing is not acceptable. No sagging of pants is allowed.

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4. The wearing of shoes is mandatory. No house­shoes, wheelies, or shoes with metal taps or cleats will be permitted. Tennis shoes must be worn during P.E. or participation will not be allowed and the student’s grade may suffer. 5. Boy’s hair should be no longer than the bottom of the ear lobes and no longer than the top of the collar of a dress shirt. Extreme hairstyles such as mohawks and shaved designs are not acceptable. 6. Only naturally occurring hair colors are permitted. are to be no longer than 3 Afro styles inches. 7. Tattoos are to be covered­ Excluding (temporary) spirit tattoos 8. The campus principal will have the final say in what dress will be considered appropriate. Any exceptions to these rules are left to the discretion of the campus principal. Students are encouraged to wear appropriate shoes designed for outdoor and athletic use. House shoes, high heels, slides, and wheelies are prohibited. Flip flops and sandals will be allowed. However, students should bring proper tennis shoes for PE or they will not be allowed to participate.

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Conduct Before and After School Teachers and administrators have full authority over student conduct at before­ or after­school activities on district premises and at school­sponsored events off district premises, such as play rehearsals, club meetings, athletic practices/events, and special study groups or tutorials. Students are subject to the same rules of conduct that apply during the instructional day and will be subject to consequences established by the Student Code of Conduct or any stricter standards of behavior established by the sponsor for extracurricular participants. Use of Hallways During Class Time Loitering or standing in the halls during class is not permitted. After dismissal of school in the afternoon, and unless involved in an activity under the supervision of a teacher, students must leave campus immediately. Disciplinary Program Rationale There is a strong correlation between effective instruction and student compliance with classroom expectations. When students are meeting teacher and campus expectations, opportunities for academic success are enhanced. Teachers should be supported in their efforts to provide a positive learning environment. Students should be recognized for acceptable behavior and held accountable for unacceptable behavior. Parents are an integral part of behavior management and they should be provided input on student progress. Effective discipline requires campus wide consistency and structure. 6 Simple Rules Attend class regularly, on time, and appropriately dressed Follow directions and complete assignments Be prepared with appropriate materials and assignments Be responsible for own behavior Show courtesy and respect towards others Respect own and others’ property Objectives Implementation of the Discipline Management Program will provide: A focus on modifying student behavior to improve instruction A focus on handling most discipline issues within the pod/team A consistent plan across all programs on the campus An easy to use process for communicating classroom expectations

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A support system for teachers in their efforts to provide a positive climate Short and long term accountability for unacceptable behavior Incentives and recognition for acceptable behavior Daily feedback to students regarding behavior Daily communication with parents regarding student conduct A “Student Pledge” in which students recite expectations daily Accountability: Applicability of School Rules As required by law, the District has developed and adopted a Student Code of Conduct that prohibits certain behaviors and establishes standards of acceptable behavior – both on and off campus – and consequences for violation of standards. Students need to be familiar with the standards set out in the Student Code of Conduct, as well as campus and classroom rules. To achieve the best possible learning environment for all students, the Student Code of Conduct and other campus rules of behavior will apply whenever the interest of the District is involved, on or off school grounds, in conjunction with or independent of classes and school sponsored activities. The District has disciplinary authority over a student in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. Rule Codes Responsibility 1R: No Homework 2R: No Signed forms 3R: No Signed Agenda 4R: No Supplies 5R: Work Area not Neat Behavior 1B: Out of Dress Code 2B: Not Following Directions 3B: Out of Seat 4B: Hall Behavior 5B: Class Behavior 6B. Responsibility (repeat offenses of no Homework, signed forms, agenda, or no supplies) 7B. Bathroom Behavior 8B: Talking/Disruptive 9B: Cafeteria Behavior Disrespect 1D: Inappropriate Language or Gesture 2D: Disrespectful to Adults 3D: Disrespectful to Classmates 4D: Does not care for Teacher’s Property 5D: Does not care for other Student’s Property

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Communication Student behavior may be communicated to the parent daily with a coding system for infractions placed in the agenda by campus staff. It is the teacher’s responsibility to inform parents of unacceptable classroom behavior(s). For disciplinary infractions, the teacher will communicate with the parent by phone or through written correspondence other than the agenda (letter or email). The infractions could result in a conduct grade change (E­S­N­U). Teachers and/or parents may request a parent/teacher conference at any time. Communication in reference to behavior or conduct issues will be made by the teacher and/or administration. In School Suspension ISS will be used as a disciplinary option at the discretion of campus administration. Students assigned to ISS will receive the opportunity to complete all regular academic coursework. Students are expected to follow all policies, procedures, and rules while assigned to ISS. Students assigned to ISS should report to the ISS room or office upon arrival to school and will stay in ISS until dismissal. After students are released from ISS they are to leave campus. They are not allowed to attend any after school activities on campus. Disciplinary Alternative Education Program or In School Suspension Makeup Work A student removed to ISS or Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) during the school year will have an opportunity to complete grade level academic requirements. The district may provide the opportunity to complete the coursework through an alternative method, including a correspondence course, distance learning, or summer school. The district will not charge the student for any method of completion provided by the district. [See policy FOCA.] Students and their parents are encouraged to discuss options with the teacher, assistant principal, or counselor to ensure the student completes all work required for the grade level. ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ Conferences Parents/Guardians are encouraged to meet with their child’s teachers whenever possible. Each teacher has a 55 minute conference period for the purpose of planning instruction and meeting with parents. Please set up conferences during this time. If the designated conference time is extremely inconvenient, the teacher will make every effort possible to make other arrangements before or after school. Unannounced visits by parents are discouraged and take away from your child’s instructional time. Since learning is our primary goal, it is essential that teachers spend their designated instructional time in the classroom with their students. Parent visits must be cleared through the campus office/principal. Arrangements for conferences are made through the office by calling (361) 798­2242 X100. ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­

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Counseling Personal Counseling Counselors are familiar with community resources and may direct parents to other sources for information and assistance. Students may be referred to counseling services for the following reasons: Excessive absences Repeated failure in school Persistent misbehavior in school Character Education sets a campus climate that builds confidence and reminds students that everyone is special and possesses unique talents. Hallettsville Elementary utilizes Character Education activities to help elementary students acquire valuable character traits. Lessons are designed to help students start or continue on the track of enhancing character development. Students will learn about principles that include: how to treat our school family, friends and family members. Through active engagement, students will develop brainstorming processes, listening skills and conflict resolution. We appreciate all that you do at home to support character development. During the 2015/2016 school year, we are focusing on the following concepts: September: Kindness – Compassionate, Helpful & Accepting October: Courage Do what is Honorable November: Self Control – Disciplined in Thoughts, Feelings & Actions December: Responsibility Accountable for Actions & Attitudes January: Respect Respecting Rules and Property February: Diligence Setting Goals & Giving 100% Effort March: Service – Citizenship & Loyalty April: Honesty Truthful & Willing to Admit Mistakes May: Leadership & Teamwork Guide by Example & Encourage Others Counselor/District Testing Coordinator Trina Patek 361­798­2242 ext 105 Psychological Exams, Tests, or Treatment The school will not conduct a psychological examination, test, or treatment without first obtaining the parent’s written consent. Parental consent is not necessary when a psychological examination, test, or treatment is required by state or federal law for special education purposes or by the Texas Education Agency for child abuse investigations and reports. For more information, refer to FFE(LEGAL) and FFG(EXHIBIT).] ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation The district believes that all students learn best in an environment free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation and that their welfare is best served when they are free from this prohibited conduct while attending school. Students are expected to treat other students and district employees with courtesy and respect; to avoid behaviors known to be offensive; and to stop those behaviors when asked or told to stop. District employees are expected to treat students with courtesy and respect.

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The board has established policies and procedures to prohibit and promptly respond to inappropriate and offensive behaviors that are based on a person’s race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law. [See policy FFH] Reporting Procedures Any student who believes that he or she has experienced bullying, discrimination, harassment, or retaliation should immediately report the problem to a teacher, counselor, principal, or other district employee. The report may be made by the student’s parent. See policy FFH (LOCAL) for appropriate district officials to whom to report. Investigation of Report To the extent possible, the district will respect the privacy of the student; however, limited disclosures may be necessary to conduct a thorough investigation and to comply with law. Allegations of prohibited conduct, which includes bullying, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation, will be promptly investigated. The district will notify the parents of any student alleged to have experienced prohibited conduct involving an adult associated with the district. In the event prohibited conduct involves another student, the district will notify the parents of the student alleged to have experienced the prohibited conduct when the allegations, if proven, would constitute a violation as defined by policy. If the district’s investigation indicates that prohibited conduct occurred, appropriate disciplinary or corrective action will be taken to address the conduct. The district may take disciplinary action even if the conduct that is the subject of the complaint was not unlawful. A student or parent who is dissatisfied with the outcome of the investigation may appeal in accordance with policy FNG (LOCAL). ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ Distribution of Published Materials or Documents School Materials Publications prepared by and for the school may be posted or distributed, with the prior approval of the principal. Such items may include school posters, brochures, flyers, etc. The school yearbook is available to all students. Information is sent home with the student during the year. Yearbooks are printed during the summer and available at the start of the following year. All school publications are under the supervision of a teacher, sponsor, and campus principal. Nonschool Materials...from students Students must obtain prior approval from the principal before posting, circulating, or distributing written materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, petitions, films, tapes, posters, or other visual or auditory

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materials that were not developed under the oversight of the school. To be considered, any nonschool material must include the name of the sponsoring person or organization. The principal has designated the front office and/or cafeteria as the location for approved nonschool materials to be placed for voluntary viewing by students. [See policies at FNAA.] A student may appeal a principal’s decision in accordance with policy FNG (LOCAL). Any student who posts nonschool material without prior approval will be subject to disciplinary 21 action in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct . Materials displayed without the principal’s approval will be removed. Nonschool Materials…from others All materials must be submitted to the principal for approval. All nonschool materials distributed without approval will be removed and / or destroyed immediately in accordance with local school board policy. ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES Telecommunications Devices, Including Mobile Telephones For safety purposes, the campus permits students to possess telecommunications devices, including mobile telephones; however, these devices must remain turned off during the instructional day, including during all testing. The use of cell phones in common areas or restroom areas at any time while at school, at a school­related or school­sponsored event is strictly prohibited. A student who uses a telecommunications device during the school day shall have the device confiscated. The student/parent may pick up the confiscated telecommunications device from the assistant principal’s office as noted below. All devices will be submitted to the office. 1st offense – Warning and return of device at the end of the day. 2nd offense ­ $10.00 fee & return of device once the fee is paid. 3rd offense ­ $10.00 fee & return of the device to the parent/guardian. Student will be written up by administration. Repeat offenses will result in increased fine. Confiscated telecommunications devices that are not retrieved by the student or student’s parents will be disposed of after the notice required by law. [See policy FNCE.] Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct . The district will not be responsible for damaged, lost, or stolen telecommunications devices. Other Electronic Devices Students are not permitted to possess such items as radios, CD players, MP3 players, video or audio recorders, DVD players, cameras, games, or other electronic devices at school, unless prior permission has been obtained from the principal. Without such permission, teachers will collect the items and turn them in

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to the principal’s office. The principal will determine whether to return items to students at the end of the day or to contact parents to pick up the items. Any disciplinary action will be in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct . The district will not be responsible for any damaged, lost, or stolen electronic device. 1st offense – Warning and return of device 2nd offense ­ $10.00 fee & return of device once the fee is paid. 3rd offense ­ $10.00 fee & return of the device to the parent/guardian. Student will be written up by administration. Repeat offenses will result in increased fine. Responsible Use Policies for Technology Resources To prepare students for an increasingly technological society, the district has made an investment in the use of district­owned technology resources for instructional purposes; specific resources may be issued individually to students. Use of these technological resources, including the district’s network systems and district equipment, is restricted to approved purposes. Students and parents will be asked to sign a user agreement (RUP­­separate from this handbook) regarding use of these district resources. Violations of the user agreement may result in withdrawal of privileges and other disciplinary action. Unacceptable and Inappropriate Use of Technology Resources Students are prohibited from sending, posting, accessing, or displaying electronic messages that are abusive, obscene, sexually oriented, threatening, harassing, damaging to another’s reputation, or illegal. This prohibition applies to conduct off school property, whether the equipment used to send such messages is district­owned or personally owned, if it results in a substantial disruption to the educational environment. Any person taking, disseminating, transferring, or sharing obscene, sexually oriented, lewd, or otherwise illegal images or other content, commonly referred to as “sexting,” will be disciplined according to the Student Code of Conduct, may be required to complete an educational program related to the dangers of this type of behavior, and, in certain circumstances, may be reported to law enforcement. Because engaging in this type of behavior can lead to bullying or harassment, as well as possibly impede future endeavors of a student, we encourage you to review with your child http://beforeyoutext.com, a state­developed program that addresses the consequences of engaging in inappropriate behavior using technology. ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ Extracurricular Activities Participation in school­sponsored activities (Field Day, Field Trips, School Organizations, UIL, etc…) is an excellent way for a student to develop talents, receive individual recognition, and build strong friendships with other students; participation, however, is a privilege, not a right. This privilege may be taken away by the campus administration. Students participating in UIL events must follow the eligibility guidelines set forth by TEA, UIL, and the campus. ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­

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Fees Materials that are part of the basic educational program are provided with state and local funds at no charge to a student. A student, however, is expected to provide his or her own pencils, paper, erasers, and notebooks and may be required to pay certain other fees or deposits, including: Costs for materials for a class project that the student may keep. Membership dues in voluntary clubs or student organizations and admission fees to extracurricular activities. Security deposits. School Supplies. Personal physical education and athletic equipment and apparel. Voluntarily purchased pictures, publications, class rings, yearbooks, graduation announcements, etc. Voluntarily purchased student accident insurance. Personal apparel used in extracurricular activities that becomes the property of the student. Student identification cards. Fees for lost, damaged, or overdue library books. Any required fee or deposit may be waived if the student and parent are unable to pay. Application for such a waiver may be made to the principal. [For further information, see policies at FP.] ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ Fundraising Student groups or classes and/or parent groups may be permitted to conduct fund­raising drives for approved school purposes. An application for permission must be made to the campus principal at least 60 days before the event. [For further information, see policies at FJ and GE.] ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ Health­Related Matters Contagious Diseases / Conditions To protect other students from contagious illnesses, students infected with certain diseases are not allowed to come to school while contagious. If a parent suspects that his or her child has a contagious disease, the parent should contact the school nurse or principal so that other students who might have been exposed to the disease can be alerted. It is important to remember that schools are required to exclude students with certain illnesses from school for periods of time as identified in state rules. For example, if your child has a fever over 100 degrees, he or she must stay out of school until fever free for 24 hours without fever­reducing medications. In addition, students with diarrheal illnesses must stay home until they are diarrhea free without diarrhea­suppressing medications for at least 24 hours. A full list of conditions for which the school must exclude children can be obtained from the school nurse. If a student becomes ill during the school day, he or she must receive permission from the teacher before reporting to the school nurse. If the nurse determines that the child should go home, the nurse will contact the parent. A student calling home without permission from the nurse or administration may be subject to disciplinary consequences. The district is also required to report certain contagious (communicable) diseases or illnesses to the Texas Department of State Health Services (TDSHS) or our local/regional health authority. The school nurse can provide information from TDSHS on these conditions. Contact the school nurse if you have questions or if you are concerned about whether or not your child should stay home. Food Allergies The district requests to be notified when a student has been diagnosed with a food allergy, especially those allergies that could result in dangerous or possibly life­threatening reactions either by inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact with the particular food. It is important to disclose the food to which the student is allergic,

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as well as the nature of the allergic reaction. Please contact the school nurse or campus principal if your child has a known food allergy or as soon as possible after any diagnosis of a food allergy. The district has developed and annually reviews a food allergy management plan, which addresses employee training, dealing with common food allergens, and specific strategies for dealing with students diagnosed with severe food allergies. When the district receives information that a student has a food allergy that puts the student at risk for anaphylaxis, individual care plans will be developed to assist the student in safely accessing the school environment. The district’s food allergy management plan can be accessed at FFAF. Medical Exclusion from School Policy A student should not attend school if he or she has the following symptoms and/or diseases: ­ Vomiting and/or diarrhea (abnormally loose, water stool), with accompanying abdominal pain. ­ Thick yellow or green discharge from the nose or eyes ­ Persistent cough or increasing severity of cough, not improving after 3 to 4 days. ­ Unusual spots or rashes accompanied by fever or behavior changes, indicating illness. ­ Severe itching of body or scalp, or scratching of scalp ­ Behavior indicating that he or she is not well. (For example: less active, cranky) ­ If the child is diagnosed with any of the contagious conditions listed below, please notify the school nurse and teacher, as soon as possible: Chicken Pox Diphtheria Pink Eye Measles Head Lice Mumps Meningitis Rubella Scabies Tuberculosis Impetigo 25 Pertussis (Whooping Cough) Hepatitis Any strep infection (EX. Throat) A child with any of these symptoms of diseases may cause other children to get sick. If ALL parents keep sick children at home, everybody’s children will stay healthier. MEDICINE AT SCHOOL District employees will not give a student prescription medication, nonprescription medication, herbal substances, anabolic steroids, or dietary supplements, with the following exceptions: Only authorized employees, in accordance with policies at FFAC, may administer: Prescription medication, in the original, properly labeled container, provided by the parent, along with a written request. Prescription medication from a properly labeled unit dosage container filled by a registered nurse or another qualified district employee from the original, properly labeled container. Nonprescription medication, in the original, properly labeled container, provided by the parent along with a written request.

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SUBSTANCE ABUSE PREVENTION AND INTERVENTION If you are worried that your child may be using or is in danger of experimenting, using, or abusing illegal drugs or other prohibited substances, please contact the school counselor. The school counselor can provide you with a list of community resources that may be of assistance to you. The TDSHS maintains information regarding children’s mental health and substance abuse intervention services on its Web site: http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/mhsa­child­adolescent­services/. Suicide Awareness The district is committed to partnering with parents to support the healthy mental, emotional, and behavioral development of its students. If you are concerned about your child, please access http://www.texassuicideprevention.org or contact the school counselor for more information related to suicide prevention and to find mental health services available in your area. Psychotropic Drugs Teachers and other district employees may discuss a student’s academic progress or behavior with the student’s parents or another employee as appropriate; however, they are not permitted to recommend use of psychotropic drugs. A district employee who is a registered nurse, an advanced nurse practitioner, a physician, or a certified or credentialed mental health professional can recommend that a student be evaluated by an appropriate medical practitioner, if appropriate. [For further information, see policies at FFAC.] 26 Physical Examinations / Health Screenings The school nurse will conduct vision and hearing screenings during the course of the year for each student. Checks for lice will also be conducted on an as needed basis. ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ Homeless Students For more information on services for homeless students, contact the district’s Liaison for Homeless Children and Youths @ (361) 798­2242 X105. ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ Prayer Each student has a right to individually, voluntarily, and silently pray or meditate in school in a manner that does not disrupt instructional or other activities of the school. The school will not encourage, require, or coerce a student to engage in or to refrain from such prayer or meditation during any school activity. A daily moment of silence will be observed. ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ Safety Student safety on campus and at school­related events is a high priority of the district. Although the district has implemented safety procedures, the cooperation of students is essential to ensuring school safety. A student should: Avoid conduct that is likely to put the student or other students at risk. Follow the behavioral standards in this handbook and the Student Code of Conduct , as well as any additional rules for behavior and safety set by the principal, teachers, or bus drivers. Remain alert to and promptly report to a teacher or the principal any safety hazards, such as intruders on campus or threats made by any person toward a student or staff member. Know emergency evacuation routes and signals.

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Follow immediately the instructions of teachers, bus drivers, and other district employees who are overseeing the welfare of students. Emergency Procedures The campus and district both have an Emergency Procedures Manual that gives details concerning what to do in the event of different emergencies. From time to time, students, teachers, and other district employees will participate in drills of emergency procedures. When the notice is given students should follow the direction of teachers or others in charge quickly, quietly, and in an orderly manner. Emergency School­Closing Information Each year, parents are asked to complete an emergency release form to provide contact information in the event that school is dismissed early because of severe weather or another emergency. Parents are expected to maintain updated, accurate contact information for this purpose throughout the school year. School Facilities Use by Students Before and After School Certain areas of the school will be accessible to students before and after school for specific purposes. Students are required to remain in the area where their activity is scheduled to take place. Cafeteria Services The district participates in the National School Lunch Program and offers students nutritionally balanced lunches daily. Free and reduced­price lunches are available based on financial need. Information about a student’s participation is confidential. See campus secretary to apply. The district follows the federal and state guidelines regarding foods of minimal nutritional value being served or sold on school premises during the school day. [For more information, see policy CO (LEGAL).] Students may purchase a breakfast or lunch for the price established by Hallettsville ISD. Students may qualify for free or reduced price meals through the National School Lunch Program. The District participates in the National School Lunch Program and offers free and reduced price lunches and breakfasts based on student’s financial need. All information will remain confidential. Applications will be available before school begins. Applications will also be available the first day of school. The forms should be returned as soon as possible. Students that qualified last year for free or reduced meals must fill out new applications each year. Breakfast Breakfast is served from 7:30 a.m. to 7:50 a.m. for any student desiring to eat before school. Students are strongly encouraged to arrive at school in a timely manner to be able to eat breakfast before classes begin.

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Lunch Lunch is served between 10:30 am & 12:00 am for all students. Students may buy a lunch, eat through the free/reduced price program, or bring a lunch. Students will eat lunch in the cafeteria under the supervision of school personnel. Students can deposit money into their account before 10:00 a.m. in the cafeteria. It is possible for a student to add money during their lunchtime. If you do not wish for your child to purchase additional meal items, please contact the cafeteria manager 361­798­2242 ext 480. Students will be given an Account Notification Letter to let parents know that they need to deposit more money into their child’s lunch account. Students will be given a sack lunch in lieu of a tray if their account is empty. Students are required to use an ID badge to access their accounts to prevent fraud and theft. A student not having an ID will wait to have lunch after all other students have gone through the line and will serve lunch detention. ID cards are provided free of charge once a year. The need for another ID will require students to purchase a new card in the front office ($2.00). Drinks from Home No soft drinks (sodas) are to be brought from home in either cans or bottles. Eating Lunch with Students Bringing Lunch for Your Student: On occasion a student may forget their lunch at home or lose their lunch while traveling to school etc. In the event that this occurs please feel free to bring their lunch or their replacement sack lunch from home and we will see that they receive it at the appropriate time. However, if you would like to provide your child with a lunch from a local restaurant we require that you sign­in in the HES office at your child’s assigned lunch time and accompany your child to lunch. There are tables provided aside from your child’s usual lunch seat for the purpose of allowing parents to have lunch with their students. At that time your child may choose to select one (1) friend from his or her class to sit with them at the side table. Lunch Detention Students may be required to sit apart from their class during lunch as a consequence or for not having an ID. Students without an ID will be sent to the back of the lunch line. Repeat offenses of not having an ID may result in lunch detention. Library The library is a learning laboratory with books, computers, magazines, and other materials available for classroom assignments, projects, and reading or listening pleasure. The library is open for student use as scheduled and individual classes will visit the library on a regular basis. Meetings of Non­curriculum Related Groups Student­organized, student­led non­curriculum related groups are permitted to meet during the hours designated by the principal before and after school. These groups must comply with the requirements of policy FNAB (LOCAL). ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­

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Social Events School rules apply to all school social events. Guests attending these events are expected to observe the same rules as students, and a student inviting a guest will share responsibility for the conduct of his or her guest. A student attending a social event will be asked to sign out when leaving before the end of the event; anyone leaving before the official end of the event will not be readmitted. ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ SEARCHES When law enforcement officers or other lawful authorities wish to question or interview a student at school, the principal will cooperate fully regarding the conditions of the interview, if the questioning or interview is part of a child abuse investigation In the interest of promoting student safety and attempting to ensure that schools are safe and drug free, district officials may from time to time conduct searches. Such searches are conducted without a warrant and as permitted by law. Students’ Desks Students’ desks are school property and remain under the control and jurisdiction of the school even when assigned to an individual student. Students are fully responsible for the contents of their assigned desks. Searches of desks may be conducted at any time there is reasonable cause to believe that they contain articles or materials prohibited by policy, whether or not a student is present. The parent will be notified if any prohibited items are found in the student’s desk. Trained Dogs The district will use trained dogs to alert school officials to the presence of prohibited or illegal items, including drugs and alcohol. At any time, trained dogs may be used around lockers and the areas around school property. Searches of classrooms, common areas, or student belongings may also be conducted by trained dogs when students are not present. An item in a classroom to which a trained dog alerts may be searched by school officials. Students Taken Into Custody State law requires the district to permit a student to be taken into legal custody. The principal will follow the law and local school board policy in regards to a student being in legal custody and notifying the superintendent and parents. STUDENTS IN PROTECTIVE CUSTODY OF THE STATE In an effort to provide educational stability, the district strives to assist any student who is currently placed or newly placed in either temporary or permanent conservatorship (custody) of the state of Texas with the enrollment and registration process, as well as other educationalservices throughout the student’s enrollment in the district. Notification of Law Violations The district is required by state law to notify: All instructional and support personnel who have responsibility for supervising a student whohas been arrested or referred to the juvenile court for any felony offense or for certain misdemeanors.

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All instructional and support personnel who have regular contact with a student who is required to register as a sex offender or who has been convicted, received deferred prosecution, received deferred adjudication, or was adjudicated for delinquent conduct for any felony offense or certain misdemeanors. [For further information, see policies FL(LEGAL) and GRA(LEGAL).] ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ 30 STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) In addition to routine tests and other measures of achievement, students at certain grade levels will take state­mandated assessments (such as STAAR) in the following subjects: Mathematics, annually in grades 3 & 4 Reading, annually in grades 3 & 4 Writing, including spelling and grammar, in grades 4 Any other subject and grade required by federal law. [See policy EKB (LEGAL).] ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ TEXTBOOKS, ELECTRONIC TEXTBOOKS, AND TECHNOLOGICAL EQUIPMENT Textbooks and other district­approved instructional materials are provided to students free of charge for each subject or class. Any books must be covered by the student, as directed by theteacher, and treated with care. Electronic textbooks and technological equipment may also be provided to students, depending on the course and course objectives. A student who is issued a damaged item should report the damage to the teacher. Any student failing to return an itemin acceptable condition loses the right to free textbooks and technological equipment until theitem is returned or the damage paid for by the parent; however, the student will be provided the necessary textbooks and equipment for use at school during the school day. ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ Transfers The principal is authorized to transfer a student from one classroom to another. Transfers are viewed and decided upon on a case by case basis. [See School Safety Transfers, Bullying] ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ TRANSPORTATION School­Sponsored Trips Students who participate in school­sponsored trips are required to use transportation providedby the school to and from the event. The principal, however, may make an exception if the parent makes a written request that the student be released to the parent or to another adult designated by the parent. This approval is required prior to the day of the trip. Buses and Other School Vehicles Information concerning transportation can be found in the District Student Handbook, Student Code of Conduct, and local school board policy or by contacting the Transportation Director. School buses and vehicles are an extension of the campus. Policies and procedures will be enforced at all times. Students are expected to assist district staff in ensuring that buses and other district vehicles remain in good condition and that transportation is provided

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safely. Misconduct will be punished in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct; the privilege to ride in a district vehicle, including a school bus may be suspended or revoked.

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Glossary Accelerated instruction is an intensive supplemental program designed to address the needs of an individual student in acquiring the knowledge and skills required at his or her grade level and/or as a result of a student not meeting the passing standard on a state­mandated assessment. ARD is the admission, review, and dismissal committee convened for each student who is identified as needing a full and individual evaluation for special education services. The eligible student and his or her parents are members of the committee. Attendance review committee is responsible for reviewing a student’s absences when the student’s attendance drops below 90 percent or in some cases 75 percent of the days the class is offered. Under guidelines adopted by the board, the committee will determine whether there were extenuating circumstances for the absences and whether the student needs to complete certain conditions to master the course and regain credit lost because of absences. DAEP stands for disciplinary alternative education program, a placement for students who have violated certain provisions of the Student Code of Conduct. FERPA refers to the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act that grants specific privacy protections to student records. The law contains certain exceptions, such as for directory information, unless a student’s parent or a student 18 or older directs the school not to release directory information. IEP is the written record of the individualized education program prepared by the ARD committee for a student with disabilities who is eligible for special education services. The IEP contains several parts, such as a statement of the student’s present educational performance; a statement of measurable annual goals, with short­term objectives; the special education and related services and supplemental aids and services to be provided, and program modifications or support by school personnel; a statement regarding how the student’s progress will be measured and how the parents will be kept informed; accommodations for state or district wide tests; whether successful completion of state­mandated assessments is required for graduation, etc. ISS refers to in­school suspension, a disciplinary technique for misconduct found in the Student Code of Conduct. Although different from out­of­school suspension and placement in a DAEP, ISS removes the student from the regular classroom. NCLB Act is the federal No Child Left Behind Act of 2001. SHAC stands for School Health Advisory Council, a group of at least five members, a majority of whom must be parents, appointed by the school board to assist the district in ensuring that local community values and health issues are reflected in the district’s health education instruction. Section 504 is the federal law that prohibits discrimination against a student with a disability,requiring schools to provide opportunities for equal services, programs, and participation in activities. Unless the student is determined to be eligible for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), general education with appropriate instructional accommodations will be provided. STAAR is the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness, the state’s system of standardized academic achievement assessments, effective beginning with certain students for the 2011–2012 school year. STAAR Accommodated is an alternative state­mandated assessment designed for students with severe cognitive disabilities receiving special education services who meet the participation requirements, as determined by the student’s ARD committee.

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STAAR Linguistically Accommodated (STAAR L) is an alternative state­mandated assessment with linguistic accommodations designed for certain recent immigrant English language learners. State­mandated assessments are required of students at certain grade levels and in specified subjects. Successful performance sometimes is a condition of promotion, and passing the grade 11 exit­level test or end­of­course assessments, when applicable, is a condition of graduation. Students have multiple opportunities to take the tests if necessary for promotion or graduation. Student Code of Conduct is developed with the advice of the district­level committee and adopted by the board and identifies the circumstances, consistent with law, when a student may be removed from the classroom or campus. It also sets out the conditions that authorize or require the principal or another administrator to place the student in a DAEP. It outlines conditions for out­of­school suspension and for expulsion. The Student Code of Conduct alsoaddresses notice to the parent regarding a student’s violation of one of its provisions. TELPAS stands for the Texas English Language Proficiency Assessment System, which assesses the progress that English language learners make in learning the English language, and is administered for those who meet the participation requirements in kindergarten–grade UIL refers to the University Interscholastic League, the statewide voluntary nonprofit organization that oversees educational extracurricular academic, athletic, and music contests

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Print the following pages. Sign and return this document to your child’s teacher

no later than August 31, 2016.

Acknowledgement of Receipt This online document at www.Hallettsvilleisd.com contains the Student Handbook and Student Code of Conduct for Hallettsville Elementary. It is intended to serve as a resource to students, parents, staff, and the Board of Trustees. The information in this publication is reviewed and revised annually to conform to district practice and state and federal legislation.The Student Handbook provides general information regarding the district's policies, practices, and procedures. The Student Code of Conduct, which is approved by the Board ofTrustees, specifies the expectations for student behavior, the discipline management techniques that are utilized by teachers and administrators, and the consequences for student misconduct. It is very important that you and your child review this information. With your support and encouragement, we are confident your child will adhere to the behavioral expectations in the classroom and on campus. ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­SIGN AND RETURN­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­ I have reviewed the 2016­2017 Hallettsville Elementary Student Handbook and Student Code of Conduct online at www.hallettsvilleisd.com. I know that I may request a paper copy of these documents by contacting my child's campus. I understand that my child will be responsible for adhering to the rules and procedures as outlined in these documents. If I have questions, I can contact the campus at (361) 798­2242. Name of student: _________________________________________________________ Grade level___________ Homeroom Teacher _________________________ Name of parent(s): __________________________________________ Email of parent: _____________________ Student signature__________________________ Date: _________________ Parent signature: ____________________________ Date: ________________

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Hallettsville Elementary ANTI-BULLYING CONTRACT Bullying is defined as intentionally aggressive behavior that can take many forms (verbal, physical, social, emotional, or cyber); it involves an imbalance of power and can be repeated over time. At Selman Intermediate, we believe that no student deserves to be bullied and that every student has the right to feel safe, secure, and respected. AS A STUDENT AT Hallettsville Elementary, I AGREE TO: (initial by each statement)____ Treat other students and adults with kindness and respect. ____ Not engage in verbal, physical, emotional, or cyber bullying ____ Speak out against bullying when I witness it. ____ Be a good role model for other students. ____ Abide by the campus and district code of conduct and rules. ____ Notify a teacher, school administrator, or complete a student report when bullyingoccurs. AS A PARENT OF A STUDENT AT Hallettsville Elementary, I AGREE TO: (initial beeach statement) ____ Encourage my child to treat others with kindness and respect. ____ Encourage my child not to bully others. ____ Encourage my child to report bullying issues to teachers and school administrators. By signing this contract, I understand that bullying is not ok. I promise to do my part and help make Hallettsville Elementary a safe and secure campus. I will report all issues of bullying to an adult on campus and I understand that taking matters into my own hands may result in consequences as stipulated in the district and campus Code of Conduct. __________________________ __________________ Student Signature Date __________________________ __________________ Parent/Guardian Signature Date

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