BREATHITT COUNTYHIGH SCHOOL

2016-2017STUDENT HANDBOOK

The Breathitt County Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, religion, marital status, sex or handicap in employment, educational programs, or activities.

Wayne Sizemore is the designated Title IX coordinator and can be reached at the Breathitt County Schools District Office, 420 Court Street, Jackson, KY 41339, phone 606-666-2491, extension 2015.

MESSAGE FROM PRINCIPAL, Carolyn McDanielMESSAGE FROM PRINCIPAL, Carolyn McDaniel

Breathitt County High School is rich in History. I am glad to become a part of the tradition at Breathitt High School. This handbook is designed to acquaint you with our policies and procedures. We have made some changes as we continue to grow. Please make your parents aware of this information so they can become a part of your total educational process. Our main focus is to treat all stakeholders in your educational journey with respect. Our staff is dedicated and willing to help you achieve your educational goals. We want to provide you with opportunities to reach these goals. Breathitt students are what drives our compassion and spirit to teach.

VISIONBuilding Character and High-achieving Students

Who are College and/or Career Ready.

MISSION STATEMENTBreathitt High School will continuously use data results to set the expectation of and provide safety nets for all students to be prepared for the next level.

BELIEFS School and student evidence will inform ALL decisions concerning student growth and

achievement. Every stakeholder is responsible for student success. Good role models influence student behaviors positively by demonstrating respect and

responsibility. All students can learn based on what WE do. PEOPLE come first and are treated with dignity and respect. Motivation is our responsibility. Student learning/success is our top priority.

2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Master Schedule with class change times..............................................................4Faculty / Staff Listing.............................................................................................4Attendance Policy...................................................................................................5Make-up and Late Work Policy.............................................................................6Dress Code..............................................................................................................7Grading Scale.........................................................................................................8Weighted Grades Policy.........................................................................................8Graduation Requirements.......................................................................................10Credit Recovery......................................................................................................11Electronic Devices Policy.......................................................................................11District Technology Property Deployment Agreement..........................................12Valedictorian/Salutatorian Criteria.........................................................................12Guidance and Counseling Services........................................................................12Exams and Exam Schedules...................................................................................12Seniors....................................................................................................................12Senior Trip..............................................................................................................13Emergency Cards....................................................................................................13Alcohol and Drugs..................................................................................................13Parent Conference..................................................................................................13Visitors...................................................................................................................13Early Sign-Out Procedures.....................................................................................14Schedule Changes and Corrections........................................................................14Policy on Incomplete Grades..................................................................................14ACT Test Dates......................................................................................................15Governor’s Scholars Program................................................................................15Academic Boosters of Breathitt County.................................................................15Testing....................................................................................................................15General Statement of Good Behavior.....................................................................15Relationships..........................................................................................................16First Aid and Emergency Care...............................................................................16Automobile Regulations.........................................................................................17Textbook Policies...................................................................................................17Student Debts..........................................................................................................17Food and Drink.......................................................................................................17School Trips............................................................................................................18Tobacco Policy.......................................................................................................18Acknowledgement of Receipt of Handbook (Parent signature required)..............19

3

BREATHITT COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

MASTER SCHEDULE FOR SCHOOL YEAR 2016-2017

1st Period 8:00-8:552nd Period 8:59-9:543rd Period 9:58-10:534th Period 10:57-12:17

1st Lunch 10:57-11:192nd Lunch 11:24-11:483rd Lunch 11:53-12:17

5th Period 12:21- 1:166th Period 1:20 - 2:157th Period 2:19-3:14

FACULTY / STAFFDavid Kyle Abner Tonya RainesKansas Adams Randy RileyScott Allen Robert ShouseDosha Back Teasha SloasAugusta Barnett Ryan SpicerWallace Bates Sherrie StewartJennifer Bowling Donna ThomasPaula Clemons-Combs Willie TurnerEric Collins Linda YatesDonna CombsKenneth Combs Office StaffAnnette Coomer Carolyn McDaniel, PrincipalJohn Epperson Tim Johnson, Assistant PrincipalAlonzo Fugate Beverly Neace, Guidance CounselorPaul Hale Judy Hamilton, Secretary/ReceptionTara Beth Hall Betty Maggard, Guidance SecretaryRena Hamblin Sharon Gross, School NurseJason Herald Michelle Johnson, School PsychologistNan HeraldDarren Iacono ATC StaffDonna Little Joe Mayabb, PrincipalBonnie Lively Debbie Smith, ReceptionistRich McCune Burlie AdamsMaria Montaño Gene BoothKyle Moore Kelly ClibernJamie Neace Rebecca NeaceMalissa Noble Jerry SmithLucy Prewitt Verna Stacy

4

ATTENDANCE POLICY1st Reading: June 19, 20132nd Reading & Adoption: June 24, 2013To be enacted for the 2013-2014 and beyond school years.

Absences and ExcusesPupils are required to attend regularly and punctually the school in which they are enrolled. Recording of absences and tardies shall be made in compliance with the requirements of 702 KAR 007:125.1

TRUANCY DEFINEDAny student who has attained the age of six (6), but has not reached his/her eighteenth (18th) birthday, who has been

absent from school without valid excuse for three (3) days or more, or tardy without valid excuse on three (3) days or more, is a truant.

Any student enrolled in a public school who has attained the age of eighteen (18) years, but has not reached his/her twenty-first (21st) birthday, who has been absent from school without valid excuse for three (3) or more days, or tardy without valid excuse on three (3) or more days, is a truant.

Any student who has been reported as a truant two (2) or more times is a habitual truant.For the purposes of establishing a student's status as a truant, a student’s attendance record is cumulative for an entire school year. When students transfer from one Kentucky district to another, attendance information from the previous district shall become part of their official attendance record for that school year.

Students identified as truant in middle school or high school will be referred to the Truancy Diversion Program sponsored by the Breathitt County Court and Breathitt County Attorney.EXCUSED ABSENCESAn excused absence or tardiness is one for which work may be made up, such as:

1. Death or severe illness in the pupil's immediate family,2. Illness of the pupil,3. Religious holidays and practices,4. One (1) day for attendance at the Kentucky State Fair, 5. Documented military leave,6. One (1) day prior to departure of parent/guardian called to active military duty,7. One (1) day upon the return of parent/guardian from active military duty, 8. Visitation for up to ten (10) days with the student’s parent, de facto custodian, or person with legal custody who, while

on active military duty stationed outside of the country, is granted rest and recuperation leave, or9. Other valid reasons as determined by the Principal, including trips qualifying as educational enhancement

opportunities.Students shall be granted an excused absence for up to ten (10) school days to pursue an educational enhancement opportunity determined by the Principal to be of significant educational value. This opportunity may include, but not be limited to, participation in an educational foreign exchange program or an intensive instructional, experiential, or performance program in one (1) of the core curriculum subjects of English, science, mathematics, social studies, foreign language, and the arts.Unless the Principal determines that extenuating circumstances exist, requests for date(s) falling within State or District testing periods shall not be granted.The Principal’s determination may be appealed to the Superintendent/designee whose decision may then be appealed to the Board under its grievance policy and procedures.

Students receiving an excused absence under this section shall have the opportunity to make up school work missed and shall not have their class grades adversely affected for lack of class attendance or class participation due to the excused absence. Students shall have the same number of days excused to make up the missed work. It is the responsibility of the student to meet with teachers to get missed assignments.

A student who is participating in a school-related activity during school hours shall not be counted absent. However, the student shall be required to make up any assignments missed.

NOTES REQUIREDParent Notes: A student returning to school after an absence must bring a note within three (3) days signed by his/her parents or guardian. Three (3) parent or guardian notes are accepted for excuse each school year.

5

Health Care Provider Notes: A student who is absent due to illness and goes to the doctor shall within three (3) days of return to school present the health care provider’s statement. The following information is required on the excuse statement:

name of health care provider; date and time of appointment; reason for visit; health care providers instructions to be followed, if any; and date student can return to school.

Up to ten (10) days per year may be excused with a health care provider’s note.

SCHOOL HANDBOOKSEach school handbook shall include specific attendance requirements.UNEXCUSED ABSENCES

Work missed during unexcused days may be made up at the discretion of the school administration.Any appointment, i.e. dental, doctor, eye, court, etc, will be unexcused if they exceed a half-day, unless otherwise noted on the excuse from the provider.

Habitually truant students shall be ineligible for extracurricular activities, i.e. sports, field trips, academic competitions, prom or other dances, and graduation ceremonies.

SUSPENSIONProjects or homework assigned prior to suspension shall be accepted for credit. Students shall be responsible for

submitting assignments due during the time of the suspension.Long-term projects assigned during the suspension and due at a later date shall be accepted.Work assigned and due during suspension shall be required to be completed.

MAKE-UP AND LATE WORK POLICY1st Reading: June 19, 20132nd Reading and Adoption: June 24, 2013

Students will be permitted make-up work with EXCUSED absences ONLY.A. The student will have days for make-up that are equal to his/her days of absence.

(Example – One day of make-up for one day absent).B. If a teacher has previously assigned deadlines for work (syllabus), the work is due on the

return day.C. By the nature of some class activities (included but not limited to bell ringers,

participation grades, etc.), they cannot be made up if a student is absent.D. If a student is present in class and has chosen not to complete or participate in that day’s

activities, the student is not allowed to make that assignment or activity up at a later time.E. It is the student’s responsibility to get make-up work by using time before/after class such

as lunch, break, or before/after school.F. Completion of make-up work for a suspension will be at the discretion of the building

administrators.G. Make-up work for a student suspended from school is permissible with approval from

administration, but must be completed during after school hours. Work must be turned in as soon as the student returns from the suspension.

H. Late Work – For late work (homework or assignments with an established due date), 10% will be subtracted from the grade for each school day the assignment is late. After five (5) school days, the assignment cannot be submitted for credit, though the student may still be required to submit the assignment.

6

DRESS CODEDress code requirements apply to all students (male and female) and are to be followed during school hours, during school-sponsored events, and during extracurricular activities. Students who are participating in Physical Education classes must adhere to all dress code requirements before entering the hallways or classrooms. Teachers of the physical education classes will set the dress codes for the physical education classes. However, shirts (those meeting dress code standards) must be worn at ALL times.

1. Shoes must be worn at all times.2. Shorts, skirts, dresses, and skorts (including those worn with leggings, etc.) must be no

shorter than four (4) inches from the top of the knee.3. No sleeveless shirts or off-the-shoulder clothing will be permitted. Students who participate

in a sport or club that have sleeveless shirts that are a recognized part of an official school uniform will be the only ones to vary from this. Then, they can only be worn during regular practice/competition times.

4. Pants, jeans, shirts, shorts, or any other clothing item that contains a hole exposing skin above the knees is not permitted while attending BCHS. Any questionable garment may be required to be covered during the school day.

5. Students are not permitted to possess nor wear sunglasses, hats, caps, or bandanas during the school day unless authorized for a school activity. Students are not to wear toboggans, beanies, or hoods that cover the head.

6. No clothing shall be permitted which promotes alcohol or drugs or which bears offensive language, pictures, signs, or offensive insinuations. Examples include, but are not limited to: “Big Johnson,” “Hooters,” “Co-ed Naked”. If it is illegal for you to do, it is banned on clothing in our building.

7. See-through clothing, bare midriffs, and any article of clothing considered indecent or distracting is prohibited.

8. Shirts must be of length that they could be tucked in and remained tucked in whether sitting or standing or stretching. We are not attempting to enforce that shirts be tucked in, but to enforce the fact that shirts must be of proper length to cover the midriff region the entire time the shirt is worn. At no time should a student’s shirt expose the bare back or midriff.

9. All clothing must be “form-fitting”. Clothing that is excessively baggy will not be tolerated.10. All pants and shorts must be worn at the waist. The waist is considered the area ABOVE the

tip of the hipbones. Underwear cannot be visible at any time.

Dress Code for ALL Formal DancesThe dress code for the Homecoming and Sweetheart candidates is as follows:

The attire for the candidates will be informal (no formal gowns). Adhere to the school dress code.

Girls may wear sleeveless dresses, but no halter tops, spaghetti straps or revealing necklines (as determined by the school staff). The skirt length will be no shorter than three (3) inches above the knee. The top of any slit cannot be any higher than 3 inches above the knee.

7

The dress code for Prom, JROTC Military Ball and other formal dances is as follows: Males – The attire should be formal, i.e. dress jacket, shirt, and tie, and dress slacks or

tuxedos. No tee shirts, jeans, or cargo pants are permissible. All clothing must remain on and buttoned up EXCEPT for jackets, ties, and vests. Females – The attire should be formal. The skirt length will be no shorter than four (4)

inches above the knee. The top of any slit cannot be any higher than 4 inches above the knee. No bare midriff or excessively revealing neckline (as determined by the school staff) is permissible. No attire is permissible that reveals more than half the back.

NOTE: Prom dresses must be approved by administration before wearing to prom. Student must either provide a photograph of the dress or bring the dress in for final approval. If the student does not get approval and the dress is deemed inappropriate, the student will be escorted out.

DRESS CODE FOR GRADUATION – Graduation is a formal ceremony and will be treated as such. For this reason, the following dress code will be followed:1. No flip flops or boots.2. No shorts.3. Gentlemen - Dress slacks/khakis, collared shirts, dress shoes4. Dress slacks or dresses/skirts for young ladies – MUST meet dress code requirements

BREATHITT COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLGRADING SCALE

A = 90 – 100B = 80 – 89C = 70 – 79D = 60 – 69

F = 59 and below

SBDM WEIGHTED GRADES POLICYAdvanced Placement

Students in Advanced Placement courses must sit for the College Board AP Exam in the spring. Students who do not take the exam will receive regular course credit toward their GPA—not Advanced Placement or Advanced course credit. Should the student receive regular course credit, AP designation will be removed from the course title on their transcript. The exception to this policy would be students who have elected the dual credit option (if offered) for an Advanced Placement course. Students who elect the dual credit option are not required to sit for the AP exam.

Class Rank and Grade Point AveragesIndividual class rank and grade point average (GPA) shall be calculated at the end of the

second, fourth, sixth, and eighth semesters. This calculation shall be based on performance in all courses taken during the high school years.

8

Full year course credits will be used to compute the final GPA. Quality points shall be assigned as follows:

AP/Dual Credit Honors RegularA (90-100)=5.0 A (90-100)=4.5 A (90-100)=4.0B (80-89)=4.0 B (80-89)=3.5 B (80-89)=3.0C (70-79)=3.0 C (70-79)=2.5 C (70-79)=2.0D (60-69)=2.0 D (60-69)=1.5 D (60-69)=1.0F (59-Below)=0.0 F (59-Below)=0.0 F (59-Below)=0.0

Advanced Placement Courses include the following: English Composition, English Literature

Dual Credit Courses Breathitt High School, Morehead State University, and Hazard Community and Technical

College have developed an agreement that allows students to take courses at BHS that will grant college credit. They include the following:

ENG 100, ENG 200, MAT 152 (College Algebra), MAT 174 (Pre-Calculus), MAT 123 (Intro to Statistics), HIS 108 (History of the US through 1865) & 109 (History of the US since 1865), CIS 101 (Intro Computer Science), CIS 211 (Data Modeling), and other courses as available.

Students that participate in this program must: have minimum GPA of 3.0. have minimum ACT Composite of 18; and all subscore requirements: English-18, Math-22,

Reading 20. be a Junior or Senior. meet all BHS prerequisites (such as English I & II). be recommended by the Guidance Counselor.

Honors Course: Geometry

Correspondence Courses/Alternative Credit Options (including Kentucky Virtual High School)

In addition to regular classroom instruction, high school students may earn elective credits toward graduation through correspondence courses and/or virtual on-line courses. Except as noted below, the board shall only award credit for those courses that qualify as an elective for the student.

Only courses offered by agencies and institutions recognized by the Board will be accepted. The express approval of the Principal/designee shall be obtained before the course is taken and an official record of the final grade must be received by the school before a diploma may be issued to the student. Under ordinary circumstances, student or their patents/guardians shall pay for approved courses the student chooses to take.

Virtual/Online CoursesAs determined by school/council policy, students applying for permission to take a virtual

course shall complete prerequisites and provide teacher/counselor recommendations to confirm the student possesses the maturity level needed to function effectively in an online learning environment.

Credit from an online or virtual course may be earned only in the following circumstances:1. The approved elective course is not offered at the high school.

9

2. Although an elective course is offered at the high school, the student will not be able to take it due to an unavoidable scheduling conflict.

BREATHITT COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLGRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Graduates must have 22 credits to graduate4 English (including English I, II, III, IV)4 Math (including Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II, and one elective 3 Science3 Social Studies (World Civilization, Integrated Social Studies, and U. S. History or History

109)½ Health½ Physical Education/Lifetime Fitness1 Arts History and Appreciation1 Computers/Workplace Readiness1 Career Success

The remaining credits are determined in accordance with the student’s individual learning plan, diploma track, and career pathway(s).

The diplomas which may be awarded are the Pre-College Curriculum Diploma and Technical Diploma.

All students must reach the status of College Ready or Career Ready in order to graduate. In the case of a student that has not met this criteria, he or she can apply for graduation based on giving a good faith effort toward reaching College or Career Readiness levels.

A Pre-College Curriculum Diploma shall be issued to each student who successfully completes the following diploma tract:

Language Arts – 4 credits English I, II, III, IV or AP EnglishMath – 4 credits Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry and 1 elective: College Career Math,

Math 152, or Pre-CalculusScience – 3 credits Integrated Science, Biology, Chemistry or Physical Science.Social Studies – 3 credits World Civilization, Integrated Social Studies,

US History/History 109Health/Physical Education - ½ credit in each areaHistory and Appreciation of Visual and Performing Arts – 1 creditForeign Language – 2 creditsComputer Literacy – 1 creditNOTE: First-time freshmen under age 21 who enroll in a four-year degree program at a Kentucky public university must complete the foreign language requirement. Students not taking a foreign language in high school will be required to do so at the university.

10

A Technical Diploma shall be issued to each student who successfully completes the following diploma tract:

Language Arts – 4 credits English I, II, III, IV or AP EnglishMath – 4 credits Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry and 1 elective: College Career

MathScience – 3 credits Integrated Science, Biology, Chemistry or Physical Science. Social Studies – 3 credits World Civilization, Integrated Social Studies, U. S. HistoryHealth/Physical Education - ½ credit in each areaHistory and Appreciation of Visual and Performing Arts – 1 creditComputer Literacy – 1 creditNOTE: Students in the Technical Diploma track must also be a completer in at least one Vocational education area. (4 related career courses) Total Technical Core Credits 19 (Number of electives dependent on graduation year)

CREDIT RECOVERY POLICYThe credit recovery program at Breathitt High School consists of coursework through Compass

Learning. Compass Learning is a computer-based program designed to meet the requirements of classes taught at Breathitt High School. Any student enrolled in credit recovery will be assigned at the discretion of school administration or the guidance counselor.

ELECTRONIC DEVICES POLICY (Includes Cell Phones, MP3 Players, etc.)  Electronics (Cell Phone Policy): Pursuant to KRS 158.165 and the Board Policy, while on school property or attending school sponsored or school related activities, students shall be permitted to possess and use personal telecommunications devices (such as cell phones) provided they observe the following conditions: 

1. Devices shall not be used in a manner that disrupts the educational process, including, but not limited to, posing a threat to academic integrity or violating confidentiality or privacy rights of another individual, unless an emergency situation exists that involves imminent physical danger and a certified employee authorizes the student to do so.Otherwise, devices shall be used in a manner promoting educational improvement consistent with established Internet Usage Safety Program (Digital Drivers License). 

Students violating this policy will be subject to the following disciplinary action. 1st offense device will be returned to the student at the end of the day by office staff; 2nd offense will require guardian pick-up of the device; 3rd offense is a 3-school day confiscation, or if student picks up the device before 3 days, a $10 (ten dollar) fee shall be paid; 4th and subsequent offense(s) is a10-school day confiscation, or if student picks up the device before 10 days, a $20 (twenty dollar) fee shall be paid (may be returned by court order). In addition, an administrator may confiscate the device, which shall only be returned to the student or the student’s parent/guardian, as appropriate. 

2. Students are responsible for keeping up with devices they bring to school. The district shall not be responsible for loss, theft, or destruction of devices brought onto school property. 

3. Students shall comply with any additional rules developed by the school concerning appropriate use of telecommunication or other electronic devices. 

4. Students shall not utilize a telecommunication or similar electronic device in a manner that would violate the district’s Acceptable Use Policy or procedures or its’ Code of Acceptable Behavior and Discipline.

11

DISTRICT TECHNOLOGY PROPERTY DEPLOYMENT AGREEMENT (ONE TO ONE INITIATIVE)

While the primary purpose of the Breathitt County School District’s technology equipment is for use on site during the instructional day, students will also be able to utilize devices for anywhere, anytime learning. All students/parents/guardians will be required to sign consent forms and submit fees before technology equipment can be taken to a location other than a District facility. Technology equipment may be assigned under the provisions of the Acceptable Use Policy.

VALEDICTORIAN/SALUTATORIAN CRITERIAAdopted: July 21, 2011

The Valedictorian and Salutatorian at Breathitt County High School shall be determined using the following method:

1. The weighted cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) will be rounded to the nearest tenth and the decimal point will be moved one place to the right. Example: A GPA of 4.127 will be rounded to 4.1. Moving the decimal place results in 41 points.

2. The student shall meet all requirements of a pre-college curriculum or higher. (Refer to the Pre-College requirements for graduation as recognized by the Kentucky Department of Education.)

3. Students may use the highest ACT composite score earned on or before the February test of their senior year.

4. Senior Year Requirement: Students must meet the attendance requirement per District Attendance Policy for Graduation in order to be given this honor. A candidate for valedictorian or salutatorian must have 92% attendance.

EXAMPLE:GPA Points = 41ACT Points = 28 Total Points = 69

The highest point total will be the Valedictorian, with the second highest point total named Salutatorian. In the event of a tie, co-valedictorians or salutatorians will be recognized.

GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING SERVICESThe Guidance Counselor’s office is located on the second floor (Room 209) of the main high school

building. Any student who needs help with a school related problem is encouraged to visit the office.All students are required to complete an Individual Learning Plan in order to meet the requirements

necessary for graduation and future studies.The Guidance Counselor’s office houses all the school records for each student.

EXAM AND EXAM SCHEDULESEnd of Year Exams shall be given in all classes. End of Year Exams will represent twenty percent

(20%) of the entire grade. All students are required to take exams.

SENIORSScholarship applications start arriving in the Guidance Counselor’s office in early October.

Announcements of new scholarships are made over the PA system and are posted on the bulletin board beside the Guidance Office. It is the student’s responsibility to periodically check with the

12

Guidance Counselor’s office to obtain scholarship information and applications. It is suggested that seniors visit the Guidance Office for this purpose every two weeks.

Senior conferences will begin in September. During the conference, the Guidance Counselor and the senior student discuss graduation requirements, transcripts, future plans, and any concerns the student may have.

SBDM POLICY: SENIOR TRIPFirst Reading: July 18, 2000 Second Reading and Adoption: July 31, 2000

1. Fifth-year seniors are not eligible to go on the trip.2. If seniors will not have the credits to graduate, they will not be entitled to go on the trip. (Credits

will be checked after first semester and again prior to the trip.)3. Students must work out part of the money.4. Students must have raised or paid one-half of the money by January 1. NO EXCEPTIONS!5. Any senior who has been placed in an alternative school situation or detention center during the

senior year cannot go on the trip.6. Any student who has been suspended more than one time during their senior year will not be able

to go on the trip.7. Any student in ISS more than three separate occasions during the senior year will not be able to

go on the trip.8. The money is non-refundable.9. Final decision on attendance of the trip will be made by the principal and senior trip sponsors.10. All students must abide by the Student Code of Discipline guidelines while on the trip.11. Students violating the attendance policy are not eligible to go on the trip.

EMERGENCY CARDSIn order that we conform to the wishes of parents, emergency cards must be filled out for each

student for use in emergency situations. Cards MUST be returned. To sign a student out of school, each person must be listed on the student’s emergency card and present a valid photo ID.

ALCOHOL AND DRUGSThe use of alcoholic beverages or drugs is strictly prohibited. Any possession, use, or sale of drugs or alcoholic beverages on the school grounds, at school functions, or on school buses is prohibited at all times. The rule regarding drugs and alcoholic beverages applies to all students, regardless of age. Violation of this rule will result in law enforcement personnel becoming involved and expulsion procedures initiated according to Board of Education policy.

PARENT CONFERENCEParent conferences are encouraged. Many problems may be avoided with good communication between teachers and parents. Parent conferences should be scheduled in advance with the knowledge of the principal and during a teacher’s planning period. If a parent arrives without an appointment, every effort will be made to accommodate the parent but they may be asked to wait until the teacher’s planning period.

VISITORSSchool policy is to accept only those visitors who have legitimate business at the school. Visitors must register and present picture I.D. in the Main Office immediately upon entering the building. Parents are always welcome to visit. We require all visitors to register in the Main Office when they

13

enter. Call ahead for an appointment with the administrator or for a teacher during their planning period.

EARLY SIGN-OUT PROCEDURE1. No student shall be dismissed early from school without a parent’s signature (or the signature of an individual listed on the student’s emergency medical card). (702 KAR 7:125, section 6).

2. When the student is being picked up, the parent/guardian or parental designee shall report to the Principal’s office. Anyone picking up a student must show proper picture identification, (unless school personnel can positively identify them), to the Principal or his/her designee before leaving school with the child.

3. Exception: A student may be released to a person with lawful authority to take custody of the student, e.g., a police officer with a warrant or a police officer who has been contacted by school personnel to remove the student from the school property. In such case, the student’s parent shall be notified at the earliest opportunity.

In every instance of leaving early, the students are responsible for completing any missed class work, homework and/or test. If the reason for leaving early is valid, the teacher will set a reasonable period of time to complete the work.

SCHEDULE CHANGES AND CORRECTIONS WILL BE MADE AS FOLLOWS:Students will be required to attend classes on the schedule given to them for two (2) school days.

Student-initiated schedule changes will occur during the first two (2) weeks of each semester. Student initiated changes will be considered only in the cases of Dual Credit, AP Classes, Career Path, or Medical (with documentation).

Only one (1) student-initiated schedule change will be allowed per student per semester. Schedule changes will begin with seniors, then juniors, sophomores, and ending with freshmen. The principal shall be able to change schedules based on special or extenuating circumstances.

Students assigned to Academic Skills Enhancement courses can only drop the class when they have met benchmark in their required academic area.

POLICY ON INCOMPLETE GRADESThe following guidelines will be followed for incomplete grades:1. A student must submit work within 10 school days after the end of a grading period.2. The teacher will report on the appropriate forms the student’s final grade within 15 school days after the end of 1st semester or 15 working days after the end of 2nd semester.3. A copy of the teacher’s final grade on the appropriate form will be filed for reference in the student’s cumulative folders.4. Any grade of “I” will automatically change to “F” for noncompliance with the policy for incomplete grades.5. Students who withdraw after the eleventh week of either semester with a failing grade will receive an “F” for that semester on their permanent record.6. Any senior student that fails to complete all graduation requirements prior to the end of the last day of school shall not participate in graduation ceremonies. The diploma will be awarded when graduation requirements are met.

14

2016–2017 ACT TEST DATES (Also see www.actstudent.org) Test Date Registration Deadline (Late Fee Required)

September 10, 2016 August 5, 2016 August 6-19, 2016October 22, 2016 September 16, 2016 September 17-30, 2016

December 10, 2016 November 4, 2016 November 5-18, 2016February 11, 2017* January 13, 2017 January 14-20, 2017

April 8, 2017 March 3, 2017 March 4-17, 2017June 10, 2017 May 5, 2017 May 6-19, 2017

Additional ACT information is available at http://www.act.org/newsroom/announce/testprocedures.html

GOVERNOR’S SCHOLARS PROGRAMAll qualifying juniors will be notified through the Governor’s Scholars program of an orientation session to be held locally. Application packets for the Governor’s Scholars program are distributed at this time by the program staff. Applications are also available online at www.kygsp.org. Juniors applying for the Governor’s Scholars program must have an ACT score prior to application.

ACADEMIC BOOSTERS OF BREATHITT COUNTYThe Breathitt County School system is proud to participate in the Academic Boosters of Breathitt County program. This community based organization honors all students in Breathitt County from grades 6 to 12 who achieve academic excellence. The program honors students achieving at least a 3.5 GPA (grade point average), and above for grades 6, 7 and 8 for the first semester of the year. Students in grades 9, 10, 11 and 12 must maintain a cumulative 3.5 GPA or above. This award program is generally held in the spring of each year. For further details about this program please see your Guidance Counselor.

TESTINGAll juniors will take the ACT. Students completing English II, Algebra II, U. S. History, and Biology will take state required end of course exams. All sophomore and juniors will take an On Demand Writing test. Seniors not meeting benchmark on the ACT shall take KYOTE content area tests for College Readiness. Career Ready senior students must take and pass KOSSA or Industry Certification and ASVAB or WorkKeys.

GENERAL STATEMENT OF GOOD BEHAVIORIf every student were to adopt the policy that the main purpose of school is an education and strive

toward that goal, disciplinary problems would be non-existent. However, growing up seems to have an inborn quality of making mistakes and blundering at times. Therefore, the following statements are presented to serve as a guide to acceptable behavior.

1. Do not cut class: Cutting is defined as not being in a scheduled class or location during the school day without written, approved authorization.2. Eat lunch in the Cafeteria only. Students MAY NOT leave school grounds for lunch. This is considered skipping school.3. The use of profanity, fighting, littering, running in the halls, throwing objects, defacing school property, name calling, tardiness to class, screaming and yelling, whistling, horseplay, stealing, tampering with fire extinguishers or fire alarms, and violence are some acts which are considered poor behavior and will result in disciplinary action.

15

4. You must have a hall pass to be excused from class or to go to another area of the building. Hall passes are for emergency use only, and students must report back to class as quickly as possible. 5. School equipment, supplies, and textbooks are furnished for your use. They are your responsibility.6. You must remain on the school grounds at all times. If you leave the school grounds or go to your car without permission, you will face disciplinary actions in accordance with the district student discipline code book. 7. All students may be subjected to canine drug detection searches.

RELATIONSHIPSStudents must refrain from exhibiting displays of affection. There is to be no intimate body contact.

This includes but is not necessarily limited to kissing, hugging, necking, or petting.1st offense - Principal conference; 2nd offense - Parent conference; 3rd offense – Suspension

FIRST AID AND EMERGENCY CARE FOR ILLNESSES AND INJURIESThe school is responsible for giving first aid or emergency treatment only in case of sudden illness

or injury to a pupil or a member of the staff. Further medical attention in the case of a pupil is the responsibility of the parent or guardian, or the person designated for emergencies, and in the case of a member of the staff, of the particular individual.

The principal is charged with directing the immediate care of ill or injured persons who come within his or her area of responsibility.

At each school, procedures for the proper handling of such emergencies have been developed and made known to the staff. Procedure incorporates the following requirements.

1. NO treatment except first aid is permitted in schools. The school’s responsibility is to place the ill or injured student in the care of the home or family physician as soon as possible.2. Teachers, other trained staff, or bus drivers, if the injury occurs on a school bus, will be responsible for administering first aid to students with minor injuries such as scratches, abrasions, bruises, etc.3. A master first aid kit will be kept and properly maintained in each school.4. In all cases where the nature of an illness or injury appears serious, the parent or guardian will be contacted if possible. In an emergency, arrangements may be made for a child’s immediate hospitalization whether or not the parent or guardian can be reached.

The Principal is responsible for the implementation of first aid and emergency care procedures and policies in the school. The principal may appoint a member of the professional staff to take leadership in organizing the procedures included in the policy. The person appointed should have a standard certificate in American Red Cross First Aid or the equivalent.

The procedure of first aid as it pertains to athletics is no different than any other school department or program. In the event of sudden illness or accidental injury, the function of the department of athletics is one of handling these situations. The coaches, trainers and other personnel associated with athletics are not responsible for subsequent treatment. All athletic personnel shall be qualified in basic first aid procedures and practices.

16

AUTOMOBILE REGULATIONS1. Students must have forms signed and on file in the office. Students must purchase a parking permit and display it at all times while parked in the BHS lots. The hang tag costs $10.00 per year and may be purchased from the school secretary. Parking permits will not be issued to students who have outstanding debts at school. The debt record will be reviewed each semester.2. Students who park in the student parking lot behind the gym will be dismissed and may leave on the first bell. They MUST exit through the back, by the Football Den (Court Street).3. Students must park their cars and enter the building immediately upon arriving at school.4. Sitting in parked cars is NOT permitted.5. Reckless driving is NOT permitted. Excessive speed is NOT permitted.6. Speed limit on school grounds is 15 M.P.H.7. Violation of any student driving policy is grounds for suspension of driving privileges onto school grounds. 8. Any student that leaves school grounds without permission will have their driving privileges revoked.9. Students with frequent discipline problems may have driving privileges revoked.10. Once a student is deemed habitually truant, driving privileges shall be revoked.11. A student’s car may be searched if there is reason to believe that the car contains material forbidden by school rules.12. Student vehicles are NOT to be moved during the school day.13. No vulgar or indecent displays will be permitted on student vehicles.14. All automobiles will be subject to searches.15. No Pass No Drive (KRS 159.051) reads as follows:

When a student age sixteen (16) or seventeen (17) drops out of school or is declared to be academically deficient, the school administrator or his designee shall notify the superintendent of schools of the district in which the student is a resident or is enrolled. The reports shall be made at the end of each semester but may be made earlier in the semester for accumulated absences. A student shall be deemed to have dropped out of school when he has nine (9) or more unexcused absences in the preceding semester. Any absences due to suspension shall be unexcused absences. A student shall be deemed to be academically deficient when he has not received passing grades in at least four (4) courses, or the equivalent of four (4) courses, in the preceding semester. The local school board shall adopt a policy to reflect a similar standard for academic deficiency for students in alternative, special education, or part-time programs.

TEXTBOOK POLICIESAll students are issued textbooks free of charge. Students using state textbooks are expected to

keep those in excellent condition. The student to whom the book was issued must pay for damaged, stolen, or lost books. No additional books or parking permits will be issued until debts are paid.

STUDENT DEBTSAll student debts must be paid before books or diplomas are to be awarded. Parking permits will

not be issued to students with outstanding debts at school. The debt record will be reviewed at the end of the fall term and spring term. Students with accumulated school debts will not be eligible to attend extracurricular events including prom and/or graduation ceremonies.

FOOD AND DRINKThere are certain areas in the building where food and drink are prohibited at ALL times. They

include, but are not limited to the library, computer labs, the gymnasium (unless stated otherwise), and the weight room. No glass containers are allowed at any time. Teachers may forbid food/drink in any classroom.

17

AT NO TIME ARE PEOPLE OUTSIDE OF THE SCHOOL ALLOWED TO BRING FOOD OR DRINK INTO THE BUILDING (UNLESS GIVEN PERMISSION BY THE ADMINISTRATION). ALL FOOD MUST BE EATEN IN THE CAFETERIA OR OUTDOOR CAFÉ.

As with any other privilege, the privilege to take food and drink into a class, or bring it into the building, can be revoked by the teacher in the classroom or the administration of BCHS for the entire building.

It is required that we keep our school, its classrooms, and campus free of litter in order to maintain the privilege.

SCHOOL TRIPSStudents must have the approval of all their teachers to be dismissed from class to attend a

field trip. Incomplete assignments, failing grades, truancy, or multiple discipline referrals may result in denial of approval to be dismissed from class. Alternate assignments should be given if participation in the field trip determines part of the student’s grade for the class.

TOBACCO POLICY (Tobacco Free School)The Breathitt County Board of Education recognizes that the use of tobacco presents a health and

safety hazard, which can have serious consequences for the smoker and non-smoker and for the safety of the district. In order to protect the students, staff, employees, visitors and guests of the district from an environment that may be harmful to them, the Board hereby prohibits the use of any type of tobacco and tobacco related products by all students in all school buildings, on all school grounds, and on all school buses.

Board policy 09-4232 states that students are not to possess, use, sell, or distribute tobacco products on school property, including school buses, or at any school sponsored activities under the supervision and sponsorship of school personnel.

For the purposes of this policy, the word “smoking” will mean any and all uses of tobacco, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, snuff, and chewing tobacco and any and all tobacco related products such as lighters.

All tobacco products found in the possession of students will be confiscated by the Principal. Students found in violation of the District’s tobacco use policy shall be subject to the following disciplinary action:

1st Offense: In-school discipline determined by the principal or designee.2nd Offense: In-school suspension for two (2) days.3rd Offense: Four (4) days in in-school suspension.4th Offense: Six (6) days in in-school suspension.5th Offense: Subject to suspension.

18

Cut here

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT OFBREATHITT HIGH SCHOOL’S

2016-2017 STUDENT HAND BOOK

PLEASE SIGN, DETACH AND RETURN THIS FORMTO YOUR CHILD’S ADVISOR/ADVISEE TEACHER

_________________________________ BREATHITT HIGH SCHOOL ___ _ Student’s Name Student’s School of Enrollment

_________________________________ _____________________________Student’s State Identification Number Student’s Advisor/Advisee Teacher(Printed on the student’s schedule)

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

As the parent(s) or guardian(s) of the above named student, the signature(s) below indicate(s) I/We have read and discussed the Breathitt High School’s

2016-2017 Student Handbook with my/our child.

_____________________________________ _________________Parent/Guardian’s Signature Date

_____________________________________ _________________Parent/Guardian’s signature Date

____________________________________ _________________Student’s Signature Date

19