OTTAWA-GLANDORF HIGH SCHOOL

 

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www.oghs.noacsc.org

 

 

 

 

 

STUDENT HANDBOOK

2007-2008 SCHOOL YEAR

 

Ottawa-Glandorf High School

630 Glendale Ave.

Ottawa, OH  45875

 

                  High School                               419-523-5702

                      Athletic Office                             419-523-6220

                      High School Fax                          419-523-6346

                      SuperintendentÕs Office                419-523-5261

                      SuperintendentÕs Fax                    419-523-5978

 

This agenda belongs to:

 

              Name ______________________________________________

 

                        Address ____________________________________________

 

                        City/Town ___________________ Zip Code ______________

 

                        Phone ______________________________________________

 

 

2007-2008 SCHOOL YEAR

 

WELCOME TO OTTAWA-GLANDORF HIGH SCHOOL

 

The administration and faculty of Ottawa-Glandorf High School take great pleasure in welcoming you to ŌTitan Country.Ķ  We have a personal interest in you and hope your experiences here will be meaningful and memorable.  We want you to become involved in the life of Ottawa-Glandorf High School and help us to carry forward our proud tradition of excellence.  Understanding the rules, regulations, and policies that are in effect at OGHS is the responsibility of every student.

 

The policies and procedures in this handbook are designed to establish a positive school climate ensuring a successful year at OGHS.  Your teachers are eager to help you achieve your academic and personal goals and to prepare you for a successful adult life.  Along with your studies, get involved in co-curricular or extra-curricular activities.  These activities are designed to help you enjoy school life.  Your success is directly related to your efforts.

 

MISSION STATEMENT OF OTTAWA-GLANDORF HIGH SCHOOL

 

The mission of Ottawa-Glandorf High School is a commitment to inspire excellence, nurture enthusiastic learning and help students in achieving their maximum potential.

 

ACCESS TO EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY

 

ŌThe Ottawa-Glandorf School Board of Education declares it to be the policy of this District to provide an equal opportunity for all students, regardless of race, color, creed, disability, religion, gender, ancestry, national origin, and place of residence within the boundaries of this district.Ķ

 

Upon request of the Ottawa-Glandorf High School Principal, reasonable accommodations will be made for any disabled student to be able to participate in any activity.

 

OTTAWA-GLANDORF SCHOOLS – BOARD OF EDUCATION

 

There are five members of the Ottawa-Glandorf Local School Board of Education.  They are elected by the community at large.  The present members of the school board are as follows:  Keith Alt, Ruth Gerding, Ron Horstman, Becky Leader and Joseph Uphaus.  Regular school board meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month.

 

ADMINISTRATORS AND SUPPORT STAFF

 

William Hanna – High School Principal – 419-523-5702

David Sweet – Dean of Students – 419-523-5702

Ed Bratt and Jo Roth – Guidance Counselors – 419-523-5702

Deb Selhorst and Deb Kuhlman – High School Secretaries – 419-523-5702

Al Laubenthal – Athletic Director – 419-523-6220

Sally Guilford – Cafeteria Director – 419-523-5576

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATION

 

The Board of Education of the Ottawa-Glandorf Local School District believes that each individual should be accepted into the educational program as he/she is, and that he/she shall be provided with a stimulating environment and opportunities for learning experiences designed to promote behavioral changes that will effect continuing satisfactory adjustments to life.

 

In the practical application of this philosophy, opportunities shall be provided to each individual within the limits of his/her capacity to:

            a)  Develop physical, mental and emotional health

            b)  Develop moral and ethical values

            c)  Develop an appreciation for his/her role in the family and in civic groups

            d)  Develop skills for effective participation in the democratic processes

            e)  Develop the ability to communicate ideas

            f)  Develop knowledge and understanding of the natural environment

            g)  Develop economic competence as a consumer

            h)  Develop salable skills and vocational competence

            i)  Develop appreciation of the arts

            j)  Develop wise use of leisure time

 

 

 

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITES

 

The rules, regulations, and procedures of Ottawa-Glandorf High School are designed to allow students to be educated in a safe and orderly environment.  All students are expected to follow the directions of all staff members and obey all school rules.  Adult students (age 18 or older) are expected to follow all school rules, regulations and procedures.

 

Students are expected to arrive at school prepared to learn.  It is the studentÕs responsibility to arrive on time and be prepared to participate in the educational process.  If for some reason, this is not possible, the student should seek help from one of the Guidance Counselors, Dean of Students, or Principal.

 

In order to keep parents informed of their childÕs progress in school, parents will be provided information on a regular basis and whenever concerns arise.  Many times it will be the responsibility of the student to deliver information.  The school, however, may use the mail system, e-mail, or phone to ensure contact.  Parents are encouraged to build a two-way link with the teachers of their child or children.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DAILY BELL SCHEDULE

 

                         7:47                             WARNING BELL – STUDENTS GO TO 1ST PERIOD

                         7:50  -  8:30                  FIRST PERIOD

                         8:33  -  9:13                  SECOND PERIOD

                         9:16  -  9:41                  INTERVENTION

                         9:44  -  10:24                THIRD PERIOD

                        10:27 -  11:07                 FOURTH PERIOD

                        11:10 -  11:50                 FIFTH PERIOD

                        11:53 -  12:33                 SIXTH PERIOD

                        12:36 -  1:16                  SEVENTH PERIOD

                        1:19   -  1:59                  EIGHTH PERIOD

                        2:02   -  2:42                  NINTH PERIOD

 

ONE HOUR DELAY BELL SCHEDULE

 

                        8:47                              WARNING BELL – STUDENTS GO TO 1ST PERIOD

                        8:50  -  9:26                   FIRST PERIOD

                        9:29  -  10:05                 SECOND PERIOD

                        10:08 - 10:44                  THIRD PERIOD

                        10:47 - 11:23                  FOURTH PERIOD

                        11:26 - 12:03                  FIFTH PERIOD

                        12:06 - 12:43                  SIXTH PERIOD

                        12:46 -  1:23                  SEVENTH PERIOD

                        1:26   -  2:03                  EIGHTH PERIOD

                        2:06   -  2:42                  NINTH PERIOD

 

TWO HOUR DELAY BELL SCHEDULE

 

                        9:47                              WARNING BELL – STUDENTS GO TO 1ST PERIOD

                        9:50   - 10:20                 FIRST PERIOD

                        10:23 - 10:52                  SECOND PERIOD

                        10:55 - 11:24                  THIRD PERIOD

                        11:27 - 11:56                  FOURTH PERIOD

                        11:59 - 12:29                  FIFTH PERIOD

                        12:32 -  1:02                  SIXTH PERIOD

                        1:05   -  1:35                  SEVENTH PERIOD

                        1:38   -  2:08                  EIGHTH PERIOD

                        2:11   -  2:41                  NINTH PERIOD

 

THREE HOUR DELAY BELL SCHEDULE

 

                        10:47                            WARNING BELL – STUDENTS GO TO 1ST PERIOD

                        10:50 - 11:20                  FIRST PERIOD

                        11:23 - 11:52                  SECOND PERIOD

                        11:55 - 12:24                  THIRD PERIOD

                        12:27  -12:56                  FOURTH PERIOD

                        12:59 -  1:29                  FIFTH PERIOD

                        1:32   -  2:02                  SIXTH PERIOD

                        2:05   -  2:35                  SEVENTH PERIOD

                        2:38   -  3:08                  EIGHTH PERIOD

                        3:11  -   3:42                  NINTH PERIOD 

                       

 

 

OTTAWA-GLANDORF HIGH SCHOOL – PROCEDURES

 

Admission to OGHS – Students attending OGHS must live within the boundary lines of our school district.  Students not living in this school district must apply for Open Enrollment through the SuperintendentÕs Office of the Ottawa-Glandorf School District.  The Open Enrollment request must be done in the month of May.  Requests will be reviewed and either denied or approved as quickly as possible.  If the Open Enrollment request is approved, then the student(s) may attend OGHS.  If the Open Enrollment request is denied, the student cannot attend OGHS and must attend their home school.

 

Students that are new to the Ottawa-Glandorf School District are required to enroll with their parents or legal guardians.  When enrolling, the parent or guardian must provide copies of the following items:  1) birth certificate,

2) court papers allocating parental rights and responsibilities or custody, 3) proof of residency, and 4) proof of immunizations.  The student, parent or guardian must also make us aware of the previous school that was attended so that a records request can be made

 

A student who has been suspended or expelled by another public school in Ohio or from a public school in another state may be temporarily denied admission to OGHS during the period of suspension or expulsion.  Prior to the denying of admission, the Superintendent shall offer the student an opportunity for a hearing to review the circumstances of the suspension or expulsion and any other factors the Superintendent determines to be relevant.

 

Transfer / Withdrawal from OGHS – A student who anticipates transferring to another school must obtain a withdrawal form from the main office.  This form must be signed by the studentÕs teachers, by the Dean of Students and by the Principal.  The student must return all textbooks and other class materials that the teachers need returned.  All debts must also be paid before any school records are released.  In compliance with State Law, no student under the age of 18 will be allowed to withdraw from school without the written consent of his/her parents or custodians.  A student under the age of 18 who withdraws from school shall be reported to the juvenile judge of the county and to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles for suspension of their driverÕs license.  Students under the age of 18 must also have a work permit and show that they will be working.  The signature of the Superintendent must also be obtained by a student under the age of 18 who is withdrawing from school.

 

Arrival-Departure – Classes begin at 7:50 AM.   Students need to arrive at school prior to the starting time, but not before 7:30 AM.  A warning tone sounds at 7:47 AM.  Students then have 3 minutes to get to their first period class.  Students that arrive to school before 7:30 AM need to be under the supervision of a staff member or be here for some type of school activity.

 

No student is to leave school grounds during the school day without permission.  This permission is granted through someone in the PrincipalÕs office after a parent or guardian has called the school office.  A parent or guardian must call in all early dismissals for a student.  We need to have the early dismissals called in prior to 9:00 AM.  Any time a student leaves the school building or returns to the building, he/she must sign the student sign in/out sheet which is located in the PrincipalÕs office.  Upon returning to school, an office employee will give the student a pass to return to class and present the pass to the teacher.  If the student leaves for a doctorÕs visit, we need to have the student return to school with a slip from the doctorÕs office.

 

Tardiness – Tardiness to school or to a class needs to be avoided.  Students are expected to arrive to school on time and they are expected to be in their classrooms on time.  The school day begins at 7:50 AM, with the warning tone sounding at 7:47 AM.  Every 5th tardy to school will result in disciplinary action which may be a Saturday school detention or possible suspension.  Teachers will issue detentions for the first three (3) tardies to class.  After that, the student will be referred to the Principal or Dean of Students.  At this point, the student will receive a Saturday school detention or a suspension.  If a teacher is the cause for a student being late to another class, the student should secure a note from that teacher explaining why the student was late to class.

 

Early Dismissals – Early dismissals must be called in to the PrincipalÕs office by the parent, guardian, or grandparent of the student.  The reason for the early dismissal should be given along with the time of departure from school and if the student will be returning to school.  Students must sign out in the PrincipalÕs office when leaving for an early dismissal and sign in upon returning to school.  Early dismissals should be called in prior to 9:00 AM.

School Closings – Should inclement weather such as heavy snow, ice, fog or some other emergency require cancellation or delay of school, this information will be broadcasted over radio stations out of Findlay, Lima, and Defiance.  The announcement will also be made over television stations out of Lima and Toledo.  The cancellations or delays can also be found on the schoolÕs website (www.oghs.noacsc.org) and on the websites of various radio and television stations that take our information.  School delays due to weather will change the starting time of school.  A school delay of one hour means that classes will start at 8:50 AM, with the warning tone at 8:47 AM.  A school delay of two hours changes the starting time to 9:50 AM with the warning tone at 9:47 AM.  A school delay of three hours changes the starting time to 10:50 AM, with the warning tone at 10:47 AM.  Also, with a three hour delay, we will have an extended day, as school will be dismissed at 3:42 PM.

 

Announcements – School announcements are done twice daily.  Announcements will be made over the public address system at the start of the Intervention period and again at the start of 8th period.  All announcements should be given to someone in the main office, where approval must be secured.  Announcements will also appear on the Titan TV channel during the course of the school day.

 

Book Bags – Starting with the 2007-2008 school year book bags will no longer be allowed in the High School building.  Students will not be allowed to bring a book bag into the school building.  Students who are in Physical Education classes and athletics will be allowed to bring gym bags as long as those bags can be placed in the student lockers.  Gym bags are not to be carried into the classrooms.  If a gym bag cannot be placed in a student locker, the student should talk to their coach or Physical Education teacher to make other arrangements for storage of the bag until it is to be used.

 

Lockers – A locker will be assigned to each student.  Property in a locked or unlocked locker is the studentÕs responsibility.  The school is not responsible for stolen items.  Lockers are school property and can be searched at any time.  Students must be aware of the fact that searches of lockers by school officials are legal.  Students are responsible for keeping their assigned locker clean, both inside and out.  Damages caused to the locker by any type of misuse will be charged to the student assigned to the locker unless it is proven that someone else did the damage.  Any locker malfunction should be reported to someone in the PrincipalÕs office.

 

Hall Pass – Hall passes are in the back of the Student Planner.  There are enough hall pass sheets to last all four quarters.  Teachers are to sign the hall pass when a student needs to leave the classroom, study hall, Gym or Library.

 

Library / Media Center – Any student may utilize the Library facility during a study hall or class if the classroom teacher or study hall teacher authorizes it.  Students must be checked in by the Librarian or the Library Aide upon arrival.  There is to be no food or drink in the Library/Media Center.

 

Driving and Parking Lot Regulations – Students driving vehicles to school are to park in the student lot upon arrival to school.  Vehicles are to stay parked until the end of the day unless a student has special permission to leave.  Students are not permitted to sit in their vehicles once they have arrived and are parked on school grounds.  Any vehicle that a student is driving to school must be registered in the PrincipalÕs office and must have a parking permit displayed on the rear view mirror.  Vehicle registration forms will be passed out to all sophomores, juniors and seniors on the first day of school.  Parking permits cost $5.00.  Replacement cost for a parking permit will be $10.00.  Any vehicle without a parking permit or parked in an unauthorized area for students, will be subject to being towed at the cost of the student.  Students are required to park in the student parking lot in an orderly and safe fashion.  There are plenty of parking spaces in the student parking lot, so parking in other areas around or on school grounds will not be authorized.  Reckless operation of a vehicle on school grounds will result in disciplinary action.

 

After School Pick-Up –High school students are to meet their after-school ride in the area outside of the Media Center.  We DO NOT want students picked up in front of the school at the end of the school day.  We have Pre-School student pick-up in front of the school, so we would like high school student pick-up in a different area, which is the area right outside of the Media Center, also known as the Library.

 

Emergency Drills – All schools are required by law to have periodic fire drills to prepare students and staff in case of a real emergency.  Instructions for each classroom are posted.  Exit routes have been planned carefully to avoid congestion and to empty the building in the shortest time possible. 

 

General rules to follow:  *Close all windows and doors.  *Turn out the lights.  *Proceed quietly and quickly to the specified exit and out to the designated area.  *Do not block driveways.  *Do not re-enter the building until someone has signaled the end of the fire drill.

 

Tornado Drills – Tornado drills are conducted each spring.  Directions for the drill are posted and also will be given over the public address system.  Designated areas in corridors, which will shield students and staff from glass and other hazards, are posted in each classroom.

 

Insurance – An accident insurance program is made available to all pupils in the Ottawa-Glandorf School District through a private independent insurance company.  This accident policy affords very broad coverage.  All students will receive the information to take home to their parents or guardians.

 

Injury and Illness – All injuries must be reported to a teacher, bus driver, school aide or to someone in the PrincipalÕs office.  The school nurse will attend to the student if he/she is available.  If the injury is minor, the student will be treated and may return to class.  If medical attention is required, office personnel will follow the schoolÕs emergency procedures.  A student accident form must be completed by the staff member in charge where the accident occurred.  This accident report will be filed in the PrincipalÕs office and with the school nurse.  A student who becomes ill during the school day should request permission from the teacher to report to the PrincipalÕs office.  If a student is between classes, then the student is to report directly to the PrincipalÕs office.  Students are not permitted to use their cell phone to call someone because they are ill.  Students are not to hang out in the locker rooms or the restroom if they feel ill.  When the ill student reports to the PrincipalÕs office, the school nurse will be contacted if available.  If the school nurse is not available, then the Dean of Students or the Principal will determine if the student needs to leave school.  If that decision is made, then a parent, guardian or family member or someone from the Emergency Medical form will be contacted.  Any student who is ill and leaves school grounds without permission will be considered a truant student and will have to face disciplinary action.

 

Use of Medications – In those circumstances where a student must take prescribed medication during the school day, the following guidelines are to be observed:

1)  Parents should, with their physicianÕs counsel, determine whether the medication schedule could be adjusted to avoid administering medication during school.

2)  A medical form must be completed by a doctor and put on file in the NurseÕs office or in the PrincipalÕs office.

3)  All medication will be kept in and dispensed through the NurseÕs office.  Under school district policy, any staff member other than the PrincipalÕs office staff cannot provide medicine to students.

4)  No medication will be given unless the school districtÕs medication policy has been met.  Directions are provided in the PrincipalÕs office.

5)  Any unused medication unclaimed by the parent or guardian will be destroyed by the Nurse,

Principal or Dean of StudentsÕ when a prescription is no longer to be administered, or at the end of the school year.

6)  The parents or guardians shall have the sole responsibility to instruct their child to take the medication at the scheduled time.

 

Non-prescribed (over the counter) Medications – No staff member will be permitted to dispense non-prescribed over-the-counter medication to any student without parental authorization.  If a student is found using or possessing a non-prescribed medication without parent authorization, the student will be brought to the PrincipalÕs office.  Parents will be contacted for authorization.  The medication will be confiscated until written or verbal authorization is received.  Any student who distributes a medication of any kind to another student or is found to possess a medication other than the one authorized is in violation of the Student Code of Conduct and will be disciplined accordingly.

 

Control of Casual-Contact Communicable Diseases – Because a school has a high concentration of people, it is necessary to take specific measures when the health or safety of the group is at risk.  The schoolÕs professional staff has the authority to remove or isolate a student who has been ill or has been exposed to a communicable disease or highly transient pest, such as lice.

 

Immunizations – Each student must have the immunizations required by law or have an authorized waiver.  If a student does not have the necessary immunizations or waivers, a school administrator may remove the student from school or require compliance with a set deadline.  This is for the safety of all students and in accordance with State Law.

 

Emergency Medical Authorization – The Ottawa-Glandorf School Board of Education has established a policy that every student must have an Emergency Medical Authorization form completed and signed by his/her parent or guardian.  This form will be kept on file in the PrincipalÕs office.  Teachers or advisors for field trips, spectator trips and co-curricular events will take a copy of the form.  A second Emergency Medical Authorization form will be filled out by all those involved in athletics.

 

Athletics – Students wanting to participate in athletics must have passed five (5) credits or the equivalent from the preceding quarter.  A student receiving two (2) ŌFÕsĶ during a grading period or not maintaining a 1.50 GPA will be deemed ineligible.

 

Student athletes must attend at least one-half (1/2) of a school day in order to compete in an athletic event or practice that day or night.  Attendance policies define one-half (1/2) day as arriving at school before 11:15 AM or leaving school after 11:15 AM.  An athlete absent from school more than one-half (1/2) day shall not practice or participate in a game on the day of the absence.  Exceptions may be made with prior approval of the building Principal.  Examples are college visits, attending a funeral, more than one doctor appointment, etc.

 

Assemblies – Classes will be called to the Gym or Auditorium over the P.A. system.  Students are expected to be cooperative and respectful towards all presenters of school assemblies.  Proper student conduct is expected.

 

Dances – For all school sponsored dances/activities students are to arrive within one-half (1/2) hour after the official start.  For example, if a dance starts at 8:00 PM, all students need to be here by 8:30 PM.  During the dance/activity students are not allowed to leave to go to their car.  Once you leave the dance/activity you cannot come back in unless you secure permission from the dance/activity Advisor, Principal or Dean of Students.  If the permission is not secured from one of those people you will not be permitted back in.  The Ottawa-Glandorf Student Code of Conduct will be enforced if any student breaks one of the rules or regulations.

 

Lunch – Ottawa-Glandorf High School has a closed lunch policy.  This means that students are required to stay on school grounds during the lunch periods.  Leaving the school grounds at lunch time without permission is a violation of the Student Code of Conduct.  During the lunch periods, students are asked to stay in the Cafeteria or go to the Gym.  Students will be allowed to go to the restrooms but must return to the Cafeteria or Gym.  Loitering in the restroom or wondering around the hallways is prohibited.  Students are not permitted to go to their lockers during lunch time.  Students are required to line up for lunch in an orderly fashion.  There is to be no butting in line or saving a space.  Students are required to return all trays and utensils to the cleaning window and to throw their trash away in the trash cans provided.  Students who are caught leaving trays or trash where they were sitting in the Cafeteria will face disciplinary action.  The throwing of food or trash will also result in disciplinary action.  All food and drinks are to be kept in the Cafeteria.

 

Food – Students are expected to buy food through the schoolÕs cafeteria or from the vending machines in the lunch room area.  Food from outside restaurants or other eating establishments should not be brought into the building by individual students or their parents.  Students are allowed to bring a packed lunch from home.  Food from outside restaurants will be allowed only if a teacher, advisor or some other school personnel has organized it for a group of students and it has been approved by the Principal or Dean of Students.  Food and drink must stay in the Cafeteria during lunchtime.  During the course of the day, students are allowed to carry water.

 

Textbooks – Students are responsible for the textbooks issued to them during the school year.  Textbooks are numbered and recorded by the teacher as they are handed out to the student.  To help maintain the condition of the books, students should cover their books.  A fee will be charged to students who lose their books or damage their books.  It is important that teachers and students agree upon the condition of the book when it is first issued.  Teachers will keep a record of the agreement.  At the end of the school year if the condition of the book is worse than when it was issued, a fee will be charged.  All textbooks must be returned prior to the last day of the school year.  Students who have not paid the cost of a lost, damaged or stolen book will have their grades and transcripts withheld until the costs are paid or the book(s) returned.  All textbooks are the property of the Ottawa-Glandorf School District and are on loan to the students.  It is important that students take great care of the books issued to them.

 

Workbook and Lab Fees – Workbook prices and lab fees are established on a yearly basis.  Book bills will be distributed sometime during the first two weeks of school.  All fees and workbook bills must be paid no later than 30 days after book bills are distributed, unless arrangements are made with the high school Principal or Dean of Students.  Students will have their grades and transcripts withheld until all fees and workbook bills are paid in full.

 

Care of Property – Students are responsible for their own personal property.  The school will not be responsible for personal property.  Valuables such as jewelry, or irreplaceable items should not be brought to school.  If a student has money in his/her possession, and the student has to change clothes, it would be appropriate for that student to ask a teacher to keep the wallet, purse, or money and other valuables locked up in a safe place.  Damage to or loss of school equipment and facilities wastes taxpayersÕ money and undermines the school program.  Therefore, if a student does damage to or loses school property, the student or his/her parents will be required to pay for the replacement or damage.  If the damage or loss was intentional, the student will be subject to discipline according to the Student Discipline Code.

 

Internet Usage – The Technology Department at OGHS is a very integral and necessary part of our educational plan.  Students have access to many computers throughout the day, including wireless lap-top computers.  As with all other equipment that belongs to the school, students will be held responsible for any loss or damage to the equipment.  The misuse of any of the schoolÕs computers, cameras, televisions or any other technology equipment will result in disciplinary action, of which one will be the loss of privilege to use the schoolÕs equipment.  All students will be required to sign an Internet Access Consent form and an E-mail Consent form.  Any misuse of the Internet or e-mail system will result in disciplinary action.  Students are expected to abide by the student ethics and conduct rules when on the Internet or using e-mail.  Student use of the Internet through the school is a privilege.  This privilege may be revoked at any time for misuse.  Students can be and will be monitored while using the Internet.  We can determine what computer was used, what time and what sites were opened.  All of this information belongs to the Ottawa-Glandorf School system.

 

 

E-Mail Usage – All e-mails that are sent by someone using a computer that belong to the Ottawa-Glandorf School system is the property of the school district.  The same goes for all e-mail that is sent to a computer owned by the Ottawa-Glandorf School system.  Student use of e-mail is a privilege and this privilege can be revoked at any time for misuse.  Student e-mail can be and may be read by school personnel, especially if there is concern about misuse.  The following items are considered to be unacceptable uses of the e-mail system and will result in disciplinary action:       1) Using someone elseÕs e-mail or permitting someone else to use your e-mail

2)  Using your e-mail for activities which are not related to education

3)  Transmitting abusive, offensive, or harassing language or statements.  These items should not be sent out or received from another computer.

4)  Developing or transmitting inappropriate graphics

5)  Soliciting others

6)  Transmitting or receiving e-mail of sexual content

7)  Transmitting or receiving e-mail dealing with ethnic slurs, and/or jokes

8)  Transmitting e-mail for the purpose of Ōchain letterĶ effects

9)  Transmitting e-mail promoting illegal activities such as underage drinking, drugs, criminal activity, etc.

10) Any activity that school personnel determines to be improper usage of the e-mail system.  Good advice

 would be to ask and be told no, than to go ahead, find out it was wrong and have to suffer disciplinary action.

 

Cell Phones – The use of cell phones by students during the school day is prohibited.  Students are not to talk on their cell phone or text message anyone during the course of the school day.  Students that need to contact a parent must come to the office to request the use of a phone, or ask school personnel to place the call or they can use the pay phones that are available.  Students are not to receive calls or text messages during the school day.  Parents that need to get a hold of their child should call the office.  Upon calling the school office, parents can request to talk to their child if it is an emergency or have a message sent to their child.  Students who are seen using their cell phone during the school day will have it taken away from them.  Detentions after school, before school or on Saturday mornings will be issued to a student caught using a cell phone during the school day.  If the detentions do not get the message across, then a parent conference will be scheduled or a parent may be required to come to school to pick up the studentÕs cell phone.  Parents may be required to pick up a cell phone if it has been taken from their child more than one time.  School is not the place for cell phone usage.

 

Radios, Pagers, Cell Phones, I Pods, Headphones and Electronic Items – These types of items are not to be used during the school day, which is from 7:50 AM to 2:42 PM.  Students may be allowed to possess these items as long as the devices are turned off during school hours.  Any such item found to be on will be confiscated and returned at the end of the day.  Use of these items will result in disciplinary action if they are used for any of the following reasons:  1)  to take unauthorized pictures on school property with the intent to post them on the Internet or to display them in any fashion, 2)  used to scan and transmit tests or other school related information, 3)  used to transmit test/quiz  answers or transmit answers  to any  other questioning that is being done in the classroom, 4)  used as a calculator without securing permission, 5)  any other situation that may arise that creates a disruption to the educational system.  School personnel have the right to inspect any electronic item if there is reasonable cause to believe that the student used the item for any of the above reasons.  Disciplinary action will occur for violation of any of the above items.  Some of the above reasons could be done after school hours.  As long as a student is on school property and there is reasonable cause that any of the above situations occurred, disciplinary action will be taken.

 

Pupil Schedule Load –

1)  The minimum class load each year is six (6) classes per semester/year.  A full credit subject is one that meets five days per week for 36 weeks with outside preparation, or six to ten periods per week for 36 weeks in laboratory courses.  A maximum of two (2) study halls are allowed per semester or year.

2)  Non-academic subjects are to be carried in addition to the basic academic units.

3)  Health is required during the freshman year.  Two semesters of physical education must be taken sometime during the 4 years of high school, preferably during the freshman and sophomore years.  Computer Applications must be taken during the sophomore year.

4)  Both semesters of a one unit subject must be taken to obtain a full credit.

5)  The final responsibility for a pupilÕs program planning toward graduation lays with the pupil and his/her parents or guardians. Counseling and advice are always available, but the individual pupil must be aware of his/her program objectives and needs.

 

Schedule Changes – Once a student has selected his/her courses for the year and has had the schedule approved and signed by his/her parents, seldom should there be the necessity for any change in the schedule.  However, if a change is requested, there are some guidelines to follow:

1)  The schedule change should take place within the first 2 weeks of the semester.

2)  Changes can be made only if (a) the change will not overcrowd sections and (b) the change will not cause a course to be canceled because of lack of students.

3)  There will not be changes in the schedule unless a student schedule change form is completed.  Signatures must be obtained from the student, parents, counselor, teacher(s) of the course(s) involved and the Principal.  The form must be returned to the PrincipalÕs office or Guidance office before the change can be made official.

 

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses – The Advanced Placement program enables students to complete college level studies while they are still in high school and to obtain college placement and credit on the basis of their performance in rigorous AP examinations.  Ottawa-Glandorf High School offers the following AP coursework:

AP Statistics, AP English, AP United States History, AP Calculus AB,           and AP American Government & Politics.

 

Post Secondary Options – Students have the opportunity to take college courses while still in high school.  This is possible because of the Post Secondary Enrollment Options program that is part of Senate Bill 140, the Education Reform Act.

 

Students must inform the Principal or Superintendent of their intent to participate in this program by March 30th.  Also, the student must be accepted by a college.  Finally, it must be determined if credit will be granted for high school credit, college credit or both.  Currently, post secondary classes are available at OGHS (early morning – 7:00 to 7:40 AM), through the Putnam County Educational Service Center and on local college campuses.  To obtain more information about the details of this program, local policies, as well as possible pros and cons of the program, contact the guidance counselors

 

College Visitations – Juniors and seniors may be excused to visit universities, colleges, technical schools or to job shadow.  These visitations should be arranged through the Guidance office.  These visits are considered an absence from school

 

Honor Roll – The main purpose of school is academic achievement.  Special recognition is given to those students who are on the honor roll.  The requirement for the honor roll is a grade point average of 3.50 – 4.00.  Grades earned in all subjects, except Physical Education, will be counted in computing the honor roll.  A student earning a grade of ŌDĶ or ŌIĶ in any subject automatically becomes ineligible for the honor roll.  The studentÕs class rank (accumulative average) is computed at the end of each semester by adding credits from semester to semester.

 

Summer School – It is important that students make every attempt to succeed in their regularly scheduled classes before the alternative of Summer School is used.  To bring summer school in line with other alternatives, students will only be allowed two (2) credits towards their high school graduation requirements.  These credits must also be in two different subjects.  To be eligible for Summer School, students will have to maintain a continual effort in class by turning in homework and other assignments.  The student will also have to attain four (4) quality points during the year in which two (2) are earned during the second semester.  If a student is in violation of the Attendance Policy, or is removed from class for other reasons, he/she will not be eligible to participate in Summer School.  Establishing these guidelines will promote more participation and effort by the students during the school year.

 

Graduation – There is no constitutional right given to seniors to attend graduation exercises.  Students can be given any earned diploma separately or by mail.  Reasons why seniors may be denied participation in the graduation ceremony are as follows:

1)  Suspension or expulsion from school occurs because of student conduct code violation(s). The misconduct that results in a suspension or expulsion does not have to be on school grounds.  ŌMisconduct by a pupil that occurs off property owned or controlled by the district but is connected to activities or incidents that have occurred on property owned or controlled by the school districtĶ and Ōmisconduct by a pupil that, regardless of where it occurs, is directed at a school district official or employee, or the property of such official or employee.Ķ 

2)  Student has not earned enough credits to allow him/her to graduate.  This could go right down to the last week of school based on the studentÕs performance on final tests, final assignments and final exam.

3)  Student failed a required subject(s) even though the student earned enough credits.  This determination could go right down to the last week of school based on the studentÕs performance on final tests, final assignments and final exam.

4)  Student has not fulfilled all necessary requirements to earn the right of graduation.

5)  Student had excessive absenteeism.  School policy would permit the student to fail based on poor attendance.

6)  Student owes the school district money for a book bill, fine or other possible debt situation.

7)  Student has not turned in all school owned or school related books, materials and equipment.

8)  The above items are not all inclusive.  There could be some other situations that may arise that could possibly keep a student from going through the graduation ceremony.  Information would be presented to the Principal and Dean of Students, and then a decision would be decided upon.

 

Gifted Students Policy – School districts must use a three-part approach to screen students who perform or show potential for performing high levels of accomplishment in the areas of superior cognitive ability, specific academic ability, creativity, and visual or performing arts.  Pre-assessment involves gathering student data from a variety of sources including teacher, parent, grades, and observations, review of student records, and outstanding products or performances.  All students are involved in the pre-assessment phase.  During the screening phase we examine the data from the pre-assessment and determine if additional assessment is necessary.  The final stage involves assessment and possible identification.

 

Student Leaders – Qualifications for student government include the following:

1)  Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5

2)  Good moral and character standing

3)  Good conduct and behavior at school

4)  No record of suspension from school

Students cannot be both a class officer and Student Council representative.

 

Adult Student Rights – A student who has reached the age of majority has the option to assume full rights of an adult and may sign his/her own report card, excuse slips and permission slips and have free access to his/her records.  Each student who has reached the age of majority shall assume full responsibility for his/her performance in school, attendance and compliance with school administrative guidelines.  The administration reserves the right to advise parents of any situation regarding a student, regardless of age, which it deems worthy of parental involvement.

 

Relationship with Governmental Agencies – On occasion, principals will need police assistance.  Reasons why police involvement may occur:  1)  refusal of a person to leave school property after being requested to do so by an appropriate school authority, 2)  willful destruction of school property, 3)  theft, 4)  obvious crime, 5)  arson, 6)  assaults or serious fighting, 7)  possession of a dangerous weapon, 8)  possession of alcohol or drugs,  9)  sale or distribution of controlled substances, 10)  blackmail, threatening, or extortion of students or staff members, 11)  bona fide threat against a personÕs life or threats of  terrorist acts, bomb scares, etc., 12)  illegal or inappropriate operation of a motor vehicle, 13)  child abuse or molestation, 14)  mass walkout or sit-in on school property, 15)  setting off firecrackers, pulling fire alarms and similar mischief, 16)  a student leaving school property without permission, a missing person situation or a self-inflicted injury by a student, and 17)  any other situation deemed necessary by the administration.

 

When police or other authorities arrive at the school and wish to interview a student or investigate an alleged law violation, they will contact the Principal or Dean of Students indicating the nature of their investigation and their desire to question a student or students.  The Principal or Dean of Students will send for the student or students and move them to an unoccupied room and remain in the room during the questioning, unless the parent or guardian is present.  If a student is being questioned because he/she is under suspicion of an alleged law violation, the student must be warned of his/her right to remain silent and to request that parents and/or an attorney be present.  If the student makes the request, questioning will be terminated.  Students who are being questioned to obtain evidence about an alleged law violation but are not under suspicion of the alleged offense are to be advised that they have the right to request the presence of their parents.  If the student makes the request, questioning is terminated.  Should a student be taken into custody or removed from the school premises by police or other authorities, the Principal or Dean of Students must make every effort to notify the studentÕs parents or guardians.

 

Student Rights of Expression – In accordance with Ottawa-Glandorf School Board of Education policy 5722 and 9700, students have the right, protected by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, to exercise freedom of speech.  This includes the right to distribute or display, at reasonable times and places, unauthorized written material, petitions, buttons, badges or other insignia, except expression which:  1)  is obscene to minors, 2)  is libelous, 3)  is pervasively indecent or vulgar, 4)  advertises any product or service not permitted to minors by law, 5)  constitutes insulting or fighting words, the very expression of which injures or harasses other people, 6)  presents a clear and present likelihood that the item will cause a disruption of school or school activities, a violation of school regulations or the commission of an unlawful act.  Any student wishing to distribute unauthorized written material must first submit for approval a copy of the material to the Principal or Dean of Students 24 hours in advance of distribution.

 

Use of Breath Test Instruments – The Principal or Dean of Students may arrange for a breath test for blood alcohol to be conducted on a student whenever he/she has individualized reasonable suspicion to believe the student has consumed an alcoholic beverage.  If a student is believed to have consumed an alcoholic beverage, the student is to be taken to a private administrative or instructional area on school property.  The Principal or Dean of Students should have at least one other member of the teaching or administrative staff present as a witness to the test.  If the student refuses to take the test, inform him/her that refusal to participate leaves the observed evidence of the alcohol use unrefuted thus leading to disciplinary action.  The student will be allowed a second chance to take the test.

 

Use of Dogs on School Property – The Ottawa-Glandorf School Board of Education has authorized the use of specially trained dogs to detect the presence of drugs and devices such as bombs on school property.  The presence of dogs on school property must be authorized, in advance, by the Principal, Superintendent or Dean of Students or be pursuant to a court order or warrant.  A law enforcement officer specially trained to safely and competently work with the dog must handle the dog.  The dog will be allowed to examine a studentÕs possessions, including vehicles.  The dog may be allowed to examine school property, such as lockers, as permitted by the school Principal, Dean of Students or Superintendent.

 

Work Permits – Guidelines and applications for work permits may be obtained in the PrincipalÕs office.  When applications are completed, they must be returned to the PrincipalÕs office.  The student must also present a copy of his/her birth certificate for verification of age.  Upon changing jobs, a new work permit must be obtained, filled out and filed.  A student who has been granted permission to withdraw from school must maintain a job.  Once the student loses the job, the student must return to school.  A student who has been granted permission to withdraw from school will be checked on periodically by a school administrator or by the county attendance officer to make sure the student is still working.

 

Gifts – Students will be notified during a study hall or lunch if a gift has arrived for them in the PrincipalÕs office.  Students must wait until the end of the day to pick up the gift.  If the gift is large enough to be in the way of the office workers, then the student will be notified and asked to take the gift to his/her vehicle or have someone in his/her family to pick it up from the PrincipalÕs office.